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<p>Keeping all of your crafting supplies together in a dedicated space is a great way to boost focus and creativity. However, many craft rooms can become overwhelming and unmanageable without organization. If you're looking for some simple ways to improve your craft room storage and organization, here are some ideas to help.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Clear Containers</strong></h2><p>One of the simplest ways to improve your storage and organization is to make sure your craft supplies are visible even when they're put away. You can achieve this by using clear containers like glass jars or plastic Tupperware. This strategy lets you keep small items like buttons secure and also allows you to organize by color, shape or any other criteria you choose.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Pegboards</strong></h2><p>Pegboards are a classic way to store tools and craft items without taking up any valuable surface space. You can attach a pegboard to the wall or the inside of a door for instant vertical storage. This method is highly customizable: you can add shelves, spools and other crafting-specific ways to store your supplies.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Mobile Storage</strong></h2><p>To save on space, consider using a bar or kitchen cart as mobile storage. When your storage is on wheels, you can easily tuck it away against the wall or into another room to make more usable space. Rolling carts usually come with built-in shelves and hooks for kitchen or bar tools, which translate perfectly to storing your crafting supplies.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Filing Cabinet for Fabrics &amp; Paper</strong></h2><p>Filing cabinets aren't just for the home office: they can also be extremely helpful for organizing your craft room. Consider using a filing cabinet and basic file folders to organize anything you can store flat, such as craft paper or fabric scraps. Storing them flat in vertical folders improves visibility and also provides easy ways to label and sort by color, pattern or any other criteria of your choice.</p><p>Don't let your crafting supplies take over the room. Try these organization and storage ideas to bring some order to your crafting chaos.</p>

4 Ways to Keep Your Craft Room Organized

<p>Excited to shop for your first home? Before you schedule showings and attending open houses, there are a few steps you should take to prepare.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>1. Check Your Credit Score</strong></h2><p>If you're like most first-time homebuyers, you'll need to take out a mortgage in order to pay for your home. Before you apply for any kind of home loan, it's a good idea to know where your credit stands. After all, your credit will be a major determining factor in whether your mortgage application will be approved.</p><p>Reviewing your credit score also gives you an opportunity to scrutinize your report for any mistakes or errors that need to be disputed and resolved&nbsp;before&nbsp;you apply for a mortgage.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>2. Get Pre-Approved for a Loan</strong></h2><p>Next, it's time to secure a pre-approval letter for a home loan. While a pre-approval is&nbsp;not&nbsp;a guarantee that your formal application will be approved, this is a good way for you to get a better idea of how much you'll be able to borrow.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>3. Find a Trusted Real Estate Agent</strong></h2><p>If you haven't already found a real estate agent, now is the time to do so. Because sellers typically pay an agent's commission, you shouldn't have to pay a thing to work with a real estate agent as a first-time buyer. Ideally, you'll want to work with somebody who is familiar with the area in which you wish you buy&nbsp;and&nbsp;has experience helping first-time buyers.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>4. Save For a Down Payment</strong></h2><p>Last but certainly not least, make sure you've saved up some money for your down payment, closing costs&nbsp;and other expenses related to buying your first home. These can add up quickly, so you'll want to be prepared and start saving as soon as possible. Keep in mind that the down payment you are required to make may vary based on your lender and the type of mortgage you choose.</p><p>There's a lot that has to happen before you buy your first home. By following these steps, however, you'll be set up for greater success when it's time to shop around!</p>

Buying Your a Home for the First Time? Be Sure to Check Off These 4 Items Before Shopping

<p>If you want to take a nice hot shower, all you have to do is turn on the water, set the pressure and hop in. But would you believe that there’s a way to take a simple shower to the next level? It’s true. All you need is a digital control panel hooked up, and you’re well on your way to enjoying the most rejuvenating shower of your life. Even better news? New home builders are putting these control panels into modern residences more often than not. Here’s everything you need to know about this awesome device.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>What is a Digital Shower Control Panel?</strong></h2><p>When you have a shower connected to a digital panel, you get complete control over your bath time experience. Using the dials, buttons or just your voice, you can set an exact temperature, pressure and light hue.</p><p>Then, you can decide if you want to just use the showerhead or bring jet tiles and rain panels into the mix. Finally, you can choose the music you’d like to play to make your shower truly rejuvenating. If you have a voice control model, you can even make changes on the fly to optimize your experience.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Shower Control Panel Benefits</strong></h2><p>Although you can get plenty clean in an ordinary shower, a control panel makes it an experience to remember. You’ll delight in the comfort and convenience it affords and vow to never go back, especially after enjoying the following benefits.</p><p><br></p><h3><strong>Enjoy the Perfect Shower Experience</strong></h3><p>If you like to have the water temperature and pressure just right and don’t want to compromise on perfection, digital shower control panels are right up your alley. As you switch between the settings, you can see what suits your fancy and gauge how it improves your skin, hair and overall sense of wellbeing. You’ll likely even feel the stress melt away as you let the water wash your worries away.</p><p><br></p><h3><strong>Store Custom Settings for Each Person</strong></h3><p>Once you have your perfect preferences dial in, you can save them for later use. With that move, you just have to let the control panel know that you’ve arrived, and it will pull up those settings once again. You will never again have to guess at what you might like since it’ll be all saved for your later enjoyment. Many panels even let you store up to six presets, so your whole household can get in on the fun.</p><p><br></p><h3><strong>Pump Up the Jams for True Stress Relief</strong></h3><p>Digital shower control panels hook up to waterproof speaker tiles, so you can play all your tunes while you wash the day away. Playing music often helps relieve stress even more, helping you get the most out of every shower. You can even play podcasts and other media to stay in touch with what’s going on in the world if that’s more your style.</p><p><br></p><h3><strong>Save Water and Money on Utility Bills</strong></h3><p>When you don’t have to stand around and test the temperature for several minutes each shower, you can use less water each time and save money on your utility bills. The use of additional spray jets can also help you get clean faster, further reducing your water usage if you’re mindful about how long you’re in there.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>How to Move Through the Control Panel Settings</strong></h2><p>Digital control panels have intuitive controls that make it easy to dial in your settings and save them for later. If you need a little help setting up your presets, you can just use the manual provided by your home builder. You can also contact the device manufacturer with your questions if you need additional insights.</p>

Shower Like Royalty with Digital Control Panels

<p>Composting is the act of taking food scraps and yard waste in order to feed the soil and create a more nutritious blend for any plants that you are growing in your home. It's a concept that has many benefits. Not only does composting help you to grow a healthy and nutritious garden, but it also helps reduce the amount of waste that you send to the landfill each week.</p><p>More and more households are looking to start composting in order to reduce their carbon footprint and improve their commitment a sustainable lifestyle. If you want to try your hand at this simple practice, here's what you need to know:</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Every Compost Pile Consists of Three Elements: Browns, Greens and Water</strong></h2><p>In order to create an effective compost pile, you need equal parts of brown materials and green materials. Brown materials include dead leaves, sticks and branches from trees. Green materials are not always the color green. They are essentially natural waste products, such as lawn clippings, fruit scraps or vegetable peelings. You can even add coffee grounds to your compost pile.</p><p>Still have questions about what you can and cannot compost? Here are a few examples of what you can safely add to your compost bin:</p><ul><li class="ql-indent-2">Nutshells</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Eggshells</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Wood chips</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Hair and pet fur</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Houseplants</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Shredded newspaper</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Fruit peels</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Vegetable waste</li><li>Here are a few things that you should keep out of your compost pile:</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Dairy products</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Meat scraps</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Pet waste</li></ul><p><br></p><h2><strong>You Only Need a Few Supplies to Start Composting</strong></h2><ul><li>Some people avoid composting because they think they are going to need a lot of supplies and intricate set up in order to compost effectively. However, you only need a few basic supplies in order to get started. These include:</li><li class="ql-indent-1">A scrap pail that is located in your kitchen.</li><li class="ql-indent-1">A designated compost bin.</li><li class="ql-indent-1">A place in your yard to put the compost.</li></ul><p><br></p><h2><strong>Composting Is Easy and Everybody Can Join In</strong></h2><ul><li>Once you have your supplies ready, you can easily create a composting process in your own home. Here are some steps to take when you begin composting:</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Leave your pail out in a prominent spot to remind everyone in the house to put compost materials there. Regularly add products to the pail throughout the day.</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Every day, take your pail to the compost bin and dump it out.</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Once per month, turn your compost bin so that the materials mix up with one another and continue to decompose.</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Monitor the material at the bottom of the pile. When it appears as rich soil without any scraps, it is ready to be added to your garden. You will usually have ready-made soil at least once every six months.</li></ul><p><br></p><h2><strong>Composting Has Endless Benefits</strong></h2><ul><li>Not only is composting easy, but it's incredibly beneficial. Here are a few of the benefits that you will uncover when you start composting:</li><li class="ql-indent-1">You will have easy access to rich soil that provides you with incredible results. In addition, you will have less of a need for pesticides or chemical fertilizer. This will save you time and money in your gardening.</li><li class="ql-indent-1">You will keep unnecessary items out of landfills, which helps to reduce methane emissions and create a greener environment.</li><li>Whether you are going to pursue backyard composting or indoor composting, you will find that it's easy to get hooked on this process that helps reduce waste and improves the soil. As you are pulling up bright, ripe vegetables from your garden later this summer, you will see just how beneficial your compost pile can be.</li></ul>

A Beginner's Guide to Composting

<p>When you build a new home, you want to see the house as clearly as possible even before it’s finished. Visualizing your new home throughout the building process isn’t only exciting, but it also helps ensure everything is constructed to your liking. Here are four concrete ways to visualize your new home prior to its completion.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>1. Walk Through Model Homes</strong></h2><p>Taking a walkthrough of a model home is a standard way to begin the home-building process, and it’s one of the best ways to visualize what your new home might look like. While you’ll likely choose different options that make your home unique from any of the model homes, checking out features in a model home shows you what those options are like in the completed structure.</p><p>Don’t just walk through one model home. Go through as many as the builder has, even if some of them have&nbsp;different layouts than the home you intend to build. You never know what optional features you’ll discover and want to include in your new house.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>2. Check Out Completed Homes</strong></h2><p>If you’re able to, check out other homes that a home builder has completed. While you won’t always be able to do this, there are a few ways you might be able to see a completed home:</p><ul><li>Ask the builder for referrals of customers who may let you see their house</li><li>Check for open houses of homes that are for sale and were constructed by the builder</li><li>Ask family and friends who might’ve used the builder if you can tour their house</li></ul><p>Any home that the builder has completed and is actually being used will help you see what your home will look like once it’s lived in.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>3. Explore Digital Tours</strong></h2><p>Software makes it possible to explore many floor plans and features without actually building those designs out. Have fun using a home builder’s software to try different combinations and see what you like and don’t like. Look at what your home’s standard design is, but don’t be afraid to get silly with designs. You might discover something unconventional that you like when experimenting.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>4. Watch Your Home During Construction</strong></h2><p>You don’t want to constantly be on the worksite and acting as the foreperson while your home is being built. You should, however, stop by the site occasionally to see how construction is coming along. With the crew’s permission, walk around wherever it’s safe to do so.</p><p>Walking around your home will give you a sense of what it’ll be like once construction is complete. You can pretend to go about regular activities (e.g. making a meal) and measure out where furniture will go. As the home’s construction moves along, you’ll gain a clearer and clearer picture of the house.</p><p>Visualizing what your new home will look like is both a lot of fun and highly useful. As you go through the stage of having a new home built, use these tips and you should have a good idea of what the home will look like when it’s finished.</p>

How to Make Concrete Visualizations When Building Your Dream Home

<p>Whether you’re buying or selling a house, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the housing market. However, that can be a lot more complicated than it seems. Many factors affect both your local and national housing markets, some of which can be hard to track and quantify. However, there are some basics you can start with to gain a better understanding.</p><p>Here are the fundamental things that affect the housing market:</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>The Economy</strong></h2><p>The more active and strong the economy is, the better the housing market is. A strong economy means lots of people are spending money. This includes buying houses. Buyers stimulate the economy by taking up inventory and creating higher demand, which creates higher property values. During periods of economic struggle, the housing market may also suffer. The most common examples of this are properties staying on the market for a long time and decreasing property values.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Interest Rates</strong></h2><p>For many, a mortgage is essential to buying a home. Therefore, the interest rates offered by lenders can have a huge effect on the overall housing market. If mortgage rates are high, it can make would-be buyers hesitant to purchase. When the rates are lower, there might be much more buyer activity. Interest rates vary daily, but there are also longer-term trends buyers and sellers can follow for more insight into the overall housing market.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Demographics</strong></h2><p>Demographics like age, household size and income all play a part in a local housing market. These facts affect property values in specific regions. An area with highly rated schools will attract families, for example. An area near a college campus may have a hot rental market but very little inventory for purchase. While there are many factors that determine the property values of an area, knowing the needs of your target audience is key to selling or buying in a community.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Buyer’s vs. Seller’s Market</strong></h2><p>Buyer’s and seller’s markets have different levels of supply and demand. For example, in a buyer’s market, there are lots of properties available with low prices and mortgage rates. A seller’s market has high demand because of a lack of inventory and therefore also has higher prices. The current amount of supply compared to the amount of demand for real estate in a certain area will affect the housing market.</p><p>Knowing your local housing market will help you determine the best time to buy or sell a home. While the market is complex and constantly changing, keep these factors in mind when making your next real estate decision.</p>

Here's What Affects the Housing Market

<p>If you’re looking for a home, your budget is probably one of your biggest concerns. With all the costs associated with a home purchase, spending more money to hire a real estate agent might feel like adding unnecessary expense. However, there are some serious benefits to hiring a real estate agent to help you in your home search. Here are some of the major reasons real estate agents benefit homebuyers:</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Best Price</strong></h2><p>Many homebuyers shy away from the idea of hiring a real estate agent on top of the other expenses for a home. However, most times a real estate agent can actually get a better purchase price than if you were to do your home search on your own. Not only do agents have access to exclusive listings you don’t see on portal sites like Zillow or Trulia, but they’re professional negotiators. When you find a house you love they will help you decide on an offer that’s fair and within your budget. Your budget is their priority and they have all the skills and savvy to negotiate in your favor.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>More Properties</strong></h2><p>Real estate agents have access to their local multiple listing service (MLS). This giant database of property listings can sometimes include hundreds of homes you won’t find anywhere else on the internet. Agents also have experience in navigating the MLS and know exactly what to search for in order to find the best options. Sometimes agents can suggest off-market listings that will soon be available or properties that for whatever reason wouldn’t show up in a web search. A real estate agent truly provides an advantage in your search.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Help With Paperwork</strong></h2><p>Buying a home involves a lot of paperwork. With all the contracts, tax forms and other documentation it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Luckily, a real estate agent can do the complicated work for you and explain it in ways that are easy to understand. Rather than just ask you to sign off on contracts blindly, they can go over the meaning behind the jargon and other potentially confusing details. This can save hours of extra work and stress in an already daunting process.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Market Knowledge</strong></h2><p>The real estate market is constantly changing. Depending on where you’re looking for a home, things like price and mortgage rates can fluctuate seemingly without reason. An excellent advantage to working with a real estate agent is that they are watching the market and keeping track of changes that could affect you. They will give you information about the current state of the market in your local area and on a national level. This can help with aspects of the process like price negotiations and availability of properties for sale.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Local Expertise</strong></h2><p>Real estate agents are experts in more than just the local market. They also know information about schools, business, infrastructure and other details important to your home decision. They can provide you with valuable advice about the best neighborhoods or any potential issues with areas you might be interested in. This is especially important if you’re moving to a brand new city or region. Coming into a brand new place with the right information and guidance will help you find the best home for the best price.</p><p>The cost of hiring a real estate agent varies based on their personal fees and commission rates. Regardless, the benefits of working with an agent to find a home make it well worth factoring into your home buying budget.</p>

Looking for a Home? Here's Why You Should Hire an Agent

<p>If you’re looking to build a home and want an exterior that is both trendy and timeless, consider natural stone. Stone is one of the oldest building materials in human history and it is still being used in new construction today. There are many varieties of natural stone you can use for siding and each offer a unique look and set of benefits. Regardless of the type of stone you choose, there are some long-term advantages compared to other types of home exteriors.</p><p>Here are the biggest benefits to natural stone homes:</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Durability</strong></h2><p>There is a good reason buildings from thousands of years ago are still standing today. Stone is an incredibly durable building material and can withstand almost all the common sources of damage to other home exteriors. Stone exteriors are rot-proof, leak proof and pest proof. They can stand against the elements without showing practically any wear. Stone won’t fade in the sun or discolor from rain so there’s no need to replace or paint your siding in the future. Stone is also fire resistant, which not only makes the home safer but can save you money on your home insurance.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Versatility</strong></h2><p>There are over half a dozen types of stone commonly used in home exteriors and each comes with their own look and feel. Stone siding comes in different colors, textures and styles to fit your dream home plan. Some of the most common examples are granite, limestone and sandstone, each of which has a unique look. Flint, another popular choice, comes in multiple colors: black, gray, tan and even blue.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Environmentally Friendly</strong></h2><p>Stone is naturally eco-friendly because of its durability. When your siding remains perfect for the entire life of your home, there’s no need for replacing or throwing away materials. Many builders can get stone from local sources which reduces emissions from transportation. Consider the stone naturally found in the region where you are living if you want to make the most sustainable choice. For example, sandstone is widely available in the Western United States while granite might be more abundant in the Northeast.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Appearance</strong></h2><p>Stone houses tend to hold a stunning visual aesthetic. It adds a sense of timelessness to your home design and can also help you enhance a certain architectural style. Depending on the type and texture of stone you choose, you can achieve anything from rustic and rugged to a highly sophisticated and luxurious facade.</p><p>Even if you don’t choose to cover your entire home with natural stone, you can add some visual interest when using it as an accent in your design. Many home builders and designers will do partial stone walls or a single accent wall depending on the type of facade your home has.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Resale Value</strong></h2><p>Stone homes have huge resale value. It is a choice that will pay off when it comes time to sell your home. Not only can the mere aesthetic quality of stone siding increase the home value, but the durability and lasting energy efficiency are selling points as well. Stone is an excellent insulator both in terms of temperature and sound. You can keep the warm or cool air inside and save money on your energy bills.</p><p>There are many significant advantages to natural stone exteriors, but the cost can be prohibitive. Natural stone is an expensive option for siding. However, because of the long-lasting benefits and the potentially high return on investment, it is still worth considering if you have it in your budget.</p>

The Benefits of a Stone Home

<p>For plant containers, it doesn’t get more classic than a terracotta pot. This orange-brown clay has been a favorite among plant lovers for ages because of its durability, accessibility and aesthetic. However, because of their widespread popularity and availability some may consider a terracotta pot to be a boring or “basic” choice. While tastes differ from one plant owner to the next, there are actually some benefits to using terracotta pots completely aside from their looks. We’ll go over the benefits and drawbacks.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Terracotta Pot Pros</strong></h2><p>Indoor &amp; Outdoor Use&nbsp;- Terra cotta is a common choice for outdoor container gardening and keeping indoor plants. This is because of the material’s excellent durability and the wide variety of shapes and sizes of containers available.</p><p>Highly Porous&nbsp;- Terracotta pots allow both moisture and air to pass through the walls. This helps wick away excess water from the soil that could cause fungus or root rot. It also makes them an ideal container for succulents, cacti and other plants that prefer drier soil.</p><p>Affordable&nbsp;- One of the key reasons for the popularity of terracotta pots is how inexpensive they are. Even in very large sizes you will typically spend far less on a terracotta container than you would on one made of ceramic or other materials. They are also frequently available at second-hand stores for an even lower price point and just as useful as when brand new.</p><p>Easy to Customize&nbsp;- Terracotta pots are easy to customize in a variety of ways. You can paint them to change the color and finish and their naturally matte surface makes them easy to write on with a permanent marker for quick labeling. If you are not a fan of the color or if you need to match other decor, it’s easy to paint and repaint terracotta pots to make them unique.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Terracotta Pot Cons</strong></h2><p>Changes Watering Schedule&nbsp;- The highly porous nature of terra cotta as a material is both a blessing and a curse. Depending on the type of plant inside the pot, the extremely efficient moisture-absorption may not be a benefit. For plants that need regular watering, a terracotta pot will require you to adjust your watering schedule. If you change a plant from one pot into another, you’ll have to change your watering habits accordingly—either water more often for terra cotta or less often for less porous materials.</p><p>However, as long as you know your plant’s specific needs and check soil moisture regularly, this shouldn’t cause too much of a problem. As mentioned above, terracotta pots are convenient for succulents and cacti that have greater risk of root rot or other damage caused from over-watering.</p><p>Not Cold-Resistant&nbsp;- Another thing to keep in mind about terracotta pots is your climate. If you’re using terra cotta containers outdoors, be very careful in cold weather. Some plants can survive frost and below-freezing temperatures, but the same can’t be said for their pots. Terra cotta can crack in the cold, making them less viable an option in climate zones with harsh winters. To mitigate this, you can always bring your plants indoors for the winter or even just the coldest nights. This will help the plants stay alive and keep the pots in good working condition.</p>

What You Need to Know About Terracotta Pots

<p>Hosting a get-together or event is an often rewarding experience. You get to spend time with your loved ones, show off the nuances of your home and enjoy the atmosphere of having everyone around. But what if there was a way to enhance that atmosphere while minimizing cleanup?</p><p>Here are a few ways entertaining outdoors can improve your gathering experience.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>More Space to Spread Out</strong></h2><p>Your home may be full of illustrious space and great entertaining areas. However, it’s nice to spread out, enjoy company and keep the festivities comfortable. Entertaining outdoors is a great way to do that.</p><p>With more space to roam, your guests will enjoy each other’s company without strange internal acoustics or the fear of them bumping into a prized piece of indoor décor. They’ll also be able to maintain their own comfort levels and personal space distances that make them feel at ease around the other guests.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>More Space to Vent</strong></h2><p>There’s a good chance you’re cooking or entertaining with some sort of scent-producing snacks. Depending on the snacks that you put out, you may end up with a cornucopia of smells that may not mix well together. Likewise, you could also host a gathering that would benefit from being able to be outdoors and get a little fresh air and movement, especially if a round of extreme board games break out. Either way, entertaining outdoors is an excellent way to maintain freshness during your event and keep the clean air flowing.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Less to Clean</strong></h2><p>Possibly the greatest thing about hosting any type of get-together outdoors is the cleanup. While you may still need to clean up after your guests have gone home, there are fewer surfaces and touch points to worry about. Whether you’re worried about sticky fingers or grimy counters, entertaining outdoors can reduce the amount of surfaces your guests come into contact with, which means fewer surfaces for you to tend to after the fact.</p><p>Hosting get-togethers doesn’t have to be a tedious and arduous task after the fact. It can be enjoyable and personal while also giving you and your guests enough space to enjoy the party.</p>

3 Reasons and Ways to Entertain in Your Backyard

<p>In the military, sometimes a Permanent Change of Station, or PCS, move happens quickly and orders to move to a new location can leave you scrambling.</p><p>When you have to make a fast move, the whirlwind of activity can leave you feeling a little dazed and wondering if you’re forgetting anything. Here are some tips for a short-notice PCS move.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Prioritize Your To-Do List</strong></h2><p>From contacting schools to changing addresses with the Post Office or collecting medical records, there is a lot to do when moving. Find out if there are specific dates or requirements for turning in gear or check-out procedures with the unit. Create a prioritized list of most urgent and time-sensitive things. Then create one of things that could wait until after the move. Changing a driver’s license isn’t urgent because most states give at least 30 days post-move. But, changing your address with the Post Office and anywhere you get deliveries from (like an Amazon or a magazine subscription) is important to do before moving.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Speed Declutter</strong></h2><p>You don’t have time to sort through small boxes of trinkets, so be really careful not to get caught in the little things. Start by immediately throwing out any trash. Move on to large items you can donate or get rid of (furniture, small appliances or large toys). As you declutter, you can also box up the items you know you are keeping. When sorting through books or movies, for example, make quick decisions and have a box to donate and a box to pack so you are getting both jobs done at the same time.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Work in Bursts</strong></h2><p>It is important to take mental breaks so you don’t burn out. Work for a few hours and then take a complete break to get lunch or do something different for an hour. When you have days or weeks of a fast-paced move, you want to stay focused. However, your brain can only focus for so long before it gets tired. By taking those breaks, your work time is more efficient by giving your brain a moment to rest.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Expect a PPM Move</strong></h2><p>When you do it yourself, moving is called a PPM, or personally procured move, by the military. With a short notice of days or just a few weeks, you likely won’t get moving support for companies working with the military. You can certainly check the options, but be prepared for a DIY (do it yourself) move. Often, the military will provide you with a high percentage of the moving stipend they would have given a company. So you make a little extra money while having more control when packing your items.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Mark Your Boxes</strong></h2><p>One of the most overwhelming parts of a move is unpacking what you need when you need it. Grab a sharpie and label your boxes either: IMMEDIATE, SECONDARY or STORAGE. Add the room the box will go in when you arrive to make it easy to take everything to the right rooms and prioritize what gets unpacked first.</p><p>Whatever you do, don’t get lost in the details. Keep your labeling quick and easy to understand. All important documents, like the marriage certificate, passports or birth certificates, should be kept in one box and carried by you (not packed in the truck).</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Plan for Time With the Truck</strong></h2><p>Of course, you need to plan for time to rent and pack the truck, but don’t forget about weighing the truck in order to get reimbursement for a DIY move. If you are moving on your own (PPM), go to a local weighing station before and after the truck is loaded to record how much you are moving.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Pay Attention to Final Details</strong></h2><p>If you are selling a home you own off-base, your real estate agent will tell you what cleaning and staging will increase the likelihood of a sale. If you live on-base, you will want to patch up and repaint spots, like nail holes, to avoid any final charges. Cleaning and sweeping the floors will probably be one of the last things you do to make sure the space looks as good as possible for inspection (on-base) or showings (off-base).</p>

Tips for Tackling a Short-Notice PCS Move

<p>Outdoor kitchens are ideal when you want to cook outside when the weather’s pleasant. Instead of being cooped up in a stuffy kitchen, you can get some fresh air and sun while preparing lunch or dinner on the grill or outdoor range. Your outdoor kitchen can also include an area for dining, so you don’t have to go back inside to enjoy your food. Since outdoor kitchens involve several elements, including electricity and even plumbing sometimes, it’s important to know the basics of building one. The following can help you understand more about what to expect when you plan on doing a DIY outdoor kitchen.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Check Local Codes</strong></h2><p>Before you plan an outdoor kitchen, check your local building codes. You’ll need to know what rules and regulations you need to follow when building your outdoor kitchen, such as how close it can be&nbsp;to your property line and whether you need to file any permits. You should also look into fire safety codes, since outdoor kitchens involve the use of fire for grilling or cooking. Knowing your local codes can help you plan your outdoor kitchen.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Choose a Location</strong></h2><p>Where you put your outdoor kitchen involves taking a few factors into consideration. You’ll need to make sure you won’t have any grills, stovetops or other appliances that produce heat near your house. These should be at least 10 feet away from home exteriors and any materials that are combustible. You should also think about odors and noise from an outdoor kitchen. While you might want yours close to your home for convenience, avoid putting it in an area where odors will become trapped and seep inside. You should also avoid building your outdoor kitchen right by your property line out of consideration for your neighbors.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Plan for Utility Connections</strong></h2><p>You might need to plan carefully with hooking up utilities for your outdoor kitchen. For example, you might need to run a gas line for a gas grill or have pipes installed for a sink. You might also need wiring for a refrigerator and other appliances that use electricity. Having these closer to your home rather than farther away can reduce the cost of hooking up these utilities.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Ventilation</strong></h2><p>Even though you’re cooking outside, it’s still important to have good ventilation. Smoke from grills can build up around your outdoor kitchen, making it an unpleasant environment for you and your family or friends. You can put in a ventilation system to eliminate this problem, or place your grill close to the edge of your outdoor kitchen so the smoke blows away from it. Reducing smoke buildup in and around your outdoor kitchen helps you get more use and enjoyment out of it.</p>

Building an Outdoor Kitchen? Remember These Basics

<p>The most important element in designing a game room is to have fun. However, fun means something different for everybody. Depending on the type of gaming you want to do, there are some specific tips to help you in setting up the best possible playing space. Here we’ll go over some popular types of game rooms and their key features to help guide your design plans.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Billiards</strong></h2><p>Billiards or pool tables are true classics for home gaming. However, it requires quite a bit of space. Not only do you have to fit the actual pool table, but you need ample space surrounding it in order to safely and comfortably play. This means a billiard room will have the obvious focal point of the table itself and often minimal seating. If you want to include seating, try setting up a bar counter on one or more walls and add stools. This saves space while still giving you a place to sit and watch or wait for your turn. Hang a low chandelier centered over the pool table to add adequate lighting and a classic, retro feel to the room. To store cues, opt for wall-mounted stands or clips to hold them in place when not in use. This makes for an eye-catching design choice and a smart use of space.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Cards &amp; Tabletop Gaming</strong></h2><p>Card and board games definitely require a specific type of setup. The most important thing is the playing surface, usually a round table seating 4 or more people. The key to finding the perfect gaming table is to provide enough room to include as many players as possible without getting too cramped or too spread out. In tabletop roleplaying games, being too far away from your fellow players can cause communication issues and make seeing shared assets difficult. Then again, nobody wants to play poker while feeling people are close enough to see your cards. The best solution is a convertible table that can expand to fit more people as needed. Just make sure you have the right amount of chairs to go with it!</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Multiplayer Video Gaming</strong></h2><p>Multiplayer console gaming may seem simple to design for, but there are some key things you can do to make the space extra fun and efficient. Console gaming requires at least one screen, therefore visibility is going to be your primary concern when planning the room. Decide whether you’ll go with a TV or projector or multiple screens and arrange furniture accordingly. If you’re in a room with windows, try sitting in different corners of the room to help avoid screen glare and determine optimal visibility. One easy and fun way to do this is to invest in a set of bean bags or other easily movable seating. This way, depending on the size of the group and the type of game you want to play, people can move their seat for comfort. Having a big sofa facing the TV is a great place to start, but the flexibility of additional seating will prove extremely helpful for anybody who might need to sit further or closer from the screen.</p><p>These are just a few of the different game rooms you can design for. It’s also common to combine all three or more into a single space. Let the activities themselves guide your decisions and build your design according to your preferences. Don’t forget safety and comfort, however. Whether it’s adequate space around a pool table or accounting for screen visibility issues, the more safe and comfortable your game room is, the more fun you’ll have.</p>

Which Type of Game Room is Right for You?

<p>Whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist, you need storage. Designing your home with spectacular, well-designed storage nooks in mind can make your life so much easier. Consider building these storage solutions into your new home.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>1. In-Wall Storage Solutions</strong></h2><p>Utilizing the space between studs to create built-in shelves or storage nooks is a brilliant option.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>In-wall&nbsp;nooks beside a sitting area may eliminate the need for an end table.</li><li>In-wall niche shelves in a kitchen can offer a lovely way to display organized canisters, spices&nbsp;and other sundries worthy of keeping out in the open.&nbsp;</li><li>In-wall medicine cabinets and/or cleaning supply nooks in the bathroom take up less space, blend seamlessly into your decor and offer just that little extra space for necessities.</li></ul><p><br></p><h2><strong>2. Under-Stair Storage&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>If you have a traditional staircase, you might just have plenty of space for storage underneath. This type of storage is perfect for larger bins of seasonal items you want tucked away, but easier to access and better-protected&nbsp;than the basement or attic.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>3. Dormer/Attic Space Storage</strong></h2><p>In an attic space with steeply pitched walls, cabinets built along the lower edges of the room make it possible to capitalize on what would otherwise be awkward, unused space. And homes with architectural features like dormers offer another tremendous opportunity. Drawers can be built into the insides of many dormers, and window seats offer an aesthetically pleasing, cozy spot to relax with a generous amount of storage space underneath.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>4. Harness the Power of the Built-In&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>Built-in shelves surrounding a fireplace, adorning a living area wall or encapsulating a TV/entertainment area can add incredible versatility. Consider cabinets across the bottom and open shelving at higher levels.&nbsp;The downside? You’ll need a fairly good idea of your furniture arrangement options before settling on a built-in design. But built-ins tend to add value and style to a home, whether they’re built into a sleek contemporary space or a more traditional one.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>5. Pay Attention to Your Closets</strong></h2><p>Take the time to look up closet design and storage ideas. This will help you determine what type of storage solution would work best for your wardrobe and storage needs. Building shelving, appropriate-height rods&nbsp;and other storage features into your closets greatly increases your storage efficiency.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>6. Make the Most of Your Garage/Outdoor Storage Space&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>Think beyond the vehicles you’ll need to park as you plan your outdoor storage space. An attached shed, built-in garage shelving and cabinets might be the solution for storing your yard tools and outdoor recreational supplies. Look into slat-wall garage storage options or ceiling-mounted storage accessories to make the most of your garage space.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>7. Consider Fold-Up Furniture&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>In some homes, a fold-down desk or work surface can transform a space into a multi-use area that eliminates the need for extra furniture and streamlining storage needs. Many Murphy beds and folding desks incorporate attractive shelves on either side for storage. It might be nontraditional, but it’s a solid option when you’re trying to capitalize on space.</p>

Save Space With These Built-In Storage Ideas

<p>Buying a house is more than the number of rooms and how it is staged. It’s a set of complex systems in a specific location. And while it’s not all about location, that’s a perfect place to start your list.</p><p><br></p><h3><strong>Where to Buy</strong></h3><p>Areas and neighborhoods trend for a variety of reasons. If you’re new to a city, consider renting for six to twelve months. That way, you can investigate all the neighborhoods to determine which one is right for you. For example, if you plan to have children, the hot market near the city center might not be best for you. Instead, you’ll want a home in a neighborhood with excellent schools, playgrounds, access to nearby shopping and family-friendly entertainment.</p><p><br></p><h3><strong>When to Buy</strong></h3><p>Once you know where you want to live, engage your real estate agent in helping determine when the best timing is. If you can afford to wait until fall or winter because prices often drop, then do so. Or, if you need to get in ahead of the “between school sessions” rush, get your offer in just after Super Bowl Sunday or before Spring Break.</p><p><br></p><h3><strong>What to Buy</strong></h3><p>This advice must adjust to your needs, of course, but buy what fits into your budget. Overbuying causes problems down the road when a repair completely busts your budget, and you end up with extensive problems. But don’t buy less than you’ll be happy with either. You need a home that meets your needs for years to come.</p><p><br></p><h3><strong>How to Buy</strong></h3><p>Lastly, don’t buy sight unseen or home uninspected. Purchasing a home without really looking at it or requiring a complete, professional, certified inspection can set you up for homeownership failure. Your agent can suggest an inspector to you, or you can hire one from a list of professionals. Pay attention to the notes and suggestions on the inspection and require corrections to any major systems. If you do purchase the home without adding that clause, set aside funds to repair or replace the offending appliance, pipes, wiring or structural issue before it becomes a major headache.</p><p>Don’t rely on a seller’s agent to handle the deal. Their responsibility is to the seller, and they are obligated to sell the home for the highest price with the fewest changes, upgrades or repairs required. A buyer’s agent, conversely, advocates for you, the buyer. That means they have your best interest in mind in negotiations, offers and the final outcome. If you’re hunting for a home, engage a buyer’s agent and let them do the heavy lifting for you.</p>

What Should You Consider before Buying?

<p>There are many steps that go into “finishing” an unfinished basement. One of the biggest challenges is renovating the basement walls in order to create a living space. Whether you hire a contractor or do the work yourself, there are some key things to consider in your process. Here are some expert tips for finishing your basement walls.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Get a Permit</strong></h2><p>If you plan to build brand new walls rather than seal the existing ones, you will need a permit. It might tempt many homeowners to skip a permit because the basement is invisible from the outside. However, avoiding fines from your local building authority is worth the effort. A lack of building permit may also come back to cause problems in the future if you decide to sell your home, leading to failed inspections and inconsistency with official building records. Contact your local housing authority to get a permit before you do any significant construction work in the basement.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Use the Right Materials</strong></h2><p>When finishing basement walls yourself, it’s crucial to use materials that are specifically meant for basement construction. Not only will this make your finished basement rot and moisture-resistant, it will keep you in compliance with building codes. Some examples of materials to use include treated wood, moisture-resistant drywall and insulation. Using the correct materials for the job will save you time, money and frustration by ensuring your basement stays dry, mold-free and building code-compliant.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Don’t Forget Pipes &amp; Wiring</strong></h2><p>If you’re adding plumbing and electricity to your basement, account for things like wiring and pipes in your walls. This includes planning the location and number of electrical outlets and whether you need to reroute existing pipes rather than add new ones. Many experts suggest adding brand new pipes rather than try to change existing ones, but this requires accounting for the extra space the construction will take up. Besides pipes, adding wire needs to be done in a safe and efficient manner both to abide by building codes and protect against potential fire hazards.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Try a Modular Wall System</strong></h2><p>If you want a comfortable middle ground between pure DIY construction and hiring professionals, consider a modular basement wall kit. This option lets you install ready-made walls by attaching them to floor and ceiling tracks. These walls can be removed or adjusted later if needed and are far quicker and simpler to install than building new walls from scratch. Check your local home improvement retailers for modular basement wall kits for a quick and inexpensive DIY-friendly alternative to hiring a contractor.</p><p>As with any home remodeling project, safety is of the utmost importance. Always use the proper tools and equipment, including protective gear and don’t be afraid to hire help if you find yourself overwhelmed. However, with these tips you will be on your way to finished basement walls and increased value for your home.</p>

4 Important Tips for Finishing Basement Walls

<p>You've gotten an offer accepted on your first home. The appraisal and inspection came back fine. Now, all that's left to do is eagerly await your closing date. This is the day when you will sign all the paperwork that makes your first home purchase official! So, what should you expect as you prepare for this big day? While closing procedures can vary a bit from one real estate transaction to the next, there are some basic things you can expect on closing day.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>What You Need to Bring</strong></h2><p>If you've been working with a real estate agent during your homebuying process, they should provide you with a detailed list of everything you'll need to have prepared for your closing date. Some common documents and items may include:</p><ul><li>down payment and other fees (often as a cashier's check)</li><li>proof of insurance on the new property</li><li>government-issued identification (such as a driver's license or state ID)</li><li>closing paperwork</li></ul><p><br></p><h2><strong>What to Expect</strong></h2><p>Most of your closing appointment will consist of you and the seller signing paperwork to legally transfer ownership of the property to you. The number of documents that you will be required to sign can overwhelm; it's helpful to understand a few of the crucial documents you'll be signing and their purpose. Some of the key documents you will review and sign on your closing date include:</p><ul><li>a mortgage deed, which places a lien on your home as collateral for your mortgage.</li><li>a closing disclosure, which provides a list of charges and fees based on your contract.</li><li>a promissory note, which legally binds you to pay off your loan according to the terms.</li></ul><p>At closing, you will also provide any payment that is due according to your disclosure; this may include the down payment on the property, any closing costs and legal fees as well. Unless otherwise agreed upon, you will receive the keys to your property and assume ownership as soon as closing is completed.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>How Long Does it Take?</strong></h2><p>As long as everybody comes prepared, your closing appointment should be done within an hour. However, some more complex situations may take longer. Your agent should be able to give you a better feel for how long you can expect to be at the closing table. From there, it's time to celebrate your newfound homeownership!&nbsp;</p>

First-Time Homebuyer: Remember This Key Checklist

<p>If you love the ease and comfort of farmhouse style but want something a bit more elegant, then French country design might be right for you. This design style is popular all over the world for combining rustic elements with traditional luxury and beauty. Here we’ll go over the basic elements of French country design to better understand the style and how you can use it in your own home.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Light &amp; Warm</strong></h2><p>French country style features warm color palettes with plenty of soft white. Pastels and other low-intensity colors like baby blue, creamy yellow and soft pink all come together with white and off-whites to keep interiors bright and soft. The style promotes a sense of casual charm that also has a bit of romance with delicate floral patterns and other organic motif that reflect the world outside the home.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Exposed Beams &amp; Natural Stone</strong></h2><p>The more rustic side of the French country style can be seen in exposed woodwork and natural stone. Vaulted ceilings with unfinished wooden beams recall an old-world farmhouse feel and light-colored stone is practical and timeless. Stone surfaces are usually painted white or other light colors to keep lots of light in the room and soften any hard edges. You’ll also find the preference for exposed beams and stone reflected in furnishings that also have natural materials.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Copper &amp; Cookware</strong></h2><p>One of the most iconic elements of French country design is shiny copper cookware. Gleaming but well-used pots and pans are prominently displayed in kitchens and accents like drawer pulls and sink hardware may also include copper. This creates contrast with the softness of the color palette and also provides vintage charm. Cookware in particular is a focal point in French country design, with the kitchen being the center of the home’s universe.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Rounded Corners &amp; Curves</strong></h2><p>The key way that French country style differs from other similar design styles is that it has a lot of soft edges. Furniture and accessories have gentle curves and round shapes. To carry this through in your own design, opt for seating with rounded backs and circular accent tables. Vintage-style armoires and headboards with swooping lines and delicately carved accents are perfect examples of this element showing through. You will also find a lot of floral and pastoral imagery in French country textiles and artwork.</p><p><br></p><h2><strong>Emphasis on the Outdoors</strong></h2><p>The philosophy behind French country design is to create a feeling of ease and elegance while celebrating a love of the outdoors. You can create an escape to the beauty of the French countryside through the use of natural elements and by emphasizing outdoor living. Create a space that makes you want to spend time outside by adding bistro seating with cushions. A vintage bar cart for your patio or deck makes an excellent edition to the luxurious but practical mood. Try tossing a picnic blanket over a rectangular table to soften it and add casual charm.</p><p>French country design style may seem expensive and difficult to implement in your own space, but once you understand the above elements you will find many ways of making the style your own. From natural materials to romantic florals, you’ll find the perfect balance that works for any room of your home.</p>

The Key Elements of French Country Design

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