All posts by Alysia Heun

Kitchen Trends in 2023

A modern kitchen utilizing natural wood materials for the counter, backsplash, and shelving- a kitchen trend in 2023.

The kitchen is the heart of the home and a place where people come together to share meals, stories, and laughter. This year, people are looking for ways to update and remodel their kitchens to make them more comfortable and inviting. Those looking to refresh their space will bring a mix of modern and vintage styles in everything from lighting fixtures to countertop materials. We’ve rounded up just a few of the top kitchen trends for 2023 to keep your eyes on to create a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

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8 Tips for Designing a Low Maintenance Home

Basic side tables near a couch, representing a low maintenance home.

Having a big and beautiful property is a dream that many people have. However, few people stop to consider the upkeep required for that dream to become a reality. Smaller properties or homes with a simplified design can be just as gorgeous!

There are many benefits to living in a low-maintenance home, including spending less time and money on the property. Whether you are looking to  invest in a house or a condo, consider these eight tips for designing a low-maintenance home.

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Connect The Knox: Bringing Knoxville to the Masses

Julia Hurley, the founder of the Connect the Knox podcast.

In 2022, the state of Tennessee saw numerous opportunities for growth and development.  Recognizing this, Julia Hurley of the Just Homes Group with Realty Executives Associates decided to start a podcast called Connect the Knox.  Her goal was to connect Knoxville to the rest of the nation.

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Why It’s Best to Avoid the Long Road of a 50-Year Mortgage

A document with mortgage details and a calculator implying consideration of a 50-year mortgage.

The 50-year mortgage first appeared in southern California, where housing was becoming increasingly costly, and people were looking for new ways to reduce their monthly mortgage payments. Except for the extra two decades to pay off the loan, it works the same as a 30-year fixed mortgage.

The advantage of a 50-year mortgage is the lower payment, but the significantly higher long-term costs may outweigh this advantage. Let’s see if you should go down that long road.

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Pros & Cons of Refrigerator Water and Ice Dispensers

A person getting a drink from the water dispenser.

When it comes to buying a new refrigerator, you may be interested in choosing one with a built-in ice and water dispenser. These modern fridge features have become increasingly trendy amongst homeowners in the US and Canada, where cold drinks are a household staple.

Having your own ice and cold water dispenser includes several advantages. They’re convenient to have, easy for people of all ages to operate, and they look great in every kitchen.

However, a refrigerator filtration system isn’t perfect, so it comes with some drawbacks too. If you’re contemplating the installation of a refrigerator water dispenser and ice machine, this post will help you to separate the pros from the cons.

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Say Goodbye to Impractical Design

Fabric samples and blueprints for updating impractical design.

It’s fair to say that style is subjective, and interior design is no exception. While some designs may be a certifiable failure from the get-go, other designs simply age out. Wondering if there are any old interior design fails lurking about your house? Here are a few trends worth tossing in the new year.

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Fixer-Uppers and Forever Homes: Is Your New House Your Last?

A couple standing in front of their starter home.

For new house hunters, the home-buying process can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate. Finding the right house depends on your budget, needs, wants, and life phase. The following tips from Realty Executives can help you determine if your next move should be into a starter home or something more permanent.

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Indoor Activities the Whole Family Will Love

A family doing crafts together as an option for an indoor activity.

The cold weather has arrived, and with it comes a slew of new opportunities to have fun indoors! If you’re looking for ways to keep your family entertained during the winter months, look no further.

We’ve put together a list of some of the best indoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. From playing games to watching movies, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, bundle up and get ready to have some fun!

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How to Know If You’ve Found the Right House

A couple taking a moment to celebrate for finding the right home.

When trying to find the perfect living place for you and your family, asking an expert can be helpful. However, you must consider other factors to ensure you’ve found the right home for your lifestyle. Whether you are looking for your first home, considering making a move, or planning to stay in place and remodel, here are a few indicators to let you know you have found “the one.”

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