Part of the fun of Halloween is dressing up your home with the spookiest decor and doling out candy for eager trick-or-treaters. But what happens if someone walks through your yard on Halloween night and gets injured? It’s an unfortunate but realistic scenario that can have a number of consequences for homeowners. Worst-case—and scariest—scenario? Someone brings a lawsuit claiming that a trick-or treater got injured on your property. Would you be liable for this claim?
Under the law, if a porch light is on, trick-or-treaters are considered to be invited visitors, and it is a homeowner’s responsibility to have a property free of hazards. If anyone who enters your property on Halloween night gets injured, most homeowners insurance policies will cover minor injuries.
However, homeowners could be liable if trick-or-treaters are injured on their property if it can be proven that they were negligent in causing or contributing to that injury, says Jared B. Staver of Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, in Chicago.
For example, he says, a large crack in your walkway would be hard for someone to see in the dark. If a person tripped and broke a bone, he may claim you were negligent for not posting a warning sign and bringing attention to the crack.
“There is a reasonable expectation that you will receive visitors on Halloween. As a result, taking a few precautions will help guarantee the safety of trick-or-treaters and protect the homeowner,” says Christopher Layton of the Layton Law Firm, in Charlotte, NC.
To ensure a happy—and hazard-free—Halloween for all, here are some important questions homeowners should ask themselves before the trick-or-treaters come around.
Is the outdoors well-lit?
Make sure outdoor lights are bright and your yard is well-lit for little ghosts and goblins. Motion sensors are a good way to illuminate the house.
“Walkways should have lighting, and porches should be illuminated. If there are any danger zones, they should be well-marked and indicated with lighting as well,” says Staver.
Glow-in-the-dark or solar lighting is often not enough for late-night Halloween adventures, he cautions. Homeowners should instead invest in high-powered wattage.
Also, avoid using real candles in carved pumpkins or paper lanterns, since they are a fire hazard. Instead, opt for faux candles with LED bulbs.
Are there any tripping hazards?
It’s a good idea for homeowners to consider how children will enter and exit their property, says attorney Robert Fisher Jr., a partner at Edgar Snyder & Associates, in Pittsburgh.
“There’s a good chance that kids won’t always use your walkway, come to the door, grab the candy, go back down the walkway, and then enter the sidewalk in a direct path. It is more likely they will cut through the yard and use shortcuts. Keep your yard clear, and mark any potential hazards,” he advises.
This means fixing loose bricks and or cracks on pathways, or at least pointing them out with a sign, so kids won’t trip on them.
Scott Holeman, a spokesman for theInsurance Information Institute in New York, also recommends removing any leaves or branches from the path to your home.
More elaborate decorations like inflatables may require electricity, which means you will have to run an extension cord through your yard. It’s best to keep these tripping hazards as far away from walkways as possible and make it clear that trick-or-treaters should stay on the walkways. You can do this with a makeshift fence or luminary bags with LED lights.
To eliminate the need for trick-or-treaters to even walk through your yard, Layton suggests setting up a table at the end of your driveway and handing out candy from there.
“This saves the eager kids a long walk up to the front door, and helps the homeowner by reducing the potential for injuries on the property,” says Layton.
Are my decorations intended to scare people or make them jump?
We don’t blame you for wanting to go all-out when decorating for Halloween, but to minimize the potential for injury, it’s probably wise to go easy on the scary special effects. These can cause jump scares and could result in someone tripping and falling. Strobe lights and fog machines, two popular features used in elaborate Halloween decorations, also have the potential to cause problems like seizures and asthma attacks.
Are the steps to my home unobstructed and slip-resistant?
Remove plants and other objects from your steps. If the weather report says it could be a rainy night, apply friction tape to the steps to make them less slippery. And if you experience an early freeze, make sure to have ice-melt on hand to de-ice your steps.
Are pets secured out of the way?
Even the most well-behaved pets can be unpredictable and react to harmless trick-or-treaters. That’s why it’s best to keep your pets indoors.
“If you have pets, you should keep them in a separate room from the entry. With heavy activity, they could become frightened. To avoid potential bites or pet escapes, it is recommended that they be confined to another area in your home,” says Holeman.
It’s worth noting that if a dog bites a visitor, the homeowner is generally liable for the incident, according to Staver.
“Many homeowners insurance policies have dog bite clauses and cover these situations as long as the homeowner revealed that they owned a dog when obtaining the policy,” he says.
Should I skip the homemade treats?
If you are giving out homemade candies, cookies, or other treats, you may be liable for injuries due to illnesses such as allergic reactions to peanuts.
Layton says despite the loving care that goes into homemade treats, Halloween is not the right time for them.
“Kids will go home with so much candy, and if they are injured by any of it, you, the homeowner, want to be able to simply point to the manufacturer of the treat, rather than be singled out as the person who gave out the handmade treats,” says Layton.
Although your homeowners policy covers injuries on your property such as slip and fall, it likely won’t cover a food-related illness. Bottom line: Stick to store-bought candy.
🍁🎃👻 Look no further if you’re planning a Halloween party or fall festival and in need of some hilarious Halloween games that are great for all ages?!
If your goal is to sell your house in 2025, now’s the time to start prepping. Even though it might seem like there’s plenty of time between now and the new year, you should get a head start on any updates or repairs you want to make now. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, says:
“ . . . now is the time to start thinking about what you need for your next home and then taking those steps to prepare to list . . . We have survey data that says 47 percent of sellers are taking longer than a month to get their home ready to sell, so getting them to start that process early can mean more flexibility.”
By starting your prep work early, you’ll give yourself plenty of time to get your house market-ready by the end of the year. But be sure to partner with a great agent before you get started, so you have expert insight into what repairs are worth it based on your local market.
Why Starting Early Is Key
To get the best price and sell quickly, it’s important that your home looks its best. And that means it’s up to you to make the necessary repairs, declutter, and even consider updates that could add value as part of getting your house ready to list.
By starting now, you can tackle things one task at a time. Whether it’s fixing that leaky faucet, refreshing your landscaping, or painting a room, getting an early start gives you the flexibility to do the job right and with as little stress as possible. Because, if you wait to knock items off your list later on, they could quickly stack up and get overwhelming. As Realtor.comexplains:
“There are some important repairs to make before selling a house, so don’t be in too much of a hurry to get your home listed … if you move too fast, buyers see right through the fact that you skipped important home renovations. And this . . . might end up costing you time and money.”
What Should You Focus On?
Feeling motivated to start chipping away at that to-do list, but not sure where to start? Here’s a look at the most common improvements other sellers are making today (see graph below):
The Importance of Working with a Local Agent
And while that data gives you a starting point, it shouldn’t be seen as a comprehensive list. What buyers want in your area may be different, and only a local agent will have this in-depth understanding.
For example, if homes in your area are selling quickly with updated kitchens, your agent might suggest focusing on minor kitchen improvements rather than spending money on other areas that won’t offer as much return. They’ll also help you figure out if tackling larger projects, such as replacing your roof or upgrading your HVAC system, is worth it based on other recently sold homes. As Point says:
“Not all renovations are created equal, and focusing on upgrades that offer the highest potential for increasing your home’s value is key.”
And remember, it’s not just big-ticket items that can have an impact. Your agent will also speak to some of the smaller details – like cleaning up your yard, adding fresh mulch, or painting your front door – to make a real difference in how buyers feel about your home. This type of expert eye is crucial to help your house sell fast and for top dollar.
Bottom Line
Thinking of selling your house next year? Don’t wait until the last minute to get it ready. By getting a head start now, you can ensure everything is in place by the time the new year rolls around.
Need advice on what to tackle first? Connect with a CA Real Estate Group agent.
Helps you use less water by providing you with controllers runtime recommendations for normal conditions or for drought response. This calculator tool provides weather base schedules for the percent adjust feature or weekly schedules for every month of the year. A unique added feature is the ability to create a landscape site map to show where each irrigation zone waters.
The Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) and your local water agency have compiled a variety of water use efficiency resources to help commercial, industrial, and institutional customers save water.
The Spruce Eats | Molly Watson | Updated on 10/19/23
Although called “winter squash,” the natural season of these varieties of squash and pumpkins runs from late summer to mid-winter, with some varieties available year-round. There are several to choose from, from homey acorn squash and magical Cinderella pumpkins to charmingly shaped turban squash.
Winter squash have thick, tough shells that protect the sweet, rich flesh inside which makes them excellent storage vegetables. No matter what variety of winter squash or pumpkin you choose, always pick squash that feels heavy for their size. Also, make sure to cook the squash properly to bring out its best flavor and texture.
Butternut Squash
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Over the past several years, butternut squash has become a standard ingredient on menus as the star in a creamy soup, ravioli filling, or risotto flavor. It is the sweetest winter squash with a thick, bright orange, moist flesh that hides very few seeds. The squash is an elongated pear shape with a thin, pale tan skin that is easy to peel. They usually weigh between 2 and 3 pounds.
Butternut squash is quite versatile; it sautes quickly and is especially delicious when roasted. Best of all, it mashes and purees smoothly, with no thick strands or fibrous bits, making it perfect to turn into a luscious soup.
Acorn Squash
Mint Images / Tim Pannell / Getty Images
Until the recent rise in popularity of butternut squash, acorn squash was the most commonly available in the U.S. Acorn squash are round, with even groves around the entire squash and moist, sweet, tender flesh. The skin is mostly dark green, with occasional splotches of orange and yellow and the flesh is slightly yellowish pumpkin orange. They tend to weigh between 12 ounces and 2 pounds.
Perfect for roasting, baking, steaming, mashing, and sautéing, these flavorful squash are quite versatile, and the smaller ones can simply be cut in half, seeds removed, and roasted with a little butter and brown sugar for a sweet side dish the kids will love. They’re also the ideal vessel for stuffing, and make an excellent vegan main course for special occasions and holidays.
Spaghetti Squash
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Spaghetti squash is all about the texture; once cooked, the flesh pulls apart into thick, slightly crisp, noodle-like strands (hence the name). Many people then serve it with tomato sauce, but there are other delicious ways to prepare and serve this squash such as simply roasting it with butter and salt.
Spaghetti squash is large, weighing in between 3 and 5 pounds, with pale yellow-white skin and orange or bright yellow flesh. When raw and cut in half, the interior is similar looking to other squash in that is it solid and filled with seeds; it is only after it is cooked that it takes on the appearance of spaghetti.
Delicata Squash
The Picture Pantry / Alanna Taylor-Tobin / Getty Images
Delicata squash is small, oblong, and cheerfully striped in bright yellow, dark green, and orange. The peel is exceptionally thin and is, in fact, edible (although many choose not to partake). The flesh is sweet, nutty, and a bit drier than other squash with a distinct corn-like flavor. It is particularly delicious cut into rings and roasted with butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon. You can also stuff the halves and bake.
Because of its thin skin, however, it does not store as long or as easily as other winter squash. When purchasing, make sure to check delicatas for bruises, cuts, and soft spots before buying. Delicate squash tends to weigh less than a pound.
Hubbard Squash
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Hubbard squash can be some of the largest winter squash you’ll find (besides field pumpkins, that is)—the smallest ones still dwarf the largest of butternut squash. Because of their size, hubbards are often sold in seeded pre-cut chunks, making the squash more appealing to home cooks.
Hubbards are slightly tear-shaped with dark green to pale grayish blue skins and remarkably sweet flesh with a clear pumpkin flavor. They are at their best when roasted; try seasoning them with rosemary and black pepper. Or roast and then mash them along with plenty of butter and warm spices like cumin or nutmeg.
They sweeten as they sit and their extra-thick skins help them store through the winter (up to 5 months if kept properly cool and dry). Since hubbards are so big, you may find you have leftovers, in which case you can easily make a delicious winter squash spice cake.
Sweet Dumpling Squash
The Spruce / Molly Watson
The yellow skin with bright orange or deep green stripes makes this small, terribly cute squash hard to resist. They are no more than 4 inches in diameter and weigh less than a pound, making them perfect for stuffing, roasting, and serving as an appetizer or side dish.
Due to its shape and size, the exterior of sweet dumpling squash is difficult to peel, so the squash is usually cooked along with its skin, either cut into wedges or halved horizontally; once cooked, you can choose to eat the skin or discard it. The flesh is starchy but has a smooth texture and is sweet with a slight corn flavor.
Blue Hokkaido Pumpkin
The Spruce / Molly Watson
Blue Hokkaido squash (a type of pumpkin) is quite special. As if the gray-blue skin giving way to bright orange flesh didn’t have you sold, these squash also have a wonderfully subtle sweet and deeply nutty flavor that stands on its own better than any winter squash.
Simply roasted with a bit of salt and butter, the Blue Hokkaido is delicious. It also makes a wonderful vessel for a dramatic stuffed squash and its flesh mashes up nicely into baked good or soups.
Kabocha Squash
The Spruce / Isabelle Boucher
Kabocha squash is remarkably sweet and tender with a slightly nutty flavor. The dense, smooth, sweet flesh is so tasty it needs very little fuss in preparation—roasting it or slicing and baking it with a bit of butter or oil and salt are all these delicious squash needs. The flesh also holds its shape when cooked, even in liquids, which makes it perfect for incorporating as chunks in soups or steamed dishes, as well as making into tempura. It pairs nicely with ginger and sesame as well.
Kabocha squash is large, round, and squat. They are dark green and mottled, often with bumpy skin and make lovely table decoration until they’re cooked. The peel is really more of a rind and is difficult to cut so the squash is usually cooked with the skin intact.
Long Island Cheese Pumpkins
The Spruce / Molly Watson
The plump and magical shape of cheese pumpkins means they are often, along with Rouge Vif d’Etampes pumpkins, called “Cinderella pumpkins” since it is easy to imagine them suddenly springing into a carriage. They are one of the oldest pumpkin varieties cultivated in the U.S.
Cheese pumpkins have wonderfully sweet and firm flesh, perfect for roasting, but this pumpkin can also be baked, steamed, boiled, grilled, and even pickled. Most parts of a cheese pumpkin are edible, including the skin and seeds.
Rouge Vif d’Etampes Pumpkins
The Spruce / Molly Watson
Rouge Vif d’Etampes pumpkins are a brilliant red-orange color that would be magical enough, but they are also wonderfully round and squat, the combination giving them the nickname “Cinderella pumpkins.”
The vibrant color continues on the inside of Rouge Vif d’Etampes pumpkins, which are perfect for roasting with a bit of spice.
Hokkaido Squash (Red Kuri)
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The Hokkaido squash, also called Red Kuri squash, looks like a small, red-orange pumpkin without the deep ridges in the sides. The flesh is bright orange and has a mellow, somewhat nutty flavor that is good in soups or baked goods; the Red Kuri’s small size also makes it perfect for stuffing and roasting.
Spicy Sambal roasted pumpkin works with pretty much any winter squash but is particularly delicious with the nutty flavor of Red Kuri.
Giraumon Squash
Sean Duan / Getty Images
Giraumons’ colors range from mottled green, orange, and yellow and the skin is interestingly bumpy, which is why they are widely used as decoration. They can, unlike decorative gourds, be roasted and eaten, their mild flesh taking nicely to a wide range of seasonings and their floury texture working well in soups. The large turban squash makes excellent edible soup tureens; simply roast until tender and fill.
Sugar Pie and Other Sweet Pumpkins
The Spruce / Molly Watson
Yes, pumpkins are winter squash. Field pumpkins, like those used for jack o’ lanterns, have dry, flavorless flesh. They can be used as baked tureens for soup, but are otherwise best left for carving and decoration. Some varieties of pumpkins, however, can be roasted or turned into soups just like other scrumptious winter squash.
“Sugar pie” and other smaller, sweet pumpkins make for great eating and can be used just like acorn squash. The smaller specimens can be hollowed out, roasted until tender, and filled with savory custards or small portions of soup for a fun dinner party treat.
Look for pumpkins labeled sweet or sugar pumpkins. You can bake, roast, mash, or puree these eating pumpkins just like other winter squash. They are also tasty when made the star ingredient in a quiche.
White Pumpkins
Michael Marquand / Getty Images
Some white pumpkins are simply white field pumpkins and are best used for decorations and carving. Others, though, are new or heirloom varieties that make for sweet and delicious eating. Their flesh tends to be in the yellow-to-mild orange spectrum, not white like their exteriors and has a wonderful taste and texture. White pumpkins are available in several varieties, but the lumina tends to have the best taste. Use a white pumpkin next time you bake a pumpkin cake.
Fall is here and that means care for your lawn and garden will differ greatly from the spring and summer months. As colder temperatures roll in, it may be time to start prioritizing other gardening tasks and stop others like mowing your lawn.
Luckily, gardening pros are here to set the record straight on when you should officially stop mowing your lawn, read on for more information.
Why Mowing Your Lawn Is Important
Mowing your lawn isn’t just for superficial reasons or to be the best looking lawn on the block. Mowing your lawn properly and frequently will help keep your grass at the right height, allowing nutrient absorption and deep root growth. It also helps prevent any insect damage and diseases in your yard.
More so, mowing your lawn helps tremendously with weed control, so pesky weeds don’t take over your beloved yard during the spring and summertime. But, do you have to continue mowing your lawn when the temperatures plummet? And what is the exact timeline for that?
Why You Should Stop Mowing Your Lawn
Most experts say that your lawn usually needs to be kept at a height of 2 ½ to 3 inches all year long. But, because grass and other plants grow at a much slower pace when the leaves start to fall and temperatures go from 70 degrees to around 50 degrees, many lawn experts agree that mowing your lawn is unnecessary.
The Ideal Timeline
So now to the bigger question: what is the perfect or ideal timeline for mowing your lawn, and when should you stop taking care of your grass? Although there is no “perfect” timeline, it’s suggested by experts to continue to mow your grass until you notice it not growing as rapidly. This will likely be around late October or early November when the temperatures drop below 50 degrees. But, it depends entirely on where you live. For some climates, you can continue to mow your lawn until early December.
Mowing your lawn prior to temperatures plummeting has been commonly suggested in the past as a way of reducing spring damage from snow molds and voles. However, cutting your grass too short will cause more of a stress to the grass than what your lawn will experience from diseases or animals.
If your usual mowing height for your lawn is 2.5 to 3 inches, experts at the University of Minnesota suggest keeping it exactly there. But, if the preferred height of your lawn is 3+ inches, then they would recommend bringing it down to 3 inches before winter (again this could be late October or early December depending on where you live).
Remember that your lawn will go into dormancy once temperatures get too cold, but don’t fret—your lawn and nature know what it’s doing. It will come out of dormancy once the air and soil temperatures rise come spring.
Looking for cozy events to enjoy this fall? Don’t miss these candlelight orchestras, library wine cellars, lavender flower fields, rooftop films and more.
It’s nearly sweater weather in Southern California, which means pool parties are out and cozy evening events are in.
Sure, pumpkin spice everything abounds, and Halloween haunts are popping up in every region, but what about an outing that’s just plain cozy? We’ve compiled a list of relaxed happenings that encompass the snuggly spirit of autumn. From stargazing parties, library wine cellars, lavender flower fields, rooftop film showings and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy this season.
Here’s a list of the coziest fall events happening throughout Southern California.
In this Dec. 21, 2020 photo, people watch the planets Jupiter and Saturn, upper left, above a telescope dome, during the great conjunction as seen from the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, on the same day as the winter solstice. The Griffith Observatory will host Star Parties on Oct. 12, Nov. 9 and Dec. 7. (Photo by Patrick T. Fallon, Getty Images)
Stargazing Party
Daylight increasingly fades earlier in the day as fall settles in, which offers the perfect opportunity to see some stars. The Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles hosts a Star Party in October, November, and December, free and open to all ages. Whether you want to add variety to a date night or bring the family along, the event will have plenty of space for stargazers of all stripes. With the assistance of volunteers from the Los Angeles Astronomical Society, the Los Angeles Sidewalk Astronomers, and The Planetary Society, attendees can expect to see suns, moons, visible planets, and other objects through different telescopes.
The Gondola Getaway in Long Beach is a local romantic or group experience perfect for those who are not committed to traveling outside the country in the fall. (Photo courtesy of ElegantPhotography1.com)
The Gondola Getaway
Perhaps you missed your chance to take a summer trip to Italy, but don’t fret; you can snuggle up in a gondola here in Southern California. The Gondola Getaway offers several different cruises that offer the charm of an Italian Gondola ride with three different options. If you’re planning this as a romantic fall date, you’ll want to stick with the Traditional Gondola Cruise, which can seat up to six people but could easily make a more intimate experience. If you want to enjoy some Italian flavors on your ride, check out the Pizza Cruise, which seats up to 14 guests and offers an array of Pizzas or Italian antipasti. The Grand Venetian Experience also seats 14, decked with flowers, a custom dining table, and two gondoliers.
Where: 5437 E Ocean Blvd., Long Beach.
When: Trips are offered daily on select times and dates.
The Obscure in Los Angeles serves up spirits and cocktails in a spooky, magical-themed tavern ideal for an Autumn night. (Photo by Liana Bandziulis)
The Obscure Distillery and Cocktail Experience
With fall welcoming the spookiest holiday, this list would be remiss if it didn’t include some magic. Embark on a journey to The Obscure in Los Angeles, where spirits are not just the beverage poured in your glass but what eerily lurks in this dimly lit tavern full of sigils, candles and other supernatural decor. Guests are given a tarot card upon arrival, which guides them on a two-hour soul-searching passage that leads them to a potion master who crafts three house spirits and three cocktails that are out of this dimension. Pro-Tip: Dress in black, look for the entrance to the secret bar and check out The Rising Sun, a southern-inspired al fresco café, to dine before or after the event because the pours from the potion masters are often generous.
The Cellar in Pasadena offers an array of wines and finger foods in a rustic, cozy library setting, making it an excellent place to enjoy the fall. (Courtesy of Visit Pasadena)
The Cellar Wine Library
There’s nothing cozier than sipping a pinot noir surrounded by books. The Cellar in Old Pasadena is an intimate speakeasy wine library that boasts a diverse selection of wine. The entrance is located on Colorado Boulevard near the Vans and Lush store and requires an elevator trip one story down. What may look like a couple of wine barrels will actually be your entrance to the quaint, upscale, speakeasy wine library. In addition to the wine, guests can enjoy finger foods such as cheese plates, charcuterie boards and flatbread pizzas that pair with the wine and naturally, there’s soft piano music playing throughout the space.
Where: 26 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.
When: 6 p.m. – midnight on Thursdays; 6 p.m. – 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays; 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. Sundays.
Admission: Free entrance. For more information, visit lecellar.com.
Pamela’s Tearoom in Huntington Beach provides a warm cup of tea and several pastries for customers to enjoy during the fall season. (Courtesy of Pamela’s Tearoom)
Pamela’s Tearoom
A nice warm latte is often associated with fall, but don’t forget the tea! Pamela’s Tearoom is one of the most affordable of the handful of remaining tea shops in Orange County that offers late-morning and afternoon tea. This British tea room offers seasonal pastries such as the pumpkin scone and other tea blend favorites such as the Peach Apricot, Pamela’s Special, and a cinnamony Christmas in a cup. Other menu highlights include its tasty sausage rolls, Cornish pasties, bangers and mash, savory pies, homemade soups, traditional tea sandwiches, English Trifle, scones (including gluten-free scones), and English-stuffed pancakes topped with a cheese sauce. You can also pick up British groceries, ingredients, and trinket gifts.
Cherry Valley’s scenic 123 Farm, praised for its lavender fields, is now hosting its Lavender Nights event for 2024.(Courtesy of 123 Farm)
Lavender Nights at 123 Farm
Cherry Valley’s scenic 123 Farm, praised for its lavender fields, is now hosting its Lavender Nights event for 2024. Running through Oct. 27, visitors can wander through fields and olive groves adorned with glimmering lights while enjoying a variety of food, live music, games, and handmade crafts. While the lavender isn’t in bloom this season, you can still find lavender-themed products, from lavender cheesecake to wood-fired pizzas infused with lavender. Stop by the Organic Galleries to browse seasonal goods or lavender champagne at the bar.
Where: 123 Farm, 10600 Highland Springs Ave, Cherry Valley
When: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. Every Wednesday through Monday, now until Oct. 27
Carved returns to Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge this fall with a pumpkin wonderland featuring a new route and even more pumpkin-themed fun. (Photo courtesy of Robyn Beck/ AFP via Getty Images)
Carved at Descanso Gardens
Carved returns to Descanso Gardens this fall with a pumpkin wonderland featuring a new route and even more pumpkin-themed fun. Highlights include the specially lit Descanso Railroad and playful wood spirits carved from logs by Chainsaw Jenna. Guests can explore displays of luminous jack-o’-lanterns, hand-carved giant pumpkins, and the “Rhizome” installation by Tom and Lien Dekyvere. Did we mention they serve spiked apple cider? Carved is a rain-or-shine event, and tickets are non-refundable with timed entry slots.
Where: Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge
Kick off the fall season with apple picking at Los Rios Rancho, a charming Oak Glen farm that has started its apple harvest earlier than usual this year.(Photo courtesy of Riley’s at Los Rios Rancho)
Apple Picking at Los Rios Rancho
Kick off the fall season with apple picking at Los Rios Rancho, a charming Oak Glen farm that has started its apple harvest earlier than usual this year. Visitors can pick the first crop of Gravensteins, with apple picking continuing through early November. With 32 varieties available throughout the season, you can enjoy a different apple with every visit—just be sure to check online for which types are ready to pick. After filling your basket, visit the petting zoo, indulge in freshly pressed cider, or explore the gift shop for more seasonal treats.
Where: Los Rios Rancho, 39611 S Oak Glen Rd, Oak Glen
Prepare for a festive evening as Candlelight Orchestra presents a Halloween Special at the historic Saban Theatre on Oct. 25.(Photo courtesy of Fever)
Candlelight Orchestra Halloween Special
Prepare for a festive evening as Candlelight Orchestra presents a Halloween Special at the historic Saban Theatre. Surrounded by the soft glow of candlelight, you’ll experience a live, multi-sensory musical journey. Whether you’re a fan of spooky classics or simply love immersive music experiences, this concert will be a treat for everyone.
Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA will play a special screening of the beloved classic Practical Magic on Oct. 17.(Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for GLAAD)
Rooftop Cinema Club Screening of Practical Magic
What could possibly be more cozy than watching a witchy Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock break a family curse in a Massachusetts town? Enjoy a night under the stars at the Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA with a special screening of the beloved classic Practical Magic. Relax with friends or loved ones (or your coven?) in this snuggly outdoor setting, complete with city views.
Where: Rooftop Cinema Club, 888 S Olive St 4th Floor, Los Angeles
Wicker baskets may look cute, but are they functional?
From the bedroom closet and inside kitchen cabinets to your kids’ playroom, keeping the house organized isn’t easy. We typically rely on organizers to tame clutter, whether it be shelves for books and baskets, hooks for hanging jackets or categorized bins for toys. But, not all storage solutions are created equal — turns out, there are some items professional organizers always avoid.
Not-so-helpful items, like excessively heavy containers or wooden hangers, can actually thwart your organizing efforts. Before investing in any storage essentials, consider these products professional organizers would encourage you to ditch forever.
1. “Pretty” storage solutions
“When it comes to storage, I avoid solutions that sacrifice function for form. This includes tapered bins that waste precious shelf space, wicker baskets that snag clothes and excessively heavy or super fragile containers. I like to think of storage solutions like an empty suitcase — if it’s heavy or overly complicated before you even pack, it’s not going to do anything but create more burden. I steer clear of oversized containers that become clutter magnets, like large toy chests.” — Laura Kinsella, founder of Urban Organyze.
2. Shelves that can’t adjust
“I stay away from shelving units and cupboards without adjustable shelves. The items people want to store vary in size and height, so the shelves need to be adaptable.” — Julie Stobbe of Mind Over Clutter
3. Organizers with a niche purpose
“If a company went out of their way to create something to fill a niche, I avoid it, as I find that most people never organize that way — we crave basic ways to get organized, like drawers, shelves and cabinets. Think hanging closet shelves, over-the-door organizing pockets, vacuum storage bags — any targeted, customized storage solution.” — Maeve Richmond, founder of the organizing coaching service Maeve’s Method
4. Toy organizers with tilted bins
“I’m not a fan of any kid’s storage shelf that holds between nine and 12 bins that sit on a slant. It seems like a good idea so children can see into the bins, but the bins are small and because they’re on a slant, toys fall onto the floor.” — Julie Stobbe
5. Stacked plastic drawers
“These may be cheap, but they just don’t last; I always find that they break. They also get dirty very easily, and can be difficult to open. The ease of your organizers is the most important factor for sticking with your system. Invest in sturdier drawers instead.” — Rachel Rosenthal, professional organizer at Rachel and Company
6. Free-standing coat racks
“A coat rack is a monster that just keeps growing. Instead, hang just a couple hooks, and store other coats, scarves and hats out of sight. Your entryway will thank you for slaying this beast.” — Jeni Aron, the Clutter Cowgirl
7. Bed frames with built-in drawers
“I find the drawer space to be limiting, and when the bed is pushed into a corner, you lose half the storage. Instead, use bed risers to create a helpful place for suitcases and bins of seasonal clothing.” — Amelia Meena, founder and professional organizer at Appleshine
8. Over-the-toilet shelving units
“If it’s your only option, fine. But I much prefer a floating shelf with attractive baskets on an opposite wall away from the commode. There’s a slimmer chance of something jumping overboard.” — Jeni Aron
9. Wooden hangers
“People choose these because they look pretty, but I hardly ever use them for everyday items. They’re so bulky, and clothes tend to slip off easily. I use slim felt-covered hangers instead, which take up much less space and keep clothes secure.” — Rachel Rosenthal
10. Label makers
“There’s a time and place for label makers, but that’s usually not at home. I’m not saying that labels are terrible, but it’s often unnecessary to use yet another electronic device (which you’ll have to store) to make them. Instead, write labels by hand. This will help you better remember where you’ve stored things, and handwriting is much more pleasing and personal than a printed sticker.” — Marla Kabashima, professional organizer
11. Stacked desk trays
“Thanks to computers and our increasingly paper-free lifestyle, there is less need for organizers that hold stacks of mail or tons of office supplies. I often see people with desk stackers stuffed with items they haven’t used in years. Let the stack go, and replace it with a simple tray or bowl for the few things you do use.” — Maeve Richmond
If you’ve been keeping an eye on the housing market over the past couple of years, you know sellers have had the upper hand. But is that going to shift now that inventory is growing? Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.
What Is a Balanced Market?
A balanced market is generally defined as a market with about a five-to-seven-month supply of homes available for sale. In this type of market, neither buyers nor sellers have a clear advantage. Prices tend to stabilize, and there’s a healthier number of homes to choose from. And after many years when sellers had all the leverage, a more balanced market would be a welcome sight for people looking to move. The question is – is that really where the market is headed?
After starting the year with a three-month supply of homes nationally, inventory has increased to four months. That may not sound like a lot, but it means the market is getting closer to balanced – even though it’s not quite there yet. It’s important to note this increase in inventory is not leading to an oversupply that would cause a crash. Even with the growth lately, there’s still nowhere near enough supply for that to happen.
The graph below uses data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) to give you an idea of where inventory has been in the past, and where it’s at today:
For now, this is still seller’s market territory – it’s just not as frenzied of a seller’s market as it’s been over the past few years. As Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, says:
“The faster housing supply increases, the more affordability improves and the strength of a seller’s market wanes.”
What This Means for You and Your Move
Here’s how this shift impacts you and the market conditions you’ll face when you move. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, explains:
“Homes are sitting on the market a bit longer, and sellers are receiving fewer offers. More buyers are insisting on home inspections and appraisals, and inventory is definitively rising on a national basis.”
The graphs below use the latest data from NAR and Realtor.com to help show examples of these changes:
Homes Are Sitting on the Market Longer: Since more homes are on the market, they’re not selling quite as fast. For buyers, this means you may have more time to find the right home. For sellers, it’s important to price your house right if you want it to sell. If you don’t, buyers might choose better-priced options.
Sellers Are Receiving Fewer Offers: As a seller, you might need to be more flexible and willing to compromise on price or terms to close the deal. For buyers, you could start to face less intense competition since you have more options to choose from.
Fewer Buyers Are Waiving Inspections: As a buyer, you have more negotiation power now. And that’s why fewer buyers are waiving inspections. For sellers, this means you need to be ready to negotiate and address repair requests to keep the sale moving forward.
How a Real Estate Agent Can Help
But this is just the national picture. The type of market you’re in is going to vary a lot based on how much inventory is available. So, lean on a local real estate agent for insight into how your area stacks up.
Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding how the market is changing gives you a big advantage. Your agent has the latest data and local insights, so you know exactly what’s happening and how to navigate it.
Bottom Line
The real estate market is always changing, and it’s important to stay informed. Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding this shift toward a balanced market can help. If you have any questions or need expert advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to CA Real Estate Group.
This fall, seasonal decorating is all about simple updates. Enhance your home through a mix of artisanal additions, heirloom pieces, and connections to nature. Color and texture, including rich jewel tones and cheerful doses of blues, yellows, and greens, will also be used with significant impact to lift spirits and offer tactile moments while cozying up at home. Here are the top 2024 fall decorating trends, according to interior designers and industry experts.
Jeff Herr
1. Showcase Heirlooms
“We’re seeing shoppers enter their ‘heirloom era’ this fall, a trend that represents different ways to bring retro and inherently unique items to homes and wardrobes,” says Etsy trend expert Dayna Isom Johnson. This fall decorating style is all about antique vases, rocking chairs, candlestick holders, embroidered pillows, and even old books.
It’s easy to personalize this trend with inherited pieces, but there are fun possibilities for creating special moments with new fall decor, too. Johnson highlights handmade treasures like customized cutting boards showcasing handwritten recipes, while Pottery Barn suggests an Americana look achieved through table linens and bedding.
Julie Soefer
2. Add Artisanal Elements to Your Table
“Artisanal textures and antiques are a long-lasting trend we’ve seen this year, encouraging the purchase and use of handmade and quality items from an era where craftsmanship was held in high regard,” says Brittany Zimmerman of Bleu Bee Designs. “You can incorporate these trends seamlessly by creating a fall tablescape using a collection of antique or vintage brass candlesticks scattered around textured artisanal trays made of copper, plaster or terracotta, which adds a cozy and handmade texture to your tabletop.”
This year, Pinterest identified coffee stations as the new bar cart with their Cafécore trend. Part of elevating the café aesthetic at home is incorporating sculptural and tactile mugs that offer an artisanal look and hand-hewn feel.
Adam Albright
3. Bring in Cheerful Colors
This year’s top trending paint colors have favored soothing earth tones and deep moody hues. And while these shades continue to be popular, Suzan Wemlinger of Suzan J Designs expects to see bright, bold pops of color uplifting interiors this fall. “Orange, turquoise, greens, blues, yellows will be out there,” says Wemlinger.
While smaller doses are expected, she says the colors may also start appearing in wallpaper and paint in addition to accessories like pillows and artwork. “I think that bright and bold is trending because people are yearning for happiness and feel-good vibes,” says Wemlinger. “These colors almost without question lighten one’s mood.”
Adam Albright
4. Let Nature Inspire Your Accessories
“From last year’s cottagecore to this summer’s ‘garden girl,’ the earthy decor and fashion trends inspired by the natural world will bleed into fall, this time in the form of ‘nature reborn’,” says Johnson.
According to Johnson, Etsy shoppers are looking to bring the outdoors in this season through accessories such as pinecones, dried fruit, and log candle holders, while wooden utensils offer a functional take on the trend.
Frontgate’s fall 2024 collection offers natural whimsy with pieces like novelty glass and gold decorative acorns and pomegranate-accented serveware.
Stephen Kent Johnson
5. Accent Botanicals with Jewel Tones
Biophilic design—which emphasizes creating harmony between your home and the world outside—remains a popular interior style after several years in the spotlight. Fall foliage and seasonal gourds are staples of fall decorating, and this fall Zimmerman expects to punctuate these looks with jewel-tone botanicals. “This includes sprinkling in mums in hues of cranberry and plum and rich, dark green magnolia stems and wreaths,” she says.
Crate & Barrel’s fall collection similarly promotes pairing jewel tones and botanical elements, featuring berries, eucalyptus leaves, and floral stems in bold burgundies.
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