I'm Lora, and the posts you will find here are inspired by the people I love and my daily life. I hope you enjoy browsing through my recipes, and reading about my life as a real estate agent, DIY wannabe, and wife of a retired Marine.
OK, it’s official – I’m going a bit overboard with the Halloween theme – and am going to do individual treat bags. This isn’t the first year we’ve done bags, but those weren’t nearly as cute as these. I brought the idea to Dean and showed him how sweet they are, get it “sweet” – so I’m over doing puns too haha. He thinks they’re great, so this year instead of doing regular bags or tossing the candy into a bowl, everyone will get a broom bag filled with goodies.
Here is all you need to do to transform little brown lunch bags into magical witch’s brooms.
You will need the following materials for each bag you create:
Brown lunch bags – it takes 2 bags to make 1 treat bag
Broomstick – use a halloween pencil, tree stick, or festive item
Scissors
Twine – I’m using Halloween ribbon
Tags – Printable tags, however I ordered Halloween tags from Amazon
Hole punch, if needed
Treats and Favors to fill the bag
Directions:
Step 1. Take the first bag and cut thin vertical strips that end 1″ from the bottom. On the second bag cut vertical strips that are 4″ long from the top.
Step 2. Place bag 2 with the shorter strips inside the bag 1 with the longer strips.
Step 3. Fill the inside bag with the treats and favors and place the stick inside the bag, in the middle of the treats and favors.
Step 4. Using the hole punch, punch a hole at the top of the label. Thread the ribbon through the hole. Set aside.
Step 5. Gather up with long strips of the outer bag and leave about 3″ inches at the top and secure them with the ribbon by tying it around the bag and making a bow. Be sure to leave about 3 inches at the top.
Hot days are gone and the average temperature, where I live in North Carolina, is in the low 70s with much cooler evenings. This means it is time to change our outdoor space from summer to fall. This can be achieved by adding some decorative touches, but mostly by adding a heat source so no one gets chilly while we hangout. Here are a few options:
Firepit
Wood-burning firepits are popular, for some there is nothing like the smell of burning wood on a cool evening. However, I’m not a fan of building a fire and all the cleanup that follows – so for me, I love a gas fireplace table. There are numerous types of firepits, choose the one that suits you best and enjoy.
Patio Heater
When it gets even more chilly through the season, use a patio heater. These can be either gas or electric and vary in size. I love when a restaurant has them and you can enjoy a cozy night with friends over drinks and charceuterie.
Outdoor Fireplace
You can have a custom fireplace built in your outdoor space. These fireplaces are much larger than firepits and can warm a large area. The only drawback, for me, is it is there all year long. Unlike a gas fireplace table that is smaller, decorative and gives off some heat, I can’t see many using a wood burning fireplace on those hot July nights.
As the leaves begin to change and the crisp Autumn air settles in, a homeowner may wonder if the Fall is the right time to sell their home. While Spring and Summer are thought of as peak seasons for real estate, selling in the Fall can be a smart and strategic choice. Let’s explore the advantages of selling in the Fall, plus I’ll share some tips for making the most of the season.
Curb Appeal in Full Bloom
One of the undeniable benefits of selling your home in the Fall is the stunning display of colors that nature provides. Consider planting fall flowers like mums and asters, and decorate your porch with pumpkins and seasonal wreaths to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for potential buyers.
Comfortable Weather
Fall weather has milder temperatures, making it more comfortable for both buyers and sellers. Unlike the scorching heat of Summer, Fall provides the perfect backdrop for showcasing your home. Buyers are more likely to linger and explore your property when they’re not battling the hot sun and sweat.
Serious Buyers
While Spring and Summer may attract more casual house hunters, those searching for a new home in the Fall are often more serious about making a move. Many buyers aim to complete their transactions before the holiday season and the end of the year, which means they are motivated and focused. This can lead to quicker sales and potentially more favorable offers.
Less Competition
With fewer sellers putting their homes on the market in the Fall, your property may stand out more among the available listings. Buyers have fewer options to choose from, increasing the chances of your home receiving more attention. This reduced competition can sometimes result in a better sale price.
Showcase Cozy Features
Fall is the perfect time to highlight the cozy aspects of your home. Consider lighting a fire in the fireplace, arranging warm blankets on the couch, and brewing a pot of cider or coffee for potential buyers during open houses. Creating a comfortable and inviting ambiance can help buyers envision themselves enjoying the home during the colder months.
Challenges to Consider
While selling your home in the Fall has its advantages, there are also some potential challenges to be aware of:
Fading Daylight: With shorter daylight hours, it’s important to schedule showings and open houses during optimal times to showcase your home in the best light.
Yard Maintenance: Falling leaves can create additional yard maintenance tasks. Regularly clean up leaves and keep walkways clear to ensure your property looks well-kept.
Holiday Distractions: The holiday season can be a busy and distracting time for both buyers and sellers. It’s important to strike a balance between decorating for the season and keeping your home presentable.
Selling your home in the Fall can be a wise decision, given the unique advantages this season offers. With its beautiful foliage, comfortable weather, and motivated buyers, the Fall real estate market can be a lucrative opportunity for those looking to sell their homes. By embracing the season and working with a knowledgeable real estate agent, like me, (Lora Rousseau with Weichert, Realtors® – Team Metro), together we can successfully navigate the Autumn market and secure a sale that leaves both you and the buyer happy!
Lora Knows Home 