Homeownership

Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – January 13, 2021

THREE REASONS TO CHANGE YOUR AIR FILTER THIS WINTER

Running your heat more this winter? If you have a forced hot air HVAC system, dirt and dust tend to build up more in your furnace air filter when your heat is running longer. Replacing your furnace filter more often in the cold months has several benefits. Here are the most common:

1. Helps your HVAC system. Changing your air filter helps your HVAC system run more efficiently and may even extend the life of your system. A clogged air filter limits the flow of air through the HVAC system. Repeatedly running the heat or air conditioning with a clogged and dirty air filter can eventually cause HVAC problems.

2. Conserves energy and lowers your heating bill. When the filter is clogged, it takes more energy to heat your home. When the furnace filter is clogged, your furnace has to run longer and harder to maintain the temperature in your house.

3. Improves air quality. A clean air filter will function more properly and capture dust, pollen, pet dander and other particles that are in the environment.

Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – January 4, 2021

NEW YEAR’S ORGANIZING GOALS FOR YOUR HOME

If you’re like millions of other people, you may be thinking about goals or resolutions this week. Along with health and fitness, a popular goal is organizing your home. Like other goals, your New Year’s home organizing projects can benefit from some of the following strategies:

1. Write it down. Thinking about organizing your entire home may be overwhelming. Creating a list of plans or ideas for each room is a great way to start your organizing plan. Grab a blank notebook and take it from room to room to jot down your ideas.

2. Start small. Completing one small project, like reorganizing one drawer in your kitchen, can motivate you because you see immediate results. You’ll be excited to move onto the next area.

3. Break large projects into small tasks. Not sure where to start in your cluttered home office? Create a list of small tasks for each area, and then tick them off one by one. For example, start with filing cabinets, then move onto the stacks of paper on your desk.

4. Plan your organizing time. Set time in your calendar or schedule to complete an organization project each week, even if it’s just one table or one drawer. When tackling a space like a closet or pantry, be sure to block out enough time to   complete your project.

Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – December 23, 2020

IDEAS FOR A COZY WINTER HOME

Many of us are spending the holiday season close to home this year. As the cold weather continues throughout the region, here are a few ideas to make your home cozy and relaxing this winter.

Create an inviting reading nook. Start with placing a chair or bench in a corner or near a sunny window. Add some throw pillows and a knitted blanket or throw. Place a reading light and a small table on either side and you have the perfect place to read, study, or even knit.

Plan a family game night. Schedule a night to switch off the Playstation and pull out some classic board games instead. Family favorites include Monopoly, Scrabble, Sorry, and Trivial Pursuit. If you have younger kids, add Candy Land and Trouble.

Hot drinks to stay warm. Perfect for a chilly night, try a new recipe for hot cocoa with toppings like crushed peppermint candies or homemade marshmallows. Spiced hot cider is another winter favorite that will have your home smelling wonderful as a bonus.

Wishing you the comforts of joy and peace this holiday season.

Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – December 9, 2020

COLOR DÉCOR TRENDS FOR 2021: RELAX AND ESCAPE

Color trends for home décor in 2021 are inspired by the ideas of comfort, tranquility, relaxation, and escape.

Color experts and paint companies are showcasing nature-inspired neutrals combined with brighter spring and summertime hues, for everywhere in the home from main living spaces to exterior accents.

Neutrals ranging from creamy whites to cool grays remain popular choices for main living areas and hallways. Add a bold look with deeper grays or blues, or jewel tones. If you’re not ready to paint an entire room a dark or bright color, one accent wall can create a dramatic look.

As the work from home trend continues, you may want to choose a color to help create stress-free and productive surroundings. Color experts suggest painting the home office in calming shades of blue or green to help promote relaxation. Meanwhile, silvery whites or grays can keep your space professional and productive. 

A vibrant front entry door is one of the hottest exterior paint trends that is expected to continue in 2021. From ocean-inspired blues, to flowery corals and reds, a newly painted front door can provide eye-catching curb appeal.

Looking for ways to add a pop of color without painting? Throw pillows, accent furniture, and artwork are ways to introduce a new bold color without committing to paint or wallpaper.

Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – October 18, 2020

HOMEOWNERS AFFECTED BY NATIONWIDE APPLIANCE SHORTAGE

If you’re looking to buy a new refrigerator, dishwasher or other home appliance, you may be in for a wait. One of the many rippling effects of the coronavirus pandemic that seems to be persisting is a shortage of household appliances. A slowdown in manufacturing plus an upswing in demand from homeowners has resulted in a supply shortage, affecting both large and small retailers. Demand is climbing for two main reasons. First, many homeowners are deciding to tackle various home renovation projects. But this year, people are simply using their appliances more, so overuse may be taking its toll as well.

Across the U.S., there are reports of appliances in low stock or on back order, with few discounts available. The shortage seems to be affecting refrigerators, dishwashers, and stoves more than other appliances. If you absolutely need to buy or replace an appliance now, here are a few tips you can try to find that new fridge or dishwasher.

· Consider starting your shopping online. Large retailers’ websites can often tell you what models are available at a specific store location.

· Check the stock at small local appliance retailers.

· Don’t dismiss the “scratch and dent” section the appliance department for your next purchase. You may also find a good discount there.

· If possible, arrange to pick up your own appliance rather than rely on delivery.

Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – November 11, 2020

FIVE STEPS TO WINTERIZE YOUR HOME

Before the first snow and ice forecasts begin, there’s still time to prepare your home for  winter weather. Whether you hire a professional or put your do-it-yourself skills to work, you can spend a weekend checking off some of the items on the list below.

· Clean your gutters and downspouts. Gutters that are filled with leaves or small branches will limit the flow of water from rain and melted snow. If water doesn’t flow through the gutters, water can leak down to the foundation or cause water to seep behind gutters.

· Check windows and doors for drafts. You can install weatherstripping around your doors and windows to seal any leaks. Both garage doors and exterior doors can be sealed. You can also consider installing a storm door for extra protection from wind and cold air.

· Cover your air conditioner. Placing a cover over the outdoor AC unit will protect your   system from winter cold weather conditions.

· Check snow removal tools. Make sure your winter snow shovels are accessible. If you have a snow blower, make sure it’s in good working order.

· Inspect the fireplace. If you have a fireplace or wood burning stove, have it inspected and make sure the damper opens and closes. Make sure there are no unexpected items such as bird’s nests in the chimney.