HomesEAST BAY
n A record-breaking market
n Sold! (For over over-asking)
n Why it pays to inspect
n The ROI on a kitchen remodel
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R.I.’s housing market continues to break records
Median prices again reached a new record high, while more inventory is good news for everyone
The Rhode Island Association of Realtors recently released home sales data that showed the median price of singlefamily homes once again broke records in July, topping out at $495,000, a 12.5% gain from 12 months earlier. The number of listings on the market also rose from last year, rising 16.2%, helping to spark a 21.2% increase in sales activity. Pending sales, a leading indicator of future sales activity, stabilized after 30 consecutive months of decline.
“We are beginning to see an increase in the number of homes listed for sale. And fortunately, anticipated rate cuts this fall should entice more homeowners who were previously unwilling to let go of their current low mortgage rates, to consider making a move. While this is good news, more new development remains the key to repairing our housing crisis,” said Sally Hersey, president of the Rhode Island Association of Realtors. While inventory grew, the supply and demand imbalance remains more significant in Rhode Island than in most other areas of the country. July’s 2.2-month supply of homes for sale pales in comparison to the 4.1-month nationwide supply reported by the National Association of Realtors in June. The lack of single-family homes for sale resulted in listings going under contract in just 18 days in July, the shortest window on record since 1988, when recordkeeping began.
Due to the tight supply of starter homes in the single-family home sector, sales of condominiums increased 44.6% over last year. At $395,000, the median price of those sales came in $100,000 less than that of single-family homes. A slight rise in pending sales indicates that closing activity should remain elevated in the weeks ahead.
In contrast, the median price of multifamily homes remained the highest of all three sectors, at $550,000. Sales, which have not fallen since January, continued their ascent, rising 10.9% more than July 2023. Barraged by investors, this sector of the market has boomed during the housing crisis, sparked by high rental demand and corresponding income. Incomplete sales expected to close in the month, however, fell 11%, an indication that sales were likely to slow in the weeks ahead.
July 2024
Rhode Island Single-Family
Rhode Island homes sold faster than ever before in July as the median price of single-family homes inched further toward $500K. Inventory also moved in the right direction, edging up 16.2% from one year ago.
$495,000
812
change reflects a year-over-year comparison between 2023 and 2024. Information is provided by State-Wide MLS, Inc., a subsidiary of the hode Island ssociation of L S . Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
“Overall, there are promising signs for our housing market. More inventory and lower interest rates should help to get the market moving. We’re
phenomenon that began several years ago, in the period immediately after the pandemic, continues still today. In a housing market with so few listings and and imbalance between too many buyers and too few sellers, bidding wars continue.
EAST PROVIDENCE
Though not every sale follows this trend the same way it did a few years ago, following is evidence that the trends continue, as all these properties went under contract very quickly and sold this summer at prices above their list price.
This 3-bedroom ranch has a little less than 2,000 square feet, a one-car garage and a finished basement. It listed for sale at $319,000, went under contract in less than a week, and was sold less than a month later for $360,000.
n Listing by: Lisa Raposa, Compass
n Bought with: Mandy Roberts, Century 21 Butterman & Kryston 134
This three-bedroom Cape with renovated kitchen and open first floor is in the Rumford section of the city. It listed for sale at $525,000, went under contract five days later, and sold the next month for $560,000.
n Listing by: The Rockwell & Pierard Team, Residential Properties
n Bought with: The Modern Collective Group, Compass 22 TRYON AVE.
BERKELEY ST.
This large Barrington Colonial has four bedrooms, a vaulted family room with skylights and an inground pool. It listed for sale in May at $859,900 and went under contract a week later. It sold this summer for $915,000.
n Listing by: Barbara Stamp, Residential Properties
n Bought with: Kimberly Cota, Williams & Stuart
This adorable, four-bedroom home sits on a quiet, dead-end street. It was listed at $569,000 at the end of June, went under contract less than a week later, and sold the following month for $605,000.
n Listing by: Kira Greene, Compass
n Bought with: The Blackstone Team, Compass
3 CONWAY DRIVE
21 CARPENTER AVE.
This three-bedroom home near Brickyard Pond has an open and renovated kitchen, with modern updates throughout. It listed for sale at $859,000, went under contract a week later, and sold this summer for $945,000.
n Listed by: Benjamin Scungio, Mott & Chace Sotheby’s
n Bought with: Joyce Hughes, Residential Properties
This large home has more than 5,000 square feet of living space, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, a pool, a three-car garage and an in-law apartment. It listed for sale at $849,000, was under contract within a week, and sold for $875,000.
n Listing by: Kirk Schryver Team, Compass
n Bought with: Anthony Saviano, Albert Realty
5 FERNCLIFF ROAD
55 SCHOOLHOUSE ROAD
BRISTOL
This four-bedroom home has nearly 1,600 square feet and a one-car garage. It listed for sale at the end of July for $425,000, went under contract a few days later, and sold a month after it listed for $441,000.
n Listing by: Jessica Andrade, RE/MAX River’s Edge
n Bought with: Jason Gelfuso, J. Christopher Real Estate Group
The McCauley Duo
The McCauley Duo
This large ranch has three bedrooms, a relaxing sunroom and greenhouse, and more than an acre of land. It listed for sale at $945,000, went under contract within four days, and sold for $1,045,000.
n Listing by: Sweeney Group, Residential Properties
n Bought with: Tracey Mulvey, RE/MAX River’s Edge
The McCauley Duo
The McCauley Duo
The McCauley Duo
Father/Daughter Real Estate Team
FOR SALE!!
Father/Daughter Real Estate Team
Father/Daughter Real Estate Team
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The McCauley Duo
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Let us put our years of experience to work for you!
Father/Daughter Real Estate Team
Let us put our years of experience to work for you!
Let us put our years of experience to work for you!
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Dave McCauley,
Broker Associate
Dave McCauley, Broker Associate
51 years
Dave McCauley, Broker Associate
Dave McCauley, Broker Associate
Let us put our years of experience to work for you!
51 years
401-862-6206
51 years
Dave McCauley, Broker Associate 51 years 401-862-6206
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51 years
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Dave McCauley, Broker Associate
dave@themccauleyduo.com
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51 years
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Dawn McCauley, Sale Associate, SRES 36 years
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Dawn McCauley, Sale Associate, SRES 36 years
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Dawn McCauley, Sale Associate, SRES 36 years
401-864-6348
Dawn McCauley, Sale Associate, SRES 36 years
dave@themccauleyduo.com
Dawn McCauley, Sale Associate, SRES 36 years
dawn @themccauleyduo.com
401-864-6348
401-864-6348
401-864-6348
Dawn McCauley, Sale Associate, SRES 36 years
dawn @themccauleyduo.com
dawn @themccauleyduo.com
401-864-6348
dawn @themccauleyduo.com
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dawn @themccauleyduo.com
44 GREENWAY DRIVE
1400 HOPE ST.
This three-bedroom Cape on the west side of town needed some updating but still attracted attention quickly. It
n Listed by: Kristin McGrath, Century 21 Topsail n Bought with: Toni Lanni, RE/MAX Preferred
This sun-filled home in the Common Fence Point neighborhood has modern features, an open floor plan, and is a block from the water. It listed for $689,000, went under contract four days later, and sold for $700,000.
n Listing by: Dina Karousos / Nicole Lucenti, Gustave White Sotheby’s n Bought with: Tammy Bass, Hogan Associates
DOROTHY AVE.
This three-bedroom Cape has a renovated kitchen and bathroom and 1,800 square feet. It listed for sale at $598,000, was under contract a week later, and sold for $603,000.
Listing by: Ryan Fonseca, Century 21 Topsail Bought with: Ryan Shea, HomeSmart Professionals
COLONIAL ROAD
23 BERKLEY AVE.
190 PELLETIER LANE
n Listing by: Christine Ready Noonan, T.L. Holland Agency
n Bought with: Kimberly Machado, Heritage Realty
LITTLE COMPTON
16 OLD STONE CHURCH ROAD
This four-bedroom home has nearly 4,000 square feet of living space, an open floor plan, and luxury throughout. It listed for sale at $1,150,000, was under contract in less than a week, and sold for $1,175,000.
n Listing by: Cherry Arnold, Mott & Chace Sotheby’s
n Bought with: Bailey Holland, T.L. Holland Agency
This four-bedroom home nestled in a quiet area of South Tiverton features an open floor plan and custom craftsmanship. It listed for sale at $925,000, was under contract four days later, and sold for $950,000.
n Listing by: Bridget Torrey, Gustave White Sotheby’s
n Bought with: The Soby Fox Team, Mott & Chace Sotheby’s
60 MORNING DOVE DRIVE
WESTPORT
19A HILLSIDE ROAD
This stunning home with elevated views of Westport Harbor is bright and airy with luxury throughout. It listed for sale at $2,250,000, was under contract five days later, and sold for $2,510,000.
n Listing by: Kirk Schryver Team, Compass
n Bought with: Jennifer Silverman, Compass
This two-bedroom home sits on more than two acres of land abutting conservation property. It listed for sale at $875,000, went under contract a week later, and sold one month later for $943,500.
n Listing by: Liz Kinnane, Mott & Chace Sotheby’s
n Bought with: Eleanor Wickes, Mott & Chace Sotheby’s
n
21 JOHN DYER ROAD
KYLE JACOB ROAD
The basics of home inspections
Though some buyers are tempted to waive their inspections, they can be reassuring – or revealing
The process of buying a home involves a number of variables that present at various times throughout buyers’ search for a home. For instance, real estate professionals typically advise buyers to receive a mortgage pre-approval prior to beginning their search for a new home. Once such preliminary measures have been taken care of, buyers can then search for a home and ultimately make an offer. One of the more critical steps buyers can take when making an offer is insisting that the offer is contingent upon a home inspection. Home inspections offer a measure of protection that can save buyers from investing in properties that may look nice to the naked eye, but feature a host of costly problems beneath the surface. Individuals new to home buying may not know what to expect of the inspection process. In such instances, the following
rundown can shed light on home inspections.
n Recognize inspection may be mandatory. Though it’s not always the case, home inspections may be required by mortgage lenders. Lenders want to ensure borrowers can repay their loans, which might prove difficult if a home is in need of considerable repairs. That’s why home inspections tend to be mandated by lenders, even if they’re paid for by buyers. Estimates from HomeAdvisor indicate home inspections cost between $279 and $400 on average, but that cost is well worth the peace of mind of knowing you won’t unknowingly be buying a money pit.
n You choose your own inspector. Buyers will choose their own home inspector, so it can pay dividends to start asking people you trust for recommendations even before you begin searching for a new home. Realtors also may recommend inspectors they’ve worked with in the past. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors® (nachi.org) also can help buyers find a home inspector.
n You can, and should, attend a
Buyers really should attend the inspection in person so they can see and learn from the inspector directly.
home inspection. It’s wise for buyers to attend a home inspection. Doing so allows them to see potential issues firsthand. Some seasoned home inspectors even prefer clients to attend an inspection so they can point out issues as they go through the house and answer questions directly rather than later on over the phone or via text
or email. Though inspectors typically will answer questions off-site, it’s easier for both buyer and inspector to discuss issues in person on the day of the inspection. And for buyers, this can be a great way to become more informed about the home inspection process.
n Expect to spend a good deal of time at the inspection, and not necessarily with the sellers present. The National Association of Realtors indicates inspections can take as long as three hours, so this won’t be an in-andout excursion. Buyers don’t want to rush the process, so block out ample time on your schedule to attend the inspection. In addition, sellers typically are not home during an inspection, though it can happen. Buyers who don’t want sellers present can request that they are not on the premises while the inspection takes place. There may not be anything to compel sellers to be off-site, but it can’t hurt to ask.
Home inspections are a vital component of the home buying process. It’s imperative that buyers take inspections seriously so they can feel confident they are not investing in a flawed property.
4 things to know about kitchen renovations
Studies show that kitchen remodels generate a healthy return on investment
Kitchens are often described as the most popular room in a home, and that’s not mere conjecture. A 2022 survey from House Digest asked participants to identify the room they consider most important in their homes, and roughly 41 percent chose the kitchen.
Residents tend to congregate in kitchens in the morning and then again in the evening when meals are prepared and, in homes without formal dining rooms, eaten. With so much time spent in the kitchen, it’s no wonder that a recent U.S. Houzz & Home study found kitchens to be the most popular interior room to upgrade. With so many people interested in kitchen renovations, following are four things homeowners should know about these popular improvement projects.
1. Expect to spend some money. Most home improvement projects require a significant financial investment, but kitchen renovations are among the more expensive undertakings. The overall cost of a project will depend on a host of variables unique to
each home, including homeowners’ preferences, but HomeAdvisor estimated the average kitchen remodel in 2023 cost between $14,611 and $41,432. Homeowners considering an upscale kitchen remodel may receive six-figure estimates for such projects.
2. Expect a good return on investment. If sticker shock settles in when receiving an initial kitchen remodel estimate, perhaps it can help homeowners to know that such a project may provide a strong return on
investment (ROI). According to Remodeling magazine’s “2024 Cost vs. Value Report,” a minor kitchen remodel provides a 96 percent ROI. A major kitchen remodel midrange (49 percent) and a major kitchen remodel upscale (38 percent) did not provide as notable a ROI.
3. Expect the project to take some time. Kitchens are large rooms with a lot of components, so renovating these spaces can take some time. Estimates vary depending on the size of the room, the scale of the
remodel and the materials chosen, but Angi reports a kitchen remodel for most homes takes six weeks to four months. That’s a sizable window, and it reflects the likelihood that unforeseen issues like supply chain interruptions or the discovery of mold will arise at some point during the renovation. Though it’s impossible to determine precisely how long a project will take before it begins, homeowners renovating their kitchens may want to plan for the project to take two months if not longer.
4. Expect to use your kitchen during the renovation. If the timeline of a renovation is scary, homeowners should know they will likely be able to use their kitchen even after the project begins. Though the room might not remain a popular gathering space once the work starts, Angi notes kitchens are typically out of commission for around six weeks during a renovation. That still requires some pre-planning in relation to meals, but it also suggests homeowners won’t be without a kitchen for months on end.
Kitchen renovations are popular projects. Homeowners who know what to expect before such projects commence can make it through a renovation more smoothly.
Convert that abandoned dining room into something useful
A
home office, reading room, gaming room or studio space all might get more usage than the traditional dining room
Many homeowners can undoubtedly take a stroll through their homes and find at least one space that could be repurposed to provide more functionality. Real estate professionals know that such sentiments are not uncommon, and many point to formal dining rooms as spaces that have fallen out of favor in recent years.
Formal dining rooms were once common in newly built homes, but the pivot toward open concept floor plans left it up to homeowners to decide if such spaces were for them. In a 2017 book published by the Cotsen Institute of Archaeology Press, authors used cameras to monitor life in many people’s homes, including how they used each room. The authors concluded that formal dining rooms were rarely used for eating. If that sounds a lot like home to many current homeowners, then it might be time to consider ideas to convert formal dining rooms to make these spaces more functional.
Home office
Though the percentage of professionals working remotely has dipped considerably since the end of the pandemic, hybrid working is perhaps among the more lasting work-related byproducts of COVID-19. In its Global State of Remote and Hybrid study published in early 2024, the career networking resource LinkedIn noted that 13 percent of jobs posted to the platform were for hybrid positions. That means millions of workers can still utilize an accommodating home office space.
A formal dining room can be converted to provide such a space, and the good news is that such a conversion need not require extensive renovations. A fresh coat of paint, an additional outlet or two and perhaps a new overhead lighting fixture can instantly transform the space at minimal cost.
Reading room/library
Homeowners who dream of having a designated space for quiet reading can convert a little-used formal dining room into a space to curl up with a good book. Some comfortable armchairs, built-in bookshelves and perhaps an expanded
haul or bathroom renovation, but an ideal home yoga space requires more than a mat and room to stretch.
The Yogapreneur Collective notes that flooring in a yoga studio should be nonslip, easily cleaned, durable, soundabsorbing, and low maintenance. Different flooring materials may be ideal for certain types of yoga; for example, cork flooring is a go-to choice for professional studios that offer hot yoga.
Similarly, the right flooring for an art studio may depend on the artist’s preferred medium, whether it’s oil painting, arts and crafts or another artistic pursuit. But any artist knows that a floor that’s easy to clean is perhaps best for a home art studio.
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Lori
floor-to-ceiling window overlooking a side or backyard can help homeowners create a home library that will be the envy of any avid reader.
Studio space
If there’s a resident yogi and/or artist living under the roof, then converting a dining room into a yoga or art studio, or perhaps even a hybrid space for those who enjoy both activities, is a no-brainer. A yoga studio conversion may not require as much investment as a kitchen over-
Additional ideas
Some additional ways to repurpose a dining room include a gaming room for avid gamers, a memorabilia showcase for collectors, or a pantry for foodies who love to cook but need some extra space to store ingredients and tools of the trade. If a formal dining room is only utilized on occasion, homeowners may want to consider the many ways to convert such spaces into areas that are more usable every day.
The most popular rooms to remodel are ...
Some trends might be changing, but the most popular rooms to remodel remain kitchens and bathrooms
Home improvement trends come and go. In a testament to that reality, the wildly popular open floor plan concepts that have dominated homeowners’ desires over the last decade-plus could be falling out of favor, a shift that Rachel Stults of Realtor.com linked to the COVID-19 pandemic in a 2023 interview with Business Insider. Stults noted open floor plans will likely exhibit some measure of staying power, but linked the shift toward more traditional layouts to COVID lockdowns and the desire for more privacy among residents.
The shift away from open floor plans is a testament to the fleeting nature of home renovation trends. But trends still deserve a place at the table among real estate investors and homeowners who want to renovate their homes with an eye on projects that could be most appealing to prospective buyers. As homeowners balance their own preferences with those that might help them sell their homes down the road, they can consider this list of the most popular rooms to renovate, courtesy of the “2024 U.S. Houzz & Home Study” from Houzz Research.
Laundry room
8. Closet
9. Dining room
10. Home office
When considering renovating these or
Though
other rooms, homeowners should know that Houzz researchers found that the median spend increased for most interior room upgrades compared to the previous year. However, the median cost to upgrade living rooms and home offices remained unchanged.
Simple ways to make a home more cozy
Some of the ‘cozy’ elements are timeless — fire, warmth, color and softness
The meaning of the term “cozy” varies as it pertains to home decor. For some, cozy may mean intimate spaces with lots of quilts and throws. For others, cozy could indicate bright and airy spaces enhanced by plenty of fresh foliage. Regardless of how they define cozy, homeowners typically want their homes to be inviting and comfortable. With that in mind, following are some ways to impart a cozy vibe to any living space.
n Make use of a fireplace. Flames lapping wood (or faux wood in the event of gas-powered fireplaces) can put anyone in a tranquil state of mind. Fireplaces add instant ambiance and make great places for people to congregate and engage in conversation. During warmer months when the fire isn’t blazing, decorative candles can be lit to mimic the same feel.
n Add texture in the design. Texture can be anything from a raised pattern on wallpaper to a knotty area rug to a mosaic piece of artwork. A home with texture tends to create cozier impressions than
one with all sleek and smooth surfaces.
n Enjoy a soft rug. Although many design experts say hardwood floors or laminate options are easier for allergies and keeping a home clean, a soft rug underfoot can be welcoming. Rather than wall-to-wall carpeting, place area rugs in spots that can use some cozying up, such as beneath beds and even under the dining table.
n Light candles. The warm, flickering
light of candles adds cozy vibes in spades. Candles can be used throughout a home to create instant atmosphere. Exercise caution with candles and fully extinguish them before retiring for the evening.
n Update bedding for the season. Crisp and light cotton and linen are cozy materials when the weather is warm. But when the temperature starts to dip, flannel or jersey bedding makes a bed that much more inviting, says Real Simple.
n Invest in lots of pillows. Pillows can instantly make a spot more cozy, whether it’s the living room sofa or an outdoor lounging nook. Look for materials that are durable for the space in which they’re being used.
n Think about warm lighting. The transition from incandescent light bulbs to halogen and LED is beneficial from an environmental standpoint. However, LEDs illuminate with a more stark, blue light that can seem clinical in home spaces. Look for bulbs where the “temperature” can be customized. The more the color spectrum leans toward warm light, the more cozy a space will feel. This can be enhanced by putting some lights on dimmer switches, and toning down the brightness as needed.
n Install a bookshelf. Even for those who are strict devotees of e-readers, a shelf full of actual books interspersed with some well-placed knickknacks can make a room feel more cozy. Books add texture, the feel of hallowed halls and libraries, and visual appeal.
Making a home more cozy doesn’t have to be complicated. A few easy modifications can improve interior spaces.
A modest makeover can turn any bathroom into a relaxing, tranquil space
Homeowners want to view their homes as a respite from all that goes on outside their doors. Indeed, turning a home into a residents-only retreat can ensure everyone looks forward to walking through the front the door at the end of the day.
One of the more popular ways to turn a home into one’s own personal retreat is to upgrade the bathroom. A renovated bathroom can completely transform how individuals feel about their homes. Following are some features to consider when remodeling a bathroom with relaxation in mind.
n Open shower: An open shower is a visually stunning addition to any bathroom. Such showers give a bathroom a more open look, thanks in part to the fact that these modern features do not feature a door or require the use of a shower curtain. The result is a clean look that many people associate with a luxury hotel. When speaking with a contractor about an open show-
er install, homeowners can ask about a half-wall to safeguard against water splashing out of the shower. In addition, a heat lamp can help ensure residents stay warm until they’re ready to leave the bathroom.
n Heated features: Additional features to keep everyone calm and warm can be considered when upgrading the bathroom. Radiant flooring can ensure
everyone’s toes remain toasty, and the installation of such a feature can eliminate the need for floor mats and bath mats that some homeowners may not like. Commit further to the heat theme with a heated towel rack, which is another feature associated with luxury hotels that can be just as enjoyable at home.
n Soaking tub: An open shower cre-
ates an instant feeling of luxury, but few things are more suggestive of relaxation than a soaking tub. A long day at school or the office or a day when winter winds are howling outside is made much better with a good a soak. The National Kitchen & Bath Association notes that luxury bathrooms featuring soaking tubs are wildly popular, and that vaunted status is undoubtedly due to the relaxing benefits of a good soak.
n Skylight: Even if the goal of a luxury bathroom is to leave the outside world outside, allowing some natural light inside is a great way to add a little extra calm to the room. Floor-to-ceiling windows may seem appealing in brochures or advertisements, but such features do not create the sense of privacy many people prefer in their bathrooms. One or two skylights can create that sense of privacy and still allow for natural light to enter the room, making this an option that provides the best of both worlds.
These features and more can help homeowners transform their bathrooms into luxurious, relaxing respites from the outside world.
A soaking tub conveys a feeling luxury, and they are gaining in popularity.
Naturally, you’d love more privacy on your property
There are many ways to create backyard privacy through trees, shrubs and natural solutions
An inviting backyard can serve as a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. After a long day at the office or an exhausting day spent transporting kids to and fro, it’s hard to resist the allure of a peaceful outdoor space in which to unwind.
Privacy is a key component of any backyard oasis. Some homes may be so remote that privacy isn’t an issue. But many suburban homeowners recognize they might need to tweak their landscapes if they hope to create a private oasis outside.
Fencing or planting?
Most homeowners looking to create more privacy on their property will have to choose between fencing and planting. Fencing provides immediate privacy because, once it’s installed, no one can see into the yard. Fencing also doesn’t require watering or other immediate upkeep, which will be necessary when planting to ensure tree roots can establish themselves. But planting has its benefits as well. Planting for privacy is essentially creating a living fence that can grow over time and provide even more privacy as trees reach maturity. Plants also tend to be less costly than fencing. The home renovation experts at BobVila.com estimate that fencing projects typically cost between $1,667 and $4,075. However, fencing projects can cost considerably more than $4,000, especially for homeowners with large properties they want to enclose. Large, mature trees can be expensive, though it’s unlikely they will cost as much as fencing. In addition, fencing requires more maintenance and will potentially need to be replaced, while native trees won’t require much upkeep and can last for generations.
Planting
Homeowners who choose to plant for privacy will next have to decide which type of plants to add to their properties. Evergreens provide year-round privacy because they don’t shed their leaves, so these are the ones most often chosen when creating a living fence. A number of varieties of evergreen trees can do the job, but it’s important that homeowners consult with a landscape architect prior to choosing trees so they can ensure the trees will thrive when faced with the growing conditions on their properties. During such a consultation, homeowners may discuss the following popular privacy trees.
n Leyland cypress: The Arbor Day Foundation notes that the Leyland cypress is popular for hedges and boundaries, likely because a typical tree reaches a mature height of 60 to 70 feet and can spread as wide as 25 feet. The Leyland cypress grows fast, which may appeal to homeowners who don’t want to wait to establish privacy.
n Green Giant Arborvitae: There are different varieties of the arborvitae, but the Green Giant tends to be the go-to option for privacy. The ADF notes that Green Giants will grow up to three feet per year until they reach maturity, providing a fastgrowing option for privacy planters. The Green Giant can spread as wide as 20 feet at maturity, which is another attribute that makes it so popular among homeowners desiring privacy.
n Eastern White Pine: The ADF notes that the eastern white pine, which can reach heights as high as 80 feet, is favored in spacious yards. That’s likely due to its height and its potential spread, which can reach 40 feet. Homeowners who choose the eastern white pine might like it for its resemblance to a Christmas tree, and in fact it is widely used for that purpose. The privacy provided by the eastern white pine is significant, but it might be best suited to especially large properties.
Whether it’s fencing or planting, homeowners have many options to consider as they seek to create more privacy on their properties.
Shrubs that grow tall and thick can create a natural oasis, accented by plantings that bring warmth and vitality to an outdoor space.
How to make the most of outdoor spaces this fall
Think ahead to make outdoor entertaining a possibilty this fall and even winter
The holiday season comes at a time when the weather can be anywhere from cool to frigid. But even if the weather outside is somewhat frightful, entertaining in outdoor spaces can still be delightful. Making the most of outdoor spaces during the fall and winter can enable guests to spread out, which should make things more comfortable for them.
With that goal in mind, following are some tips for putting outdoor areas to good use when hosting loved ones this fall and holiday season.
Decorate first
An easy way to make outdoor entertaining spaces more welcoming is to coordinate the decor with the interior of the home. Greenery wrapped with lights around railings and fencing can create the perfect ambiance. Candles, wreaths and small, decorated Christmas trees can finish the effect.
Consider a fire or heating element
Unless you live in a temperate climate, you’ll need some way to keep guests warm. Center the outdoor entertaining space around a fire pit, outdoor fireplace or an outdoor heater. Make sure to illuminate the outdoor area so that guests can find their way around with ease.
Host an early gathering
The sun sets early in fall and winter, so it may not only get colder, but also darker at a time when guests typically arrive. Think about moving up the start time of
your holiday event if you’ll be having an outdoor area, so guests can see one another and stay a little warmer.
Use the grill
Keep foods warm by using the grill or an outdoor griddle; otherwise, set up the food buffet-style inside so guests can make their plates and gravitate where they feel comfortable.
Provide blankets or fleeces
In addition to warming elements around your entertaining space, stock a
large basket with cozy throws, blankets or fleece jackets that guests can use to warm up. Hats and scarves also may be appreciated.
Invest in waterproof furniture
Upgrade your exterior seating with plush outdoor couches and lounges that are decked out in weather-resistant fabrics. Make them more comfortable with throw pillows that coordinate with a holiday entertaining theme.
Set up two drink stations
Set up beverages both inside and outside the home so guests can easily refill their drinks wherever they are relaxing. Think about having some warm drinks outside, such as mulled cider or hot chocolate, so guests can be warmed from the inside as well.
Use a wireless speaker
A Bluetooth-enabled wireless speaker placed outside allows guests to listen to holiday tunes while they are enjoying themselves.
Using well-equipped outdoor areas for entertaining can expand the possibilities and guest list for holiday gatherings.
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LITTLE COMPTON - BAYBERRY FARM
An unparalleled 108-acre waterfront estate A private, mile-long laneway meanders through pristine woodlands and open pasture, as the residence rises provocatively on the horizon Substantial and brilliantly designed, this dramatic illustration of New England Vernacular architecture is set on high, presiding over the Sakonnet Passage and ocean beyond Offered at $22,500,000 Contact Will Milbury at 508 525 5200
WESTPORT - WYNDFIELD
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NEW LISTING
PORTSMOUTH $1,250,000
Great waterfront location with deep water dock! Enjoy stunning water views and access to Narragansett Bay, Newport and the Atlantic from a safe harbor Your new summertime home awaits! Contact Tom Chace 401 965 3257
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