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How to Tell If You Need a New Thermostat for Your Home

There are few systems more integral to keeping your home comfortable than your HVAC system. However, you’ll need to make sure you maintain it well if you want it to operate at peak efficiency. Your thermostat is an essential part of your HVAC system, and it can be just as vulnerable to malfunctions and breakdowns as any other appliance in your home. Many people don’t know how to tell when their thermostat isn’t working, or they can’t recognize the red flags that might indicate something is wrong. Keep reading to learn more about how to know if you need a new thermostat for your home.

How can you tell if you need a new thermostat?

If you’re a first-time homeowner or new to HVAC system maintenance, you may not know how to tell if you need a new thermostat for your home. There are several warning signs you should keep an eye out for, some of which may be more noticeable than others. One obvious sign that something is wrong is if your thermostat won’t turn on or off. Your thermostat is responsible for communicating with your HVAC unit, so if that connection has been disrupted, you may notice that you won’t be able to turn the power on or off or adjust your temperature settings.

Another indication that something is up with your thermostat is when it begins to display inaccurate temperature readings. If it feels warmer or cooler than it should in your home after you’ve set your thermostat, it may be malfunctioning. You should also make sure your thermostat isn’t close to any appliances that could affect its readings and is a safe distance away from sunny windows.

When your thermostat isn’t working properly, it can also cause your HVAC to cycle on and off. The overwork on your system can also be expensive, as it can waste a significant amount of energy. This process is likely to cause your energy bills to rise substantially. If you have suspiciously high utility bills, you may want to look into whether your thermostat or HVAC is the culprit.

Why should you consider upgrading to a smart thermostat?

If you’re having a new thermostat installed, it’s worth considering a smart thermostat instead of a traditional one. A smart thermostat is programmable and can often be controlled via mobile app or web portal, which will let you adjust the temperature even when you’re not in your house. Some systems also allow for zone cooling, which allows you to set different temperatures for different parts of your home. Being able to control the amount of energy your system uses and how frequently it’s turned on or off can cut down on your energy costs significantly, making a smart thermostat a smart buy from a financial perspective, too.

Another reason to consider installing a smart thermostat is because of the value it adds to your house. Prospective buyers are starting to prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly upgrades, including energy-saving smart devices like the smart thermostat. Even though you may not be considering a sale now, it’s always a good idea to improve your home in ways that may increase its overall equity.

While it can be tricky to know what’s wrong with your thermostat without experience, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to maintaining your HVAC system. Inaccurate readings, high bills, and poor functionality can all be red flags. If you notice any telltale signs that something might not be working properly, call a technician and have them inspect your unit and your thermostat as soon as possible. With the winter months fast approaching, you won’t regret making sure you’re able to effectively heat and cool your home all season long.

3 New Items You Might Want to Introduce to Your Old House

Owning an older house usually means that, as homeowners, you’ll have to invest money in home improvements every so often. While the foundation of the house may be in great condition, your appliances and other home systems are likely to need upgrades.

Modern technology and updated fixtures can provide you with increased comfort, in addition to improving your home’s equity should you decide to sell one day. It’s always a good idea to balance your potential return on investment with what a particular improvement will add to your quality of life. If you own an older house and aren’t sure where to start making upgrades read on to learn more about three items you might want to introduce to your home.

1. Replace your windows.

The condition of your windows can affect your home more than you might realize. Windows with cracks and crevices can let in moisture and outdoor air, which creates a risk for property damage and contamination. Not only that, but hot or cold air coming in from outside also makes it harder for your HVAC system to regulate the temperature indoors. This can result in higher utility bills for you if you don’t resolve the issue. Replacing windows is also a great way to change the look of a home, so anyone looking to do some redesigning should consider having new windows installed or updating the style of fixtures like your kitchen window.

Have a contractor evaluate your home and the condition of your windows, and consider repairing or replacing them entirely depending on the condition they’re in. Look for businesses like this company that specializes in kitchen windows in Minneapolis that have a track record of high-quality service. A local business is often the best idea, as you can see examples of their work for yourself within your community.

2. Upgrade your Wi-Fi.

A Ubiquiti UniFi access point can help keep you connected, no matter where you are. If you don’t know what an access point is, it’s a device that enables things like your laptop and your phone to connect to a wired network. Access points like these Ubiquiti UniFi devices are especially helpful for anyone who does business or works out of an old home.

While newer homes typically come with everything you need for your wireless network installed, you may have to do some of the work for getting your Wi-Fi up and running yourself. There’s no reason you can’t have a vintage home with the same ability to connect as one that’s brand new.

3. Consider a smart thermostat.

A smart thermostat can make your indoor space more comfortable, in addition to adding value to your home. If you aren’t familiar with how they work, a smart thermostat runs on an automated system. Smart thermostats often have features like a timer and zone settings that allow you to set different temperatures in different areas of your home. They can even save you money on your utility bills by reducing the amount of time your HVAC system is running. Eco-friendly and smart technology is more popular than ever with buyers, which is worth considering if you plan to sell at some point in the future.

There are a lot of appealing things about owning an old home, as long as you’re willing to maintain it properly. While most older houses meet reasonable safety standards, there are unique concerns with old homes specifically involving substances like lead, asbestos, and radon that should be tested for. Making sure that fixtures like your windows and doors are in good condition is also essential if you want to avoid discomfort and potential property damage.

It’s also a good idea to keep old homes up to date with modern technology, whether that means ensuring consistent WiFi access or adding some smart devices to help with household tasks and improve your quality of life. No matter what upgrades or changes you decide to make, the most important thing is that you create a house that feels like home to you and your family.

Why Energy Recovery Ventilators Are So Helpful

When we purchase a home, one of the biggest things that we’ll need to be aware of is the HVAC unit for the house. This will be the system that will help regulate the air conditioning and heating services of your home. Especially with the summer months approaching, there’s no better time than now than to make sure your HVAC unit is in tip-top shape.

Another big part of your home’s heating and cooling system is the energy recovery ventilator (ERV). This device is a ventilation system that transfers stale air from your home with fresh outdoor air. Since maintaining good indoor air quality is important, the ERV is a great addition to any home. This energy recovery ventilation system is just as important as its sister system, the HVAC system. We’ll focus today on why energy recovery ventilators are so helpful.

You receive indoor air quality.

An energy recovery ventilator can help with improving the air quality of your home. The air in your home is composed of various particulates that float around, in many cases unseen. These particulates can include dirt, pollen, pet dander, dust, and stale air. These contaminants can be harmful to the health of adults. The health of children is also put at risk by allowing these particles to float around your house unheeded. One of the benefits of using energy recovery ventilators is that it can help to clear out these airborne particles.

You want your air to have an acceptable indoor air quality so you won’t find yourself coughing all of the time. In addition to ridding your home of the aforementioned contaminants, the energy recovery ventilator also helps to reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which circulate throughout your home. These include ethanol, xylene, acetone, and benzene.

You’ll often find these in commercial cleaners and air fresheners. With an ERV, your home will be able to get rid of such VOCs, while also providing better air quality and energy savings. High indoor air quality is a great reason why you should invest in an energy recovery ventilator for your home.

Energy savings are good.

We touched on this a little in the previous section, but saving on energy is one of the many reasons why energy recovery ventilators are helpful. An energy recovery ventilator can help with heating or cooling air. The machine does this by transferring heat or away from the outgoing air. Working through such a method, an ERV can help with energy savings, ultimately lowering your utility bills.

An ERV unit is a solid investment for any home and will help you to save money over time. Over time, it can also help to increase the value of your home for potential buyers. If your goal is to increase your energy efficiency while also save money, it might be best to add an ERV system to your house.

Increases the life of your HVAC system.

In addition to cycling out contaminants through its ventilation system, an ERV will also be able to increase the life of your HVAC system. An ERV will help to keep your heater and air conditioner from running so often. It can also prevent such contaminants as dirt, pollen, pet dander, dust, and stale air from clogging your air filter. Ultimately such clogs can lead to dirty or leaky ductwork.

When this occurs, you don’t have to worry so much about costly HVAC system repairs. Your HVAC system will continue to work longer and will stay in perfect shape. These repairs can be extremely costly, taking money out of your pocket. These types of repairs fall between $150 to $450.

On average, homeowners spend $319 on air conditioning service, while they pay approximately $268 on repairs involving a furnace. Your energy recovery ventilator will help to prevent you from having to spend these large amounts of money. Increasing the life of your HVAC system is one of the many reasons why you should invest in an ERV.

3 Home Repairs You Shouldn’t Put Off

Your home is undoubtedly one of the most costly and essential investments you’ll ever make in life. Therefore, this investment must last well beyond the monthly payments you’ll be making for the next few decades, ensuring that you obtain maximum value from your property.

Nevertheless, it’s vital to realize that homeownership comes with a lot of responsibility, and it takes significant money and time to maintain a house properly. That said, budget constraints are a harsh reality that causes many homeowners to consider whether particular home repairs are worth spending on. Here are three crucial household repairs you should never ignore, no matter what.

1. Plumbing Leaks

Noticing water spots and small leaks around your home might seem like no big deal, but they can cause some serious damage if you don’t conduct immediate repairs. Your plumbing system‘s tubes run behind your walls, so any minor leaks or pipe bursts can get your drywall wet and ruin it completely. Plumbing issues can also cause damage to fixtures like your faucets and showerheads, and you could end up needing to replace these fixtures if you don’t address these problems promptly. Mold issues and flooring damage can also arise out of plumbing leaks, so it’s always best to avoid putting off dealing with a plumbing issue. Lastly, neglected water leaks will result in astronomical water bills, so hiring great leak detection and repair professionals is your best bet to save money.

Dependable leak detection and repair teams such as King Heating can help with this need. King Heating provides a broad range of heating and air conditioning services to residents in the Chicago area. They’re also a trusted Chicago leak repair service, helping homeowners find and address hidden leaks. Even the most minor leaks can cause severe water damage to your home, especially when they’re concealed in ceilings or behind walls. As such, King Heating’s skilled plumbers use professional-grade equipment to locate your leaks and quickly fix them in the best way. What’s more, they repair all water pipe leaks, are available round-the-clock, and don’t charge extra for weekends, nights, and holidays.

Exterior design and maintenance services are equally important to your home’s aesthetics and functionality as roof repairs. Therefore, you can also consider investing in landscape architecture, design, and property care services. Lifescape Colorado is a Colorado landscape service that can offer a broad range of services to make your outdoor space dreams a reality. Their landscape design, construction, and outdoor property care services cater to residential and commercial buildings alike. Also, their landscape architects are renowned for their unique design and craftsman-level constriction. What’s more, Lifescape Colorado is an industry pioneer in maintenance practices, water-saving initiatives, and sustainable building since their mission is creating and preserving outdoor spaces that conserve planetary resources besides enriching clients’ lives.

2. Gutter and Drainage Repair

Your home’s gutter and drainage are undoubtedly vital, so you need to address any issues with these systems immediately. A poorly functioning gutter and drainage system can affect your home’s foundation since water will leak straight from your roof and soak the ground directly around your home. Frequent moisture level changes in this area can cause your foundation to contract and expand, affecting your home’s stability. Consequently, consider installing new gutter guards to keep your gutters free of leaves and other debris. Also, replace your downspout extender to disperse your runoff efficiently. Properly diverted runoff will protect your driveway and, therefore, your car from damage caused by rising water and wet leaves or debris. If you’re in the market for a car, it’s always necessary to find the best deals from trusted car dealers. Leading online auto auction sites such as Auto Auction Mall can handle these concerns.

Auto Auction Mall is the biggest dealer car auctions online platform for salvage and insurance, pre-owned and used cars. You can find great auction cars in Ghana from some of the world’s leading brands like Hyundai and Chevrolet at fair prices. Ghanaian buyers can find used cars under various price limits, ranging from $5000 to $500. To buy and ship clean cars to Ghana, you can begin with a simple search of your preferred model on their website. Some of their vehicles are “buy now,” meaning you can readily purchase them after making a full payment. You’ll have to deposit and schedule an auction for some cars, though, and must bid a minimum of $600 on your vehicle to get started.

3. Roof Repairs

It’s no secret that a leaky roof can cause severe problems down the line if ignored over a long period. However, many homeowners forget about their roof since it isn’t an area they see daily until major roof problems start showing up. Several things can go wrong with your roofing, including missing shingles, leaks, and storm damage. These issues can lead to further problems like structural damage, mold, and damage to other property inside your home. As such, it’s prudent to find a roofing contractor to handle any roof replacement or repair work as soon as you detect problems with your roof system. Reliable home improvement companies such as MLMHI will come in handy when seeking great roofers in the Arlington area.

MLMHI is a leading home improvement company offering a broad range of exterior renovation and remodeling services to clients. Siding, replacement windows, gutters, replacement doors, and roofing are some of the vital services their experienced contractors cater to. They’re also one of the best Arlington roofing companies, helping many homeowners in the area with diverse roofing needs. Their highly-trained technicians offer residential and commercial roof installation services, whether you need a roof for home upgrades or new building construction. Also, MLMHI does a great job when it comes to roof replacement, with an accurate inspection and cost estimate guarantee.

Furthermore, they have an A+ Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating and offer roofing materials and products produced by Owens Corning, one of the top brands in the industry. After attending to your roofing needs, consider investing in quality self-care since roof repairs and home maintenance, in general, can be stressful. If you want to treat yourself after taking care of roof repairs or water leaks, you can purchase glam eyelash extensions that come in various materials, lengths, styles, and shapes. Vegan or mink eyelashes, cat eyelashes, and monolid eyelash extensions are some options worth considering, depending on your specific desire.

Certain home repairs demand immediate attention to prevent more costs and troubles in the future. The points above are three prime examples of repair work you should readily conduct to guarantee long-term savings and peace of mind.

What’s Causing Your Heater Malfunction?

Heating systems have become part and parcel of our daily lives as homeowners. They provide us with comfort and other numerous benefits. That’s the reason why a faulty heater causes much distress. Not only is the repair process hectic, but the consequences could also be dire. This is especially true if the problem occurs at a critical time, like winter. If your heater regularly acts up, this article can help. We’ve listed seven possible causes of heater malfunctions, along with tips on how to troubleshoot.

1. Excessive Mold

When moisture builds up, it traps foreign particles like dust in your heating system. Once trapped, the humidity coming from the hot water triggers mold buildup. This may inhibit certain vital parts of your heating unit or block the ducts from releasing the right amount of heat.

It’s also worth noting that moisture accumulation is usually caused by poor insulation, insufficient ductwork, or something as simple as an unkempt space. Being tidy and clean goes a long way to solving this. For example, if you have a heating system in a nursery, you should keep the nursery closet as well as your baby’s clothes, diapers, and blankets far from the heater. It helps to also know how to organize and store baby clothes neatly in it.

2. A Faulty Thermostat

One major culprit when a heater begins to malfunction is the thermostat. Thermostats are the brain of air-conditioning units. They tell the fluctuations in temperature and respond accordingly. They also detect command and prevent the temperature from going beyond its maximum limit. A damaged or wrongly installed thermostat will stop your system from heating or cause it to heat improperly.

3. Dirty Air Filter

The air filters in a heating unit are akin to the lungs in humans. These usually get choked with debris and rust over time. When the blockage is large enough, it impedes the operation of your heating system. With a clogged filter, the heater either becomes noisy or blows cold air. Therefore, it’s important to regularly change your filters according to instructions from the manufacturer.

4. Insufficient Fuel Supply

Heating systems are commonly powered by natural gas, electricity, gasoline, diesel, or water. Whatever your energy source is, sometimes, the issue with your heater’s malfunction is something as simple as a fuel shortage or insufficient supply of energy. Checking if your energy supply is adequate is a good start. Also, try to check the energy transmission system is functioning properly.

5. Leaky Ductwork

If your heater is not working, it could be that the duct tapes were placed wrongly. This often results in leakages. Depending on where the leakage is, it will prevent the right amount of fuel from getting to your heating system. Invariably, it also inhibits the flow of adequate heat out of it.

6. Unlit Pilot Light

Your pilot light must always be lit. If it’s not, it could either mean that the light is faulty, the transmission is defective, or your energy source is not aptly flowing to it. In such cases, check your transmission sources. If you’re using anything other than electricity, make sure there is a consistent flow of energy. Once this is sorted, if the light doesn’t come on or only stays lit for a short time, you’ll likely need professional assistance.

7. Lack of Maintenance

Every electrical device must be treated with the right handling and care. This is necessary for efficiency and longevity. Carrying out regular, periodic maintenance is vital. This helps with the early detection of faults and subsequent repairs, saving you money in the long term.

To sum up, it’s vital to note that most heaters break down simply because there was either little or no maintenance whatsoever carried out. So, it’s important to always seek the services of a qualified HVAC specialist for your maintenance.

When Do You Need To Check the Plumbing?

One of the most important responsibilities of any homeowner is to keep a good eye on the air system and water filtration system. Unfortunately, many people ignore potential problems until disaster strikes, whether a new house or an existing structure. To avoid expensive (and potentially dangerous) issues in your new place, especially with your house’s plumbing, here are a few important tips on when to safely check your water supply throughout the year.

How often should you check your plumbing?

While ideal housewarming gifts for men often include new tools or water treatment products for the new home, in most cases, only a professional should attempt to repair your water system. These issues lead to all sorts of expensive problems, such as flooding and water damage. These types of emergencies can be avoided through regular maintenance. Checking on your house’s pipes should remain a top priority throughout the year. You’ll notice if a leak or dripping faucet has sprung up.

Only a professional knows the safest method for leaks located under the house or pipe replacement or repair. There’s a feeling of security in knowing that the job was done correctly.

Common Household Problems

Homeowners should look for problems with pressurized water and visibly accessible drains. Typically, even in a new home, those areas are found within the kitchen and bathrooms, and the root of most water supply problems are spotted there. New homeowners should pay close attention to kitchen plumbing, particularly the faucets, dishwashers, and refrigerator. If there’s a second freezer in the garage to store emergency food, that should be checked, as well. The water shutoff valves beneath the sink are the first area for leaks or corrosion or a more serious exposed drain line. If moisture and corrosion are visible, call an experienced plumber for a combination of methods to assess the damage.

Since the kitchen is where you use appliances, cutting board, and do your food preparation, heavy grease buildup, a bad odor from the drain, fruit flies, or leaking drains, all may be tell-tale signs of more serious issues. If the kitchen faucet has been noticeably loose and losing pressure for a long time, it’s time for a replacement.

Having an ample supply of hot water is one of the essentials for your bathroom. Noticing cold spots in the water runoff or slow drains, or your entire family should easily notice leaks. Experts recommend replacing the valves behind the toilet every 5-7 years because of wear and tear. Bathroom leaks can be a time of stress, but they’re no joke, as a leaky toilet can waste more than 2,000 gallons of water annually, driving your water bill through the roof.

When You Need a Professional

Leaks in your water heater or hot-water tank can go a long way in causing flooding. The water heater’s age can be a major factor, as units over 6-7 years old may begin to work less efficiently. Water and gas leaks may also lead to major problems, such as the amount of water you’re getting or a frequent power outage. Your water supply’s hygiene and integrity are crucial on the highest level, as dirty water from the sewage lines can lead to microorganisms, toxic substances, or impurities in the water supply, leading to illness or dysentery.

Pay particular attention if a member of your family has noticed patches of dead grass or a bubbling small amount of water on the lawn of your own home, as those are an indication of a gas leak and must be fixed immediately. It’s important to remember, the best solution in avoiding major water damage is inspecting all of the shutoff valves and fixtures in the home regularly. Knowing when to call in a professional plumber is not the last resort but an important way to ensure your family’s comfort and safety.

How to Prepare Your Home for a Heat Wave

While winter is going to be in full swing soon, summer will peak its head around the corner before you know it next year. The summer in most places brings with it extreme heat and often heatwaves that last for weeks on end. A heatwave is defined as a bout of extreme heat that lasts for more than two days and can end with illness and even death if people aren’t careful.

If you’re remodeling your kitchen this upcoming summer season, while you’re researching the difference between a standard backsplash and a full kitchen backslash, make sure to get prepared for the heatwave the weatherman will most certainly be predicting in the days ahead. If you’re not sure how to prepare your family or your home for a heatwave, keep reading for some tips to get you started.

Have your AC inspected.

Trying to get past a heatwave without air conditioning can lead to heatstroke, or worse if you aren’t careful. If you have an AC, the best thing to do is to make sure to have the unit inspected by your service technician before the heatwave begins. You’ll also want to make sure that your air filter is changed and free of debris and dust and that none of the vents in your home are covered or closed off. It’s recommended that homeowners have a reputable AC company come out and check your HVAC unit every season, just in case something needs to be fixed.

Make sure all windows are covered.

In order to prevent the sun from heating up your home, cover any windows that are exposed to direct sunlight. Almost 76% of the sunlight that shines into a home is turned into heat, even when it’s through double-paned windows. In order to deflect heat away from your home, you can use tinfoil on the windows as well.

Purchase an attic fan.

A high-quality attic fan can help draw the heat out of your home so that it doesn’t settle into the rooms, making the AC work even harder. If you live in a town where heatwaves are common during the summer, this one-time investment can go a long way towards keeping your family cool and your energy bills lower.

Stock the fridge with water.

It’s super important to stay hydrated during a heatwave, so keeping the fridge stocked with water is the best way to accomplish that goal. Drinking cold water from the fridge does double duty by keeping you hydrated and cooling you off at the same time. Even though you’re inside with the air conditioning running full blast with the windows covered, you still need to drink to stay hydrated. Besides, there’s nothing better than an icy bottle of water on a hot summer’s day to quench your thirst and cool you down.

Study the signs of heat exhaustion and stress.

In reality, the best way to stay safe is inside your home with the air conditioner on if your state is suffering through a heatwave. However, that’s not possible if the heatwave goes on for weeks or if you have things you have to do outside of the home. You should know the signs of heat stress so that you don’t end up suffering from heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or even a heat stroke. You can combat this by drinking water and not staying outside for long periods of time.

These are just a few of the ways you can prepare your home and your family for a heatwave to travel through your area. Remember, it’s best to stay inside your home with the air conditioning on if at all possible.

5 Home Staging Tips For New Real Estate Agents

Real estate is all about the presentation. Selling a home requires a charm that must be learned and perfected, but it’s a talent that you can foster without too much difficulty. Take it from the professionals at Venterra Realty. Professionalism, knowledgeability, and magnetic charm are essential to success in the real estate industry. Learning on the job is crucial here, but you can skip many of the mistakes that your peers have had to learn from with a little upfront research and a dedication to making smart decisions in the staging and showing off process.

Always be considerate of your clients and mindful of the strengths of the home in order to show your best qualities and those of the home you are presenting to the public.

Start with the façade.

The exterior of any home is the first thing a prospective buyer sees when they arrive for a viewing. Hiring a professional team for dog poop removal Joilet IL, repainting the exterior of the home, and cleaning up any debris on the roof are all great ideas for cleaning up a dour-looking home face. Many homeowners are open to these improvements because they increase the volume of interest exponentially and may even boost the final sale price — as is often the case with a repaint.

Another great place to invest time and energy is in the lawn itself. Besides cleaning up any dog waste, it’s worthwhile to consider making the lawn green, inviting place. Re-sodding is another upgrade that a conscientious owner might want to include in order to boost interest in the property. Laying down new sod and adding mulch to the garden beds can revitalize a lawn and give a much-needed facelift to an older home that may be overlooked without these stylistic updates that home buyers are seeking these days.

Add mood lighting to the interior.

Low lighting can be used effectively in certain spaces of the home in order to create a new and interesting ambiance that prospective buyers can tap into in order to envision their lives in the home for years to come. This is because most viewings are going to happen during the day, while most of your time at home is spent there in the evenings. Creating this illusion of afternoon or evening lighting inside the space at midday can help a viewer imagine what their life is likely to entail in this space and really gets people invested in the overall imaginative production. Changing the lighting is as simple as adding a dimmer switch or utilizing your firm’s smart home devices along with the corresponding light bulbs to set the low light conditions at a perfect level.

Remove most of the existing furniture.

This might sound straightforward, but it’s important not to discount the value of staging a home with your firm’s furniture instead of the homeowner’s belongings. Seeking out the best climate controlled storage units in your area in order to move the owner’s belongings out of the space while you show it is a great way to create an open and inviting environment for prospective buyers.

Empty or sparsely populated rooms give prospective buyers the best possible vantage point with which to imagine their own belongings and decorations in the space. By removing the clutter, decorations, and belongings of the current homeowner you give them the best possible chance of landing a buyer in rapid time

Public storage space is a great option for enabling this. A local storage facility the offers humidity control through climate control functions and great customer service is the perfect place to keep furniture, sensitive items, and decorations that would only hinder the process otherwise. A storage facility you trust is the perfect place to go with all of your clients’ needs, and repeat business may even net you and your clients a discount over the long run as you continue to grow in the industry.

Introduce some green into the home.

Adding home floor plants to corners or next to furniture in a tasteful arrangement can really make a room pop for viewers thinking of making the home their own. Indoor plants that only require small amounts of moisture and indirect sunlight, such as a snake plant or a fiddle leaf fig, are best for these purposes. They won’t need a lot of attention or maintenance and can act admirably as decorative framing for the room’s overall energy. Plantlife increases the mood of a room as well as the people within it, so setting some strategic foliage around the home that you are showing is a great way to subtly enhance the feeling and atmosphere of the home and create good vibes for the viewers. This is a subconsciously powerful feeling that they will take home with them and be reminded of when they think back on the home as they mull over their options.

A very minor inclusion like this could make the difference between multiple callbacks and none over the course of a weekend of showing the home. The more interested parties involved the better for your client, so take advantage of every little psychological trick you can get your hands on.

Don’t forget to show off your own personality as well.

Real estate agents often spend so much time showcasing the personality of the home that they forget to let themselves shine as well. Real estate is primarily about the building, but in order to really show off a home, you have to show off yourself as well. A prospective buyer needs your guiding touch in order to really place themselves in the home, so getting to know the property before showing it off is crucial to a successful weekend of visits. Likewise, taking care of yourself and making sure to always put your best foot forward will create an inviting persona that a prospective buyer instinctively wants to trust.

A first impression is formed in as little as seven seconds, which means that your appearance is critical. Keeping up your wardrobe with the latest styles and making sure you get regular haircuts or manicures is an important step. So is your body language. The way you carry yourself speaks volumes about what is going on inside your head, so make sure you get a good night’s sleep before a big day of home visits, and always have a good breakfast in the morning in order to carry you through the day. Smiling, keeping your head up high, and maintaining a bright and inviting posture is something that you learn to incorporate into your repertoire over the years in the business, so if you haven’t mastered these elements yet there is nothing to worry about. Eventually, these things will become natural and you will glide through a home with eager buyers hanging on your every word. For now, focus on one piece and make sure you execute it to perfection.

Staging a home takes a commitment to excellence and detail. Getting each little piece right will take some practice but you will quickly get the hang of it. These things become second nature as you begin to show off more and more homes, so don’t fret the small setbacks. Take each showing as a learning opportunity and continue to grow in your profession in order to see personal and professional development and greater opportunity for career growth in your field.

Moving Tips For City Dwellers

There are many reasons why people up and leave a particular place. However, moving to a different location can be stressful and overwhelming at times, regardless of the cause. Besides planning your move ahead of time, there are other things you can do to make it hassle-free. Here are a few essential moving tips for people living in the city.

1. Hire a Professional Mover

Whether it’s a long-distance move, commercial move, or corporate relocation, hiring a professional mover will shield you from the risk and hassle associated with moving. Additionally, experienced movers are often quite efficient, so you’ll have peace of mind and the best moving experience.

Additionally, moving companies are usually very local. For example, if you stay around the Phoenix area and are looking for local movers in Phoenix, Muscular Moving Men & Storage is a safe bet, amongst others. Reputed as the best moving company in Arizona, they offer high-quality moving and storage services in the Phoenix Metro area.

The acclaimed Phoenix moving company runs background checks on all their staff and keeps them up to date on all necessary training. Additionally, they offer high end packing supplies, including boxes, tape, and padding materials at affordable prices. As a storage company, they provide short and long-term storage services for their clients. All in all, the company operates a secure, air-cooled storage facility in Phoenix to keep your belongings safe and protected.

2. Rent a Self-Storage Unit

Renting a storage facility makes it easier to move your belongings from one location to another. The interesting thing about renting a storage unit is that you can rent them for as long as you need it. More so, small businesses with limited storage space can keep their inventories in secure self-storage facilities for safekeeping. Unfortunately, many people find it difficult to locate affordable storage units closest to them, but a quick Google search should help.

For example, if you reside in Brooklyn, a search phrase of “affordable storages in Brooklyn” should bring a few options to choose from. Alternatively, on sites like U.S. Storage Units, you can find, compare, and reserve storage units anywhere in the United States—at no charge. The comparison self-storage network site features over 10,000 storage facilities spread across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada.

Additionally, its inventory holds more than 2,000,000 storage units. The website also features a Vehicle Storage Finder to help you locate a secure and affordable vehicle storage space in your area. U.S. Storage Units also offers the best deals on business storage units in case you’re looking to make some room in your office. What’s more, students have access to affordable public storage units near their universities and colleges.

3. Buy Your Own Home

Renting an apartment on a long term basis can significantly affect your finances. The best way to cut down on all that spending is to own your own home. If you can’t outrightly afford one, you may need to take out a home loan or mortgage. Sadly, no financial institution or traditional lender will give you a home loan without a good credit score and steady income stream. The good news is that an alternative mortgage is a viable option for people who don’t meet the requirements of a conventional mortgage.

The Mortgage Group are globally renowned alternative mortgage lenders who help with renovations, business capital, debt consolidations, pre-sales, and tax arrears. Their services are even available to those who are unemployed or bankrupt as well as people with low credit scores.

Additionally, the Mortgage Group has a variety of options to suit the needs of any homebuyer, including home equity loans, foreclosure financing, and stated income mortgages. Sure, their rates are higher than traditional banks, but approval is straightforward and quicker.

What Is a Mortgage Offset Account?

Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or looking for an upgrade, understanding the differences between types of home loans is imperative. There are numerous types of home loans, with each varying in interest rates and monthly payments.

A mortgage offset account can help homebuyers reduce the interest charged on their home loan and allows account holders to access money when needed. So, what exactly is a mortgage offset account, and how do they work?

What is an offset account?

An offset mortgage account is a transaction account connected to a home loan. Like a traditional transaction account, offset account holders can deposit or withdraw cash at any time.

The main difference between an offset account and a traditional transaction account is that an offset account can reduce the amount of interest charged on your home loan. Holding money in an offset account can help you pay off your home loan sooner and accrue less interest. The higher the balance in your account and the longer you keep the money in the account, the less interest you’ll be charged on your home loan.

In most cases, offset accounts are only available for home loans with variable interest rates. However, some lenders allow homeowners to open an offset account for fixed-rate home loans.

How do offset accounts work?

When a homeowner opens a mortgage offset account, they’re only charged interest on the net balance of their home loan. The net balance of a home loan equates to the loan balance subtracted from the amount in the redraw offset facility or offset account.

For example, if you have $10,000 in an offset account and owe $200,000 in your mortgage, the interest on the home loan will be calculated on $190,000. Essentially, in the case of 100% offset accounts, the balance in your offset account is deducted from the balance of your home loan.

Opening a mortgage offset account does not change your monthly repayments. However, more of your repayments will go toward paying the principal balance of your home loan, rather than the interest accrued. Mortgage offset accounts help homeowners pay off their mortgage faster while accruing less interest and allow homeowners to access the money in their offset account at any time.

What are the benefits of an offset account?

Holding money in your offset mortgage account can save you thousands of dollars and can shorten your home loan repayment period by years. For example, if you take out a home loan at $400,000 with a 5 percent interest rate and a loan period of 30 years, storing $10,000 in your offset account for 30 years can save you more than $30,000 in accrued interest. Along with saving money, you’ll reduce your repayment period by a year.

Is an offset account right for you?

Although there are many benefits of an offset account, homeowners should review their current financial situation before opening an account. If you plan to regularly deposit and withdraw money, an offset account can give you immediate access to your cash. However, many lenders charge to open an offset account.

In some cases, homeowners are charged a monthly fee, while other lenders charge an annual package fee. Consequently, homeowners should consider whether saving interest will be more beneficial than paying account fees.

If you own a home and you’re planning to move soon, an offset account may not be for you. Instead, a simple google search like “Sell My House Fast California” can connect you to companies that make the process of buying and selling a home easy. Because selling your home “as is” can provide you with immediate cash to use toward your next home loan, you’ll start with a lower loan balance and you won’t be charged as much interest.

Opening a mortgage offset account can reduce the amount of interest accrued on your home loan and help shorten your repayment period. Ultimately, whether opening an offset account is the right choice for you depends on your financial situation.

How to Make Your House a Home

From fretting over which color to paint your walls to wondering if you bought the right furniture set, there are a lot of decisions that go into decorating a home. But sometimes, you get so caught up in the big picture that you forget to focus on the smaller details that make a house a home. Here’s how to transform your house into a home that’ll showcase your style, tell a story, and make guests feel welcomed.

Fill Up Empty Walls

A collection of picture frames can leave your space feeling cluttered and disorganized. Instead, opt for high-quality canvas prints. From serene prints of nature to family photos, wall art can be anything and everything you want it to be.

If you’re not sure where to start, try decorating with family photos. Decorating with your favorite pictures of your family will show your guests how much your family means to you while letting your family know that they’re appreciated.

If you have limited space, a canvas art print in a wooden frame can lighten up the room. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more eye-catching, a bigger canvas print is ideal for preserving your favorite memories. Canvas prints can serve as an eye-catching focal point in your space and make you feel more at home.

Add Warmth

While expensive furniture and a spotless home might seem appealing, they’ll leave your space feeling cold. Instead, opt for comfortable Amish furniture and warm tones. To incorporate warm tones, decorate your space with throw blankets, soft pillows, and plush rugs.

Additionally, add some warm-hued lamps or overhead lighting. Decorating with your favorite lamp can help add a personal touch to your space, and you’ll be able to structure your lighting in a way that works for you. To make your home feel even cozier, light some candles.

Make Guests Feel Welcomed

Nothing makes your house feel like a home more than visits from close friends and family. Make your entryway feel warm and inviting with pictures of friends and family. Decorate with a coat rack, a doormat, and a welcome sign to make guests feel at home in your space. To top it all off, decorate your porch with comfortable patio furniture and lush plants. You’ll feel proud of your space, and your guests will feel welcomed before they even walk through the door.

Create a Lived-In Look

If your space feels cold, you won’t want to spend any time in it. Keeping your home organized and clutter-free is important, but you don’t have to keep everything in storage. Don’t be afraid to showcase your hobbies and knick-knacks around your home. Bring nature inside with some fresh florals, and keep your favorite photos and accessories somewhere you’ll be able to see them every day.

If you’re concerned about clutter, invest in shelves or a bookcase. When transforming your house into a home, storage solutions should be functional, but visually appealing. A well-organized bookcase is a great way to keep clutter at bay, and it’ll allow you to focus less on cleaning and more on displaying your favorite things.

Make Your Space Functional

If you love baking, don’t hide away all of your utensils and appliances. Instead, find creative ways to keep your space tidy while maintaining its functionality. Try filling up a glass jar with utensils or hanging them on your kitchen wall. Your house will never feel like a home if you need to spend hours every day sorting through drawers.

Transforming your house into a home makes spending time in your space much more enjoyable. You’ll feel proud of your space, and inviting guests over will allow you to showcase your style. And if you’re thinking about selling your home yourself, making your house feel like a home can even attract potential buyers.