One of the biggest goals people make in the new year is to do some work/remodeling on their home. For instance, your basement. Right now, you're just using it to store old boxes and things you can't think of anywhere else to put. Wouldn't it be nice if you could turn it into something fun or functional for your home? Here are a few ideas for your basement this year.
Painting, whether it's indoors or out, is a great way to give your home a fresh new look. While it's relatively easy and inexpensive to update your home with paint, there are some pitfalls you'll need to pay attention to. Here are a few tips from our real estate agents for avoiding common painting issues.
The weather is getting colder, and winter will be here before you know it. Landscaping may not be the first thing you think of doing this season. But in fact, you can tackle plenty of landscaping projects in the winter months. If you recently moved into a new home and have been working to improve the landscape, you don't have to quit as winter rolls in. Here are some winter landscaping projects our real estate agents recommend for a more beautiful facade all year long.
Was your New Year's resolution for 2022 to get more done around the house? The year may be almost over, but that doesn't mean you're out of time. Here are some quick and easy indoor home improvement projects, perfect for this time of year. Refresh your home's appearance just in time for the holidays with these project ideas from our real estate agents.
In a recent survey, the most popular decorating trend for homes in Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, is Tuscan decor. The rustic, Italian look and Old World style can add a lot of charm to a space. If you've just bought a new home and are looking for a decor style that will make it seem homey and welcoming, Tuscan is a great option. Here are some Tuscan design elements you can incorporate into your space.
One way to make your new house feel like home is to decorate it for your favorite holiday - especially if that holiday is Halloween! You can put a carved pumpkin in the window or add a few cobwebs in the corners, but wouldn't it be more fun to go all out? Here are a few tips for decorating your home, inside and out, this Halloween.
If it feels like your home lacks ample storage, turn to your garage. The garage is a frequently underutilized space that can significantly increase your home's usable storage.
Our real estate agents recommend following these tips to help you maximize and showcase your garage's storage space.
If your home has hard water, a water softener is an excellent addition to your property to help you reduce your water consumption, enhance the quality of your water, and get your dishes and clothes as clean as possible.
Like any system, a water softener needs periodic attention to function properly. Our real estate agents suggest following these maintenance tips to prolong the lifespan of your water softener and maximize its performance.
You only get one chance to make a good first impression. The same holds true when it comes to selling your home.
Your front yard is at the center of your home's curb appeal, which is a term used to describe how your home appears from the street. If you think about it, your front yard is the first thing people see when pulling up to your home. It's clearly visible to visitors, anyone who drives by, Google Maps, and most importantly, potential buyers who are thinking about scheduling a tour of your listing.
As a result, our real estate agents always recommend giving your front yard a bit of extra love before listing your home on the market. Luckily, there are many easy and affordable ways to improve your yard this summer. If you want to make your yard stand out, we have a list of ideas for you:
With more generations living under one roof, in-law suites have become popular home features. This type of space provides a separate living area for one or more older parents of an adult child, and it can be configured in many ways, including as a free-standing building or a converted garage. Not only can an in-law suite help a parent live somewhat independently, but it can also serve as a residence for an older child, a home office, or a guest house if needed. As a result, our real estate agents point out, this flexible space can help increase the value of your home when it's time to sell.
Before you start planning an in-law suite, make sure to check any local laws or regulations that might affect your plans. Once you know what - if anything - is prohibited, you'll need to thoughtfully plan the space. The following are some of the best features you can add to your in-law suite to make it safe, comfortable, and practical:
If you're one of the millions of employees working from home, it's important to create a dedicated space for your work activities. A dedicated workspace helps you increase your productivity and creates a distinction between your home and work life. Our real estate agents suggest adding these features to make working from home even easier.
Need a home with more space for your remote work days? Contact us to start your search!
It's no secret that today's world is full of chemicals and other toxins. Luckily, these pollutants don't have to put you and your family at risk. There are beautiful houseplants that act as natural filters for many of the most common airborne toxins in today's homes. The diverse list of plants below will brighten up your space and improve your indoor air quality at the same time.
Are you looking for a new decor style to use in your home? If you're like many people, you know what you like - and don't like - when you see it, but you may have struggled to tie your home decor into an appealing style. Without a general direction, you can end up with a collection of elements gathered over the years that don't seem to complement each other or create a cohesive look. Whether that's the case or you'd simply like a change from your current style, it may be time for a refreshed look.
Our real estate agents suggest the following tips to help you find the best decor style for your home:
Contact us if you'd like to see homes for sale so you can have a fresh start in discovering the best decor style. Whether you're looking for a home to buy, are ready to sell your home, or both, we're ready to help!
If you have a friend or family member who has recently bought a home, giving them a gift is a lovely tradition that helps them celebrate their new residence.
Our real estate agents suggest choosing from the following housewarming gift ideas that are sure to please new homeowners:
If you're a home décor enthusiast, you may be wondering how to handle decorating your laundry room. How can you make such a functional space look its best without making it difficult to use?
Our real estate agents have seen some gorgeous laundry rooms over the years. In that time, they've observed several trends in how homeowners choose to dress up this space. Take inspiration from these 7 tips to transform your laundry room from basic to beautiful.
You just bought your home, and you are excited to move in and start your new life. It was a major investment, perhaps the largest one you will ever make! As a homeowner, caring for your home is a big responsibility and one that can add value to your investment!
While maintaining your home is a significant responsibility, having the right repair tools and making an annual home maintenance to-do list can make the job easier! In this post, we will look at the steps to take to create a home maintenance to-do list and include some tips for sticking to your plan!
Most of us visit our doctor for regular health check-ups to help prevent serious illnesses. A home maintenance schedule is much the same thing. Continuing to check on your home systems including the exterior, appliances, heating and cooling, plumbing, security, and electrical system can help you prevent breakdowns, save money, and keep your home's curb appeal up!
Creating a home maintenance checklist can help you schedule seasonal updates, cleaning, and repairs. Revisit your to-do list monthly and at the beginning of each season to keep your home in perfect working condition.
If any jobs or repairs are above your skill level or might lead to more extensive repairs, consider hiring a professional to help. Some jobs require an experienced professional, for example, HVAC, plumbing, or electrical work beyond simple maintenance or repairs.
A good practice is to create a maintenance schedule that consists of a monthly list and a more extensive seasonal list of projects.
No matter what type of property you own, creating your maintenance plan consists of first creating a master list of tasks. While many maintenance tasks are universal, and you can find plenty of info on the web, every home is unique and requires specific maintenance depending on several factors. These include your home's building materials, the age of your property, and features like pools, skylights, or your unfinished basement.
You will also want to customize a home maintenance plan based on your region and weather. For example, homeowners living in New Hampshire might need to think about winterizing their pipes, while those living in the south might want to incorporate hurricane preparations into their maintenance plan.
Start with a walkthrough of your home. Look at every living space, the bedrooms, floors, and all of the nooks and crannies. This can help you to remember easy-to-forget maintenance items. Carry a notebook or use your phone to take notes to prepare. Here are some tasks to consider:
Now that you have your list, it might seem a bit daunting! The next step is to break out Excel and set up a spreadsheet with all of the items on your list in one place. Organize your list by frequency – weekly, monthly, seasonally, and annually. The frequency of your tasks is the key. For example, checking and replacing batteries in your home's smoke and carbon monoxide detectors annually can save your life. Failure to do so can be a disaster!
To get organized, putting your tasks into a spreadsheet app like Excel is a good option. However, there are plenty of apps and planners specific to home maintenance. A few options include:
Centriq – for appliance maintenance. Just input all of the info for your appliances. The app has a database of user manuals, how-to videos, and other options specific to your appliances.
Wunderlist – is essentially a massive to-do list you can create with deadlines and reminders. You can also share your list with others and delegate tasks to get the family involved.
The Black and Decker Home Planner Logbook – an analog option, the B&D logbook provides space for all of your records and maintenance tasks and features extensive information on home features and the importance of regular maintenance.
You know the saying... the best-laid plans. No matter how thoughtful and thorough your home maintenance checklist is, forgetting or failing to do a task is not an option! The solution? Set reminders!
Many app-based options allow you to set push notifications that will pop up on your smartphone to remind you to do a task on your list. When working with an Excel spreadsheet consider adding important maintenance dates to your Google calendar. Schedule reminders a couple of weeks before your deadline. That way, if you need to hire a professional, you'll have some time to do it, so you won't be calling at the last minute.
This is important for both you, and should you ever sell, for potential buyers. Keep meticulous records of the work you've done on your house, when the work was done, and how much it cost. Hang on to:
These records are important when you sell. It's easy to do. Once you've completed and checked off an item on your list, store the paperwork in a file. Whether it's an analog file or digital is up to you but do it immediately upon completion. Don't check off a task until it's completed.
You'll be glad you did when it's time to sell. Following a comprehensive maintenance plan and keeping your home repaired and updated will eliminate the hassle of repair requests and extra costs when negotiating a sale. Depending on the work done, you might even be able to get more money than you expected. Plus, you'll be able to show any potential buyers just how much you cared for your home!
Studies continue to report that potential homebuyers are seeking homes with technology that makes their lives and their ability to run their households easier and more convenient.
Our real estate agents know that a home with updated technology is often more appealing to prospective buyers. Even if you don't anticipate selling your home in the future, adding a few new high-tech options can help you customize your home to your needs.
Moving is never an easy feat, but it becomes significantly more complicated when a collection is involved. Whether it's made up of stamps, action figures, or rare books, your collection is important to you, and so is getting it safely into your new home. From prep work to moving day, this list of tips from our real estate agents covers everything you need to know to successfully move your beloved treasures.
If you've decided to adopt a dog, congratulations! You're about to embark on an exciting journey with your new best friend, who will shower you with unconditional love and affection.
A new pet often feels scared, anxious, excited, and inquisitive about a strange environment, so you need to prepare your home for your pet's arrival. To help your dog adjust, our real estate agents suggest that you pet-proof your home before your dog arrives. Here are eight tips to welcome your new fur baby to a safe, comfortable, happy home.
Purchase Essential Pet Supplies
Make a trip to the local pet store to gather essential supplies including dog food; tasty treats; food and water bowls; a dog collar and a leash; a comfortable dog bed; and a few toys. Dogs love to chew, so buy some milk bones, rawhide chews, and chew toys. If this is your first dog, talk to someone at the pet store or animal shelter about the best supplies for your dog's breed, size, and weight. You may need to make some adjustments in food and treats after you get to know your dog, but make sure you have the essentials ready for the new arrival.
Find a Local Veterinarian
Becoming a pet parent comes with responsibilities like regular visits to a veterinarian for health exams, vaccines and shots, dental cleanings, and medications. You need to find a veterinarian and a 24-hour emergency animal hospital that's in your area. Schedule an appointment for a checkup with the vet and keep the emergency numbers handy. If you adopt your dog from an animal shelter or rescue organization, try to get records of any shots and treatments the dog had while in their care. If the dog is not spayed, neutered, or micro-chipped, have those procedures done when you take your dog to the vet.
Create a Space Specifically for Them
To help your dog feel safe and comfortable in a new home, create a comfortable space where the dog can relax and sleep. Consider investing in a dog crate with a cozy bed inside where your dog can retreat when feeling anxious or fearful. Crate training provides a secure place for your dog when you're not at home. If you don't want a crate, set up a quiet space in the house with a dog bed, blankets, and a few familiar toys.
Prepare for House Training
While an older dog who lived with another family is likely house-trained, you will need to house-train a new puppy. Typically, puppies can control their bladder for one hour for every month of age. If your puppy is three months old, don't wait more than 3 hours between bathroom breaks outside and invest in puppy training pads for indoors.
Plan for Walks and Exercise
All dogs, big and small, love to go on long walks to see the sights, greet other dogs, and smell other scents around the neighborhood. If you're adopting a dog, it's important to make time for daily walks and regular exercise to keep your dog active, healthy, and fit. Larger, active breeds like border collies, huskies, labs, and German shepherds need to run and exercise, while small breeds like chihuahuas and terriers may be happy with a quick walk around the block.
Secure Your Home and Yard
Before you bring your dog home, secure your home and yard to minimize the chance of your dog getting injured or lost. You can also install a pet door that allows your dog to go outside when you're not at home. Keep in mind that some breeds like huskies are notorious escape artists, so your fence will need to be solid and at least 8 feet high.
Make Family Ground Rules
Before bringing your dog home, it's a good idea to make some family ground rules to ensure everyone is on the same page. Set rules about where the dog is and is not allowed to go if the dog's allowed on the furniture, and where the dog should sleep. Developing a chore list for family members makes everyone responsible for the dog's daily care and activities. Taking the dog for walks is a great task for older kids because it teaches them pet responsibilities.
Establish a Routine
Pets function best on a routine schedule for meals, walks, playtime, and sleep. Determine your dog care regimen with family members as soon as you bring the dog home. Most dogs are fed twice a day at regular times, so make sure someone is responsible for daily feedings. Establish routines for daily walks, trips to the dog park, playtime, doggie daycare, and sleep schedules. A routine will make your dog feel more secure and less anxious.
Adding a pet to your household is one of the many perks of homeownership. If you're considering buying a home that is more pet-friendly, contact us for information and prices on available properties that meet your needs.
Whether you work from home full-time or sporadically, it's important to have a home office where you can be productive
Our real estate agents know that a home office that's functional and appealing optimizes your workflow and encourages creativity.
After working from home for a while, has your home office started to feel stale? Refresh your workspace by following these tips.
Our real estate agents want to make the whole home selling process easier for you. In many cases, that starts by giving you a firm idea of exactly what you can expect. While selling will always have its ups and downs, it becomes much easier when you understand how it all fits together.
You've just moved into your new home. Now you need to decorate it and make it your own. You don't need a lot of fancy trinkets and expensive doodads. All you really need to make your house a home is a few mason jars. With National Mason Jar Day coming up on November 30th, let's look at some of the many fun things you can do with these durable, beautiful, and versatile jars.
November 23rd is National Espresso Day. What better way to celebrate than with a delicious latte? There are plenty of coffee shops in the area, but if you've just moved to a new place, it might be nice to try out your new kitchen and make one yourself. Here are some tips for making the perfect latte.
Halloween decorating is a fun fall activity for the whole family, but it can also get a little bit competitive among neighbors. Whether you're planning a party or just looking to spook the neighborhood trick-or-treaters, our real estate agents created this guide of Halloween decorating tips to help you create the most mystifying home on the block.
In our high-tech world, home security systems have become more sophisticated, affordable, and easier to use. And unlike the manual security gadgets of yesteryears, today's home security devices are discreet, packed with a variety of security features, and can be controlled using your phone or tablet. Smart home security tech can deter criminals and help in an emergency. From smart cameras to smart thermostats, our real estate agents explain the typical devices in a smart home security system to help take the first steps to a more convenient and secure lifestyle.
It's no secret that moving can be stressful! When you're packing up your entire life and relocating across the country, it's important to make sure you're prepared. Spending some time planning your move will help ensure everything goes off without a hitch.
Not sure where to start? You're in luck! Our real estate agents often work with clients from out of state and have created a helpful guide to help with planning cross-country moves. Here are a few of the most important tips.
Are you planning to relocate soon? Our agents would love to help you find your dream home! Contact us today.
Pets are a part of the family in many Northern New England homes!
And July 15th is National Pet Fire Safety Day, a great reminder to fine-tune your family's fire safety plan so that all your family members are protected.
Our real estate agents also recommend making a few changes around your home so that your furry family members don't inadvertently start a fire. Here are some valuable tips to help keep your pet safe in case of an emergency.
In a seller's market, such as we have today, sellers might feel like they can skip some steps before listing their home. After all, sellers are getting their asking prices, aren't they? But is that the only thing to consider? Our real estate agents know staging your home is important in any real estate market. Here's why.
Sustainable kitchen products are those that use eco-friendly materials, last longer, and are more easily recycled than traditional items. Buying these products has become more popular in recent years as more consumers consider the impact on the environment when they're making purchases.
Our real estate agents know that there are many reasons why homeowners opt for sustainable kitchen products. Some of the top benefits include:
Thinking of how to make your kitchen more eco-friendly? Opt for some of these products in your home.
Looking for a brand new kitchen to enjoy for years to come? Contact us today if you're interested in buying or selling a home in New England.
It's hard to believe spring is already here, and if you're like our real estate agents, you're probably getting ready for your annual spring cleaning routine. Clearing the whole house of clutter takes time, but if you break it down into manageable pieces - start by targeting items that you can throw away or donate right now. It is the perfect time to get rid of unwanted things you've accumulated throughout the year. While it can seem like a hassle, it's definitely worth the effort. After all, few things are as satisfying as a nice clean home.
Here is a quick jumpstart list to get you motivated. If you're getting ready to start your cleaning process, don't forget to throw out these items this year.
Home improvement shows can be pretty intriguing. With the exquisite finishes, the grand reveals, the hugs, and the grateful smiles, it's easy to get sucked into a five-hour marathon session of entertaining reality TV. Unfortunately, these shows can be misleading. They give viewers unrealistic expectations of what can be accomplished when it comes to remodeling, flipping, buying, and selling a home. Our real estate agents reveal 5 things that home makeover shows never tell you.
It's no surprise that many of us are watching more TV than normal. Whether it's your favorite cable sitcom or your favorite streaming service, many homeowners are thinking of ways to improve their watching experience at home.
A good home theater system is essential for creating the best possible viewing experience and maximizing comfort in your living room. Our real estate agents take a lot of pride in their home theater setups, and there couldn't be a better time to improve yours. Below are some tips to get the most out of your home theater setup:
A good way to create a focal point in your living room is to craft a gallery wall. One that is well done makes a home look inviting and helps tie the room together. This creative collage does require a bit of planning! The following guide will help you to create a stunning gallery wall you'll love to look at in your home.
If you plan to put your home on the market, it's better to start your preparations sooner rather than later. Our real estate agents find that homeowners who complete home repairs and maintenance tasks are more likely to produce spaces that appeal to potential buyers. Follow this checklist if you plan to list your home this spring.
Staying organized has never been easy. And after a year when many of us have spent more time living and working at home than ever before, it's understandable if home organization has gotten a little lax.
Our real estate agents understand the struggle. Luckily, we also have a few suggestions for getting your home organization back on track. We can't promise you won't have to do any actual cleaning, but we can say with confidence that these home organization apps will help!
Sometimes the smallest change can make all the difference in the world. And if you've spent as much time at home in the last year as we have, chances are you're ready for a change!
Our real estate agents are here to help. These interior design tricks can make a huge visual impact and seemingly transform your space. They're also simple, affordable, and require a minimal investment of time and effort. Happy decorating!
January 10th is National Cut Your Energy Costs Day, so be sure to add energy efficiency to your New Year's resolutions. When it comes to cutting energy costs, a few small changes can really make a big difference. More importantly, making our homes eco-friendly can have a major impact on our community and Earth. Our real estate agents love discussing ways to improve your home's energy efficiency, and they have compiled this list of tips to help you reduce your utility bills in 2021:
You aren't the only one in your family who could use a home office! More and more kids are learning remotely, and for many of them, this means trying to do their schoolwork in a busy area of the house or in their rooms. These aren't ideal solutions, so you might be looking for a better way to help your kids with remote learning.
Our real estate agents suggest the following 5 workplace ideas to help your kids with remote learning:
Contact us today at The Masiello Group if you're interested in buying or selling a home in the Northern New England area. We have offices throughout the area and have been the region's real estate leader for more than 52 years.
Winter's tough on us all, but you may have noticed it can be particularly tough on your indoor plants. Now, why should that be? Indoor plants get to stay indoors in the winter, out of the elements, just the same as they do in the summer. And yet, each winter, you've observed brown leaf tips and leaf drop once the heat comes on.
If you've got a nice collection of indoor plants, you want them to stay healthy all year long. Here are some tips for helping them get through New England's long, cold winter.
You don't have to be a master electrician to leverage light for maximum impact. Our real estate agents share easy lighting upgrades that instantly add value and visual appeal to your home.
We're all spending a little bit more time indoors this year, so there really couldn't be a better time to start that DIY home improvement project you've been thinking about. From home renovations to simple woodworking projects, DIY projects can be fun and rewarding, and now is the best time to get started.
Investing in the right toolset before you begin will save you many headaches and trips to the hardware store. Our real estate agents thought it might be helpful to provide a list of tools we think you should have handy before you begin your next DIY project:
Home inspections are an important part of the home selling process, and in some cases, they can complicate or even derail the sale. That's why it's important to understand exactly what a home inspection covers and how it can affect the pricing and sale of your home.
Our real estate agents share the following things that sellers should know about home inspections:
Whether you're using photographs, paintings, or tapestries, wall art offers many great options for adding visual interest to your home, but selecting the pieces is just half the job. Our real estate agents share top tips on hanging wall art for optimum effect.
Fashions in interior design come and go. When getting ready to list your home, you might be tempted to try the latest trends to help make your home stand out from other listings. But sometimes, those trends can have the opposite effect. If you're planning on selling your New England home, our REALTORS® can help you sort through fads and nail down the fashions as you get your home ready for the market.
Here are some timely warnings about what to avoid.
If you find yourself spending more at home this year, your living space may be starting to feel a little cramped and claustrophobic. A comfortable living space is important, and studies have suggested small spaces can negatively impact your overall mood and mental health. Not only does more space equal more happiness, but it can also increase your home's overall value.
Luckily, when it comes to interior design there are simple ways to make your home appear more spacious. Our real estate agents have several tips for making your home appear more spacious. Whether you're looking to put your home on the market this year or simply looking to make things more comfortable, consider these design suggestions that can actually trick the eye into seeing more space:
All you need is a little creativity, and you can transform that spare room in your house into your favorite place. Thinking of ways you can turn your spare room into a space for your family to enjoy? The following are five suggestions to consider.
As a homeowner, protecting your largest financial asset should be a top priority, but many of us are guilty of turning the occasional blind eye when it comes to certain problems around the house. However, failing to take care of some seemingly small repairs can result in compounding problems and expensive repair bills down the line. Below are six home maintenance issues that you should never wait to address:
Staging your home is an important step to take before putting it on the market. It helps your real estate photos look more appealing, which brings potential buyers inside your door. And once the buyers are there, a perfectly staged home lets them visualize their family living happily in your home. Home staging mistakes, however, can have the opposite effect.
Our real estate agents point out the following common staging mistakes you might be making in your home.
Contact us to learn more about how to avoid staging mistakes so you can present your home in the best possible way. Our agents have a great deal of experience buying and selling homes and can advise you on how to stage your home to attract buyers.
Is your kitchen looking a bit worn and outdated? One thing our real estate agents have learned in our many years buying and selling homes in Northern New England is that the kitchen is the most important room in the home. Here's how you can update yours on a budget.
In New England, we have to be mindful of getting home improvement projects done during our summertime window of good weather. Some indoor projects may be done in fall and winter, but anything that involves paint fumes, dust, and going in and out repeatedly should be done when you can keep the windows open.
If you're like most homeowners, you've got an extensive list of projects you'd like to see completed. Perhaps you're planning to put your home on the market soon.
We recommend prioritizing before you embark on any home improvement project. Try tackling a more involved project at the start of summer, when you have more time, and then make your way down the list to easier projects. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Our real estate agents know one of the biggest reasons many people look forward to owning a home is to have a garden. Gardening is a fun and rewarding hobby, but it also means staying vigilant for that ever-present pest: Weeds.
National Weed Your Garden Day is June 13, a Saturday this year. It's the perfect time to get some fresh air and work on the best ways to protect your garden from weeds. Here's how to stay one step ahead of these troublesome invaders:
Contact us for expert advice on buying or selling your home.
Have you always dreamed of having a beautiful backyard patio where you could enjoy your summer days and nights? You're not alone! Our real estate agents often hear from buyers who have added a great backyard to their list of "must-have" home features.
The good news is, it's fairly easy to add or upgrade a patio, even if you don't have a ton of outdoor space. The following seven tips will help you make your dreams come true!
Did you know that air pollution isn't just an outdoor issue? There are many factors in your home that can negatively impact your indoor air quality.
Luckily, there are relatively easy things you can do to improve the air quality of your home.
Our real estate agents have a few tricks up their sleeves. Use these tips and tricks to improve your indoor air quality!
Warmer temperatures have arrived, and it's time to get your house ready for the new season. Whether you're happy in your current space or want our real estate agents to help you find a new home, a little spring cleaning will help your home put its best foot forward. Instead of sticking to your normal spring cleaning tasks, make sure to turn your attention to items that are commonly overlooked. Here are a few tasks to put on your spring cleaning checklist.
Feel like you've outgrown your current home? Contact us today to explore your options.
Whether you are making improvements to your living space or preparing to sell, home improvements are a valuable investment in your property. Our real estate agents are available to go over home improvement suggestions to help make your home more attractive to potential buyers. But there are numerous home improvement projects that you must leave to the professionals.
Without a specific skill set, experience, and specialized tools, some home improvement projects can be dangerous to try yourself. Besides, without proper training, you may spend more time and money on your remodel. Here's a list of home improvement projects you should leave to the professionals.
Now is the time of year when many homeowners start looking for ways to spruce up their curb appeal. If you're thinking about selling your home, this is particularly important. When dealing with springtime sellers, our real estate agents always recommend paying extra attention to the outdoor space.
When it's done right, a landscape refresh will have a major impact on your home's value and will bring you a positive return on your investment. Before you start making changes, it's a good idea to check in with the latest trends. Here are four fun and exciting ideas you may want to consider incorporating into your new design.
If you're thinking about listing your home, you need an excellent real estate agent by your side. Contact us today to learn how we can help.
With a few small changes, you can transform your bathroom from blah to beautiful. Remodeling your bathroom can have a significant impact on how much you enjoy your home, and it's also a project that can increase your home's resale value.
Our real estate agents suggest the following seven bathroom remodeling ideas you'll want to try:
You've probably seen all the house-flipping shows on TV that make buying a house and selling it for a profit look easy as can be. We know you're also well-aware of the differences between reality and reality TV, but flipping houses can still mean big money if you do it right. For anyone looking to get into the flipping game, our real estate agents have a few helpful tips on how to get started.
There are many reasons people opt for a smaller space. If you've decided to downsize to a smaller home, you'll reap many benefits, including a lower mortgage payment (if you still have one), lower utility bills, and a smaller area to maintain and keep clean.
Before you downsize to a smaller home you have to downsize your belongings. It's important to declutter your current home so your new home can be well organized with items that fit your new lifestyle. Our REALTORS® suggest the following tips help for downsizing to a smaller home:
Owning your own home is a valuable step in building your equity and creating security for yourself and your family -- no matter the shape or size. Part of homeownership is maintaining that investment through required chores and maintenance. Don't lose value simply because you don't know what to do. The start of a new year is the perfect time to keep tabs of chores you should be doing once a year. Our REALTORS® have assembled seven chores you shouldn't forget to do yearly, to help you keep your home in top shape.
New England is an absolutely beautiful area to call home. With this beauty though, there's a bit of unpredictability. The New England area has a strange and unpredictable weather history, including everything from tornadoes to droughts to ice storms. All of these weather events, but especially the cold, can create a costly utility bill for your household.
Making your home energy-efficient is a great way to invest in your home and save you money in the long run, especially during the New England winters. Save yourself the seasonal stress of costly energy bills and consider energy-efficient home improvement projects.
Energy efficiency isn't just a way to save, it's also a valuable way to draw the attention of homebuyers. Our REALTORS® have insights on energy-efficiency home improvement projects to save you money and to stand out among other area homes for sale.
Winter is coming, but don't let that stop you from staying warm and comfortable in your own home. Contact us to learn more about different home construction and energy-efficient features in your area.
Get in the Zone…Well, Safety Zone comes to mind if you are in the middle of a mess, but we're talking about creating zones in your home that create a feeling and a purpose to every space you live in.
New to staging? No problem! Here are a few quick tips to get your started!
Dive in to a Deep Clean
"Remember staging your space is putting your home's best foot forward so that you can reap the benefits", explains Interior Designer, Erika Gaudreau.
The first step isn't fun, but it's a must! Dig in to a deep, deep clean (if you haven't already read our first three blogs in our "Clean Up Series", check it out for some key clutter busting tips). We're talking power washing the outside, clean all inside surfaces, scrubbing grout, cleaning windows, steaming carpets and all. It's worth hiring a pro, if necessary.
Staging can be as Easy as Moving Furniture!
The three most important rooms to focus on are the living room, master bedroom and kitchen. Taking these spaces to the next level could be just a matter of moving the furniture you already have, getting rid of extra pieces or renting what you need to create a space that will sell buyers – literally!
Create More Space
Place living room furniture away from the walls (this creates the illusion of more space, we promise) and bring it all together with a beautiful area rug. Make the space into an area where you can envision family and friends sitting and hanging out comfortably together.
Focus on a Focal Point
Highlight one area or unique feature in each room. Just one. Work with the furniture you have and strategically place everything to highlight the positive. Place pieces across from new, bright windows to show off the natural light or an out of this world view. Does your living room have a fire place? Face furniture towards the hearth – it will draw wondering eyes to what you want them to see!
Out with the Old…
Say Goodbye to the couches you've owned for 12 years. Worn furniture gives the impression that the home is not well kept. While you're at it, oversized furniture can go too. You want to create more space, don't take up your entire room with a giant couch. This rule goes for any lamps, tables and odds and ends that are not being used. Throw additional items in storage or get rid of them for good (who wants to move unused items anyway).
…In with the New
Rent or buy furniture to enhance what you have!
Extra room or finished basement? Purchase, borrow or rent an inexpensive bed, nightstands and bureau. Voila! You have a guest bedroom! Dress the bed with a big, soft, gender-neutral comforter and add some decorative pillows and a cozy throw.
If you're wanting your living room space to feel casual, opt for a new sectional sofa and a cozy recliner. Going for formal? Two matching sofas or beautiful sofa and two classy arm chairs across from each other with an elegant coffee table placed in the middle will do the trick.
One Word: Nostalgia
What are your favorite things about where you live? Do you have bike trails? Do you have a bay window that overlooks a gorgeous garden or body of water? You want home owners to feel an emotional connection to your home and all that it offers (beyond the space), after all, they'll want to create their future memories there!
"I bought a $200 vertical bike rack when we listed our home in Boston just so people could imagine commuting into the city or grabbing the bike for a ride along the Charles. You're creating an environment people can see themselves in" suggests Gaudreau.
Just like adding a bike rack, highlight that bay window by keeping the curtains and shades wide open, add lots of pillows, a book or two and a beautiful blanket. Make memories for the house hunters they haven't even thought of yet.
Ready to get rearranging? Staging can be a lot to take on, but remember, it can also mean less time on the market and more money in your pockets. Cha-ching!
When winter arrives, it's time to put away warm-weather clothing, boats, and other summer items. But when it comes to New England homes for sale, there's no offseason.
According to Money.com, average home sales net a higher amount above asking price during December through March, even in cold-weather areas. Make your home stand out above the competition with these tips from our REALTORS® to boost winter curb appeal.
Are you thinking about starting a kitchen remodeling project in your home? It can be a great idea, as long as you do it right.
Our REALTORS® talk to homeowners every day, and they hear plenty of stories about fantastic remodeling projects and ones that have turned into absolute nightmares. You can help ensure that you fall into the first camp by learning from the mistakes others have made. Before you start your project, check out this list of kitchen remodel don'ts.
Before you think about selling an inherited property, there are things you can do to get ready. A step-by-step approach helps you avoid spending too much money or waiting too long before you take action.
Our real estate agents have consulted many clients who want advice after inheriting a home. While it's true most inherited homes eventually go on the market, it's important to take your time and make an informed decision.
Here's how you can make the most of your time and make the best choices:
Our real estate agents know the roof is one of the most important parts of any home. Not only does the roof protect your well-being and comfort, but it also safeguards the entire structure.
When there are problems with the roof, it can create a domino effect that leaves the rest of the building vulnerable. Ultimately, a damaged roof can even lead to cracks in the foundation.
In a world of increasingly wild weather, it's never been more essential to have a durable roof. And with New England winters being what they are, a major leak is the last thing anyone wants.
So, when it's time to sell your home, it's vital to ask the question: Should you repair the roof?
Roof repair is something many sellers want to avoid. Although it can raise the sale price of your home, you won't usually recover your entire investment. However, there are some situations where getting roof repair done early on will help you out in the long run.
Spring is a time for making your home alive again after a long, cold winter. Even if you've just moved into a new home, by spring there's a good chance that you'll find plenty of tidying up to do. If tasks have been piling up over the last several months, it can be difficult to know where to start with spring maintenance. Our real estate agents are here with these steps toward making spring house maintenance easier.
Kitchens are, in most homes, the center of daily life. That simple fact means that if yours isn't functional and attractive, it can be quite the thorn in your side. That's why kitchens are among the most often renovated rooms in any house. If a kitchen renovation is on your to-do list, the chances are good that you have heard a lot of stories about problems and hassles along the way. However, as our real estate agents can tell you, it doesn't have to be that way, whether your renovating in a newly purchased home, or updating the one you've owned for years. Here are six tips for a successful kitchen renovation that can help you smooth your path to creating your dream kitchen:
Spend a LOT of time on planning – Knowing exactly what you want to be changed in your kitchen before you get started is essential to keeping costs within reason and hassles to a minimum. Spend some time visualizing how you want your kitchen to look and function, then get into the details of the appliances, fixtures, and materials you will need to make it so. Getting a clear picture of what your remodel will entail is an important first step that will make the steps that follow much easier.
Our real estate agents at the Masiello Group are always happy to assist current and future New England homeowners in getting the most value from their property.
That often involves pointing out resources buyers and sellers aren't aware of yet.
A prime example is National Home Warranty Day, celebrated on February 10. Yes, National Home Warranty Day is really a thing – and so are home warranties.
Just about everybody has heard of homeowners insurance. After all, it's required in many cases. The home warranty, on the other hand, is not well known. That's unfortunate since a home warranty can save you hundreds of dollars in an average year.
Let's take a closer look at the two and how they differ.
Owning a home requires a lot of work. Fixing up the house can also get expensive. Tackling a few DIY projects is a great way save a lot of money and add value to your property.
Add insulation to your attic
Although it might not be the most impressive project, adding insulation to your attic can save you an enormous amount of money for years to come. Laying insulation is a very easy DIY project. The materials are inexpensive and can be purchased at most home improvement stores.
Turn up the lights
Although it's easy for homeowners to grow accustomed to sitting in dimly lit areas, adding lighting to brighten up a space is a no-brainer. You can add some lamps, or for a relatively simple project that takes only a few minutes, install a dimmer switch.
Install wallpaper
Painting is passé and wallpaper is in vogue. Wallpaper can be a great investment for a living room or bedroom. There are more designs than ever available on the Internet. That said, although painting isn't currently in style, it also never gets old. A simple paint job over a greying white wall really brightens up a space.
Add some flair to your door knobs
Although a doorknob doesn't sound like the most interesting element of a room, it can easily become a beloved art piece. Decoupage is a colorful old-world look, but it's also expensive.
Turn a closet into a room
While most people feel they don't have enough space, there are some folks who have unused closets. It's easy to take a closet door off its hinges and convert the space into a small office. Paint the walls a bright color, add shelves, great lighting and a small desk. Voila, you've got the home office of your dreams!
Paint your front door
Make your home as inviting as possible by painting your front door a color to match your personality. If your home is light grey or white, consider a bright red or blue door to make it really "pop." For darker-colored homes, try canary yellow.