Nearly 42 percent of all New Year’s resolutions are broken by February, according to Statisticbrain. It’s easy to understand why — resolutions are difficult to keep all year long. Instead of risking disappointment in 2018, why not make a resolution that takes short-term effort but yields long-term benefits? This year, resolve to make your home more environmentally friendly and energy efficient. “The upgrades needed to make a house eco-friendlier can be accomplished in a Continue Reading ...
The world that millennials have grown up in is a lot different than the world the Gen Xers and Baby Boomers knew. The digital revolution, widespread use of smartphones and adoption of disruptive technologies such as ridesharing and vacation rental apps are just a few of the factors that have altered the social landscape. Unfortunately, rising student debt, rising home prices, and other economic factors have hit many millennials and left them to believe that they cannot afford a home. Many Continue Reading ...
6 fast fixes to a fresh home As temperatures drop, you and your family will be spending more time living indoors — working, playing, relaxing and staying warm. More time indoors means it's more important to keep your home fresh by staying ahead of the continual buildup of dirt, dust, and allergens. Plus, taking a few simple steps to prepare your home for winter weather will ensure your home is comfortable and efficient, too. Tackle these key areas now so your home will feel fresh and cozy Continue Reading ...
From the holidays to cold-weather fun like ice skating and skiing, winter promises its share of good times. Preparing your home for winter’s weather extremes can help ensure that you get the maximum enjoyment out of the season, while protecting your home’s vital systems and indoor comfort. “Winter weather can take a toll on homes, so it’s important to take steps to protect systems like HVAC and plumbing before cold weather arrives,” says Emily Lewicki, brand manager with Continue Reading ...
If chilly temperatures make you want to snuggle under a blanket in front of a roaring fire, just think about your poor water pipes that can’t escape the cold. You can’t wrap your home in a warm, protective blanket when winter arrives, but a few winterization steps can help ensure your home weathers the winter safely and efficiently. “Winterizing is definitely an important way to protect a home from the ravages of snow, ice and harsh temperatures, but it’s also an opportunity to boost Continue Reading ...
Small business has always been the backbone of the American economy, and today's entrepreneurs are as diverse as American culture itself. Entrepreneurship takes many forms, from freelancers and independent contractors to sole proprietors. In fact, just one form of entrepreneurship — franchises — employs 8 million people and accounts for 40 percent of all retail sales, according to the Small Business Administration. Franchise operations come in many forms, from chain restaurants and Continue Reading ...
As temperatures drop, you're reminded that Old Man Winter will soon rear his ugly head. Before the first flurries fly, it's important to take some winterization steps to ensure your home is ready for whatever the season brings. This five-point checklist will help safeguard your home against winter's woes for another year. For additional winterization ideas and detailed project plans, visit Real Cedar.com. Inspect windows Inspect each window from the outside to see if any gaps or cracks Continue Reading ...
As summer gives way to change colors and colder nights, now is an ideal time to tackle the necessary home maintenance projects that get put off during those sun-filled months – especially when it comes to one of the most protective and necessary aspects of any home, the roof. Cold weather can aggravate a roof and quickly turn minor defects into costly repair bills; in fact, the latest “Cost vs. Value” report from Remodeling Magazine estimates the average roofing replacement cost at over Continue Reading ...
Smart homeowners take a strategic approach to home improvement projects such as redoing a playroom, living room or bedroom to keep kids' safety in mind during the redesign process. By being proactive today, you can ensure your entire family can safely enjoy the results of your home improvement project. Here are the top five things to keep in mind to create a stunning yet safe space for your family: Window coverings Corded window coverings are a Top 5 Hidden Hazard in American homes, Continue Reading ...
As the holidays approach, the decorator in us gets excited about how to deck the halls and drape the tinsel to create a festive home for the season. Social media is full of inspiration, but before you embark on decorating projects, the following are a few easy ideas to ensure your home is as functional and welcoming as it is festive for family and friends. 'Tis the season to repair, repaint, refresh A pristine paint job is a perfect backdrop for holiday entertaining. Throughout the year, the Continue Reading ...
