High-End Style, Low-End Spend
Budget-Friendly Staging Tips
When you’re selling your house, every penny counts. You may think it doesn’t make sense to splurge on staging when that money could go toward other expenses, but a well-staged home does more than just look good — it gets attention. With these smart, budget-conscious updates, you can create a high-end look that impresses buyers without stressing your wallet.
- Establish a neutral color palette of whites, beiges and grays to create a calm, sophisticated backdrop. Pair this with accent pieces in brighter colors for visual interest. Keep costs in check by using decor you already have on hand.
- Create the illusion of space with a large, decorative mirror. A well-placed mirror reflects light, adding a touch of elegance without a hefty price tag.
- Use symmetry in furniture and decor placement to create balance. This high-end design strategy won’t cost you a penny.
- Swap outdated light fixtures for statement lighting. Stylish yet inexpensive fixtures can instantly elevate a room with a luxe feel.
- Layer throw pillows and blankets made from cozy, affordable fabrics like cable knit or faux fur. Choose rich colors for added depth and upscale style.
- Highlight windows, fireplace and other architectural details with strategic furniture placement for a no-cost focal point.
- Draw the eye up with vertical accessories. A tall vase with long branches sourced from your own backyard adds height to a room.
- Make hotel-style beds without the hotel cost using crisp, neutral linens and a few plush, coordinating throw pillows at the head. Complete the look with a textured blanket at the foot.
- Create a spa-like feel with upgraded bathroom accessories, including new, reasonably priced towels and a simple bathtub tray. Add a vase of dried flowers for an eye-catching appeal.
Kids, Chaos and Cardboard: Tips for Your Family’s Big Move
Moving is much more than a change of address — it’s a new chapter in your family story. Consider these tips to make it a meaningful experience for your children.
Before the Move
Ask your agent to schedule a tour of the new house for your kids. If it’s far away, explore the home and neighborhood virtually through photos, maps and videos. Children attending a new school will benefit from meeting their teachers either in person or online.
The Big Day
Assign kids an important moving day job, like caring for pets or handing out snacks. If it’s a long journey to the new home, have them pack a small bag of personal items for the trip. Most importantly, make time to say goodbye to the old house.
Getting Settled
Set up children’s rooms first so they’ll have their own space. Plan an outing to explore the new area together and help them feel at home.
Winter Home Maintenance
Give your house a little TLC this winter by tackling some important maintenance tasks. Consistent upkeep protects your investment and can also boost its value if you decide to sell in the future. Here are some simple chores that can make a big difference in keeping everything in good shape and creating a more organized, comfortable living space as you start the new year.
- Remove lint buildup in the dryer vent and clean washing machine.
- Wipe down light fixtures and check for loose bulbs or wires.
- Rotate or flip mattresses.
- Deep clean refrigerator and freezer.
- Wipe down cooktop and deep clean oven.
- Organize drawers.
- Clean dishwasher.
- Sort through your closet and donate clothes, coats and shoes not worn in over a year.
Things To Know Before You Build
Have you been designing your dream home in your mind for years? If that dream is now a reality, you have some big decisions to make. Getting it right requires careful planning. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process and avoid pitfalls.
Be prepared for extra costs on items like appliances and landscaping that may not be included in the base price.
Visit your building site often so you can oversee the progress, answer questions and catch potential issues.
Consider hiring a home inspector for phase inspections, where specific checks are done at various stages of construction.
Rely on your real estate agent’s knowledge of new-home construction to guide you through the process and negotiate on your behalf.
Maintenance Matters
How To Stay Ahead of Home Repair Costs
A lot of pride comes with homeownership, but it also comes with plenty of responsibility. That’s why having a dedicated fund to keep up with routine tasks such as roof repairs, plumbing fixes or HVAC maintenance is fiscally wise.
A common guideline is the 1% rule, which advises setting aside at least 1% of your home’s value every year for home maintenance. This practice makes it easier to keep up with service and repairs. It also acts as a financial cushion so you can quickly address minor problems before they become costly emergencies.
Bottom line: You can win the home-maintenance long game with a smart savings plan today.
 ©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.
The Personal Marketing Company |
