SOUTH EDITION • 2016
BUYING • SELLING • IMPROVING
PUBLISHED BY
yesterday, today, tomorrow
2 | HOME 2016, South Edition
DY
(Drain It Yourself)
W
hen it comes to f i x i n g household clogs, don’t b e a f r aid to do it yourself. With proper maintenance and the right products and tools on hand, you can skip the plumber and keep your drains running smoothly at their maximum capacity. From hair-ridden showers to food-filled kitchen sinks, these tips will help conquer even the most demanding and difficult drainage issues.
TOUGH HAIR CLOGS GOT YOU HARRIED? Hair is the main culprit in most bathroom clogs. If you or a household member has long hair, you are likely to have a greater amount of it in your drains. For hair-clogged drains, pour an entire bottle of a product specially formulated to break down hair clogs. It works to destroy clogs within minutes and is safe on all pipes, even old rusty ones. Let the gel work for 15 minutes then
run hot water for a few minutes to rinse away any remaining gel and lingering strands.
HOW ABOUT A DRAIN CHECK? If possible, transfer water that won’t drain and any lingering dregs in the sink basin into a bucket. Carefully remove stoppers and strainers from your drain. If you’re removing screws, make sure to keep a close watch so they don’t fall down the drain. If you need to remove stopper parts from under the sink, keep a bucket underneath the pipes. Remove all of the ghastly gunk and goo from stoppers and strainers. Run water to flush down remaining material and test the flow.
PLUNGE RIGHT IN Avoid over-flushing your toilet to prevent f looding the bowl and your bathroom floor. The best tool to unclog a toilet is a plunger with a f lange, which is a smaller opening on the bottom of the
PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES
Simple drainage issues aren’t as intimidating as they may seem. plunger that resembles a cup. The flange fits perfectly into the toilet bowl drain to give your thrusts more power. Place the plunger into the toilet drain straight and vertical. Create a tight seal with the drain, with the plunger fully submerged in water. Plunge gently at first, then
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clogs or foreign objects, such as flushed toys.
KEEP CLOGS FROM COMING BACK Even if you have short hair or your drains aren’t currently clogged, it’s a good idea to do a little maintenance to prevent future problems. Pipe
maintenance products are available in the household cleaner section of most stores and are designed to help keep pipes clear and clean, prevent new clogs and keep them smelling fresh. -Family Features
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vigorously, in an up and down motion. Wit h a stubbor n clog, don’t be shy; add some strength to your thrusts. If the clog remains, or the toilet still isn’t flushing properly, you may need additional support. A drain snake can help break up the clog or a closet auger can help remove larger
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HOME 2016, South Edition | 3
SPRINGTIME AND THE LIVING IS EASY PHOTO BY PATTY DEXTER
Mike Miller’s backyard garden includes a fountain and a stone path under shady trees, the perfect place to relax on a spring or summer day.
Tips for making the most of your outdoor space in 2016
N
o matter the season or the region, outdoor living is hot right now. As spring approaches, here are seven of the top trends that will influence the look, feel and function of outdoor spaces in 2016. Outdoor rooms: Thanks to advances in all-weather materials, furnishings and accessories, you can outfit an outdoor living space in much the same way that you would any room in the home. As a result, expect to see decks with features such as integrated benches with upholstered cushions, privacy walls and ornamental post caps and railings with decorative balusters similar to those found inside the home. Railings that rule: Another outdoor element that’s being influenced by indoor styling is deck railings. When it comes to selecting the best railing for your outdoor space, design experts recommend using one of the “Three C’s” – coordinate, contrast or customize. Enchanted gardens: If the cost of adding a deck to your home is out of your price range, consider the options you have when it comes to gardening. A garden isn’t just a place for flow-
PHOTO BY FAMILY FEATURES
Improving a home’s outdoor space is a great way to make your home more cozy and inviting for both you and your guests. ers and vegetables to grow — it can also be a backyard oasis. A collection of stepping stones, some greenery and the right furniture could turn your garden into something resembling a fairy tale. Cooking with class: Americans have taken backyard cooking and dining to a whole new level. Heading into the outdoor living season, expect this trend to continue with increasingly functional outdoor kitchens complete with cooking islands, pizza ovens, refrigerators and all-weather cabinetry and storage features. Warming features: One of the hottest trends – literally –
for 2016 is the incorporation of warming features into outdoor spaces. From candles and tiki torches to fireplaces and lighting, products that lend physical and ambient warmth will be in high demand. Look for increased use of LED lights integrated into deck railings, stairs and yards as homeowners seek to enhance the ambiance and safety of their outdoor space and extend the time they can spend enjoying it. High-tech decks : Home automation is hugely popular right now, so it’s only natural that the tech trend should migrate outdoors. From lighting and music controlled from
a smart phone to motorized rear-projection screens synced to outdoor LED televisions, homeowners are now able to bring their entire entertainment system outdoors. Leisure without the labor: For those that want to spend more time enjoying, rather than maintaining, their outdoor space, high-performance composite decking is an ideal choice – delivering all the beauty and aesthetics of wood without the time-consuming upkeep. Unlike wood, composite decking, resists fading, staining, scratching and mold – and won’t rot, warp, crack or splinter. -Family Features
PHOTO BY PATTY DEXTER
Mike Miller of Eden Prairie poses near the stone path in his backyard garden last summer. Miller has been working on his garden since 2002 and was part of the Eden Prairie Lioness Garden Tour last year.
4 | HOME 2016, South Edition
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Wash away winter grime PHOTO PROVIDED BY FAMILY FEATURES FEA
Power washing is a lot less complicated than it looks at first glance.
M
ont h s of h a rsh weat her condit ion s c a n t a ke their toll on your home and outdoor features, such as decks, sidewalks and even your lawn furniture. Often all it takes to get these items spruced up and ready for spring is a serious scrubbing with little more than a pressure washer to remove dirt and grime. When you gear up to wash away the winter, take stock of the entire outdoor area to make your plan of attack: W i n d ow s a n d s i d i n g . Storm a fter storm leaves plenty of dirty residue on your home’s exterior, glass surfaces and exterior walls alike. Before you begin, inspect windows and siding for dents, gaps or holes that may allow water to enter. Rather than climbing up a ladder to clean second-story windows — a dangerous endeavor — a pressure washer with secondstory capabilities is a smart solution. Exercise caution, as too much water pressure can damage windows, seals and siding. Start by standing farther away (at least 5 to 6 feet) from your home and
aim toward an area without windows to test the pressure of your spray. Hold the nozzle at a 45-degree angle, spraying down toward the window if cleaning at ground level and up and to the side if spraying the second level so you avoid getting wet. D r iveways, de ck s a nd patios. Concrete and brick driveways, sidewalks and patios, as well as wood decks, can take a real beating from the ice and snow, as well as shoveling and any chemicals you use to remove them. Before you can identify damage and make repairs, it’s a good idea to thoroughly clean the surface. Use a power washer in high-pressure mode, starting at a distance and moving closer until the desired effect is achieved. Further the cleaning effort and connect a surface cleaner accessory to the pressure washer. Surface cleaner attachments are affordable and use dual high-pressure, rotating jets for fast cleaning of large, flat surfaces. Grills. Nothing signals warmer weather like the smell of dinner on the grill. Get ready for your taste of
the new season by scrubbing away months of buildup. For gas grills, disconnect the tank and any electric lines before you begin. Open the hood, remove the grates and treat the entire grill with a degreasing solution, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Work from the top down to rinse away residue. Let the grill dry thoroughly and coat it with a nonstick oil to prevent future build-up. Outdoor furniture, planters and play-things. Left outdoors, patio furniture, planters and children’s outdoor play sets acquire layers of dust and grime during months of disuse. A power washer with variable nozzle settings allows you to safely transition from heavy-duty cleaning to more items such as glass-top tables and lightweight chairs, f lower pots and toys without damaging or blasting these items across the yard. With a little elbow grease and the proper tools, you’ll quickly find your home’s exterior fresh and ready to enjoy for another season outdoors. -Family Features
HOME 2016, South Edition | 5
Smart renting Don’t sweat the small stuff
not pour oil and grease down the sink, but avoiding other solids like coffee grounds will also keep your pipes flowing. If you have a sink with a garbage disposal, avoid dumping chemicals in the drain to clean it. In the bathroom, remove hair from drains right away rather than washing them down.
O
ne of the biggest benefits of renting versus buying a place of your ow n i s t h at you usually don’t have to worry about stressful maintenance tasks, like replacing a roof or a hot water heater. While most rental agreements include a landlord who takes care of major maintenance worries, there are a few things you can do to keep service calls to a minimum, and protect your security deposit in the long run.
INSURE YOUR PEACE OF MIND
PHOTO PROVIDED BY STATEPOINT
Simple tasks like keeping mildew out of your shower can help renters maintain their homes and keep their security deposits.
AVOID A DEEP FREEZE
ROUT GROUT PROBLEMS
DODGE A DUST UP
I f you have a ma nu a l freezer, defrost it at least once a year or when more than a quarter inch of frost has formed. When defrosting, remember to warm it up slowly. Empty the contents of the freezer, place towels underneath, and let the ice melt at room temperature. Use a blow dryer if you’re pressed for time. Once melted, wipe your freezer clean, bring it back to the appropriate temperature and restock.
Gaps and chips in your shower grout are worth calling your landlord about, because they could lead to significant water damage. Luckily, a regular cleaning routine can ensure you do your part to ward off unhealthy mold and mildew and help ensure there are no cracks that could lead to problems in walls and floors. A good scrub made up of baking soda, vinegar and a little warm water should do the trick.
If your heating and air conditioning units are easily accessible, vacuum the vents before using them for the first time each year, or ask your landlord to do so. Regular cleaning and filter changes ensure proper air flow. Check that furniture and curtains don’t cover vents to avoid potential maintenance issues and fire hazards.
KEEP CLOGS AWAY It’s common knowledge to
St a r ti ng a rou nd $ 10 a month, renters insurance, a must for any savvy renter, wi l l not on ly cover you r belongings (since your landlord’s policy usually doesn’t), but will also cover temporary living expenses and personal liability if you have to relocate during major repairs. Some insurers offer a generous multi-policy discount for those who want to purchase both renter’s insurance and an auto policy. In some cases, the discount actually pays for the renter’s policy. While tenants should definitely reap the benefits of being a renter, performing smal l tasks around your home or apartment can mean more comfortable day-to-day living, and fewer visits from the landlord. -StatePoint
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6 | HOME 2016, South Edition
Low number of homes for sale could trigger higher prices in Twin Cities
T
Sales Pressure on Number of Houses for Sale vs. Median Sale Price
14.00 $200,000 12.00 10.00
$150,000
8.00 $100,000
6.00 4.00
$50,000 2.00 $0
Ratio of Available Inventory to Sales
16.00
$250,000
Median Sale Price
Oct - 15
May - 15
Jul - 14
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Feb - 14
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0.00 May - 05
he supply of homes available to buy i n t he 13-county Twin Cities region hit a record low in January. The scarcity could lead to higher home prices and that, in turn, could lead to affordability issues for many potential homebuyers, according to a monthly analysis conducted by the Shenehon Center for Real Estate at the University of St. Thomas’ Opus College of Business in St. Paul. Each month the center tracks the median price for three types of sales: nondistressed or traditional; foreclosures; and short sales (when a home is sold for less than the outstanding mortgage balance). In addition, it looks for trends in the market and creates a monthly composite index score by tracking nine data elements for those three types of sales. Herb Tousley, director of real estate programs at the university, said that while many of the statistics look promising, the record-low inventory is cause for concern. “In many respects, January 2016 has been a good start to the new year. Yearover-year median sale prices ended at $215,000, a 10.4 percent increase compared to January 2015. The number of closed sales was 18.3 percent higher than last
Month Median Sale Price
Ratio of Available Inventory to # of Sales
SUBMITTED PHOTO
“If median home sale prices increase at a faster pace than median income, over time it begins to create affordability issues for homebuyers,” said Herb Tousley, director of real estate programs at the University of St. Thomas. January and the percentage of distressed home sales remains at near pre-crash levels,” he said. “However, the number of homes for sale in January set a new, low-record level at 10,131. That is 4 percent less than last month and 21.7
percent less than a year ago. As might be expected, the average-days-on-the-market at 85 and the months’ supply at 2.1 months are significantly lower than last year.” So, why is this a problem? “If current levels continue, the low inventory of
homes for sale will lead to more of an imbalance in the market,” Tousley said. “As we move into the spring and summer markets more people will be looking for homes to buy. If there are not significantly more homes available for sale it will
begin to be a drag on the number of closed sales and prices will begin to increase at a faster rate making it harder for buyers to afford a home.” While higher prices will be good for sellers, it will especially impact first-time
and first-move-up buyers. T he Shenehon C enter examined the historical relationship in the Twin Cities between the number of homes for sale, the number of homes sold and the median sa le prices. The center found that when the market gets tighter – or in other words when buyers increasingly outnumber sellers – the median sale price of homes increases. “According to MLS (Multiple Listing Services) data, the median sale price of all homes sold in the Twin Cities in 2015 increased 6.4 percent. During the same period, data from Housing and Urban Development indicated that median household income increased by 4.5 percent,” Tousley said. Tou sley said t hat t he Twin Cities traditionally has had an affordable housing market and that people with a median income could afford to buy a home at the median sale price. That’s not the case in many metro areas, however. “We will be watching the ratio closely in the coming months,” he said. “Normally in the spring and early summer seasons more homes will be listed for sale and rising prices should encourage homeowners to list their homes. “The question,” Tousley asked, “will there be enough homes listed to keep the market in balance?”
“If there are not significantly more homes available for sale it will begin to be a drag on the number of closed sales and prices will begin to increase at a faster rate making it harder for buyers to afford a home.” - Herb Tousley, University of St. Thomas
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HOME 2016, South Edition | 7
PHOTO COURTESY OF STATEPOINT
A seller’s market may be a bit harder to navigate for homebuyers, but it’s not impossible.
Home-hunting in a seller’s market A
re you on a serious hunt for a new home? W h e t h e r i t ’s your first time as a real estate buyer or you’ve done this many times before, you may experience a learning curve. After all, the market is forever in-flux, and exper ts advise that, these days, there are some distinctive challenges involved in becoming a homeowner. “If you want to snag your
dream home in a seller’s market, then you’d better be on your game,” says Grant Simmons, who drives the consumer marketing strategy for Homes.com, a leading online real estate resources site. Simmons is offering expert tips to give buyers a leg up in today’s competitive marketplace. Know what you want: Make a list of the features you desire in your next home, and then separate them into
wants and needs. Having your priorities in order will help you better determine whether a house truly suits your needs and where you’re willing to compromise. Use your imagination: Buying a live-in ready home offers convenience, but you can potentially save thousands of dollars on the front end on an ugly or tired home with great bones or personality. Choose a real estate agent with vision who can help you find the diamond in the rough
Togeth ogether We’ll Find a Home That h Refl Reflects Your Taste, Values & Fin Financial Comfort Zone
in your desired location. Remember, there can be large return on small, affordable updates. Know the deal-breakers: In a seller’s market, you may feel pressured to sign on the dotted line as soon as you find that home you really like. Before committing to a mortgage, do your due diligence. A shoddy roof, bad plumbing, foundation issues, outdated wiring and water damage are costly headaches you may not want to take on
in a new home. Do smart research: The Internet is your friend. So rather than cast a wide net, conduct smart searches. Sites like Homes.com make real estate searches easier by connecting buyers with timely and accurate listing information, as well as the listing agent. The site also features comprehensive, valuable data on the quality of life in local neighborhoods, including market reports, commute calculators, school scores
and cost-of-living analyses. Get serious: Busy real estate agents with a tight schedule prioritize serious prospective buyers. Be first on their list. Before you discover your dream home, get your financial ducks in a row, because when competition is fierce, you can’t afford to wait for mortgage approval. It may be a seller’s market, but with smart research, foresight and planning, you can make a wise purchase. -StatePoint
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8 | HOME 2016, South Edition
The power
of one can of paint
H
omeowners are often advised to keep the home neutral and avoid decorating with anything too bold or personal. But in order to make a house your home, the decor shou ld ref lect your personality and style. The good news is you don’t have to make permanent commitments. Paint is an easy and cost-effective way to i n f use color a nd patterns that can transform t he whole aest hetic of a room or piece of furniture. Regardless of whether you’re a masterful weekend warrior or first-time do-ityourselfer, paint projects don’t have to be time-intensive or overwhelming – a little paint and creativity can go a long way toward
refreshing your space. “The key to achieving professiona l-looki ng re su lt s i s u si n g t he ri g ht tools,” said interior decorator Martin Amado. Amado recommends a trip to the local hardware store for new paint brushes, fresh paint and painter’s tape before beginning a project. Amado suggests these painting projects you can accomplish with just one can of paint: C olor blo ck you r furniture. Take the dining room from drab to fab by pai nti ng t he bottom ha lves of t able legs and chairs in a bold, solid color. Change the look each season to impress guests on every occasion.
1.
Paint to 9
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HOME 2016, South Edition | 9
PHOTO COURTESY OF FAMILY FEATURES
With a little research and the right equipment, painting projects can be fun for any DIYer.
PAINT continued from 8
or photos onto the painted backdrops for a picture perfect place to preserve your favorite memories. D e si g n a l av i sh headboard for less. Save money and instead splurge on style by painting a “frame” on the wall just above your bed. Rectangular shapes work best for most beds and you can get creative by trying patterns such as stripes, chevron and diamonds. Install faux panel mouldi n g. No mou ldi ng ? No problem! Buy inexpensive frames and paint them the same color as your baseboard trim. Adhere the frames to the wall (without the backing and glass) for a simple, yet dramatic, look. Make a statement (wall) . Pick your favorite pattern trends
2.
5.
3.
6.
I nvent you r ow n a r t work. Un leash your inner artist and create unique designs on canvas or fiberboard. Use painter’s tape to make abstract designs and add your favorite paint color before finishing each piece with a decal or monogram. Enhance your tired armoires. Play dress up with your furniture, and give armoire doors a makeover. Paint a colorful border around the front of the door and adhere adhesive hooks in the middle for a stylish, yet functional, new piece. Skip store-bought photo frames. Instead of purchasing frames for your gallery wall, paint basic shapes directly on the wall. Mount artwork
4.
and bring them to life on one wall of the living room or bedroom. If you’re not ready to take on patterns, bold and bright colors will do the trick. -Family Features
7.
Choosing the right paint
I
f you’ve ever been confused at the paint counter, you’re not the only one. Most paint retailers sell a dizzying array of coatings, and that can make it difficult for anyone to pick the right paint. Answer these questions to get a better idea what kind of paint is right for you. How sensitive are you to “paint smell”? If you dislike the smell of paint, you should focus on water-based latex paints, which have little or no odor compared to oil-based coatings. Latex paints also make cleanup easy and they perform well on all interior surfaces.
Will there be much activity in the space you are painting? Walls and woodwork can easily become soiled if there is a lot of activity in a room. In that case, it’s best to use a high gloss or semi-gloss paint, which will resist stains and be much easier to clean. What atmosphere do you want to create in the room? If your hope is to make the space cozy, then consider using a “warm” hue, like yellow, orange or red; if you want the room to have a cool feel,
then choose a blue or green paint. Do you wish the dimensions of the room were bigger (or smaller)? If you think the space seems cramped (or, cavernous), you can alter the perception by selecting the right color of paint. Light paint colors make a room seem larger; darker colors make it feel more intimate. How often do you typically repaint? If you paint only infrequently, you’ll want to be sure to apply a very durable paint that will continue to look good over time. In that respect, the best option is to use a top quality 100% acrylic latex interior paint. How much time do you want to spend on this project? If you have limited time, or simply want to complete the painting quickly, then consider using a “paint and primer” product that works like two coatings in one. You’ll very likely need to apply fewer coats, which will greatly speed up the job. -The Paint Quality Institute
10 | HOME 2016, South Edition
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FAMILY FEATURES
Creating zones within your home might be the fi nishing touch you’ve been looking for in your house.
Managing a home by ‘zones’ Y
ou’ve been taught from childhood to turn off the lights when you leave a room to save energy and money. Now, technology is a l lowing homeow ners to apply those years of traini ng to ma nag i ng energ y consumption – and comfort – on a room-by-room basis throughout the house. T his new approach to managing your home allows you to customize nearly every aspect of a room’s environment independently from other parts of the house, in some cases, even when you’re miles away. You can adjust lighting, music and even the temperature using the right technology-enabled devices.
homeowners to save money while offering the flexibility to choose which rooms they want to cool and heat. “Cooling or heating unused areas of your home means using less energy,” said Mike Smith, senior marketing manager, residential, Mitsubishi Electric US, Inc. Cooling & Heating Division. “By creating zones, homeowners can feel confident that they are not only saving money, but living smarter and more comfortably.” Options create efficient, whole -home cooli ng a nd heating solutions, offering year-round comfort control room-by-room. The whisperquiet units also feature an anti-allergen filtration system to reduce allergens, dust, pollen, viruses and bacteria in the home.
OPTIONS TO CREATE AMBIANCE Nothing sets a mood quite like music. Your home audio system may be perfect when you’re home alone, but when guests fill every room, a more custom approach is in order. For example, the volume may be louder to overcome the commotion of the kitchen, while a lower decibel provides a gentle backdrop to conversation in the living room. Where the kids are congregated, you can play a different soundtrack
REMOTE MANAGEMENT
A little ambiance does a lot for relaxation. entirely. Likewise, there are dozens of reasons to change the lighting from room to room. Kids shu f f le from room to room and guests gravitate to different parts of
the house, or you may simply want to give the appearance that someone is home when you’re on the road. These are all good reasons to explore a system that lets you adjust your home’s lighting from a
single location.
ZONED CLIMATE CONTROL T he approach to heati n g a n d c o ol i n g h o m e s has evolved dramatically through the years as well.
Now, the latest technology makes it possible to combine the advantages of cooling and heating systems with the benefits of more localized climate settings. Individualized zone control allows
One of the greatest advantages of the new zoned approach to home management is the ability to adjust each room remotely. Smartphones have taken that function to a whole new level, with apps that let homeowners control virtually any aspect of the home from a remote location, whether down the hall or across the country. -Family Features
HOME 2016, South Edition | 11
Spring spruce-up
I
f you’re looking to make a big change around the house, tidying up can make all the difference. What better time of the year than spring to spruce up your living quarters? Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be daunting, either. Pick one task each day until it’s done, and in less than a week you’ll feel like your home has been rejuvenated.
AUDIT YOUR CLOSET As the seasons change, it’s necessary to make room for a new wardrobe. First, go through your closet and select the items you haven’t worn lately and plan to either donate or give to a friend. Consider consigning high-quality garments. The money you earn can be put toward your wardrobe budget. On ly a fter you’ve made space should you go shopping. You can search for new seasonal apparel without cluttering your house. Be sure to purchase items that are interchangeable, allowing you to mix and match outfits for different seasons, while saving space and money.
HOME CLEANING TIPS There’s such a rewarding feeling of accomplishment after cleaning a house from top to bottom. Instead of waiting to clean the entire house occasionally all at once, take the initiative of completing easy tasks on a more regular basis. The work will seem manageable and you’ll keep your home cleaner overall this way. Here are a few easy tasks to help you get started: eliminate odors in your kitchen by setting a bowl of coffee grounds inside your fridge. Clean your
Spring cleaning gives the perfect opportunity to wash linens, curtains, sheets and other items you may not think to launder as often as everyday clothes. PHOTO PROVIDED BY STATEPOINT
Cleaning to 12
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12 | HOME 2016, South Edition
CLEANING continued from 11
dishwasher by pouring white vinegar in the detergent dispenser and running a cycle. Absorb leaks and odors at the bottom of your trashcan by placing a handful of newspapers at the bottom. Cleaning can be fun if you let it be, especially with the help of little ones around the house.
HOME ORGANIZATION Spruce up your house with a little décor. As you declutter and organize, have fun by selecting new throw pillows, blankets, colorful accessories and new pictures to place around the house. Simply rearranging your furniture can also change the mood of your space. A few small changes can make a big difference.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY STATEPOINT
DIGITAL COUPONING Save on your sprucing by utilizing online digital coupons. Routinely check your favorite retail stores for hot deals on supplies for cleaning, decorating and organizing. Online coupons are a quick and easy way to save money on great products. By taking a little time to spruce things up, you can feel happy and relaxed at home. -StatePoint
Cleaning’s not so bad! A long to-do list can seem daunting. But it doesn’t have to. A few strategies can help you be more productive and get tough household chores tackled in record time. Organize along the way: The longer you leave certain organizational chores to build up, the more overwhelming they can be to complete. A few key organizational systems can help you stay on top of things. For example, try getting yourself in the habit of sorting mail as soon as you walk through the door. It’s satisfying to check off an item on your to-do list and this is low hanging fruit. Streamline mail received by signing up for paperless electronic banking and removing your
name from unwanted mailing lists. Reduce clutter by spending just five minutes each evening before bed putting things back where they belong. A shoe rack by the foyer, a big bin for kids’ toys — simple solutions such as these can help you consolidate mess and make the entire home feel cleaner. Simplify laundry: Did you know that different stains require different cleaning agents? For example, milk and grass stains require enzyme cleaners, while ink or wine stains require peroxides. Of course, clothes need brighteners and detergents to come out looking their best. Stained clothing should be pre-treated with a tough, multi-faceted solution. Rub in pre-
treatment gently and wait three to five minutes. Don’t allow it to dry on the fabric. While it’s working its magic, multitask — fold laundry, iron a garment or complete another simple chore. If a garment needs a longer treatment, add the solution to water and soak it in a bucket. Then wash as usual.
Save energy by preparing one large meal at the beginning of the week that can be eaten as leftovers for a few days. Soups and stews age well as the spices really infuse the dish. Also, you can get creative. For example, if you roast a chicken on day one, shred it and use it in tacos on day two and in a chicken salad on day three.
Use a stain fighter as an additive in loads of laundry to brighten garments and take care of tougher stains.
A watched pot never boils. So while the pasta cooks or the cake bakes, use the time wisely. Unload the dishwasher to make way for new items. Set the table. Answer an email.
Cooking and clean-up: It’s takeout time...again. If you’re ordering that pizza pie for the third time this week, consider why. Is it because the thought of cooking and cleaning sounds too tiring at the end of a long day?
Don’t let chores get you down. Apply timesaving strategies to make these necessary tasks a cinch. -StatePoint
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HOME 2016, South Edition | 13
PHOTO PROVIDED BY BPT
Your house may have curb appeal, but is the inside as aesthetically pleasing? Staging your house can do wonders when it comes time to sell.
Setting the stage Staging a home can be vital to how well it sells
I
f you’ll be selling your home this spring or summer, your realtor will probably talk to you about staging the house to maximize its appeal to buyers. Staging is a simple process that can have a big impact on how quick ly your home sells and, realtors say, how much buyers are willing to pay for it. If you’ve decided to stage your home for a speedier, more profitable sale this season, keep in mind these t h r e e of t en - overlo oke d
tricks to make your home look, feel and smell great:
EMPLOY AROMATHERAPY “Aromas significantly impact emotions, so making your house smell good is a great way to appeal to potential buyers on a very elemental level,” says Charlynn Avery, aromatherapist and educator for Aura Cacia, an essential oil brand. “But be careful to not overwhelm with scents that are too ‘perfumey’ or synthetic, as those could cause adverse reactions in people who suffer from allergies. Instead, opt for natural freshening scents like lemon or purifying scents like eucalyptus.” Avery suggests warming water on the stove with a few drops of your favorite essen-
tial oil such as cinnamon, clove, vanilla or orange. It’s a quick, low-cost way to create a welcoming aroma in your home. Deodorize carpets with a mixture of 18 drops of essential oil and 1 cup of baking soda. Or, you can easily create your own air freshener by mixing your favorite essential oils and distilled water in a spray bottle.
DECLUTTER EVEN WHERE YOU DON’T THINK IT COUNTS Your real estate agent will likely tell you to declutter — removing extra items from kitchen countertops and from tables throughout the home, packing away family photos and excess k nick-k nacks. A l l t hose
things are important, but what happens when a potential buyer opens the hallway closet, or goes into the walkin closet in your master bedroom? It’s important to declutter everywhere, not just the spots you immediately see when you walk into a house. Serious buyers will open drawers, cabinets and closets and if those spots are stuffed full, they’ll look smaller, less impressive and unappealing. Likewise, clean out your garage; it’s hard for a buyer to appreciate the expansiveness of your two-car garage if that’s where you’ve stored all the boxes of stuff you removed from the house. If you have a lot of stuff to pack away, consider rent-
ing a storage unit for a few months.
CLEAN AS IF YOUR LIFE DEPENDED ON IT Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes, but even a hint of dirt in either room can wipe out a buyer’s good impression of your home. A deep clean is essential in these rooms, and will create a positive effect on multiple levels; your home will look and smell clean, fresh and newer. In the bathroom, be sure bathtubs and showers are meticulously clean. Descale showerheads and glass shower doors, clean and polish metal drain grates as well as fixtures. Clean grout, mirrors and every crevice. Add a few drops
of lemon or sweet orange essential oils to sink and shower drains to keep them smelling fresh. In the kitchen, in addition to clean countertops, f loors and appliance exteriors, make sure the inside of ovens, refrigerators and dishwashers are also clean. Since kitchen appliances usually come with the house, buyers may look inside them. Change the filter in your kitchen hood and make sure the light over the stove is working. Finally, while clean windows are important throughout the house, they’re essential in a kitchen where buyers want to envision themselves in a bright, welcoming environment. -BrandPoint
14 | HOME 2016, South Edition
PHOTO PROVIDED BY STATEPOINT
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how often do you consider your animal visitors? Unfortunately, migration is not without peril or hardship, but turning your home into a refuge for birds can be fun and add beauty to your yard. Protect flight: Millions of birds die annually by striking glass, making windows a hazard to birds in flight. Try applying special decals that reflect ultraviolet sunlight to your home’s windows, particularly those windows that are highly reflective of open sky. The decals won’t affect your view because they’re virtually invisible to humans, but wil l help keep birds safe. Bed and Breakfast: Birdfeeders come in all shapes, sizes and styles, and simply adding one to your yard can help beautify it and give birds the energy needed to continue their flight. Remember though, bird strikes are often a problem
near bird feeders, as feeding birds are easily frightened and are apt to take wild, evasive flight; position feeders closer than three feet or farther than 30 feet from windows. If your feeder is close to the window, birds fly away from the house. Believe it or not, the safest type of feeder is the kind that attach to the window itself. You can also make your home’s outdoor spaces more bird-friendly filling your garden with the right plants and flowers for pollinating bird species. Watch and record: Grab a pair of binoculars and a field guide book and take note of the types of birds you see and when. This will help you become better prepared for next season. In addition, consider becoming a “citizen scientist” by submitting your observations to The Audubon Society and Cornell University’s database at ebird.org. -StatePoint
HOME 2016, South Edition | 15
Bzzzzz!
Mosquitoes can fi nd any number of places to hide in your lawn. PHOTO BY UNSIE ZUEGE
Buzz out backyard mosquitoes
S
pring has sprung, which means that mosquito season is almost here. These tiny insects could be living, flying and breeding right in your yard, and you might not even know it. Mosquitoes aren’t just a nuisance, they are also a health threat. Some species common in the United States can carry and spread Zika virus, Chikungunya virus, West Nile virus and canine heart worm. The first sign of mosquito activity is usually buzzing from female mosquitoes and their bites. Female mosquitoes can lay as many as 100 eggs at a time. They can lay eggs in just a few inches of standing water, making pinpointing breeding sites a challenge. To curb the mosquito activity in your yard this year, make sure to check these areas: Gutters. If enough debris is left to collect over time, dirty gutters can clog up and create pockets of water perfect for mosquito breeding. Cleaning gutters regularly to make sure water is flowing smoothly can help keep mosquitoes from breeding so close to your home. Toys. They are an often overlooked source of standing water, but toys can collect pockets of water and just a few inches is enough for a mosquito to raise a family. Flower pots. Rainwater can collect in saucers under
flower pots. If left to sit for days, the water becomes an excellent breeding spot for mosquitoes. Bird baths. Even though birds eat a variety of insects, standing water in bird baths left unchecked for days at a time can become an oasis for female mosquitoes looking for a place to lay eggs. Inspect and change the water weekly to avoid an infestation. Rain barrels. If water is used within a few days, it will likely not be enough time to create a mosquito problem, but if water is left standing for multiple days, be prepared to find a hotbed of hungry pests. Plants. Some plants can hold water in their “mouths” and offer mosquitoes enough standing water to lay their e ggs. Other shrubbery can serve as a hide-out for grown mosquitoes. In addition to blood, mosquitoes feed on nectar from flowers, so they often hide in shrubbery during the day. Thinning dense shrubbery to increase air flow can help reduce the number of adult mosquitoes in your yard. Tree cavities. Each year, cavities in tree stumps and trunks are filled with water by rainfall or melting ice and snow, and mosquitoes may choose these holes for breeding. While it can be difficult to remove the standing water, a licensed professional can help identify and treat these areas. Low points in the yard. Any areas lower than the rest of your yard may collect and hold standing water. Make note of these ar-
eas when patrolling and be sure to inspect and drain them if necessary. Take back your yard It’s important to do a
weekly inspection of your entire yard to locate and eli mi nate any standi ng water. It’s also a good idea to encourage your neigh-
bors to do the same so that mosquitoes aren’t traveling from their yard to yours. I f you’ve done ever ything you can to help pre-
vent mosquitoes and are still having problems, you may need a licensed professional. -Family Features
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16 | HOME 2016, South Edition
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