Real Estate, Style

Renovating – Have a Plan

Home renovations can be complex and challenging. Proper preparation is crucial for a successful project. Here are three key steps you should take during the preparation process to increase the likelihood of a successful home renovation:

  1. Define Your Goals and Budget:
  • Start by clearly defining your renovation goals. What do you want to achieve with this project? Whether it’s adding space, modernizing a room, or improving energy efficiency, having a clear vision is essential.
  • Determine your budget. Establish a realistic budget that takes into account all costs, including materials, labor, permits, and contingencies for unexpected expenses. It’s essential to have a financial plan in place to avoid overspending.
  1. Plan and Design Carefully:
  • Work with a professional architect or designer to create detailed plans for your renovation. They can help you make the most of your space, choose materials, and create a timeline for the project.
  • Obtain any necessary permits. Depending on the scope of your renovation, you may need permits from your local government. Ensure you have all the required paperwork in order before you begin construction to avoid potential delays and fines.
  • Create a project timeline. Develop a realistic schedule that outlines the order of tasks, from demolition to finishing touches. This will help you and your contractors stay on track.
  1. Choose Reliable Contractors and Suppliers:
  • Research and hire experienced, licensed contractors. Get recommendations, check references, and request multiple quotes. A trustworthy contractor is essential for the success of your renovation.
  • Select high-quality materials and products. The materials you choose will impact the durability and aesthetics of your project. Invest in reliable, long-lasting products that align with your budget.
  • Communicate effectively with your contractors. Maintain open and clear communication throughout the project. Discuss any changes or concerns promptly to avoid misunderstandings and delays.

In addition to these three key steps, it’s important to be flexible and expect the unexpected during the renovation process. Delays, unforeseen issues, and design changes can occur. Having a contingency plan and some extra funds set aside for such situations is advisable.

Overall, a well-thought-out plan and careful preparation are key to a successful home renovation. When you take the time to define your goals, create detailed plans, and work with reliable professionals, you increase the chances of achieving the results you desire while staying within your budget and timeline.

Entertainment, Style

Chilly Fall Evenings

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.

Entertainment, Holidays, Style

Painted Pumpkins

Painted pumpkins are the complete package! They have style, provide enjoyment for all ages, require no carving skills, and there are no slimy pumpkin innards involved.

Here’s what you will need:

  1. Pumpkins, real or artificial, whatever size, shape or color you prefer.
  2. Acrylic paint – choose colors you love.
  3. Sharpee markers.
  4. Painter’s tape.
  5. Assorted painting tools like brushes, sponges, and don’t forget fingers are great tools too.
  6. Something to put the paint on – paper plates work great.
  7. Don’t skip coveringt the table. You can use a plastic tablecloth, craft paper, newspaper or whatever.
  8. Hand wipes, paper towels, hand sanitizer.
  9. Have Fun!