If you’re tired of spending hours maintaining your lawn, you might be ready to look into grass lawn alternatives.

Alternatives to grass might have only been popular in hot climates before, but now they are becoming more common. People are continually getting busier and busier, and having another thing taken off your plate can help you free up some time and still have a nice yard.

Continue reading this article to learn about how to have a low maintenance lawn without grass.

1. Colored Pebbles

Colored pebbles are probably one of the easiest ways to make your yard look good and to keep it low maintenance. You can lay them out how you want them, and you can keep weeds from growing.

There are different sizes and colors, so you can really make them fit in with your vision of how you want your yard to look. You can have different sizes for different areas. Usually, you want to use smaller pebbles in the smaller spaces that you need to fill.

2. Clover

When you have a clover lawn, it’s really easy to maintain since it’s a natural soil fertilizer. You won’t have to worry about it dying. If you’re working with poor soil quality, this might be the perfect choice for you since it thrives here.

You don’t have to water, mow or fertilize with this option and you might just find a lucky four-leaf clover. Keep in mind that clover spreads quickly, so unless this is what you really want for your yard—don’t plant it.

3. Flower Beds

Some people don’t need a big lawn to walk around in or to have it for children to play. In that case, you might want to opt for putting flower beds out to reduce the size of your lawn.

Native perennials are the most low maintenance type of flowers you can choose. You don’t have to do anything over the top to make it look good. Keep things simple to make sure you don’t give yourself more work than you bargained for.

4. Synthetic Grass

You’ve likely hard of synthetic grass by the name artificial turf. When you no longer want a grass lawn, this is a great option.

You can find it in different materials, and it looks like real grass. If you like the look of grass but don’t want to deal with the maintenance, then this might be your dream come true.

5. Mulch

Using mulch instead of grass for your lawn is eco-friendly since much of it is now made with recycled materials like plastic or rubber. You likely have seen it in flower beds, but you can use it to replace grass too if you want.

This material is very durable and will last for a long time, and you do not have to mow.

Choosing the Best of the Lawn Alternatives

Now you have some more ideas about the best lawn alternatives. You can choose what is going to work well for your yard and something that you always want to admire.

Use one or more of these ideas, and you can create a yard that you love looking at.

Do you want to learn more about lawn care and other important topics? Keep going through our blog to get the help you need.

Are you getting ready to sell your home? 

Let’s face it, selling your home can be a costly experience. Not only do you have to pay a significant real estate commission to the buying and the selling agent, but you also have to consider pre-listing costs as well as the applicable taxes. 

To ensure that you’re as prepared as possible, it’s crucial to understand all of the costs associated with selling a home. In doing so, you can be sure that you’re as prepared as possible for your sale. 

If you’re getting ready to sell your home, this one’s for you. We’re sharing a list of the costs associated with selling a home in today’s market. 

Commission Fees 

First and foremost, the seller is responsible for paying the real estate broker commission. 

Of course, most sellers are aware that they must pay a commission to the listing agent. After all, this agent is listing their home for sale and conducting a large degree of the work from beginning to end. 

However, what many sellers are unaware of is the fact that they’re also responsible for paying the buyer agent’s commission. When we consider that 89 percent of buyers purchase a home with a realtor, it’s simple to see why factoring in this cost is so important. 

While some fees can be negotiated, there is a standard fee that the majority of real estate professionals will abide by. Of course, this fee will differ based on your location. For example, the typical commission fee in Florida is 6% and is divided equally between the listing agent and the buying agent. 

Services Taxes 

In today’s world, most services are going to have a tax associated with their service fees. 

As it turns out, real estate is no different. In addition to paying your real estate broker’s commission, you’re going to want to prepare to pay the affiliated tax on top of this fee. 

This is something that not all sellers are aware of and often comes as a surprise when it’s time to write the commission check. To ensure that you’re as prepared financially as possible, it’s important to plan for taxes at the beginning and factor them into your final costs. 

Capital Gains Tax 

When you sell a home at a profit, you may be required to pay a capital gains tax. 

For many, this will be dependent on whether the property is a primary home or a secondary home. As a general rule, primary homes are exempt from a capital gains tax whereas secondary or investment properties must pay this tax. For a home to be considered your primary residence, you should live in this home on a relatively full-time basis. 

If you’re unsure as to what you’re responsible for paying, be sure to speak with your accountant. These taxes must always be reported on your federal tax return and are incredibly important. Without paying these taxes correctly, you could face significant fines and consequences. 

Staging 

To stage or not to stage? For many sellers, this is the question when it comes to listing their home for sale. 

If you’re looking to sell your home quickly for cash, staging will almost always prove to be a useful tactic. With professionally staged furnishings, buyers are better able to envision the potential of the home. 

While some real estate professionals will offer to pay for staging, this isn’t standard practice. Instead, this is a fee that is often negotiated between the real estate representative and the sellers. 

Repairs and Replacements 

Do you have any major repairs that should be conducted prior to selling? 

When it comes to listing your home, you want to ensure that it’s presenting as well to buyers as possible. While this doesn’t mean that you’ll need to invest thousands into renovations, you want to be sure that minor repairs are being taken care of. 

This could be anything from repairing holes and cracks in the walls to fixing broken appliances and fixtures. 

Storage 

Before listing your home for sale, you’re going to want to conduct a deep clean from top-to-bottom. Once you’ve cleaned the home, it’s time to move onto the process of decluttering.

With this, the goal is to free your home of personal items and overarching furnishings. Remember, you want prospective buyers to be able to imagine their own furniture in the space. When it comes to listing your home for sale, it’s safe to say that less is more. 

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you have to discard these items entirely. Instead, it’s best to rent a suitable storage unit so that you can temporarily relocate these items. These units can often be rented on a weekly, monthly, or even annual basis. 

Home Inspection 

Are you looking to increase the appeal of your home? If so, it’s best to showcase buyers as much information about the home as possible. 

While this report is optional, it provides useful information about the home to anyone that comes through the door. Generally speaking, the report will outline the general health of your home and highlight any major features, dates, and areas of concern.

When a buyer has access to this material, they can feel more confident in moving forward with an offer. Having the report on-hand is also going to speed up the buying process overall. This saves prospective buyers from having to conduct their own home inspection at their own expense. 

Of course, every home inspector will carry different fees. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300-$500 for the entire report. 

Closing Costs 

Generally speaking, the majority of closing costs are the responsibility of the buyer. 

However, there have been circumstances where the seller has been responsible for paying at least some of the closing costs. Of course, this is more typical in a buyer’s market where the buyer tends to have more power. 

These closing costs can include anything from title insurance and lawyer fees to an escrow fee and even postage. To understand the lengths of your closing costs, be sure to discuss this with your lawyer in advance. 

Costs Associated With Selling a Home 

Before you decide to list your home for sale, it’s crucial to understand all of the costs associated with selling a home. 

Not only will this ensure that you’re financially prepared, but it will also help to minimize the stress associated with moving in the first place. After all, moving is considered to be one of the most stressful life events. To help, be sure to use this guide to educate you on what you’re responsible for paying as the seller. 

Did you find this article helpful? If so, be sure to bookmark our page for all of your real estate needs. 

Upgrading your air conditioner will shave around 40% off your cooling energy costs. But if you’re a new homeowner, you might not know where to start when replacing your unit. 

First, figure out the square footage for your house. It will help you figure out how big a unit you need.

Next, you need to answer the most common question, “How much does a new AC unit cost?” It’s not a straight-forward answer.

Use this guide to calculate an estimate for your new AC. This way you know what to expect when you’re ready to hire an AC installer.

How Much Does a New AC Unit Cost?

The price range for energy-efficient central AC units runs from $1,200 to $2,000. To narrow down the price for your budget, you need to know the size of unit you need.

Calculate the square footage for your home. Find the number below to see the tonnage for your new AC unit:

• 1,000 – 1,200 sqft needs a 1.5 ton unit
• 1,200 – 1,400 sqft needs a 2 ton unit
• 1,400 – 1,500 sqft needs a 2.5 ton unit
• 1,500 – 2,000 sqft needs a 3 ton unit

It might tempt you to buy a smaller unit to save a little money. That’s a bad idea.

Undersized AC units don’t have enough power to keep up with hot temperatures. They constantly run and your energy bill gets out of hand.

Additional AC Installation Charges

The AC unit isn’t the only cost to factor into your final budget. Don’t forget these important upgrade costs.

Ductwork

Many times when your AC unit loses efficiency, it’s because of the ductwork leaks. When you’re ready to replace your AC unit, check the ducts, as well. 

On average, new ductwork runs about $3,000 with professional installation. It’s a big investment, but worth it to make your system energy-efficient. 

Installation Materials and Labor

You get what you pay for when hiring an AC installation company. Look for someone that’ll work with you and answer your questions. Ask for proof of insurance and their licenses, as well.

Add $500 to your budget to cover labor and material costs. Hiring a trusted expert ensures your AC unit will last 20 to 25 years.

How to Lower Your New Home AC Price

A new air conditioner unit is a pricey right of passage for every homeowner. Don’t worry too much about the cost. There are ways to save money on your AC installation cost.

Government Tax Credits

Certain types of AC units qualify for a rebate from the government. The amount you get back goes up to $500. Check with Energy Star to figure out if your unit qualifies

Manufacturer Rebates

Rebates for the main AC unit are rare. Look for rebates on the extra items you need for an AC unit upgrade, instead. 

Rebates on items like digital thermostats run around $50. The trick to finding these deals is to check the manufacturer’s website. They’ll have a list available based on where you live.

Keep Your Home Comfortable With a New AC

No one likes sweating through a hot summer. Homeowners in hot climates know too well the dangers of heat exposure.

How much does a new AC unit cost? It costs as much as is necessary to protect your family from the heat. When making your budget, keep that in mind alongside everything else in this guide.

Check out our blog for more home improvement tips.

Curb appeal matters! Homes with minimal to well-landscaped yards see an increase in value from 5 to 12% over a home with no landscaping. 

Whether you’re concerned with new home construction ideas or sustainable building, don’t put landscaping on the backburner. Beautiful landscape design can set your home apart from the rest. 

Choose the best home renovation and home remodeling tips to give your yard a face-lift. Take a look at 4 new home landscaping ideas that nail curb-appeal and increase your ROI. 

1. Modern Patio Area

Use wood and square stepping stones to create a modern patio area. Flank it with native plants that don’t require much water for those dry months in South Florida. 

Keep the modern look going with straight lines and minimal color. Use a lot of greenery and drought-resistant plants, stones for fillers, sleek outdoor furniture, and hanging lights. 

2. Color, Texture, and Levels

South Florida is home to so many tropical plant varieties; the possibilities seem endless. When designing your outdoor space, choose a wide range of plants with colors and textures that coordinate and complement each other. 

Use taller plants in the back or middle and then surround them with colorful flowers at the base creating a mountainous look that will draw the eyes upward. 

Use blocks or other materials for edging to separate the grass from the planting beds. 

3. Palapa for Shade

The word palapa is a Spanish word that means “pulpy leaf”. It is an open-sided structure with a thatched roof.  The roof is constructed using dried palm fronds. It’s amazing how well-suited the palms are to keep you dry and shaded.   

You’ve seen these at beach restaurants, bars, or at tropical resorts, so why not bring that beachy feeling to your home? A palapa is just the thing to give your yard a tropical vibe while providing much-needed shade from the Florida sun.

Use other tropical elements like palm trees and birds of paradise. Add a pond or water feature to keep the theme going.

4. Landscaping with Synthetic Materials

Artificial turf will save you a lot of money in the long run…no fertilizing, no watering, no mowing. And…it looks good all the time.

It’s easy to maintain and when paired with other natural-looking synthetic items, your yard appears amazingly perfect. Add some natural elements to take advantage of all Florida has to offer in tropical foliage. 

Having trouble finding homes for sale with a guest house? Check out Actonadu.com to learn about building one in your yard. 

Making the Best of Your Home and Backyard

Now that you’ve learned some new home landscaping ideas, you can make your yard the envy of the neighborhood. 

Did you like what you learned here? Check out our site for other informative blog articles to help you with all things real estate related. We are South Florida’s premier commercial and residential real estate firm. 

You’re buying a home out of state? Start here first.

In the United States, more than 670,000 houses were sold in May of 2020. With so many houses sold, it can be challenging to navigate the market. 

The real question is, can I buy a home out of state? For those looking for the best, check out these smart tips to make buying a home out of state as simple as possible. Read on to learn more.

Eliminate Unnecessary Waste

The first step in moving out of state and buying a home is to eliminate unnecessary waste. A move is the perfect time to get rid of any unnecessary waste you may have. Try renting a dumpster to provide more space and accessibility for your trash.

Consider organizing your items into three piles:

1. Necessary
2. Keep-sake
3. Throw-away

Ask yourself how likely you are to use the items you’re keeping. The best way to buy a home out of state is without extra waste and added stress. 

Get a Head Start on Obtaining a Mortgage

One of the biggest how to buy a second home out of state questions that homeowners often ask is regarding a mortgage. Getting a home loan in a different state can often take longer and be frustrating if you’re unprepared.

The lender may require a reason for you purchasing your out of state home. Be sure to take the time to create a meaningful answer to their question in order to avoid potential denial.

The lending institution or bank may choose to increase the down payment and raise the interest rate should you have to come back multiple times for a mortgage.

Utilize Online Searches

It is vital to do your research and utilize online searches before purchasing a home out of state. Be sure to read reviews about different neighborhoods and cities. Don’t forget to consider the legitimacy of the school system and safety in the area.

If you have family or friends in the state you’re looking to move, it’s important to ask them for their input as well. Ask them which areas are best to avoid. Share with them what kinds of things you’re looking for. 

Remember to visit the state yourself. You are your own best judge and it is essential to see the area in person. Consider attending an open house to familiarize yourself with prices in the area and potentially connect with an agent.

Be Sure to Do a Home Inspection

Once you’ve found the perfect house, be sure to do a home inspection. This will make sure the purchase price is worth the asking price. Remember to determine the insurance coverage and have all your paperwork in order.

Buying a Home Out of State

Buying a home out of state can feel like one of the most complicated processes a person can go through. Be sure to stick to our tips to streamline the process and make it as simple as possible.

What are you waiting for? Your new home awaits!

Want to see more posts like this one? Check out the rest of our blog to learn more!

Did you know that 25% to 35% of your heating and cooling expenses account for heat loss and gain from the windows in your home? The best windows are the key to saving on your monthly electricity bills, as well as feeling comfortable in your own home. 

The most common residential windows are either double or triple-paned. Will you be fine with two panes, or do you need three for maximum efficiency? 

The answer is different for everyone and depends on your house and your preferences. Keep reading for everything you need to know regarding double pane vs triple pane windows in your home. 

Double Pane vs Triple Pane Windows: Installation

The biggest step in getting new windows is putting them in. While window installation is a service that’s usually tacked on when you buy your panes, it’s possible to do it yourself with the right tips and tools.  

In this case, you should know that double-paned windows are much easier to install on your own. As you could guess, double-pane windows weigh less than triple-pane windows, which makes them less of a hassle to install. 

If you intend on installing your windows yourself, be sure you’re able to safely handle the weight of your window panes. You don’t want to end up making a mess of broken glass and risk injury to you or your loved ones. 

Natural Light

Getting more natural light is proven to have positive effects on your physical and mental health. It also adds organic beauty to your home during the day that fluorescent lights can’t emulate. 

If you’re very particular about the natural light in your home, it’s important to know that your window panes can affect that light. 

Double-pane windows allow for more natural light in your home. While subtle, the difference is there and you’ll be able to notice it. 

If you have a sunroom, a room with plants, or another room that you enjoy seeing natural light in, double-pane windows might be the right option. If you have a room that gets a little too much natural light for your liking, triple-pane windows could be a great way to start reducing the light in that room. 

Natural light isn’t always great for our furniture, though. UV rays can fade paint, hardwood, and the fabric your furniture is made from. 

If you have extremely valuable furniture, paintings, and floors, you may want triple-pane windows for the extra layer of UV protection. It could save you money on refurbishing and re-painting your decor.

Comfort

Everyone deserves to feel comfortable in their own home. Unwanted drafts and waves of heat can make you feel uneasy in your house. 

While heating and cooling have made it easy to regulate the temperature indoors, no one wants to go back and forth to try and regulate the heat and airflow. 

Triple-pane windows allow for a significant reduction in condensation and drafts. This means that your home will stay warmer in cool weather and cooler in warm weather. 

While double-pane windows do a good job at preventing drafts, triple-pane windows allow for maximum comfort for you and your family. 

Noise Reduction

Sometimes we get unlucky and have loud neighbors, or maybe you live close to a major highway or airport. Either way, unwanted noises traveling through your house can be unpleasant. 

Triple-pane windows are great at keeping neighborhood noises out of your home because of the extra layer of glass. If you don’t want to replace all of your windows, you can install triple-pane windows on the noisiest sides of your house to greatly reduce noise pollution.

Security

Your home is supposed to be the one place you know you’re safe. Windows, while nice for a view, are the most vulnerable parts of your home. 

While double-pane windows are quite sturdy, three panes of glass are always better than two. Triple-pane windows are stronger because of the added layer of glass, which will better protect you from intruders or debris from extreme weather. 

Efficiency

As previously noted, a lot of the money you spend on electricity quite literally flies out of your window. When considering home window replacement, the efficiency of your windows should be one of your biggest concerns. 

With double-pane windows, you can prevent 50% of the heat and cold loss that single-pane windows can’t put a stop to.

On the other hand, triple-pane windows can improve your energy efficiency by up to 30%. Triple-pane windows are especially efficient in colder climates and winter months in warmer climates.

If you live in cold climates, triple-pane windows are almost a must-have. In warmer climates, they’re another way to save a little extra money each month. 

Cost

Another huge concern when buying windows is affordability. At what point do windows become too expensive?

Simply put, double-pane windows cost less than triple-pane cost because of the added pane of glass. Between window cost and installation fees, expect to pay anywhere from $550 to $1,100 on triple-pane windows.

On the other hand, double-pane windows, including installation, only cost around $385 to $850 depending on the company you hire.

While double pane windows cost less short-term, it’s possible that triple-pane windows can save you money, in the long run, depending on the climate you live in and how often you use heating and air conditioning.

No More Pane

Now you know the benefits of double pane vs triple pane windows. Now it’s time to make your decision and get your windows installed.

Be sure to check out more of our blogs for other helpful home improvement and real estate tips. Call a professional if you need help, and enjoy your new windows!

If your bathroom is in need of a fresh look, but you don’t want to go overboard with trends that could end up looking outdated within one year, we’ve got you covered.

Time has shown that specific design trends can look chic at one point in time and then suddenly look tacky a year later.

Here are some timeless bathroom designs that are trending this 2020 that will never go out of style.

The Marble Effect

We’ve seen the all marble everywhere trend in kitchens, and now it’s moving its way into our bathrooms. Marble can add a luxe feel to any space, and since it’s so versatile, your options are endless.

You can incorporate this bathroom trend into your space by opting for full-on marble walls, flooring, vanities, or even just little touches here and there through marble bathroom decor.

Well-known fashion designer Monique Lhuiller partnered up with Pottery Barn and designed a set of marble accessories that would make any bathroom look sophisticated and chic.

Natural Elements

Natural and organic elements like concrete and wood are two of the latest bathroom trends this year- even better when combined together. There are many ways to incorporate concrete, whether it be statement-making concrete walls or more subtle concrete countertops. 

This emerging bathroom trend is raw and utilitarian, yet gives a refined look to compliment all the other design elements in the space while also textural flair.

Wood can add classically traditional style to an otherwise trendy and modern bathroom, making it one of the ultimate timeless bathroom designs. When paired with concrete, other natural and organic materials, and greenery, you’ll be on your way to achieving that zen spa-like aesthetic.

Colors to Watch Out for This 2020

You may have heard that subtle hues like gray are slowly making their way out, but splashes of color(and white!) will always be in style. Deep moody colors are taking the design world by storm, and black is now the new gray.

If a black bathroom isn’t for you, you can incorporate this latest bathroom trend by going for darker matte black hardware. Switching up your hardware is a quick and demo-free way to give your bathroom a new look.

Other colors to look out for this year are forest like greens and bold blues.

When looking for the right green hue, go for shades like hunter, jade, olive, or emerald. For blue, look for indigo, denim, or even the Pantone-declared color of 2020, Classic Blue. This timeless shade is also associated with stability, introspection, and resilience, and is widely used across all categories of design.

Balance out the intensity of these rich and bold colors with light and natural accents like wood for your timeless bathroom designs.

Nods to the Past: Timeless Bathroom Designs

This year’s bathroom remodel trends involve a lot of nods to the past. Think traditional freestanding tubs, exposed industrial plumbing and fixtures in chic brass or copper, and repurposed antiques. 

Nothing says opulence like a freestanding tub. Is there anything more relaxing than soaking in a soothing bubble bath at the end of a long day? Modern designs tend to favor curvy and spacious shapes with clean minimal lines, but we wouldn’t blame you if you went all out and opted for a Victorian slipper bath for major vintage vibes.

Another bathroom trend that’s on the rise is industrial plumbing in chic and trendy metals like brass or copper. Against clean white bathrooms, these metallic fixtures steal the show and make the whites seem exceptionally bright while also adding a touch of old-world style.

With clean walls and timeless fixtures, why not add an antique dresser-turned-vanity or an antiqued armoire for a hint of European elegance and an understated yet stylish nod to the past. These vintage-inspired touches are key for timeless bathroom designs.

Ultimate Comfort and High Tech Trends

Tankless designs are on the rise when it comes to trends in toilets. They take up significantly less space than standard toilets and offer a sleek and modern minimal look. Other than being pretty to look at, they can also help conserve more water.

Other toilet trends prioritize comfort and merging design with technology- think touch screen remotes, motion-activated lids, and seat warmers.

Upgrading your toilet may seem silly, but when was the last time anyone has ever wondered, “how long do toilets last?”. Upgrading your toilet will end up saving more money on your water bill every month, so why not do it with style?

Hidden Shower Drains

For the uber minimalists out there who cringe at the sight of a mere shower drain, you’re in luck. When it comes to achieving that minimalist look, beauty is in the details- even in something as seemingly insignificant as a shower drain.

There are all sorts of hidden shower drains that will make your shower look extra sleek. There are the showers gently slope to a linear drain, and there are showers that simply minimize the look of the drain for a clean-lined look that will make all minimalists out there rejoice.

Back to Nature

Adding plants to bathrooms for a touch of natural beauty isn’t new, but it is a trend that is here to stay. They are pretty to look at, and they also improve the air quality of your space. 

Added foliage to your bathroom is another natural way to achieve that zen spa-inspired aesthetic.

Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall

A mirror can easily brighten and change the look of a space, especially when it comes to bathrooms. This year’s bathroom mirror trends are all about unusual and nontraditional shapes. 

Go for something classic yet whimsical by going for mid-century asymmetrical designs for a timeless look.

Ready for an Upgrade?

We hope our article has given you more insight when it comes to helping you find timeless bathroom designs and inspiration. Just remember the key is to timeless design is choosing the trends and looks that you know you will still love years from now.

If you found this article helpful, make sure to read more from our blog!

One of the downsides of living in warm, sunny, and beautiful Florida is that sooner or later you may be facing a hurricane. 40% of hurricanes that make landfall in the U.S. hit the Sunshine State.

While there’s nothing you can do about the weather, there are steps you can take to help your home withstand the storm. Here’s how to prepare for hurricane season in Florida.

Protect Your Windows

Windows are one of the most susceptible areas of a home during a hurricane. If you don’t have time to invest in installing storm windows, you’ll need to protect them with storm shutters or board them up using plywood.

Shutters are removable, but the hardware needed to hold them in place is not. So keep this in mind if you take this approach to strengthen your windows.

If you do have any unprotected windows, stay away from these rooms until the storm has safely passed.

Store or Secure Lawn Furniture

Hurricane-force winds can easily pick up outdoor furniture and other freestanding objects in your yard and send them hurling. Place furniture, gardening tools, potted plants, bicycles, toys, pool floats, and anything else outdoors that can become a projectile into storage so they can’t get tossed around.

If it’s not possible to place items out of harms’ way, try to tie or weigh them down to secure them.

Trim Branches

Cut loose or weak branches from trees on your property. They can easily get blown off and become flying projectiles, or land on your car or other personal property. They also have the potential to damage your neighbor’s property.

Consider having any weak trees or ones close to your property removed so they can’t fall on your home.

Secure Your Garage Door

One of the reasons hurricanes are so dangerous is that their winds can enter your garage and force your roof off. If your garage door wasn’t designed to hold up against storms, you’ll need to brace it with something. Your car can even be used to strengthen your garage door.

Many homeowners don’t consider protecting their garage door when prepping for a hurricane, but taking this extra step can prevent thousands of dollars’ worth of damage.

Keep Your Basement Dry

Hurricane water can pool in your basement. If you have a sump pump, make sure it’s been properly maintained and is ready to remove excess water. If you don’t have one, purchase a dehumidifier and sandbags in case your basement is flooded.

Be prepared to call a water damage restoration company to completely dry out your home following a storm.

Clean Ducts and Gutters

Obstructed ducts and gutters can cause water to pool up in areas and lead to a leaky roof. You definitely don’t want to be dealing with water coming inside your home during a hurricane, so inspect and clean your ducts and gutters when you know a storm is approaching. Remove leaves and other debris so water can flow freely through them.

Stock Up On Supplies

It’s always a good idea to keep a stockpile of needed supplies during hurricane season. Some of the items you should have on-hand include:

• Bottled water—enough for drinking and washing
• Non-perishable food including canned goods, dried fruit, and crackers
• Flashlights, headlamps, and extra batteries
• Prescription and non-prescription medicine
• First aid kit
• Battery operated radio
• Toiletries
• Hand sanitizer
• Baby supplies such as food and diapers
• Pet food and supplies, if you have animals
• Trash bags

This is just a partial list to get you started. This article has more information on what you should stock up on in anticipation of a hurricane. Make sure all members of the family including elderly loved ones and children have any medications or necessities before the storm hits.

Review Your Insurance Policy

Chances are if you’re living in Florida, your homeowner’s insurance is protecting you to a degree from hurricane damage. But it’s a good idea to review your policy and the fine print. You’ll want to be prepared in case there are some restrictions or types of damage that aren’t covered.

Take photos or record a few videos of your property before the hurricane arrives, just in case you need to show them to your insurance company if there’s damage.

Move Your Cars

If you have a garage, move your cars inside it and park them against the door in case winds try to blow the door down. If you don’t have a garage, move them to an area where they’re as far away as possible from trees and branches. You’ll want to prevent them from getting crushed from a downed tree or large branch.

Have an Evacuation Plan

Hopefully, you will never have to evacuate your home during a hurricane, but it’s good to have a plan just in case. Decide as a family where you will go, whether it’s to a hotel or another family member’s home. If you have pets, be prepared to evacuate them to safety as well.

You may even decide to head to a safer and dryer area before the storm arrives.

Remain Indoors in a Safe Area

Needless to say, if you do decide to ride out the storm, stay indoors until it’s over. Venturing outdoors can leave you vulnerable to personal injury.

Decide on a designated safe area of your home for your family to stay. It should ideally have no or as few windows as possible and be on the first floor.

Prepare For Hurricane Season in Florida

Florida storms can be scary, but you’ll definitely ease some of your fears if you know how to prepare for hurricane season. Take the time to follow these steps before one hits your area so you can keep your home and loved ones safe.

Are you searching for a Florida home? Visit our Homes section to see our newest listed properties and find the house or condo of your dreams.

If you’re interested in getting your first home mortgage, look no further.

Mortgages are something that many people are familiar with because they’re loans used to purchase homes. Most people don’t have the money to buy a home outright, so they get a mortgage to help them cover the costs.

Despite these loans being common, you must ensure that you prepare yourself to get one. Fortunately, several things can be done to increase the chances that you’re approved.

Keep on reading to learn about several tips for first time buyers!

Start Saving Money as Soon as Possible

One of the most important things you should do when you start thinking about home mortgage loans is to start saving money early. You must pay a down payment when getting a mortgage, so if you don’t have money saved, start now.

Saving money as soon as possible will allow you to pay your down payment without having to worry about coming up with cash. If you don’t, you may have to get a loan from another source to cover the down payment. However, adding more debt will make it harder for you to pay for the mortgage.

You can start saving money by taking out a certain amount from each check. Even if it isn’t much, you’ll have a reasonable amount saved by the time you’re ready to get a mortgage.

Figure Out How Much You Can Afford

When first time buyers are looking into homes, one of the things they often overlook is how much they afford. This is crucial when getting a mortgage because you won’t be able to get one that’s out of your range, so don’t waste your time.

Take a look at your income and expenses, then determine how much you can set aside each month to pay for the mortgage. Most lenders will want to see that you make about 4 times more than what your payment would be each month. So if your payment would be $1,000, they’d want you to make at least $4,000.

This is where having money saved for a down payment will help you. After applying the down payment, your monthly payment will be less. Lenders will take this into consideration when you apply for the loan.

Ensure that you bring things like bank statements and pay stubs so that lenders can see how much you earn. They’ll want to know where your money usually goes, so try to bring records showing expenses, too.

A good tool to use when it comes to borrowing money is to look at the income required for a mortgage. This will help you better understand what’s needed and how much you can put towards your property. The last thing you want is to choose a property that you can’t actually afford to buy.

Review All of Your Options

While getting a home mortgage can be exciting, you’ll want to have several options and you should review all of them. First home mortgage rates can be high because lenders are risking a lot by providing them because the buyers usually haven’t dealt with a loan that large.

Because of this, you’ll find competing rates from different lenders, so it’ll be worthwhile to explore your options until you find something that works for you. When comparing loans, look at how much lenders are willing to give and what the interest rates are.

Get a Preapproval Letter

A preapproval letter can be highly beneficial when purchasing a home. This is essentially a document that shows you’ve been preapproved by a lender to borrow a certain amount of money. Owners love when buyers have these because they know they’re dealing with someone that has the means to purchase the home.

When you get a preapproval letter, you’ll get a good idea of how much you’re able to borrow, so this will help you come up with a budget. Keep in mind that you should get preapproved by several lenders so that you can choose one. When you’ve settled on a lender, use their preapproval letter when you start negotiating with an owner.

Improve Your Credit Score

Out of all the most common mortgage mistakes that people make, having poor credit is something you should avoid as best as you can. Having poor credit will make it nearly impossible to get a mortgage because a mortgage lender will think you’re bad with finances.

While you may think you know how to manage your money, a lender won’t work with you if your credit score doesn’t reflect that. Your credit score shows how often you make payments, how much debt you have, how many times you try to apply for loans, and more.

Improving your credit score is as simple as paying off any debt you have. From there, you can start borrowing from something like a credit card and continuously pay it off. Borrowing money will help you build credit, you just need to pay the money back.

Start by paying off whatever debt you have with the highest interest. While paying that off, continue making minimum payments on all of your other balances. Try not to borrow more money while paying off your remaining debt.

Now You’re Ready for Your First Home Mortgage

Although getting a first home mortgage can be an exciting process, you’ll need to prepare to ensure you get a good deal. After reading this article, you now know what to do when applying for a mortgage and how you can increase the likelihood that you’re approved.

We encourage you to start by improving your credit score if it’s low. While doing that, try to save money so you can make a large down payment on your home and convince a lender to give you money.

Browse our articles to learn more about a variety of topics!

So you’re thinking about selling your home, and you want to make sure you can get top dollar for it. You may be planning on renovating different areas of your home. This can be a great idea as long as you make the right renovations.

But what are the right renovations? We’ll go over all the renovations that will get you a maximum return on investment. Let’s get started. 

Outdoor Renovations

The first thing potential buyers notice about a home is the curb appeal. Which makes sense seeing as first impressions tend to stick. 

According to the National Association of Realtors, landscaping renovations can earn you a whopping 267% return on investment. This can be as simple as adding a few flower beds and reseeding your yard. 

The NAR also reports that wooden decking can also have a large return on investment. With outdoor living being more popular now than ever, this would be a wise renovation to consider. 

It may be tempting to add a pool but typically you can only expect a 40% return on this investment. While it’s nice to have a pool, you may want to reconsider putting one in just to sell the house. 

Kitchen Upgrades

The kitchen is often described as the heart of the home. A few wise upgrades and renovations can add a significant ROI to your home sale. This can be as simple as upgrading your sink faucet, or cabinets.

Cabinets are usually the first thing to get outdated in your kitchen. With new cabinets usually come new countertops. In today’s market quartz is one of the most popular materials to use for countertops.

Your sink faucet can also become outdated pretty quickly as well. These can be replaced relatively easily as a DIY project as well. Be sure to get one that is both functional and stylish.

The Basement Full of Possibilities

In today’s market, not a lot of home buyers are interested in a rec area in the basement anymore. It’s probably a better idea to add a home office, as more people are now working from home. 

These kinds of renovations can add a reasonable amount of return but it’s definitely not necessary. 

Foundation and Other Serious Repairs

While you have renovation and repair on your mind now is a good time to find out about any major issues with your house. These can be a bit intimidating to think about but they can save you lots of headaches down the road.

Be sure you have no major issues with your foundation. Make any repairs needed immediately and before any cosmetic renovations. 

You should also put some thought on redoing your roof. Some buyers might not want to make a commitment to your house if the roof is old. 

Another rarely thought of renovation is having your HVAC system checked. This one isn’t as intimidating as the others. Simply contact an HVAC contractor and have them check it out for you. 

Get Inspired with Us

We hope this short guide gave you some ideas on where to start your renovations. If you liked this article be sure to share it with your friends on social media. 

Need more inspiration? Check out the other great posts on our blog.