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January 29, 2019

3D Floors – Will the Trend Take Off?

Home decor is as much of an expression of personal style as the clothes you wear. Some homeowners prefer a retro look and feel, while others prefer more futuristic home design. And then there’s THIS — a new trend in home design which is rapidly gaining popularity overseas. It’s called 3D epoxy floor painting, and it’s a rousing conversation piece for any home.

The examples below were created by Imperial Interiors, a design company servicing Dubai and UAE. According to Imperial, liquid 3D floors are a recent innovation first used in hotels, offices, and shopping centers. However, they insist it’s a misconception that decorative screed can only be used in the bathroom or toilet – in fact, 3D floors are suitable for any room, “and even villas.”

As you can see below, these floors completely transform any room in the house into something right out of a story book.

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Would you consider doing something like this in your home? What kind of design would you want and in which room?

By The Property Geeks
Home Trends for 2019
December 18, 2018

10 Hot Home Trends for 2019 (and 2 that are OUT!)

Each fall, decorators begin to share the interior design trends we can expect to see in the new year. Looking ahead to 2019, bold colors, metallics, and statement ceilings take center stage.

If you’re planning to put your place on the market and want it to appear like the freshest spot on the block, you need to know what’s hot and what’s not.

1. Wallpaper stages a comeback

Put down that paint brush! If you’re looking to add a splash of color or geometric flair to your rooms, wallpaper is a fashionable alternative that adds instant personality to any area. But if you’re picturing your Great Aunt Polly’s overwhelming floral patterns or you’ve heard horror stories about wallpaper removal, those days are over. Easy-to-remove papers come in an array of colors and designs that range from subtle to seriously jaw-dropping. Prepare to see plenty of wallpaper in 2019.

2. Making the most of the ceiling

Ceilings are often considered a room’s fifth wall, so why not capitalize on that blank canvas? Whether you choose to add an accent paint color, wallpaper, or decorative beams, enhancing the ceiling draws the eye upward and can make a room appear larger — not to mention more interesting.

3. The color of the year…

If you still can’t get behind the idea of papering your walls, give them a bold, up-to-date look with a fresh coat of paint. Which hue is a modern standout? Behr’s 2019 color of the year is Blueprint (S470-5). Pair it with gray or other neutral tones and you’ve got a vibrant new feel.

4. Kitchen hoods slim down

For a while, kitchen hoods have been working overtime. Not only do they ventilate the room, removing odors and smoke, they also add a decorative flourish. From copper to brick and beyond, some nearly swallowed the space with their oversized appeal. Well, in 2019, hoods are going on a diet. Expect to see rounded, more slimmed-down designs.

5. Colorful kitchens are on the menu

Neutral, all-white kitchens are out as darker, more dramatic designs are finding favor with homeowners who are looking to spice up the heart of the home. Expect to see islands, cabinetry, and fixtures get an exciting, decidedly darker makeover in the new year.

6. Appliances go for gold

Remember when rose gold was having a moment? Well, it’s over, and plain old gold is reclaiming the top spot. From faucets to fridges, decorators are imploring homeowners to go for the gold and give stainless steel the year off.

7. Metallic sinks make splash

Hammered metallics are the hottest thing in sinks according to designers. These fun and funky alternatives to your white farmhouse sinks often have a vintage vibe. Popular in kitchens, they’re expected to make a big impact in the powder room as well.

8. Keeping it interesting with colored tile

Kitchens aren’t the only rooms that are saying goodbye to neutral tones. Bathrooms are striving to be just as eye-catching thanks to bold tile colors. This trend might not appeal to everyone, but it definitely makes a trip to the loo more memorable.

9. Curvy furniture exudes comfort

Furniture with rounded edges beckons you to sit a while. Warmer and more inviting than couches and chairs with sharp lines, these comfy seating designs feel like a welcome throwback to a more casual time. Rectangular tables are out, and ovals are in. They’re safer for households with young children, making them a popular pick for families.

10. Invite the outdoors in

Some say plants are like tattoos: You get one and you’ll just end up wanting another. Greens give off oxygen at the same time that they add a nice pop of color, doubling their appeal. Tired of your artwork? Replace it with plants. Living walls will be all the rage in 2019. But if your green thumb isn’t ready for a full-scale indoor garden, start with a few easy-to-maintain plants on shelves.

Trends That Are Out

1. Accent walls

“Dramatic-colored or wallpapered accent walls are no longer the focal point of interiors. Single-colored walls are making a much bigger impact by creating a balanced backdrop for furnishings and decor.” — Kesha Franklin of Halden Interiors (via Elle Decor)

2. Cherry Cabinets

“Warmth in the kitchen is no longer achieved with this traditional go-to finish. Painted cabinets in deep blues, grays and black are dominating both modern and traditional kitchen designs.” — Kesha Franklin of Halden Interiors (via Elle Decor)

We want to hear your thoughts. Do you agree or disagree on what’s coming in and what’s trending out?

By The Property Geeks
December 11, 2018

Tips for Amazing Outdoor Holiday Lights

Who doesn’t love piling the family into the car and driving around to view the holiday lights? For many of us, it’s an annual tradition. But when it comes to installing your own decorations, it can sometimes be difficult to find the motivation! (Especially when it’s -20 outside and the snow is falling.) We’ve put together a few tips that ought to make things easier this year!

Test your lights before you get started.

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It might seem like common sense, but sometimes people are so eager to get started that they start hanging lights and hours later find out that the one of the strings they’ve been working with doesn’t work. Do yourself a favor and do a plug-in test before you begin. Although no one likes doing the prep work of untangling huge clumps of twinkle lights, you’ll save yourself time in the long run.

Use outdoor-rated supplies outdoors.

Make sure you’re using lights rated for outdoor use. Otherwise you might find yourself with decor that fizzles out halfway through the season. It’s important to make sure your extension cords are intended for outdoor use as well.

Safety first.

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If you need a ladder to complete your decor, be sure to use one that’s sturdy. Don’t be tempted to risk life and limb by getting creative when it comes to reaching new heights. Be careful on roofs that might be icy or slick too. And when stringing those lights, don’t use nails or staple guns. The best way to hand electrical wires is with light clips or even electrical tape.

Start Small.

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It’s easy to get caught up in the spirit of the season. But don’t get ahead of yourself when planning your decor. It’s better to finish your decorating plan in stages than to try to do everything at once. Otherwise you might run out of steam or supplies and end up with a house that looks half done.

Be Creative.

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With all of the options available on the market, shoppers aren’t limited to simple strings of lights. There are inflatables, LED lights, net lights, icicle strands, and so many more choices. It’s easy to get carried away! Just make sure you’re not overloading your circuits. No one wants to pull a Clark Griswold.

Clean Up After Yourself.

By the time the holidays have passed it’s tempting to yank the lights down and toss them in a box until next year. But if you spend the extra time to organize things as you put them away, you’ll be ready to go next year. Strings of lights can be wrapped around a piece of cardboard or an empty paper towel roll. Mark things clearly so they’ll be easy to find and you’ll be ahead of the game when next November rolls around.

How about you? Do you have any tips on holiday lights to share?

We hope your holidays are filled with a little extra shimmer and shine this year!

 

By The Property Geeks
August 14, 2018

25 Super Smart Storage Ideas

As summer winds down it’s the perfect time to get your house into back-to-school shape! Here are some refreshing and unique ways to improve your storage around the home. These tips are organized by room. We hope you find something useful!

FOR THE KITCHEN

1. This appliance lift is an easy way to manage space and convenience for big items in your kitchen.

2. A slide out rack can smooth over your pot and pan storage.

Via Oddity MallE

3. Faux drawers are a waste of space. Make them useful with some functional, pull out drawers.

4. You can’t get much more functional with storing an IKEA ironing board than this.

5. You can store bread and root vegetables at room temperature. Drawers like these are easy ways to store them out of sight, and keep pests off.

BATHROOM

6. You can store your hair tools in a specially made drawer, like this one.

7. Does your sink just not have enough room? A simple sink shelf can do the job.

8. This skinny bathroom floor cabinet is perfect for tiny bathrooms.

9. Tired of having your toilet brush and plunger limiting the appeal of your bathroom floor? Utilize the negative space in your wall with a Hy-dit cabinet.

BEDROOM

10. Store that dog bed away easily with a platform bed drawer.

11. Keep that smelly footwear safely tucked away in this lovely ottoman.

12. Have that special TV you need to safely hide away when not in use? Learn more about this table here.

13. See how The Girl on the Go hides her jewelry behind a full length mirror.

14. Put shoe store displays to shame, like a’ so.

15. What are tonka trucks if not a young (very) man’s tools? It only makes sense to store those and other manly toys on pegboard.

16. Always in a rush to get your kids to dress themselves in the mornings? Some well labeled drawers can help.

17. You can never have enough organization with kids.

These thin closet shelves for books and small toys are great for keeping things out of sight, while leaving plenty of closet space to use.

18. For the OCD, future architects among us.

OFFICE

19. Are you a photography buff? This kickstarter project has a genius lens rack that is just calling out for you.

20. You can use this cord hub to make power strip and cord storage so much more efficient.

GARAGE

21. This motorized bike storage rack is pure genius.

22. You’ll be thanking Popular Woodworking for this amazing tape storage DIY.

23. Who knew towel racks could be repurposed as trash bag holders?

24. Your wee ones deserve a garage too! It’s easier to construct than you might think.

25. This genius pegboard system is something any handyman could use. Learn to make it here.

By The Property Geeks
Tips for Holiday Decorating
November 28, 2017

Top 5 Holiday Decorating Tips When Your House Is For Sale

We get asked this question a lot… “Should I still decorate my house if it’s for sale over the holidays?”

The short answer is yes, of course. Your home may be for sale, but you’re still living in it and should be able to celebrate whichever holidays your family holds dear. But… we do have some advice to offer if you don’t want to put off a potential buyer who doesn’t quite embrace your level of Ho-Ho-Ho. Here are our top 5 tips:

1 – Whether you’re going all out with a huge tree, snowglobes on every surface or just putting a few things up around the house, try to coordinate colors and themes if at all possible. In a perfect world you’d have color-coordinated ornaments, a tree full of sparkling clear lights and stockings to match. Think the best of Seasonal Concepts. But… the ornaments the kids painted in Kindergarten and the stocking your daughter crocheted when she was eight are some of your favorite items. We get it. The goal is to be festive without being too cluttered or too personal.

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2 – Watch the breakables. This might not be the year to set our your great-grandma’s heirloom nativity set. Families may be coming through with small children. If you have to put family treasures out, make sure you put them out of reach of small hands.

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3 – For outdoor decor, you’re not going for a Griswold family Christmas. No friendly competition with the neighbors or contests to see who can fit the most reindeer on the roof or inflatables in the front yard. White lights are best, but even if your family tradition calls for the multi-colored ones, just keep it simple. And keep the extension cords to a minimum. You don’t want a prospective buyer tripping over something you’ve strung across the sidewalk.

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4 – Make sure your home looks, smells and feels welcoming. During these colder months, the sun can dip behind the horizon well before dinnertime. Keep things cozy by shoveling the driveway, salting the walk and turning the thermostat up so buyers don’t enter a cold home. And nothing says home for the holidays better than the smell of something fresh out of the oven. Fake a fresh-baked apple pie by simmering some apple cider with cinnamon in a slow cooker on low.

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5 – A little effort can go a long way when showing your house over the holidays. Leave bottles of water, Christmas cookies or a bowl of candy canes on the counter when you know someone is coming through. The buyers will appreciate the thoughtfulness and special touch.

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If you need help deciding if you’ve got too much holiday spirit showing, ask a neighbor or your realtor to take a look. Often times their first impression will differ from yours, providing some much needed perspective on your level of holiday cheer.

With a little extra effort and a lot less decor, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy the season, even when you’ve got your house on the market.

Happy Holidays!

 

By The Property Geeks
Home Staging Kitchen
November 14, 2017

15 Before & After Photos that Prove the Power of Home Staging

There’s no denying it: Homes that receive effective home staging definitely stand out. Not only does the right amount of decluttering, organizing and accessorizing make your home more attractive, it can actually increase its value.

According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2015 Profile of Home Staging Report, 32 percent of buyers’ agents believe their clients are willing to offer one percent to five percent more for staged homes. What’s more, 81 percent of agents said home staging made it easier for buyers to visualize the property as their future home.

If that’s not enough to convince you, take a look at these before-and-after photos to really illustrate how powerful home staging can be.

1. Cool kitchen

Attractive barstools and place settings make you want to sit right down for lunch! The hardware upgrade on the cabinets makes a big difference too.

2. Dining room do-over

A fresh coat of paint and right-sized furniture create an appetizing room that’s welcoming without being over-the-top. (Removing that potty chair from the picture was a wise move as well.)

3. Room with a view

This living room went from sad to sophisticated with the help of the right furnishings and accessories. Who could focus on that stunning view with those flimsy outdoor chairs in the way?

4. The personal touch

Homeowners are often advised to keep their rooms neutral and remove many of their personal effects. But by adding a few well-placed items to the countertops, this kitchen just became a lot more enticing.

5. The beauty of decluttered space

Organizing and decluttering go hand-in-hand with home staging. It’s a shame to bury a fireplace behind so much stuff.

6. Updated decor

Many consumers have a hard time envisioning themselves in a space if the decor is too distinctive or distracting. Keeping items current and appealing to all is a way to attract as many buyers as possible.

7. Bedrooms don’t need to be bold

While you may love the idea of an extreme shade, not everyone wants to wake up to dramatic hues. In addition to lightening the wall color, moving the bed away from the window enhances the view.

8. Brighter bathroom

Nothing makes a bathroom sparkle like clean, cream-colored walls. Fresh-flowers, white hand towels, and an elegant soap dispenser take this bathroom from drab to eye-catching without any remodeling required..

9. Gorgeous guest room

This stunning space was packed with potential but failed to live up to it. In addition to new chairs, the right lighting and taking the photo from a better angle transformed this room.

10. Wall art adds a wow factor

The right wall hangings can take a room from comfortable to curated with minimal effort.

11. Less is more

Home stagers will often suggest placing some of your items in a storage unit to make your rooms appear more open and spacious. This photo illustrates why that’s such a smart idea.

12. Accent on color

The walls can stay neutral but adding a pop of color through accent pieces like throw pillows and well-placed chairs pull a room together.

13. Let there be light.

This attic bedroom went to dim and dreary to quaint and cozy with the addition of a nightstand and table lamp. The complementary geometric patterns bring interest to the small space without overwhelming it.

14. Empty just isn’t as appealing

Even if an empty room looks great on its own, showing buyers how to show off the space is inspiring.

15. Every detail counts

In case you needed any additional convincing that home staging makes an enormous difference, this montage of makeovers should do the trick.

We hope you agree that staging can take a home from okay to awesome! And if you have questions about selling or staging your home, feel free to give us a call or tune in to Grill the Geeks every Thursday at 12pm CT on our Facebook page.

By The Property Geeks
Outdoor Furniture
June 2, 2017

5 Types of Outdoor Furniture That Lasts

As spring turns into summer, one of the first things you’ll do is get the patio furniture out of storage, grab the cushions, and get ready for some R&R. But what if you grab that furniture and hmmm…it doesn’t look nearly as nice as it once did. Well, you’re in luck because today there are dozens of choices for new outdoor patio furniture that will have your outdoor living spaces looking and feeling cozy and welcoming for both you and your guests.

Your choice in outdoor furniture is important, as you probably spend a lot of time on it during the summer months. It makes sense, then, to choose comfortable styles and fabrics, while still keeping in mind the care and maintenance needs of furniture. The first thing you should do is think about how you use your outdoor areas. Do you hold big parties for many people, or do you have more small, intimate cookouts? Do you do most of your cooking outdoors during the summer? These are important questions to ask when you’re considering new furniture purchases.

Below we have categorized a few of the most attractive choices for patio furniture, both by aesthetics and by their ease-of-maintenance. Use this as your guide when you go shopping.

1. Wrought Iron Furniture

Wrought iron is classic, sturdy, and timeless-looking. If you live in an area of high winds, you won’t have to worry about your patio furniture blowing away. There are so many styles, colors, and designs with wrought iron that it is sure to fit your style, no matter what that might be. But don’t plan to use this type of outdoor furniture if you’ll be moving pieces around a lot. They are hefty and will leave marks if dragged across the deck.

Because the paint on wrought iron can chip, see if there is a touch-up paint in the same color available to purchase when you buy your set of furniture. You’ll be able to use the touch up anytime you find scratches or chips, and it’ll keep your furniture looking like brand new. To clean, just wipe down with a damp cloth. If deeper cleaning is necessary, wipe down with a solution of dishwashing detergent and warm water, and then rinse with your garden hose.

2. Aluminum Furniture

Aluminum patio furniture is great if you want an easy-care solution that you can effortlessly move around. Aluminum won’t rust, and it’s super lightweight. Choose cushions that you can easily replace, as the aluminum frame will probably significantly outlast your cushions. When you’re shopping, make sure that the hardware on your furniture is rust-proof, and choose a powder-coated, UV-resistant finish. Check the welds to make sure they are seamless, and look sturdy.

To clean aluminum furniture, just wipe it down with a damp cloth. If you see scuff marks, you can very gently use a bit of Soft Scrub on a soft, damp cloth, but be careful – you don’t want to scratch the finish, especially if it’s shiny. And never use abrasive cleaners on aluminum. Rinse off with your garden hose.

3. Polymer and Plastic Furniture

If easy care and maintenance are what you’re looking for, synthetics are where it’s at. Plastic patio furniture created from recycled plastics are fantastic if you live in a saltwater environment. This furniture can’t ever rust and is designed to last in difficult environments. Marine-grade polymers can also be used. They’re heavy, sturdy, and have been designed to look just like painted wood. You can leave this furniture out all year round without any ill effects, and cleaning is easy with a simple dish soap and water solution and a damp cloth. Rinse with your garden hose.

4. Real Wood Furniture

The type of wood your furniture is made of is crucial if you want to avoid things like splitting, rotting, and bugs. You want dense wood such as teak or eucalyptus, or a hardy wood such as cedar. Teak and Eucalyptus are easier to maintain because they don’t need to be sealed on a yearly basis, but cedar is naturally moisture- and bug-resistant.

Clean your wood furniture with a soft brush and a solution of water and Murphy’s Oil Soap. Hose down well and dry with shop towels.

Use a soft scrub brush dampened with water and a mild oil-based soap, such as Murphy Oil Soap. Rinse by hosing down.

5. Cushion Fabrics

Choosing new cushions is a great way to make older furniture look new again. They can also be the most pricey part of your patio set, so make sure you choose wisely!

If price is no object, look for fabric designed for outdoor use that is UV-resistant, as well as resistant to moisture, mold, and stains. And bring your cushions indoors when you’re not using them – you’ll get much more life out of your investment.

By The Property Geeks
May 27, 2017

5 Decorating Tips to Get Your Home Summer Ready

Summer is one of the best times of the year. The days are longer, the weather is warmer, and the mood is more fun and cheerful. And if you want to make that fun summer mood part of your everyday experience, you need to bring that summer feeling inside the home.

The changing of seasons is a perfect opportunity to switch up your decor and give your home a new, fresh feel – and summer is no different. Before summer is in full swing, you’ll want to take full stock of your decor and look for opportunities to change your style to reflect the mood of the summer.

Here are five decorating tips to get your home ready for the summer:

1. Ditch the dark

Dark, deep colors like burgundy are a great fit for the colder months, but when the temperatures start to rise, they can feel out of place in the sunny weather. When the weather starts to get warmer, ditch your darks and replace them with light, summery tones that are a better match for the season.

There’s no need to completely overhaul everything you own; they key is to bring that summer lightness into each room. If you have dark furniture, lighten them up with lighter toned pillows or a throw. Repaint darker rooms to create a lighter feel or, if you want to keep your walls the same color, use art to lighten up the space.

2. Bring life to your rooms

There’s no better time to incorporate fresh flowers and greenery into your home than in the summer. Nurseries and farmers markets are full of fresh, seasonal flowers and plants, and they’re an easy and affordable way to liven up your kitchen, backyard or any room in your home.

Put a bouquet of fresh flowers on the nightstand to add an elegant touch of summer to the bedroom. Line the path leading to your front door with seasonal potted plants to add summer-centric curb appeal. Hang a few plants in your kitchen for a refreshing ambiance while you cook your summer dishes.

3. Create a bar station

Summer is a great time for BBQs, which means you’ll likely be whipping up summer cocktails to go along with your dishes. A bar station is a great way to keep all of your summer cocktail ingredients organized and adds visual interest to a patio or dining room.

You can either buy a bar cart or re-purpose an unused table. Stock the station with alcohol bottles, mixers and garnishes (don’t forget to include options for friends or family who don’t drink!). Arrange the items in a visually appealing way and string lights across the top to add ambiance for late night cocktails.

4. Create an outdoor space

During the colder months, you were likely happy to spend the majority of your time indoors. But as the temperatures rise, you and your family will likely be tempted to get outside and spend as much time enjoying the sunshine and lovely weather as possible. But if you don’t have an outdoor space to enjoy, it can be difficult to spend as much time outside as you’d like.

Redecorate your patio and make sure there’s plenty of seating options for your family and friends. Add a few comfy chairs to your front porch so you can sit and enjoy the sunset. Landscape your property to ensure it’s primed and ready for your summer guests. The more effort and thought you put into your outside space, the better you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor time this summer.

5. Fill up your fireplace

Chances are, your fireplace isn’t going to see much action this summer. So why not use the warmer months as an opportunity to step outside of the box and use the interior of your fireplace for decor?

You can fill your fireplace with anything that adds visual interest, like flowers, pieces of decor, a sculpture or even a painting.Using your fireplace in this way adds an unexpected and sophisticated design touch that will quickly become the conversation piece of your living room.

With these five tips, your home will feel ready to take on all the summer months have in store. So get decorating and get outside to enjoy that sunshine!

By The Property Geeks