It should go without saying that your fridge and freezer are most vulnerable in the summer heat. To keep them running smoothly, clean condenser coils—which help the unit stay cool by releasing heat from the compressor—and be sure to remove dirt, pet hair, and any nasty food that’s lodged there.
Shortcuts: Make the job simple by using a vacuum and coil brush, says Chris Granger, vice president of Sears Home Services.
While you’re at it, tackle the door.
“A leaky door gasket can result in your refrigerator trying to cool the entire kitchen,” Granger says.
Clean the gasket with a mild cleaner, and then check the seal integrity with a solution of soapy water—just like you would do with an inflatable mattress, he says. You can also use the dollar bill approach: Close a dollar bill in the door so it’s half in your fridge. If your gasket isn’t tight enough, it won’t hold the bill firmly in place—the dollar bill will fall out or slide down.
Call in the pros: Most appliance repairmen charge by the hour. Depending on the issue, a refrigerator repair could cost anywhere from $100 and $250 an hour.
CA Real Estate Group works with professional service people. Whether it’s refrigerator repair or HVAC tune-ups, we can connect you with the people we work with.
Call Christine or Anaid for a referral!
👩🏻 Christine Almarines @carealestategroup
Realtor DRE# 01412944 | 714-476-4637
👩🏻 Anaid Bautista @wealthwithanaid
Realtor DRE# 02179675 | 949-391-8266
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Time To Sell? Signs To Know You’re Ready
Are you considering selling your house but unsure whether the time is right? Assessing a few key factors can help you decide if you’re ready for a move.
You have the wrong amount of space. Whether you’re running out of room for your growing family or you’re an empty nester and the house feels too big, one sure way to know it’s time to move is when your home no longer fits your lifestyle.
You’ve built up equity. When selling your house and purchasing a new one, it’s wise to have enough equity to cover at least a 20% down payment on your new home to avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI). Make sure you also have enough to cover closing costs and moving expenses.
The market is in your favor. The timing of your house sale can significantly impact the offers you receive. Take advantage of high home values and strong demand to maximize your sale price.
Your house is ready to list. Properties in good condition and not needing any extensive repairs are more attractive to buyers. If minor touchups and fixes are required, be sure to address those before putting your house on the market.
You’ve found the right real estate agent to help you. Once you decide it’s time to sell, a real estate professional will guide you through the process, helping you move on to the next exciting chapter of your life.
Keep Curb Appeal Up When Temperatures Soar
Maintaining curb appeal throughout the long summer months can be a feverish undertaking. Consider these tips to keep your home looking refreshed, even on the hottest days.
Add potted succulents to your landscape. These heat-tolerant beauties not only reduce your watering and weeding workload but also come in a variety of muted tones and textures that give your outdoor space a trendy touch.
Look for indications of wear and tear on your home’s exterior. Heat from the sun can cause paint to fade, blister, peel, and crack. If you see any of these signs, it may be time to have your house repainted.
Mow your lawn on a regular basis and use an edger or trimmer for a clean, crisp perimeter. Pressure wash your concrete driveway and walkways to complete the manicured look.
Wash away dirt and pollen left behind by seasonal winds and storms. Clean your windows inside and out so the bright summer sun can help your home shine.
What’s Going on With the Housing Market?
Last year, economists predicted falling mortgage rates in 2024 would increase the number of potential buyers, with sellers eager to list their homes. When rates fall and more properties are on the market, home prices tend to level off. More sellers will naturally allow for more sales.
Even though mortgage rates have been rising for the past two years, data shows that inventory has been increasing, and home prices have remained steady. Unless there is a significant drop or increase in mortgage rates, home prices will likely remain consistent with last year.
You can rely on a knowledgeable real estate agent to help sell your home quickly for the best price.
How To Stand Out as a Buyer
A competitive housing market moves quickly, so buyers often need ways to capture the seller’s attention. With the right strategies in place, your dream home is just one good offer away.
Get Preapproved
Loan preapproval gives a seller confidence in your funding ability, and knowing your purchase limit can help you make a competitive offer when other bids are on the table.
Present Your Best Offer
In a seller’s market, you may only get one shot at making an offer, so make it your best.
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
Asking for a lot of extras during negotiations may deter a seller. Stay focused on the most critical items, such as the roof, foundation and plumbing.
Act Fast
Competitive markets move swiftly. To reduce deliberation time, make a list of nonnegotiable features you want in a home.
Work With a Real Estate Professional
Buying a house is a complex process, so having someone you trust to help you navigate the details is important.
Advantages of Putting a House in a Trust
Placing a house in a trust can help ensure a smooth transfer of the property to your beneficiary upon your passing. It establishes a fiduciary relationship, which prioritizes the protection of another individual’s interests. Here are some of the benefits of creating a trust.
Avoid probate. Probate can be an expensive, lengthy process for those who inherit property and other assets. A trust allows for direct transfer without going through the court.
Reduce taxes. Depending on the type of trust you establish, you may be able to minimize estate taxes or other taxes that could be imposed on your property.
Maintain privacy. Placing your house in a trust ensures sensitive financial information isn’t included in public records.
 ©2024 The Personal Marketing Company. All rights reserved. Reproductions in any form, in part or in whole, are prohibited without written permission. If your property is currently listed for sale or lease, this is not intended as a solicitation of that listing. The material in this publication is for your information only and not intended to be used in lieu of seeking additional consumer or professional advice. All trademarked names or quotations are registered trademarks of their respective owners.
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Lenexa, KS 66214 |
1
Take a road trip.
Pile the family into the car, crank up the tunes and take the scenic route. Whether your destination is the beach or your dad’s favorite national park, this trip will definitely create a lasting memory.
2
Bake him a homemade dessert.
The perfect cure for any sweet tooth is a perfectly decadent treat. Whether your dad is a brownie guy or loves a good pie, the way his face lights up will be priceless when you present him with his favorite dessert made with love.
3
Build a campfire.
End his Father’s Day on a sweet note by roasting marshmallows over the fire. As people are eating their s’mores, ask everyone in the circle to share their fondest memories with Dad or Grandpa. It’ll make this moment even sweeter.
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4
Plan a family workout.
Even if you’d rather spend your Sunday lounging on the couch, Father’s Day is a time to do whatever your dad loves most — even if it’s working out. Skip the gym and hit the trails or jog along the water. Or if the weather isn’t in your favor, let him choose an at-home workout that you can do right in your living room.
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5
Take an online cooking class.
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6
Get your karaoke on.
Crank up his favorite tunes, pass the mic, and watch him bring down the house with his serious karaoke skills. Bonus points if your dad busts out his dance moves while he’s on stage a.k.a. your living room floor.
7
Serve dad an all-star brunch.
The best way to start off Father’s Day? A table full of Dad’s favorite brunch recipes, of course. Wow him with an all-star spread of waffles, eggs and fruit — and don’t forget the coffee and OJ!
8
Have a family game night.
This year, let Dad lean into his competitive side during a family game night by playing classics like Jenga, charades or Monopoly. If Dad loves trivia and brain-teasers, you can even host a family trivia night!
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9
Host a wine tasting.
For all wine-loving dads, the ultimate treat on Father’s Day is an at-home wine-tasting event. Complete a selection of the best wines with a beautiful spread of cheeses and grapes, along with a scorecard to keep track of all the wines he’s tasting.
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10
Craft together.
Encourage everyone in the family to get creative by making crafts fit for the holiday. While you can always go for something that’ll double as a gift for Dad, we’re pretty sure he’d love to get his hands in the paint, too.
11
Pack up a backyard picnic.
Here’s an easy way to impress Dad on his special day: Pack up some sandwiches, grab a blanket and then head out to your backyard for a family picnic. He’ll definitely enjoy the sunshine and some fun backyard games, especially with all his favorite people around him.
12
Pamper him with a spa day.
Dads deserve some pampering, too! Turn your home into a relaxing spa by lighting candles and playing soothing music. If you or your kids aren’t great at giving messages, give him a gift basket full of self-care goodies, including shaving creams, lotions and soaps.
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13
Fire up the grill.
Father’s Day is best celebrated with family and amazing food, so fire up the grill to make a delicious meal that everyone can enjoy. Take the opportunity to learn a thing or two from Dad, or simply cheer him on as he serves plate after plate of juicy burgers, grilled veggies and more.
14
Hit the golf course.
We’re sure if you ask Dad how he’d like to spend Father’s Day, golf will most certainly be at the top of the list. Make his wish come true with tee time at his favorite golf course. Feel free to go the extra mile by organizing his gear ahead of time and arranging his transportation.
DANIELLE OCCHIOGROSSO DALY
15
Bring him to a steak dinner.
Give Dad what he really wants on Father’s Day: a nice dinner served with a glass of his favorite bourbon. Practice the recipe ahead of time to ensure that you can sear the steak just right.
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16
Plan an outdoor movie night.
Since drive-in movie theaters are hard to come by, set up an outdoor screening in your own backyard. Shine a projector against a blank wall and pick one of Dad’s favorite movies to watch as a family.
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17
Make a splash at the pool.
The only way to celebrate the “official day of summer” on June 20? With a fun poolside hang the day before of course! Give him his own pool float or let him knock out his first summer read — it’s his choice!
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18
Go camping.
Whether you head to a campsite for the weekend or decide to set up a tent in your own backyard, Dad will love roasting marshmallows and telling scary stories around the fire.
GARETH WEBB
Create a scavenger hunt.
Add some extra flare to your dad’s Father’s Day gift by having it discover it himself. Leave him a list of riddles and clues that will lead him right to his present.
20
Visit a museum.
If your dad is a history buff, take him to visit a local museum. And even if history isn’t really his thing, there are tons of museums with interactive exhibits that are sure to be fun for the entire family.
21
Head to the race track.
Make June 18 a day to remember with a friendly go-kart race that might just turn competitive after a few laps. Pick a partner or ride solo, but definitely give Dad a head start — it’s his special day after all.
22
Take a historical site tour.
If Dad’s a history buff, look for historic sites that offer tours. The experience will give him an opportunity to tell you all about his favorite leaders and events, making the day even more special.
23
Go to a car show.
A buzzing car show will add a unique touch to your Dad’s day. Spend time looking at his favorite models through the years and discover new favorites together.
24
Take him to a food festival.
Whether it’s food trucks, a BBQ battle or Smorgasburg, a food festival or food market is the perfect activity for any foodie Dad. You can choose to browse and taste multiple kinds of cuisine or focus in on his favorite!
25
Help Dad wash the car.
If Father’s Day is sunny and bright this year, it’ll be the perfect time for a car wash. To make it a bit more fun, you could even fill up some water balloons and grab some water guns to turn it into a water fight.
26
Take him to see live music.
Whether your dad loves jazz or country music, finding him a live performance to attend on Father’s Day is sure to warm his heart.
27
Treat him to ice cream.
Who doesn’t love ice cream? Treat your dad to his favorite flavor and maybe even grab a pint for him to take home.
28
Go for a bike ride with the family.
The entire family can get some exercise with a bike ride on Father’s Day. Scope out Dad’s favorite trails ahead of time and maybe even plan for a picnic once you reach your destination.
29
Perform a concert.
Nothing will make a dad smile more than seeing his child perform an original song or dance. If you want to make it really special, add in some lyrics that will let your dad know how special he is to you.
30
Schedule a pottery class.
Take your DIY crafts up a notch and take a pottery class with your favorite guy. You all can laugh over the wacky creations you make or create something pretty enough to showcase at home.
31
Break things at a rage room.
Allow your dad to blow off a little steam through the cathartic exercise of breaking things at a rage room. By the time you finish ripping through the room of various items, you’ll both feel more relaxed.
32
Take him shopping.
Your dad might say he doesn’t want anything this year, but that could change if you let him pick out exactly what he wants during a mini shopping spree.
33
Try out axe throwing.
If you want to create a truly memorable experience, take your dad out for a couple of hours of axe throwing. You both can take turns seeing who can hit the bullseye.
34
Go bowling.
Bowling always brings family together. This Father’s Day, you could split up into teams — like parents against kids — to see who has the best form.
35
Build a pillow fort.
Father’s Day is as good a day as any to create lasting memories. Grab a few pillows, couch cushions and blankets to create the ultimate fort, perfect for reading stories or sparking a pillow fight.
36
Solve a mystery in an escape room.
Have your dad channel his inner detective when you take him to an escape room. As you all comb through clues in order to solve the puzzle and escape, you are bound to learn more about each other.
37
Work on a puzzle together.
Depending on the puzzle, this activity can create hours upon hours of bonding and laughs. Once you’ve completed the puzzle, you can even frame it.
38
Go skydiving.
Free-falling through the air might not be for everyone. But if your dad is a self-proclaimed risk taker, then this might be just the activity for him.
39
Compete in a mud run.
If your dad has a competitive streak then he’s sure to have fun navigating a mud-filled obstacle course. You can even set a wager on who will finish first.
40
Take a rock climbing class.
Get in a workout and maybe even a new hobby but taking him to a rock climbing class. It’ll give him an adrenaline rush without being too dangerous.
41
Hire a private chef.
Allow your dad to relax this Father’s Day and hire a private chef to take care of the cooking.
42
Plan a paint and sip.
Break out the paint and open a bottle of your dad’s favorite wine. While you both attempt to paint a tree, a vase or a dreamy landscape at sunset, you can bond over your artistic skills or simply share a laugh at the final product.
43
Create your own vintage arcade.
Celebrate your dad’s inner gamer by putting together a vintage arcade for him. All you’ll need to do is to rent out the machines for his favorite childhood games, like Pac-Man and Sonic. Once you set them up, watch his inner child come alive.
44
Surprise him with a race car test-drive.
Has your dad always dreamed of tearing down a NASCAR track at top speed? You can make that dream a reality by surprising him with a NASCAR racing experience where he can either ride with a trained professional or take to the asphalt all on his own. Whichever experience you land on, your dad is sure to have a Father’s Day he’ll never forget.
45
Take care of a task.
Even the handiest of Dads seem to have that one project that they’ve “been meaning to get to.” This Father’s day, let your old man take a load off while you take care of whatever lingering tasks he may have cluttering his to-do list. Trust us, you’ll be able to see the appreciation all over his face.
46
Garden with him.
If your dad already has a green thumb, why not join him in his natural habitat? You may be surprised to find yourself bonding over tomato plants and fresh herbs. And if his garden is far along you may even be able to create a meal with what you pick.
47
Challenge him to a pick up basketball game.
If your dad has been coaching you in sports for most of your life, now is the time to see if he’s still got it. Challenge your dad to a pick up game. You could even get the entire family involved, making it siblings versus parents and set a wager for the prize. What ensues is sure to create an epic memory.
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48
Trace your family’s roots.
Even if you think you already have a grasp on everything there is to know about your dad, there’s so much more to his story. Take a walk down memory lane by flipping through his photo albums and school memorabilia. Then take time to trace your dad’s family tree to get a deeper look at your family’s past and present.
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49
Host a lawn game tournament.
Bring the Olympic spirit to your backyard by organizing an afternoon event with cornhole, horseshoes, croquet and other lawn games. If your dad has a competitive side, keep score at each game and tally up the points at the end to name a winner.
50
Watch all of the Marvel movies in order.
Cross one more thing off your dad’s bucket list: Track down all of the Marvel movies — some are available to stream, others must be rented — and cozy up on the couch for an all-day movie marathon. There are 24 Marvel movies in total, so it may take a few weeks to get through them all.
51
Get out on the water.
Rent a boat with Boatsetter for the morning, afternoon or evening, so you all can spend quality time together on the water. Some rentals also come with the option to rent jetskis, which are perfect for dads who want to get active. Whatever you settle on, make sure the entire family remembers to apply a generous amount of sunscreen.
52
Go for a hike.
Enjoy the great outdoors as a family by hitting up your local hiking and biking trails or driving to the nearest National Park in your area. Let Dad choose the path and be ready to take tons of family photos.
53
Host a beer tasting.
On Father’s Day, serve Dad a refreshing pint of his favorite brewski. For the ultimate treat, plan a craft beer tasting with an assortment of ales, lagers and IPAs from local breweries. He might just find a new favorite and you’ll be the one to thank!
Some Highlights
- If your needs have changed, now’s a great time to sell and get the features you want most.
- Many buyers are eager to move between the school years, so you may see a faster sale, multiple offers, a higher final sales price, and more.
- If you want to get your house ready for a summer listing, connect with CA Real Estate Group. Give Christine Almarines a call at 714-476-4637!
EcoGardeners.com
Pets are a beloved part of many families, and creating a safe and enjoyable outdoor space for them is important.
Whether you have a dog, cat, or other outdoor pet, there are several steps you can take to make your yard or garden safe for them.
- Check for poisonous plants: Many common plants are toxic to pets and can cause serious health problems if ingested. Before planting anything in your yard or garden, research the plants to ensure they are safe for pets. Some common poisonous plants include lilies, tulips, azaleas, and oleander.
- Install fencing: Fencing your yard can help to keep your pets safe and prevent them from wandering off. Make sure the fencing is secure and tall enough to prevent your pets from jumping over it.
- Avoid toxic chemicals: Pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides can be toxic to pets if ingested. Try to avoid using these chemicals in your yard or garden, and if you must use them, keep your pets away from the area until the chemicals have dried.
- Create shade: Providing shade in your yard or garden can help to keep your pets cool and prevent heatstroke. Consider planting trees or installing a shade structure to provide shade in your outdoor space.
- Provide water: Make sure your pets have access to fresh, clean water at all times. Consider installing a pet fountain or automatic waterer to ensure they always have access to water.
- Keep your yard clean: Regularly cleaning up your yard can help to prevent your pets from getting into harmful materials, such as chemicals or sharp objects. Additionally, keeping your yard clean can help to prevent the spread of disease and parasites.
- Provide toys and play areas: Providing toys and play areas in your yard can help to keep your pets entertained and prevent them from getting into trouble. Consider installing a sandbox or playhouse for your pets to enjoy.
Creating a safe and enjoyable outdoor space for your pets requires some extra effort, but it is well worth it. By following these steps, you can help to ensure that your pets stay safe and happy in your yard or garden. Remember to check for poisonous plants, install fencing, avoid toxic chemicals, create shade, provide water, keep your yard clean, and provide toys and play areas.
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Improving your home through renovations is an excellent, and sometimes necessary, way to make your house feel like home. Choosing to add a master suite addition instead of rebuilding the bathroom usually comes down to personal preference. However, the game changes when you’re planning to sell your home. Saving money on renovation work and controlling the cost of selling becomes crucial to getting the most out of your investment.
Much talk centers around a seller’s return on investment, and the ROI percentages vary depending on who’s doing the estimating. Some home improvement projects produce excellent ROI values, while some are just ways to spend money. The best investments when getting your home on the market provide strong returns along with big-impact selling points.
1. Don’t Put on an Addition
A good rule of thumb when searching for high ROI values is to avoid big-ticket reconstruction projects. The cost of home additions or major remodels is almost never worth it in dollars in the end. With ROIs averaging around 45% for a master suite addition, save the project for your forever home. Additions and major remodeling projects are excellent for improving the comfort and utility of a house but aren’t great at producing monetary returns.
Do Paint the Walls
Instead of spending loads of money and months of work moving walls and building a home addition, grab a paintbrush. Painting is the least expensive and most effective way to make a good impression. Repairing holes in the walls and painting the interior with neutral colors doesn’t add a lot of monetary value, but it doesn’t cost much either. Expect ROI values of over 105% for interior painting and 80% for the exterior.
2. Don’t Reconstruct the Foyer
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Similar to other big-ticket remodels, some small remodels don’t fare well on ROI value either. Specialty remodels such as creating a mudroom or adding a grand foyer may look nice to some, but turn some buyers off. Many buyers have visions of what an entryway should be, and it’s hard to guess what they’re thinking. Mudrooms and entry remodels will return less than 60% of your investment.
Do Replace the Front Door
On the other hand, the entrances to your home can be significantly enhanced by replacing the doors or windows. Garage door replacement can fetch returns of 95% of the cost at selling time. Window replacement ROI often depends on the climate in your location. Cold weather areas see greater returns of up to 70%, while moderate temperature locales realize less return.
Front door replacement is another ROI winner. Sellers with new front doors can see returns of 80% or more. If you have the time and patience to strip and refinish an older, but solid, front door, you could do even better.
3. Don’t Remodel the Kitchen
As fantastic and functional as a perfectly outfitted chef’s kitchen can be, remodeling one with ROI in mind comes up a few ingredients short. Due to the necessity of moving mechanical systems during remodeling, kitchen renovations are pricey. Worse, your return on investment could be as low as 55%.
Do Update Fixtures
If your kitchen needs help before selling, focus on the little details. Cheap renovations often go a long way toward increasing your home’s value without breaking the bank. Instead of remodeling a worn-out kitchen, spend no more than $350 to replace the faucet and a few hundred to replace the lights. Your best bet is to look for relatively inexpensive, but attractive, items while avoiding extravagance.
4. Don’t Rebuild the Bathrooms
Everybody loves a brand new bathroom. New bathrooms don’t help at selling time, though. Bathroom remodeling suffers the same troubles as kitchen remodels, with ROI values in the 55% range.
Do Update Faucets and Lighting
Similar to your kitchen, spend a few dollars on updating the plumbing and lighting fixtures. Avoid demolition and replacement of tile work, but replacing moldy-looking tile grout helps. And, don’t forget the paint.
5. Don’t Install a Pool
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Many potential buyers simply scroll past home listings with inground pools. Especially in colder climate areas, trying to sell someone a long list of pool maintenance chores is a daunting task. Besides ROI values that hover around 50%, buyers looking for a functional backyard will look the other way. Like other big-ticket renovations, build your pool when you’ve found your forever home.
Do Add a Patio or Refresh the Deck
Although building a patio or deck will only return 66% on your investment, they are good selling points and may be the difference between selling quickly or slowly. And, they cost far less than an inground pool. Decks and patios that are in lousy shape are definitely on any buyer’s con list. If your deck needs attention, look at refreshing it with new deck boards instead of total replacement if possible.
6. Don’t Replace the Siding
The old saying that you only get one chance to make a first impression is true in home selling. However, spending many thousands of dollars replacing the exterior siding may not be the best use of your money to make that impression. If your siding is in good shape, consider painting it or simply power washing it until it shines. Always fix any holes or damage, but a bit of refreshment might be all it needs.
Do Add a Stone Veneer Instead
If your house needs a new look to sell, leave most of the home’s siding alone and replace part of it with a stone veneer instead. Popularized in the 1950s, the look still sells. Relatively inexpensive to install, stone veneer improvements can realize 92% ROI.
7. Don’t Build Extra Storage Spaces
Closet space and storage areas are nice to have. The trouble with spending money on renovations to increase storage spaces to gain a return is that everyone, including your potential buyer, has a different idea of what storage should look like and how it needs to function.
Do Downsize
Save your money trying to impress buyers with vast storage options. If it looks like your home has inadequate storage space, spend some time downsizing or removing excess items before it goes to market.
8. Don’t Install Major Landscaping Features
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Outdoor kitchens, ornate gazebos, extravagant water features, fountains and putting greens are all on the “no” list when it comes to ROI. Your current landscaping may need a little refresh, but that’s where it should stop to get the most bang for your buck.
Do Focus on Curb Appeal Instead
If you’ve already replaced the garage door and added a stone veneer, you’re nearly done. Before the first day on the market, mow the lawn, power wash the walkways and trim the hedges. Make sure that you’ve had significant cracks in the concrete repaired.
To really make an impression with very little investment, consider hiring a reputable lawn care service to get your yard looking its best. Returns of 80% and more happen when sellers focus on curb appeal over major landscaping projects.
9. Don’t Buy the Latest Fixtures
You’ve decided to upgrade your bathroom and kitchen plumbing and lighting fixtures. Expensive, trendy faucets and lighting can sell for well over $1,000 each. The ROI on them is zero from a buyer looking for something more traditional. Save the guesswork and the cash you’d otherwise spend on expensive fixtures and find lesser-priced options.
Install Good-Enough Fixtures Instead
Faucets and light fixtures can be found in any price range. Except for some specialized functions, they all do the same thing. If your kitchen and bath need new equipment, aim for products in the $100 to $200 range. These fixtures are priced reasonably and provide functional attractiveness.
10. Don’t Replace Mechanical Systems
If your furnace doesn’t work and your roof has holes, they need replacement. But, when replaced, HVAC, plumbing and electrical infrastructure, water heaters and other unseen systems don’t add home value. However, they can bring down the value if they don’t operate. Roofing ROI hovers around 55%, and they aren’t cheap to install. If you can sell your home without putting money into replacing mechanical systems, you’ll have more money in your pocket when you move out.
Do Keep Up On Maintenance Tasks
Neglected maintenance tasks will be discovered quickly by the buyer’s home inspector. Instead of spending hard-earned cash on replacing systems, spend that money on keeping your home’s existing systems in top shape. Cheap, easy and high ROI fixes include replacing worn doorknobs, cleaning out the rain gutters and repairing sidewalk cracks, among other similar items.
EcoGardeners.com
Maintaining a beautiful lawn in Southern California can be a challenging task due to the hot and dry climate, but with proper lawn care tips, it is possible to have a lush and healthy lawn all year round.
Here are some lawn care tips that can help you achieve a beautiful lawn in Southern California:
- Choose the right grass type: Choosing the right type of grass is essential for maintaining a beautiful lawn in Southern California. Warm-season grasses such as Bermuda, St. Augustine, and Zoysia are well-suited to the region’s hot and dry climate.
- Water deeply and infrequently: In Southern California, it is important to water your lawn deeply and infrequently rather than frequently and shallowly. Deep watering encourages roots to grow deeper, which helps the grass to withstand drought conditions. It is recommended to water the lawn two to three times a week during the hot summer months, depending on the grass type.
- Mow regularly: Mowing your lawn regularly helps to keep it healthy and looking its best. The height of the grass should be adjusted according to the grass type. For example, Bermuda grass should be cut at a height of 1 to 1.5 inches, while St. Augustine grass should be cut at a height of 2 to 3 inches.
- Fertilize regularly: Fertilizing your lawn regularly can help to promote healthy growth and improve its overall appearance. It is recommended to fertilize warm-season grasses during the spring and summer months, and cool-season grasses during the fall and winter months.
- Control weeds: Weeds can be a nuisance in any lawn, but they can be particularly problematic in Southern California. It is important to control weeds as soon as they appear to prevent them from spreading. Hand weeding or using herbicides can be effective in controlling weeds.
- Aerate the soil: Aeration is the process of creating small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the roots of the grass. Aeration is especially important in areas with heavy foot traffic or compacted soil. It is recommended to aerate your lawn at least once a year.
- Use mulch: Mulching can help to conserve water and improve the overall health of your lawn. Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil, which reduces the need for watering. It also helps to regulate soil temperature and provides nutrients to the soil as it breaks down.
We loved these ideas so much that we’re reposting these for Mother’s Day 2024! I’m sure you’ll find something here that she’ll love and appreciate. 🙂
BY WOMANSDAY.COM UPDATED: MAY 4, 2021
These meaningful gifts for mom may not cost money, but will show you care all the same.
While it’s important to remind your mom how much you love and appreciate her on Mother’s Day, that reminder doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of affordable Mother’s Day gifts under $25 that look anything but cheap and, if you’re crafty, you can always make a DIY Mother’s Day present for that special lady in your life. However, if the ongoing Covid-19 crisis has put you on a very tight budget, then these free and frugal Mother’s Day gifts can be used to tell your mom, grandma, stepmom, mother-in-law, or any other maternal figure you know and love just how much you care. The best part? They won’t require you to spend more than a few bucks (or no money at all!).
Saying “I love you” on Mother’s Day doesn’t have to entail an actual gift. You can show your appreciation by making a special Mother’s Day brunch, helping her around the house, or planning a Mother’s Day activity for the two of you to enjoy. A thoughtful Mother’s Day card is also a great way to express your gratitude. But if you’re looking for a small memento to give your mom on May 9, and after a particularly difficult year, then these free (or basically free) gifts are the way to go.
Your love doesn’t have to cost a thing, and these free Mother’s Day gifts prove it. The best part: These gift ideas all make perfect last-minute Mother’s Day presents if you accidentally procrastinated this year.
Courtesy of Skip to My Lou
Mother’s Day Coupon Book
Give your mom the freedom to choose how she spends her special day with a free download of an adorable book of coupons.
Get the printable from Skip to My Lou.
Danielle Daly
Baked Goods
If you consider yourself handy in the kitchen, then you should whip up a yummy Mother’s Day dessert, such as this Giant Sugar Cookie Bouquet.
Courtesy of Alice & Lois
A Printable Card
Forget expensive store-bought cards. There are plenty of free printable Mother’s Day cards available, which you can fill with your own heartfelt message.
Get the printable from Alice & Lois.
Courtesy of Lolly Jane
A Custom Mason Jar Succulent
Make a mini succulent even sweeter with a printable flag label, which reads, “Mom, thank you for helping me grow.” You can also decorate a mason jar plant holder if you’re feeling creative.
Get the printable from Lolly Jane.
Courtesy of Online Labels
A Custom Bottle of Wine
To give your mom her own custom wine bottle, all you need is an inexpensive bottle of wine and a free printable Mother’s Day label.
Get the printable from Online Labels.
Courtesy of Down Redbud Drive
A Custom Candle
If your mother would prefer a candle to wine, then pick up a cheap candle and make it special with your own printable label.
Get the printable from Down Redbud Drive.
Courtesy of Somewhat Simple
Breakfast in Bed
Nothing says Mother’s Day like breakfast in bed — and you can really make your mom’s day by having her fill out her own free printable “room service” door hanger.
Get the printable from Somewhat Simple.
Courtesy of Shanty 2 Chic
A Photo Display
With the help of a pinewood board, wood stain, and a printable label, you can create a photo display that your mom is sure to treasure forever.
Get the printable from Shanty 2 Chic.
Courtesy of Uncommon Designs
A Custom Candy Mason Jar
A mom with a sweet tooth is sure to enjoy her own personalized mason jar, which you can fill with her favorite small candies.
Get the printable from Uncommon Designs.
Courtesy of The 36th Avenue
A Custom Bookmark
If your mom loves to read, then she’s sure to appreciate a custom bookmark, which you can gift to her alone or alongside a new book.
Get the printable from The 36th Avenue.
Courtesy of The Creative Place
A “10 Things I Love about You” Flip Book
This pocket-sized flip book can serve as a sweet reminder of how much you love your mom, and you can customize it however you’d like.
Get the printable from The Creative Place.
Courtesy of Glue Sticks & Gumdrops
A Framed Quote
If you have frame lying around, then you can create a beautiful piece of art with a printable quote, which can be printed in any size you like.
Get the printable from Gluesticks & Gumdrops.
Courtesy of Craftaholics Anonymous
A Canvas Print
Though this custom canvas requires a bit more work than simply printing and framing, you can easily create a professional-looking canvas with a few tools and a printable template.
Get the printable from Craftaholics Anonymous.
Courtesy of Hey, Let’s Make Stuff!
A Word Search
Puzzle-loving moms will definitely get a kick out of this Mother’s Day-themed word search, which you can give to her along with some cute pens.
Get the printable from Hey, Let’s Make Stuff!
Courtesy of Positively Splendid
A Compliments Jar
Want to remind your mom of all her best qualities? Then fill a mason jar with slips of paper containing sweet compliments, either by themselves or affixed to small pieces of candy.
Get the printable from Positively Splendid.
Courtesy of The Thrifty Couple
A Custom Tea Bag Cover
If you’ve got a tea aficionado in your life, then you can gift her a tea bag (or a few) inside these custom tea bag covers.
Get the printable from The Thrifty Couple.
Courtesy of Mom Brite
A Custom Seed Packet
Rather than giving your mom flowers, let her grow her own with seeds tucked inside these cute packet cards.
Get the printable from Mom Brite.
Courtesy of Simple as That
A Mini Album
Make a mini scrapbook of your mom’s life with this digital template, which you can fill with facts about your mama and customize however you’d like.
Get the printable from Simple As That.
Courtesy of Lil Luna
A Custom Candy Bar
A simple candy bar can be transformed into a personalized Mother’s Day gift with one of these brightly-colored labels.
Get the printable from Lil’ Luna.
Courtesy of Living Locurto
A Custom “Super Mom” Notepad
Give your mom her own custom “super mom” notepad for jotting down reminders (and you can stick them inside a cheap pencil box to make this gift extra thoughtful).
Get the printable from Living Locurto.
Courtesy of Eighteen 25
A Candy Stash Box
Every mom could use an emergency stash of candy, and with the help of an inexpensive plastic organizer and some treats, you can make a customized candy box.
Get the printable from Eighteen 25.
Realtor.com
We’ve been fantasizing about it for months, and finally warmer weather has arrived. We know: You just want to fire up the grill and start working on your tan—we do, too! But before you can kick back in your hammock (or in your pool on your giant patriotic bald eagle float, if that’s your thing), there are a few tasks you’ll need to tackle.
And you can bet they’re all outside.
“The old adage ‘April showers bring May flowers’ rings true and makes May prime time for landscaping and lawn care in most of the country,” says Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the National Association of Landscape Professionals.
But it goes beyond gardening and yard work. Now’s the last chance to take care of all that winter wear and tear and transform your home’s outdoor space into something worthy of the host with the most.
The good news? We’re here to make it as quick and easy on you as possible—with our handy checklist of home maintenance chores, you can knock them out and get back to that pool float ASAP. We’ve provided tips for doing each task faster and easier—or with the help of a pro.
Inspect patios and walkways
Task: Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on hardscape surfaces made of loose (unmortared) brick, stone, and concrete paving materials. Check to see if frost heave and erosion have caused pavers to shift, rise, or sink. You’ll want to fix any unevenness for safety as well as aesthetic reasons.
Shortcuts: Repair hardscape surfaces using a wheelbarrow filled with playground sand and a sturdy trowel. Pry up displaced pavers, smooth and even out the bed with fresh sand, and replace the paver.
Call in the pros: This is a good job for a handyman. Expect to pay $30 to $60 an hour, depending on your location.
Feed your lawn
Task: After a wet spring, your lawn might be looking quite rich and lush. Since Mother Nature did the hard work, you can sit back and relax, right? Not so fast. Grass loves nutrients, so now’s the time to add high-nitrogen fertilizer to help suppress weeds and keep your lawn looking great all summer.
Shortcuts: A push-powered broadcast spreader makes quick work of fertilizing your lawn. You’ll find spreaders suitable for an average suburban lawn for $35 to $100. If you have a cooking compost pile, you can substitute home-grown compost for commercial fertilizers.
Call in the pros: A lawn care company will spray on a chemical fertilizer for about $40 an application.
Repair fences and gates
Task: Cycles of cold and wet weather cause wood to move, twist, and warp. That can make garden gates fall out of alignment, and can cause fence pickets to loosen or fall off. Check for signs of loose fencing, and fix sagging gates.
Shortcuts: A cordless battery-powered nail gun ($250) makes quick work of refastening pickets and fence supports. Use only galvanized nails for outdoor work. Use a power drill fitted with a screw tip or a hex driver to remove or tighten loose screws and bolts in gates.
Call in the pros: This is a good job for a handyman. You’ll pay $30 to $60 an hour, depending on your location.
Mulch flower and vegetable beds
Task: Prevent evaporation and help keep weeds in check by insulating planting beds with 2 to 4 inches of mulch.
Shortcuts: Set aside a mulching day, and have a landscaping service deliver bulk mulch and dump it where you can get to it easily (like your driveway). Plan on 1 cubic yard of mulch to cover 100 square feet, with mulch 3 inches deep.
Call in the pros: A landscaping service will put in the mulch, but it’ll cost you—to the tune of $300 to $600 for 500 square feet, depending on your location.
Wash windows
Task: As your yard takes shape and your gardens come into full bloom, you’ll want to see everything clearly. It’s time to wash away winter’s dirt and grime from your windows.
Shortcuts: Have a partner clean the outside while you do the inside of the same window. That way, you can identify which side of the glass contains lingering streaks and smudges, and get rid of them on the spot. Plus, who wants to clean alone?
Call in the pros: In addition to cleaning the glass, a professional window washer will remove and clean screens and remove accumulated dirt from sliding tracks for $2 to $7 per window.
Service your grill
Task: Nobody wants a rack of ribs with last year’s grill gunk on them. Before you fire up the ol’ barbecue, make sure your grill is clean and that any gas hoses and connections are secure.
Shortcuts: No matter what kind of grill you have, invest in a grill brush or other coarse cleaning brush, remove the grates and metal plates beneath them, and soak them in hot soapy water for five to 10 minutes. Then scrub hard. To rinse, spray them with the hose.
Cover the area where the grates usually go with foil, and use a stiff grill brush to clean grime from the hood and inside walls. Use a cleaner specifically designed for your grill’s surface (e.g., stainless steel, porcelain, or cast iron), and reassemble all parts.
Call in the pros: There are professional grill cleaners who will take your barbecue from slimy to spotless, but it will cost you the equivalent of a few porterhouse steaks. This Denver cleaning service offers quotes from $185 to $279.
Check your AC
Task: Now’s your last chance to double-check your air-conditioning unit and make sure it’s in good working order before the mercury starts to rise.
Shortcuts: Hook up a garden hose and spray the outside of the condenser to remove any dust that’s settled on the unit and connections. (Yes, dust can affect your AC’s effectiveness.) Don’t use a brush, and be careful if pressure washing—you could damage or bend the fins. Make sure to change the filter, too.
Call in the pros: Having a pro service your AC system costs a few hundred dollars and includes cleaning the condenser and lubricating the fan motor.
