All posts by Alysia Heun

Soothing Tips for Anxious First-Time Home Buyers

Two people standing next to a door mat that reads "First Time Buyer."

A lot of practical yet stressful work needs to be done when buying a home- such as paperwork, dealing with banks, getting a mortgage approval, etc. As a result, it is easy to forget that home buying is also a significant emotional labor. There can be fear and doubt, which is expected because buying is a significant financial decision. It is also exciting and symbolic of a new beginning in someone’s life. This is especially true for people who are buying their first home.

Don’t let nerves stop you from fulfilling your goal of buying your dream home! Read on for soothing tips for anxious first-time home buyers.

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Warning Signs That Home Appliances Need Repair

A woman checking her dryer to see if the appliance needs repair.

Modern home appliances have reduced a lot of labor inside the household, and it is difficult to operate in some spaces without them. Unfortunately, home appliances can fail due to lack of regular maintenance. Taking care of them will not only save expensive repairs but keep them functioning for a longer duration of time.

For example, say your fridge doesn’t cool things even if the temperature is set up at the max. It doesn’t mean it already requires it to be repaired or replaced- the issue might be a dirty gasket. You can clean it with soapy water and a clean cloth.  If your microwave oven doesn’t warm food, perhaps the dried spillover liquids are to blame. Even the help of a clean rag to wipe the oven’s interior walls can make a difference.

There are some basic troubleshooting steps that you need to follow before going to the pros. Read on for tips on appliance maintenance and when to opt for repair or replacement.

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Kitchen Projects for a High ROI

A kitchen with updated cabinets and countertops, both of which have great return on investment.

Whether it’s a minor upgrade like painting or a more significant project like installing new cabinets, your kitchen is a great place to add value to your home. In fact, even minor kitchen remodels have an 81% return on investment, according to Zillow, making it a smart place to invest money and increase the value of your home.

Before getting started, consider these tips and tricks for kitchen renovation projects to maximize your return on investment and get the most bang for your buck.

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Pros and Cons of Different Flooring Materials

Flooring is essential to any building, be it a home, office, or commercial facility. It is one of the first things people notice when they enter a room and significantly impacts the space’s functionality, comfort, and overall feel. However, with so many options, deciding on the right flooring materials can take time and effort. In this article, we will discuss the most popular flooring options and their pros and cons. We will analyze each flooring based on its cost, durability, maintenance, and aesthetic.

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Real Estate Scams Trending in the Digital Sphere

A person looking at a fake property listing online, one of the trending real estate scams.

Real estate scams cost buyers, renters, and landlords billions of dollars annually. The transition to digital real estate solutions and a rampant housing market resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic has seen them increase more than ever before.

You should be mindful of these four real estate scams currently trending in the digital sphere, from wire fraud schemes to phony home and apartment listings.

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Shopping for a Home Warranty

A woman shopping online for a home warranty.

There are many things to consider when buying a home warranty, which is different from homeowners insurance. A home warranty is a policy that covers major appliances and some systems, such as the HVAC, inside the house. Some policies can be tailored to fit your needs and cover additional things such as electronics, septic systems, and hot tubs. Although homeowners insurance will be required for many real estate purchases, a home warranty is entirely optional.

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Moving Out of Your Parents’ House: How to Do It Right

A young woman packing a box because she is moving out of her parents' home.

Leaving the nest and moving for the first time can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid the common issues and mistakes that come with finding a place to live, choosing essential furniture, and arranging your new space. It is an exciting and scary time! Use the tips and information in this guide to help with everything from packing your stuff to finding the perfect place. With the right advice, moving into your own place can be a seamless experience.

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Comforting Cold Weather Recipes to Try

A woman trying a winter weather recipe by cooking soup on the stovetop.

As daylight hours are short and the temperatures drop, it’s time to break out the comforting cold weather recipes. Whether you’re looking for something warm and rich or an easy meal that will keep your family full, there are plenty of delicious recipes to choose from. From hearty soups and stews that come together in minutes to seasonal drinks, these winter recipes will be sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So grab a blanket, turn up the heat, and get ready for some delicious wintertime cooking!

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Small Appliances to Make Your Home Feel More Luxurious

An air purifier, one of the small appliances to make your home feel more luxurious.

Everyone wants to make their home feel more luxurious and comfortable, but it can sometimes be expensive and time-consuming. Fortunately, there are many small appliances that can help you achieve an opulent feel in your home without breaking the bank. From kitchen gadgets to bathroom amenities, living room furniture to outdoor spaces, these small appliances provide comfort and convenience at an affordable price. Read on to discover ways to spruce up your space and create the perfect atmosphere in your home with small appliances.

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