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Freshen up your home for the spring season After a few months of chilly temperatures, come spring, many homeowners are eager to throw open their windows and doors and breathe new life into their homes. Simple changes made now — even before the weather begins to warm up — can improve interior spaces and brighten the atmosphere of a home.
make a dry carpet cleaner using baking soda, corn starch and desired fresh herbs for fragrance. Sprinkle and then vacuum up after a few hours.
Fresh flowers, new throw pillows and lightweight draperies are some easy
• Go plant shopping. ways to transform a home in time for spring’s arrival. Research from NASA to brighten the mood lighting. surprised at how clean suggests adding at in a home is to period• Give rugs and and fresh a home looks least one plant in your ically clean light fixand smells once rugs home per 100 square tures to make sure they floors a deep cleaning. and carpets are deepRecirculated air may be feet is efficient enough are working effectivefull of dust and other cleaned. You also can to clean air. Fresh foli- ly. Spend time dusting microscopic particles age also makes a home them and cleaning off that end up blowing feel warm and inviting. any accumulated dethroughout your home. Watering and misting bris. If need be, switch Also, it’s easy to track plants introduces mois- out old lamp shades in dirt and other mateture into indoor air, for newer ones that rials on your shoes that which can make rooms let more light shine become imbedded in overcome with dry through. If inadequate carpeting. At least once air from heating sys- lighting is a problem a year, rent or enlist the tems feel comfortable. no matter how many surfaces of carpet and Just be sure to avoid lamps you have, con- upholstery cleaners to overwatering plants, sult with an electrician give floors a thorough which can lead to mold about installing more cleaning. You may be growth. overhead and accent
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• Clean existing light fixtures. Another way
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• Swap out throw pillows. Accent pillows on beds and sofas are quick and inexpensive ways to add new bursts of color to rooms. You may be able to make over a room’s entire color scheme with new pillows. Invest in pillows that you can switch with each season so your decor will never look tired or dull.
The aroma will waft through the home, creating a pleasing scent.
• Color-coordinate bookshelves. Group all books with similarly colored covers together for an instant and eye-appealing look.
• Invest in new window treatments. Lightweight draperies or new blinds or shades can transform the look of a room. Be sure to keep curtains and blinds open during the day to maximize the hours of sunlight.
• Simmer some homemade home deodorizer. In a large pot, boil water and some scented herbs, such as rosemary, citrus rinds, vanilla, or lavender.
Homeowners can make some simple changes while they’re stuck indoors and reap the benefits when the weather warms up again.
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How to find the right replacement windows Replacing old windows is often a worthwhile investment for homeowners. Energy-efficient windows can prevent heating and cooling loss and keep homes more comfortable throughout the year. Such windows also can improve a home’s resale value, proving a good return on investment for homeowners who want to upgrade their homes before putting them on the market. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners might find it more cost-effective to replace very old and/or inefficient windows to improve their energy efficiency. Such an upgrade can save homeowners substantial amounts of money on heating and cooling costs. Window replacement projects can be costly, so it pays to get the
job right the first time. Before beginning a window replacement project, homeowners should research which windows will meet their specific needs, learning the subtleties between finishes and features, as well as comparing prices for the windows and installation. Choose the right time of year The best time of year to plan window replacement is when the weather will be warm, ideally in the spring or early summer. However, homeowners do not want conditions to be too warm, as each room where new windows will be installed will temporarily be exposed to the elements. Furthermore, caulk adheres better in warmer weather and will dispense easily.
Consider available features When replacing windows, homeowners may want to install the same style windows they currently have. But the problems that led to the need to replace windows may still exist even when new windows are installed. When replacing windows, consider energy performance ratings based on the locations of the windows in the house. To make sure they make the most educated decision, homeowners can investigate the solar heat gain coefficient, U-factor, visible transmittance and light-to-solar gain. Explanations of these ratings are available at Energy.gov. Don’t ignore maintenance needs Maintenance costs involved with cleaning,
Replacement windows can be a smart investment in comfort and design appeal of a home.
repairs and painting can add up. When shopping for windows, consider the amount of maintenance they will need. Wood-framed windows may require more upkeep than aluminum, fiberglass or vinyl. Also, consider if certain window types, such as double-hung windows, casement windows, awning windows, or slider windows, would be practical.
Steps to take before an appraiser’s visit visits their home.
• Clean the house. Dirty homes may be vulnerable to insect infestations that can lead to structural problems with the home. While a dirty home is not necessarily an indicator of infestations or a reflection of a home’s value, a clean home will create a stronger first impression with the appraiser. • Make any necessary repairs ahead of the appointment. Homeowners
who have been putting off repairs should make them before the appraiser arrives. Though repairs can be costly, investing in home repairs will likely increase both the appraisal and resale value of the home.
• Obtain all necessary documents before the appraiser arrives. Such documentation may include a survey of the house and property; a deed or title report; a recent tax bill; if
applicable, a list of items to be sold with the house; purchase history of the home; and the original plans and specifications of the home. • Inform the appraiser about recent improvements. The value of home improvements with regard to a home’s appraisal value vary depending on a host of variables, but having such information at the ready can help appraisers make the most informed appraisal possible.
A poor match between windows and the style of the home can produce unwanted changes in the appearance of the home. Replacement windows should match the style and appearance desired. Expect minimal disruption When homeowners hire professionals who are good at their craft, window replacement projects
should not be a terrible inconvenience. According to American Window Products, Inc., seasoned professionals will be able to complete a replacement window upgrade in a short amount of time depending on the size of the home and the number of windows being replaced. Replacing windows can be a costly task, but one that will provide a more energy efficient home that can help homeowners save money in the long run. 2000L
Homeowners unfamiliar with the appraisal process might not know if there is anything they can do to make the process go more smoothly. While certain variables involved in the appraisal process, such as location of the home and the value of surrounding homes, are beyond homeowners’ control, the Appraisal Institute recommends homeowners take the following steps before an appraiser
Keep home style in mind
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Bring more natural light into a home
Maximizing natural light in a home is a smart and sometimes low-cost renovation. Homes that are dark and drab can drain energy levels and reduce productivity. In addition, dark rooms may not be inviting places to gather as a family or when entertaining.
Certain factors contribute to a dark home. Houses that face north or east may not get the same level of sunlight as those that primarily face south and west. Geographic location also plays a role in the amount of natural sunlight. Mountains, buildings and even latitude can affect the amount of natural light that enters a home. The style of a home and its attributes also may create dark conditions. Deep house eaves as well as small windows or too few windows also can contribute to a deficit of light indoors. A major remodel certainly can remedy the situation. However, there also are other less-extensive strategies to improve natural light. • Assess the situation before renovating. Walk around the house and determine which rooms get the most light and which conditions may be contributing to the problem
in other areas. Dark floors and walls may be absorbing natural light and compounding the situation. You may find that only one or two rooms need attention, saving you the cost and effort associated with a major home overhaul. • Lighten up window treatments. Heavy drapes or thick blinds can be replaced with translucent alternatives. Translucent shades will allow light into the room without compromising privacy, say the experts at HGTV. • Use mirrors strategically. A mirror placed opposite a window will reflect light all around the room. This can make a small room seem larger and a dark space instantly brighter. • Install new windows and doors. If the budget allows, install-
ing larger windows in a home will allow more natural light in. French doors or sliding doors also may make a home’s interior more bright. Think about adding windows to a side of the house that has none, or increase the size of the windows on the side of the house that gets the most light. • Maximize sunlight from above. Skylights will bring light into a home as the sun passes overhead. Tubular skylights can bring natural sunlight into spaces where you may not expect skylights to be practical. According to Houzz, a design and architectural resource, tubular daylighting devices, or TDDs, can make a big difference. TDDs are reflective pipes installed between the roof and ceiling, with a clear plastic dome.
• Use reflective decor. Reflective surfaces, including glass and metal, can brighten up a room and diffuse light around a room. Glossy backsplashes, pendant lighting and shiny metal that reflect light can increase the natural light, balancing out dark spaces. • Prune trees regularly. Cut back branches and keep trees tidy to maximize sunlight. Avoid planting tall shrubbery in front of windows. • Routinely clean windows and glass doors. Dirt and other grime can prevent light from getting through. Regularly give windows a thorough washing. Natural light is an important commodity in a home. Sunlight can improve mood and go a long way toward keeping home occupants healthy and happy.
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Steps to a more organized, functional garage Organization can help homeowners transform their homes into less cramped, more spacious oases without forcing them to finance potentially expensive expansion projects. Homeowners who park in their driveways may find that their garages have become crowded, cluttered spaces in which searching for tools can feel like scouring a haystack in search of a needle. Organizing a garage can create extra room in a home while affording homeowners the chance to protect their vehicles from the elements. Homeowners who want to turn their garages into something more than cluttered storage units can employ the following strategies to transform these largely overlooked areas into more valuable spaces. • Choose the right
day. Garages tend to be separate from the rest of the homes they’re a part of, meaning the only way to organize a garage is to first remove all items from the garage and into the driveway. Because items removed from the garage will be exposed to the elements, homeowners should choose a day that’s temperate and sunny to clean their garages. If possible, homeowners should opt to organize their garages in late spring, summer or early fall when there are additional hours of daylight. This protects homeowners from having to work in the dark should the job take longer than they initially anticipated. • Discard or donate duplicate items. Duplicate items are some of the main culprits behind cluttered garages. As garages gradually become more cluttered,
garages and make a buck at the same time can host garage sales. Make only those items that are still functional available for purchase, and let neighbors and bargain hunters do the bulk of your organization work for you.
Organized garages that are free of clutter can serve as valuable work spaces for handy homeowners.
homeowners may buy tools they already have simply because they cannot find their original tools. When organizing the garage, create separate piles for duplicate tools, placing still-useful items in a pile that can be donated to neighbors, local charities or organiza-
tions and another pile for old tools that are no longer useful. • Host a garage sale. Homeowners who want to organize their
• Designate areas of the garage for certain items. Once the items that won’t be going back into the garage have been sold, donated or discarded, organize the garage by designating areas for certain items, making sure to separate items that can pose safety risks. For example, store kids’ bicycles and outdoor toys in a corner of the garage that is opposite the corner where potentially dangerous items such as
power tools and gas cans will be stored. Keep the center of the garage open for vehicles. • Periodically park cars in the garage. Homeowners who are comfortable parking their vehicles in their driveways can improve their chances of maintaining organized garages over the long haul by periodically parking in the garage. Doing so not only prevents the gradual buildup of clutter that can slowly take over a garage, but also protects homeowners’ automotive investments. Maintaining an organized garage can help homeowners make more practical use of the space in their homes.
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Vicki Agee Sales Associate 234-3626
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www.century21perry.com • www.century21.com 8835 10.45 ACRES Wooded acreage, rural property, some utilities available, with a creek! MLS#15030886 $25,000.
8747 26 AC W/CREEK - Collier Creek borders this wooded acreage that has a mountain view. MLS#10403353 $85,000. 8782 7.75 ACRES - Build your own home on this 7.75 acres located in the Valley Ranch Subdivision. Mountain views, and close to town. See file for covenants and restrictions. MLS#15009543 $15,900. 8804 COUNTRY LIVING! Enjoy the benefits of living on 8.59 acres very close to Mena! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths plus, one pond, two outbuildings, a great buy! MLS#15018538 $129,900. 8 8 3 0 T H R E E L A R G E APTS Steady income, long term renters, cash flow at hand. Decking, patio area, and a nice land. Just outside the city limits. Easy to maintain. Expenses only include city water, dumpster and security light. MLS#15030103 $159,900. 8833 IMMACULATE HOME large open spaces, executive appointments, large master suite w/new flooring, appliances, stainless steel r e f r i g e r a t o r, pergola on the deck and the patio set. Vents under the house barometrically controlled! Storm shelter, outbuilding, carport and new paint in the 2-car garage. MLS#15030551 $186,500.
8862 COX LAKE AREA Nice home in established neighborhood, 3 br, 2 ba, 1376 sf, original hardwood floors in living room, new windows. MLS#16004440 $68,000. 8891 GORGEOUS LANDSCAPING Beautiful home on almost 2 ac in Mena City Limits. Corner lot with trees and small creek! Handicapped accessible. Kitchen has granite counters and a bay window. MLS#16018050 $115,000. 8910 GREAT LOT – Inside city limits, borders a creek. Very secluded. Our pleasure to show this property at bargain price! MLS#16026329 $6,000. 8923 BEAUTIFUL! 3 br, 2 ba home on 33.26 ac, mostly wooded w/nice mountain views. Several outbuildings, barn for horses. 2 wells, two ponds - one spring fed, one is artesian fed and always runs. Backup generator hook up, large garden with raised beds. Several hilltop building sites. MLS#16031395 $185,000. 8924 TOP OF THE LINE PROPERTY in town with large, clear fish pond on 6 ac. Level lot, private pond. 3 br, 2 ba brick ranch with Large wood fireplace. shop/garage, good garden spot, 3-stall motor home shed. MLS#16031581 $230,000.
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1118 Highway 71 S. • Mena, AR 71953 (479)394-6500
Amanda Warrington Executive Broker 234-8114
8942 HOUSE AND GUEST HOUSE 3.3 acres, imagine the view of the mountain range from the front porch. Beautiful log home, outbuildings, 3 br, 1 ba, detached garage and shop. Separate little cottage, 1 br, 1 ba, separate utilities. Trees and pond on property. open, country close to town! MLS#17000995 $74,900. 8951 MULTI-PURPOSE BUILDING – Name your business! Ready to start working? Used as a gift shop. Price includes all fixtures and inventory. New roof in 2016, 7 separate inside booths, reception area. MLS#17004168 $80,000. 8956 HUGE HOME - AMAZING PRICE! 3 br, 3 updated baths, large rooms, updated kitchen, lots of storage, fireplace, extra office space, laundry room, central heat and air, many outbuildings, but needs a little bit more work. On a paved road, 1.8 ac, just a few minutes from Mena in the Potter area. $82,000. 8958 FORECLOSURE A place in the country, just for you! Cute home on 7 acres, separate dining room, separate den/family room, also has a laundry room. Screen porch, and a storm shelter! Rock accents in the den, wood stove in the living room, storage building. Case Number #031-384165. HUD homes are Sold AS IS. www.chronossolutions.com. Place a bid at www.HudHomeStore.com. $68,000. 8960 LARGE FRONT PORCH to watch the world go by...nice big corner lot, driveway entrance on two streets, 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, nice open kitchen/dining area, very recent remodel! Priced to sell - call today to see! $129,900.
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Composite decking can be a smart choice Decks add character and functionality to a home, increasing outdoor entertaining space and oftentimes improving the resale value of a home. Homeowners have various options when choosing decking materials, but one such option, composite decking, is growing in popularity. Decks used to primarily be made from pressure-treated lumber. While lumber remains a popular material, more and more homeowners are opting for composite decking products. As anyone who has pressure-washed, stained and sealed wood decks can attest, such spaces require lots of upkeep to look new year after year. Composite decks require much less maintenance, making them highly attractive to homeowners who would rather spend time using their decks instead of maintaining them.
Available in a variety of wood colors to match outdoor decor, composite decks also can feature artificial wood grains to make them look similar to wood planks. Although composite decks are not completely impervious to the elements, with some occasional washing to impede mold growth and new technology that has improved stain-resistance, many of the pitfalls of other materials can be avoided with composite decks. Composite decking fits in with eco-friendly lifestyles. The planks are made from recycled materials that would normally end up in landfills. Products from Trex, a popular composite decking manufacturer, are made from 1.5 million shopping bags and wood mill waste. As composite decks do not rot away and are long-lasting, they will not need to be replaced frequently, which is another eco-friendly benefit. When comparing composite decking brands, look mainly at the colors, materials used in the composition and the fastening systems. Many are fas-
Composite decking can mimic the look of wood, but requires much less maintenance.
tened with regular deck screws, offers This Old House. The newer systems have channels for hidden fastening, and the composite deck tiles snap into place.
refinishing, damaged boards will need to be replaced. Harsh chemicals may fade color and damage the composite materials, so caution is needed.
Composite decks do have a few drawbacks. They can be expensive — nearly double the initial cost of wood decks. And although they don’t rot, composite planks can scratch. Without
Composite decking remains an in-demand choice for outdoor spaces. Low-maintenance and long-lasting, these decks have quickly become favorites among homeowners.
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Composite decking is any type of decking material that is formulated from different recycled materials. The majority of these materials include hard plastic and wood shavings of pulp. Unlike wood, which can fade, crack and rot, composite decking, which has been available for roughly a de-
cade, does not degrade quickly and requires very little upkeep.
DUGAN RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL LAWN CARE LANDSCAPING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
479-394-2699
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How to make existing windows more energy efficient Drafty windows make homes less comfortable by allowing cold air in during the winter and warm air in when temperatures rise. But comfort is not the only concern associated with leaky windows, as such fixtures also can have a negative impact on the environment. Leaky windows require heating and cooling systems to work harder to keep home interiors comfortable during times of the year when temperatures can be extreme. In the dead of winter, a leaky window will force a home’s inhabitants to turn up the thermostat, which only increases energy consumption and energy bills. The same scenario plays out in summer, when leaky windows
allow hot air in, leading homeowners to lower the temperature of air conditioning units so everyone inside is cool and comfortable. Thankfully, making windows more energy efficient does not necessarily require homeowners to replace existing windows. Before going that potentially expensive route, home-
owners can consider the following strategies to improve the energy efficiency of their windows. • Hang curtains. Curtains can help homeowners cut down on heating and cooling costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, properly hung draperies can reduce heat loss by as much
as 25 percent. In the summer, curtains can block the hot rays from the sun from entering a home, reducing the need to turn up air conditioning units. While curtains won’t fix leaks or block hot or cold air from entering a home, they can serve as a buffer between a home’s inhabitants and the air seeping in through leaks.
How to create an effective workflow in the kitchen Bathroom and kitchen makeovers are some of the most coveted and profitable improvements that can be made to a home. Installing new cabinetry, countertops and appliances can transform the look of a kitchen, but homeowners also must consider the functionality of design when renovating. The National Kitchen and Bath Association suggests applying the kitchen “work triangle,” which is a concept used
to create efficient kitchen layouts. The triangle comprises imaginary straight lines drawn from the cooking appliance, sink and refrigerator. The general idea is that when the work triangle is positioned accordingly — with the three components in close proximity to one another — the kitchen is easier and more efficient to use. The NKBA suggests following these guidelines to create efficient
kitchens. • No major traffic patterns should cross through the triangle. • The sum of the work triangle’s three sides should not exceed 26 feet. Each portion of the triangle should be between four and nine feet. • Avoid cutting through an island or a peninsula. • If the kitchen has only one sink, it should be placed between or across from the cooking surface, preparation area or refrigerator.
The work triangle is a suggestion, not a law of design. As kitchens evolve and more people use them simultaneously, designers may take certain liberties — even having multiple triangles at play. Homeowners should also design their kitchens so they function best for their own individual lifestyles. Kitchen layout can be just as important as the decor and appliances within the kitchen.
• Caulk or add weatherstripping. Small cracks and gaps around windows, which are most often found around windows in older buildings, might not seem like a big deal, but such breaches can lead to considerable energy loss. The DOE recommends using caulk to seal cracks that are less than 1⁄4-inch wide on the parts of the window that do not move (i.e., frames and where the trim meets the wall). Caulk might be less effective at fixing leaks larger than 1⁄4 inch in width. Employ weatherstripping to address leaks on movable parts of the window. Properly applied weatherstripping should adequately seal windows when they are closed without making it difficult to open or close them later on. Weatherstripping is available in various materials, and homeowners can visit www. energy.gov/energysaver/weatherstripping to find the material that’s most suitable for their situation.
• Install windows films. Plastic window films are another option for homeowners looking to improve the energy efficiency of their windows. Heat shrink film can be cut to fit each individual leaky window in a home and then attached to windows using double-sided tape. A hair dryer can then be used to shrink the film and remove any wrinkles. Low-emissivity, or Low-E, coatings are a more expensive alternative to heat shrink film, and they can be equally effective at improving energy efficiency. Installation of Low-E coatings can be more difficult, as they do not provide as much leeway for mistakes during application as heat shrink film. Leaky windows are bad for homeowners’ energy bills and the environment. But homeowners have options other than full window replacements to fix leaks and improve efficiency.
Roberta Northcutt Branch Manager NMLS 137301
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Prevent stairway injuries Stairs are a necessity in many homes. While stairs serve a practical purpose, they also have the potential to be dangerous. According to the National Safety Council, more than one million injuries result each year from stairway falls. Staircase and stairway accidents constitute the second leading cause of accidental injury, second only to motor vehicle accidents. Each year, there are 12,000 stairway accident deaths. The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation states that a large portion of Canadians who visit hospitals after a fall on or from stairs or steps in their homes are seniors (men and women age 65 years or older). However, many stairway falls can be prevented with some simple planning. • Install sturdy handrails. A common contributor to stairway falls is a failure to use handrails. Sturdy handrails can decrease fall rates. Even if a person slips, he or she may be able to prevent the fall by grabbing on to the handrails and regaining some of his or her balance. • Rely on highlighters or friction strips. According to a study titled “Safety on stairs:
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How to fix that sticking door Nearly everyone has experienced a sticking door that just will not close properly. This problem may become more noticeable when temperatures rise and humidity contributes to the swelling of wood doors and frames.
Stairs can be dangerous unless preventative measures are taken to increase safety.
Influence of a tread edge highlighter and its position,” by Richard J. Foster, fall risk may be reduced by using a highlighter positioned flush with the tread edge. This helps make stairs more visible, particularly for those with impaired vision.
• Improve lighting on staircases. Failure to see steps may contribute to falls as well. Staircases should be well lit so that residents and guests know where to step. Subtle foot-level lighting can be installed to make it easier for people who frequently use steps at night. • Use slip-resistant materials. Slip-resistant surface material acceptable for normal floors should work on stair treads. Loose rugs should not be placed at the top or bottom of the landing. Outdoors, rough finishes are recommended, particularly on stairs that are
subject to getting wet.
• Improve step geometry. If slips and falls frequently occur on a particular staircase, consider the relationship between the rise and the run, advises the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. The National Building Code of Canada says that, within a staircase, treads should have a uniform run and tread depth that does not vary more than 0.5 to 1 cm. Steep steps with high risers and/or short treads can increase the risk of falls. • Clear away clutter. One easy way to prevent falls is to keep stairs free of clutter. This means removing shoes, toys and other belongings that may be left on stairs or landings. Many falls on stairs can be prevented by being mindful of certain risk factors.
According to The Family Handyman, a home improvement resource, the standard remedy for alleviating a sticking door is to remove the door and pare down the edges that are rubbing so that the door will once again swing freely. While this can solve the problem, it can be a hassle, as it requires refinishing the pareddown edge and rehanging the door. Try these shortcuts first before creating more work than might be necessary. • Identify the problem area and rub it with a dry bar of soap. This should reduce friction and allow the door to close more easily. • Remove humidity with a dehumidifier or by running an air conditioning unit. • Check for loose hinges or sagging around the hinge. Tighten the fasteners
to sure up the door and create better alignment. • Spray the hinges with lubricant if you suspect sticking is originating because of squeaky hinges.
• Look for obstructions at the bottom of the door. Is the door dragging on carpeting or being caught on something on the floor? It may be a matter of simply clearing away the obstruction.
Jeremy D. Thornton, President
MENA TITLE COMPANY, INC.
“ON THE COURTHOUSE SQUARE” SERVING POLK COUNTY SINCE 1899 LET US HANDLE YOUR NEXT CLOSING, TITLE INSURANCE, OR CONTRACT ADMINISTRARTION. 301 DeQueen St. (478)394-5264, ext. 307 Mena, Arkansas 71953 Fax: 394-5258 Email: jeremy@menatitlecompanyinc.com 3982v
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Create kid-friendly spaces at home Maintaining a home that is welcoming and kid-friendly can be challenging. Kids are full of energy and oftentimes put fun ahead of tidiness. But no matter how energetic their youngsters are, parents can still employ several strategies to ensure their homes are both sophisticated and child-friendly. • Consider an open floor plan. Rooms that flow into one another make it easier to keep tabs on children. Such rooms also allow residents and guests to mingle in separate rooms but not be too far away from one another.
• Hang whimsical artwork. Employ framing and lighting to make kids’ artwork look like professional pieces. Routinely change the pictures when a new look is desired.
out. Sofas and chairs with slipcovers can be advantageous because many slipcovers can be easily removed and laundered. Patterned fabrics will hide some stains, while treated fabrics may resist liquid spills for easier cleanup. • Create a catch-all spot. Special bins or
other organizational tools in the entryway can help to cull clutter when children come in the house from school or play. Be sure the keep cubbies, containers and coat hooks at a child-friendly height. • Look for high-traffic rugs. Rugs designed for high-traffic areas will be more forgiving when
children march across them several times per day. There are no rules that say you can’t bring an outdoor rug inside, and these rugs tend to be easier to clean. • Ensure there is plenty of seating. Sectionals give children ample room to spread out. And ample seating ensures there is enough
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• Think outside pink and blue. For children’s rooms, make sure they’re colorful, but consider other hues to give the rooms some personality. Focus on a hobby or activity
Creating child-friendly spaces while ensuring a home maintains a sophisticated feel is easier than parents might think.
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room for kids to invite their friends over to hang out.
• Designate a place for play. Devote an entire room or a nook in a house for imaginative play. Store toys here so these items will not create clutter in individual bedrooms.
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• Choose washable fabrics. Upholstery will need to stand up to the abuse kids can dish
and borrow the color scheme from the accessories used for decorating.
Take “ACTION” on your real estate needs! 125 Hwy 270 East P.O. Box 540 Mount Ida, AR 71957
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Office Hours: Monday - Friday • 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Office: 479-394-1588 Emergency Number: 479-385-1009 Tom Pipkin, Owner HVAC LIC #2117733 Pipkint@sbcglobal.net www.pipsair.com
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Select Realty Bobbie Himel Owner / Principal Broker (479) 437-9348
It’s the sign of success! 2611 Hwy 71 S • Mena, AR 71953
Office: (479) 394-7676 • Fax: (479) 394-7677 • Toll Free: (877) 394-7676
Helping your dreams become a reality
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#1734 7 Bedrooms, 4 Baths! • Approx. 2,200 sq.. ft. & 29 Acres! • Fenced side yard and basement! • RV Park on approx.1 acre, 12 sites! • Rear house- 4 stories! • 15 Bedrooms, 10 baths, 3 ½ baths! • 2 Large ponds, running creek! MLS # 16003045 $1,275,000
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Le-Ann Holmes Realtor/Owner (479) 234-7310
Jan Atchley
OSE, MA, ABR, CRS, GRI, CRB Executive Broker (479) 243-6475
Sandra Thomas Realtor (479) 234-3952
Misty Miller Administrator (479) 394-7676
Visit us online at www.menaselectrealty.com
#1833 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths! • Approx. 3,596 sq. ft. & 1 Acre! • Has fireplace in family area! • Kitchen area with island. • Music room/could be 5th bedroom! • Man cave, fenced back yard, in-ground swimming pool! MLS#16012376 $189,000
#2034 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath! • Approx. 967 sq.. ft.! • Wood laminate floor throughout! • Spacious bedrooms! • Carport & storage off of the kitchen! • Fenced in back yard! MLS# 17008191 $74,000
#1768 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths! • Approx. 3000 sq.. ft. & 4.7 acres! • Living room has tiled fireplace! • Expensive wood laminate flooring! • Granite counters & stainless steel appliances! • Barn & storage building! • Seller will give 1 year warranty! MLS# 16019210 $184,900
#1846 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths! • Approx. 1,264 sq.. ft. & 1 acre! • Open floor plan! • Full front porch! • Large bedrooms & living room! • Mountain Views! MLS#16020593 $65,000
#2035 3 Bedrooms, 2 baths! • Approx. 1,410 sq.. ft. & 1.54 acres! • Fireplace has a gas log with remote start! • All new windows & doors! • Updated home! • Safe room/walk in closet! • Whole house generator with auto turn on! • 2 back patios with rock work! • New hardy board siding on house! MLS#17008108 $139,900
#1796 2 Bedrooms, 2 baths, ½ bath! • Approx. 1350 sq. ft. & 5 acres! • Living room has fireplace! • Open kitchen with breakfast bar! • Dining area with bay window! • 2 master suites, one with jetted tub! • Wrap around deck & sand filtered well! MLS# 15031127 $269,000
#2033 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths! • Central heat and air! • Additional wood furnace! • Approx. 2,296 sq.. ft. & 40 acres! • In-ground pool & 40 x 50 shop! • Mix of woods and pasture! • Gated driveway provides privacy. MLS#17007838 $199,000
#2032 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath, ½ Baths! • Approx. 1,200 sq.. ft. & .27 acre! • Freshly painted & some new fixtures! • Nice size laundry room! • Back yard has nice storage building! • Garden area & Mountain View! MLS# 17008717 $74,999