Tag Archives: Realty Executives International

Best Plants for Winter Conditions

A woman gardening in the winter.

As winter’s cold embrace settles in, many gardeners assume that their outdoor spaces must succumb to a barren and colorless existence. However, this could not be further from the truth. Winter offers a unique canvas for your garden, one filled with subtle, natural beauty waiting to be uncovered.

This comprehensive guide helps you explore the enchanting world of winter gardening and introduces you to the best plants for winter conditions. We aim to help you transform your garden into a mesmerizing winter magic one, teeming with life, colors, and textures. From the steadfast evergreens that brave the chill to the delicate blossoms that defy the frost, we will introduce you to a diverse array of plants that will redefine your perception of winter gardening.

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Suzanne Treudt Honored with the Prestigious Good Neighbor Award by Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS®

Suzanne Treudt, this year's recipient of the Good Neighbor Award.

In a heartwarming ceremony that celebrated the spirit of community and generosity, Suzanne Treudt of Realty Executives Premiere (Wheaton, Illinois) was recently honored with the esteemed Good Neighbor Award by Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS®. This accolade is a testament to Treudt’s unwavering commitment to continually improving local communities through philanthropic efforts.

As part of Treudt’s recognition, Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS® donated $3,000 toward Canine Companions, her charity of choice. Canine Companions aims to train service dogs so that clients and dogs can live with a greater degree of independence.  The group provides service dogs to adults, children, and veterans with disabilities, free of charge.  Additionally, Canine Companions trains facility dogs intended to work in healthcare, criminal justice, or educational settings.

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Prepping Your Home for Winter: Your Essential Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

A homeowner putting a cover on a home's HVAC system as part of winter home maintenance.

As winter approaches, it is time to trade in beach towels for fluffy blankets and to prepare your home for the colder months ahead.

Taking time to perform some necessary maintenance tasks can protect your home from potential damage, keep you comfortable, and save you from significant expenditures in the future.

Here is your ultimate checklist to ensure your home is winter-ready!

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Easy Holiday Entertaining

A group of friends enjoying a holiday gathering at a home.

Holiday entertaining can be a breeze with the right tips and tricks. Whether you are a seasoned host or a first-time entertainer, this guide will help you create a memorable seasonal gathering without the stress. From simple yet delicious recipes to quick decor ideas and furniture arrangements, we have you covered. Read on for easy-to-follow tips that will leave your guests impressed and ensure you have a wonderful time celebrating with family and friends.

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The Environmental Promise of All-Electric Housing

A rendering of a future, all-electric home.

Electricity was first introduced into people’s homes near the end of the Victorian period in the late 19th century and has been growing in use ever since. Just think about the huge changes in the 1940s when electrical appliances like vacuum cleaners and refrigerators became a part of most households!

Today we face a global energy crisis which has led to a growing demand for clean and renewable energy. Now is the time to flip the switch on the fuels we have been using to power our electricity and appliances and turn on a clean energy home. You can reduce your carbon footprint, improve indoor air quality, and support renewable energy by changing the appliances you use and how the power to run them is generated. And with residential energy use accounting for roughly 20% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the United States, moving to an all-electric home has the potential to help change the world.

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Furniture Solutions for Small Spaces

A curved white couch in the corner of a small space in the living room.

Living in a small space does not mean sacrificing style or functionality. You can create a comfortable and stylish home with creativity and planning, even with little square footage. Space-saving sofas, beds, and clever storage ideas will help you maximize your available space and stay on trend. Whether you are a first-time apartment dweller looking to declutter or a homeowner looking to switch up your aesthetic, read on for inspiration!

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Staging Your Home: What’s Really Worth It?

A living room that has been staged for selling.

Every decision counts when gearing up to sell your house, from the color of the bathroom tiles to the style of the living room rug. However, some choices can significantly influence potential buyers’ perceptions and your home’s selling price. Here are some practical and impactful staging tips that can make your residence irresistible.

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How to Incorporate Native Plants in Your Landscaping

A home with colorful native plants around the exterior.

Everyone knows incorporating native plants in the landscape is good for the environment. The plants supply food and shelter for birds, bees, butterflies, and other wildlife.

Native plants are also good for the wallet. They increase your property value, especially when planted and maintained properly. Here are some tips on how to incorporate native plants into your landscaping plans.

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6 Actionable Tips to Increase Home Safety of Seniors

Two seniors sitting on a couch happily, symbolizing home safety of seniors.

For 88% of people aged between 50 and 80, it is highly desirable to live in their homes as long as possible. However, nearly half of them (47%) give little to no thought to modifying their living places. Such modifications should concern increasing home safety, first and foremost.

Why is a safe living place crucial for the elderly, and how can you make your home more secure to age in?

Let us answer those questions in turn.

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The Psychological Impact of Homeownership

A couple happily standing in front of their home, signifying the benefits of homeownership.

Homeownership is a significant milestone in many people’s lives.

It signifies financial stability, independence, and the start of a new chapter.

The journey towards homeownership, however, can be filled with challenges and uncertainties.

Let us delve into the intricate interplay between owning a home and the human psyche.

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