When watching HGTV, the makeover design shows seem to have a common thread. The designers would ask the home owner questions regarding their needs and style preferences, and then transform their space while they were away. The reveal day would show homeowners gasping and exclaiming, "Is this my house?" It makes for great TV and I know many homeowners would love that opportunity, but they rarely share the cost and the homeowners are moved out of their home for weeks!  Our homes are full of our treasures and our lives are busy, a complete renovation is not always ideal.  If you're craving a change in your home but don't want to deal with demo, purchase all new furniture or replace high-cost items, you're not alone.  Instead of a full renovation, try a Home Redesign. 

The potential to completely reinvent the space is certainly there, but many homeowners can not take that step unless they won a makeover by a TV show! ​Redesign can work with what you currently have in your home with simple changes like paint and swapping out light fixtures.
Not confident about tackling updates and sourcing furniture on your own? A professional can assist with this process, once your style has been defined we can use that knowledge to reflect every design decision and purchase throughout your home.  When you're not looking for a complete room renovation but desire the upgrade, consider Redesign.    
​Need help locally or online, see our services menu for how we can help you in your Redesign ~gina t. graham

One of the best parts of owning a home is the freedom to make it truly your own with design choices that reflect your personality and lifestyle. Whether you lean toward contemporary design or a farmhouse aesthetic, your home is your canvas.

Even so, it’s always smart to think about the long-term impact those decisions might have on your home’s value. Choosing over-personalized or unpopular materials and finishes could make your home less appealing to future buyers. And selecting out-of-style or overly-trendy elements could cause your home to feel dated quickly.

To help inspire your design choices, we’ve rounded up some of the top trends we’re watching in 2024. Keep in mind, not all of these will work well in every house. If you plan to list or renovate your property, give us a call. We can help you realize your vision and maximize the impact of your investment.

1. Spa-Like Bathrooms
We could all use a little more relaxation in our lives—so why not bring the spa into your home? In 2024, more homeowners will remodel their bathrooms to turn them into personal oases. 1,2
If you’re undertaking a renovation, consider upgrading fixtures and materials. Handmade tile and custom cabinetry can add a touch of style and luxury. Trade stark whites for warm neutrals to create a more relaxed feel—think light wood tones, creams, and beiges. 3 Complete the look with soft ambient lighting from a backlit mirror or pair of decorative sconces. 2,3
If you want to maximize the mind-body benefits of a relaxing bathroom (and have the budget to spare), you might consider installing a steam shower, infrared sauna, or cold plunge tub. 3 Not looking to spend as much? Even minor upgrades like a massaging showerhead or heated towel bar can add some pampering to your morning routine. 3
But remember, if you’re modifying your bathroom, it’s always wise to work with experienced and licensed professionals to avoid water damage that could lead to costly repairs. We can assist you with the right design for your home and can refer our preferred vendors to remodel your bathroom.

​2. Maximalist Decor
In 2024, maximalism is back in vogue, contrasting the neutral aesthetic that dominated design in recent years. While maximalism can be summed up as “more is more,” there’s nothing sloppy or cluttered about this look. Instead, it’s all about intentional curation. 4
Hallmarks of maximalist style include rich and saturated colors, bold wallpaper, statement rugs and furniture, and lots of art. And forget matching—maximalist interiors often include plenty of contrasting colors, textures, and patterns selected to complement one another. 4
If you’re trying to embrace maximalism on a budget, check out thrift stores. They’re often a great place to find unique furniture, colorful rugs, and interesting art or collectibles. Before you invest in rolls of vintage wallpaper, though, it’s important to note—if you plan to sell your home in the near future, the maximalist look won’t appeal to every buyer.
We typically advise sellers to remove clutter and personal items to help buyers imagine their own future lives within the home. Sometimes, that means repainting or redecorating in a more neutral palette. Of course, this shouldn’t stop you from embracing your own style now—just be aware that you may need to walk back your aesthetic prior to selling.  We can advise you when the time comes.

​3. Japandi Style
Not quite ready to embrace maximalism? Japandi style, which blends Japanese and
Scandinavian influences, offers a more subdued approach that still has plenty of character. The look dates back about 150 years to a time when many Scandinavian designers were traveling to Japan for inspiration. 5
Japandi style brings together clean lines, simplicity, and a focus on natural elements and light. It emphasizes the beauty in imperfection, or “wabi sabi,” and a deep connection to Mother Earth. And like Scandinavian decor, the look prioritizes comfort and a sense of sanctuary in the home. 5
Interested in playing with Japandi? Common features include calming color palettes and organic materials like raw wood and bamboo. Try softening harsh edges with softer textures, like cozy blankets and ceramic pieces.
The look also minimizes clutter, but that doesn’t mean you need to be a minimalist. Instead, Japandi style embraces storage solutions like baskets, folding screens, and sofas with built-in storage to give everything a place. 6  If you’d like some help implementing Japandi-style organization in your home, contact our design team for a consultation.

4. Mixed Metals
Mixing metals used to be a “no-no.” But in 2024, it’s definitely a “yes.”
According to designers, mixing the colors and finishes of metal fixtures and hardware can bring visual interest to a room—as long as you go about it the right way. 1,7
The most important rule to keep in mind is to stay away from near matches, like brass and gold—that’s more likely to look accidental than intentional. Instead, go for bold contrast: Think polished nickel and matte black. 7  Some designers recommend using each metal at least twice in a room to make it look cohesive. Another good rule of thumb is to stick to two types of metals in a small room and two to three in a larger space. 7
Finally, you might think about playing with undertones (brass is warm, chrome is cool) to change the “temperature” of a room. And don’t be afraid of a little shine—many designers predict that a retro, high-polished look will replace matte finishes in 2024. 8
Want some help sourcing fixtures and hardware in a variety of finishes? Reach out for a list of our favorite retailers.

5. Wood Cabinetry And Accents
The all-white kitchen has been ubiquitous in recent years. But in 2024, classic wood cabinetry is back in a big way. 9 In fact, industry professionals surveyed by the National Kitchen & Bath Association predict that wood cabinets will be more popular than white in the next three years. 10
Natural wood tones offer a sense of warmth and natural beauty. 11 And today’s cabinets aren’t anything like the heavy, dated versions of the past. Instead, light to medium versions—like white oak and walnut—and warmer undertones are trending. 9 
The addition of wood-grain accents to painted kitchen cabinets—like with a contrasting island or range hood—is another popular option. 12 And wood continues to be a favored choice for flooring. A recent survey found that 40% of homeowners opted for either hardwood or engineered wood when renovating their kitchen floors. 13
You can also expect to see more wood in bathrooms in 2024. According to Houzz, last year, wood vanities surpassed white in popularity for the first time in recent years, and designers expect the trend to continue. 12 While white countertops and walls still dominate bathrooms, a wood-grained vanity brings a relaxed, organic element into the space.
Dreaming about new cabinets or hardwood floors? We’d be happy to advise you on the right look for your space.

6. Timeless Renovations
In its latest Kitchen Trends Study, Houzz found that “nearly half of homeowners (47%) opt for a timeless design as a sustainable choice during renovations.” Respondents cited long-term cost effectiveness and environmental consciousness as their main motivators. 14
​
In a rapidly changing, technology-driven world, it’s no surprise that homeowners want a nurturing space with lasting appeal—especially if they plan to stay in their homes for years to come. 12
Traditional materials and quality craftsmanship lie at the core of timeless design, which some designers are calling “quiet luxury.” 15 Think of enduring classics, like hardwood floors, hand-crafted tiles, and marble countertops. 12 A timeless color palette will also often include warm neutrals and muted shades of blue and green. 15

​If you’re thinking about remodeling, it’s wise to incorporate as many classic elements as you can. These stylistic choices tend to hold up well over time, which can prolong the life of your investment and make it easier to sell your home down the road. If you’d like advice on an upcoming project, contact us for a free consultation.

​BEAUTIFY YOUR HOME WHILE BOOSTING ITS VALUE
If you’re thinking about making design changes—whether that’s repainting or a full remodel—it’s important to be informed about how your choices could impact your home’s resale potential.
Buyer preferences can vary significantly based on your home’s neighborhood and price point. Before you begin your project, reach out to discuss your plans and how they could impact thenvalue of your home.


The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.
Sources:
1. HGTV -
https://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/2024-home-and-garden-design-trends
2. The Spruce -
https://www.thespruce.com/2024-design-trends-8411457
3. The Spruce -
https://www.thespruce.com/2024-bathroom-design-trends-8380169
4. Homes and Gardens -
https://www.homesandgardens.com/interior-design/maximalist-decor-ideas
5. The Spruce -
https://www.thespruce.com/japandi-design-4782478
6. House Beautiful -
https://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/a45851530/japandi-interior-design-style/
7. The Spruce - https://www.thespruce.com/4-rules-designers-say-you-should-follow-or-ignore-when-mixing-
metals-in-a-room-5199031
8. The Spruce -
https://www.thespruce.com/2024-lighting-trends-8365056
9. Good Housekeeping -
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-ideas/a45576463/wood-kitchen-cabinet-trend-2023/
10. Better Homes and Gardens -
https://www.bhg.com/2024-kitchen-trends-840656
11. Real Simple -
https://www.realsimple.com/2024-kitchen-cabinet-trends-masterbrand-7974600
12. Houzz -
https://www.houzz.com/magazine/28-home-design-trends-that-will-define-2024-stsetivw-vs~172317389
13. Houzz -
https://www.houzz.com/magazine/10-kitchen-trends-to-watch-in-layouts-features-and-more-stsetivw-
vs~165050822
14. Houzz -
https://www.houzz.com/magazine/2023-u-s-houzz-kitchen-trends-study-stsetivw-vs~164970160
15. Better Homes and Gardens -
https://www.bhg.com/quiet-luxury-home-trend-7554026

​MORTGAGE RATES MAY FINALLY COME DOWN
According to Freddie Mac, the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage hit a peak of 7.08% in the fourth quarter of 2022, and since then it’s primarily floated between 6 and 7%.14 However, there are signs that rates could trend lower later this year.

“Calmer inflation means lower mortgage rates, eventually,” Yun predicted in a recent statement. “Mortgage rates slipping down to under 6% looks very likely toward the year’s end.”15
Other leading economists agree. In its May forecast, Fannie Mae speculates that 30-year fixed mortgage rates will continue to decline, averaging 6.0% in Q4 2023 and 5.4% by Q4 2024.4 Meanwhile, the MBA predicts rates will fall even faster, averaging 5.6% by Q4 2023 and 4.8% by Q4 2024.3

On May 3, the Federal Reserve raised its benchmark borrowing rate by another quarter point—its 10th consecutive increase since March 2022. However, in its corresponding statement, the Fed omitted language from its previous release about “additional policy firming,” leaving some analysts to speculate that the rate hikes may be over.16 

Although mortgage rates aren’t directly tied to the federal funds rate, a decision by the Fed to pause rate increases could have a positive effect. In the meantime, buyers should shop around multiple lenders to find the best rate—and buckle up for what could be an exciting ride.

What does it mean for you?  Mortgage rates may finally trend down, which would be great news for buyers. But, a decrease in rates could correspond with an increase in competition and prices. If you start searching now, you’ll be prepared to make an offer when the time is right. We can help you negotiate a great deal and potential seller incentives.

If you’re planning to sell, this is good news for you, too. But, there are several factors to consider when determining the right time to list your home. Reach out for a consultation so we can help you chart the best course.

Keeping a clean and orderly home is a challenge for many of us. Between busy work schedules, social obligations, and family commitments, it’s tough to keep up with daily chores—let alone larger seasonal tasks.

The effort is worthwhile, however. A sanitary environment can keep you and your family healthier by minimizing your exposure to germs and allergens.1 Plus, researchers have found that organized, uncluttered homes have quantifiable mental health benefits, too, including reduced stress, improved emotional regulation, and increased productivity.2 

The reality is, we enjoy our homes more when they are in good order. It’s much easier to relax without piles of unopened mail or a messy kitchen reminding us of work to be done. And don’t we all feel more inclined to entertain family and friends when our homes are well-kept?
That’s why we’ve rounded up our favorite tactics—from overall strategies to little tips and tricks—for keeping things tidy without spending all our spare time cleaning.

​Set a Schedule for Daily and Weekly Cleaning
We’ve all been there—you put off vacuuming or mopping your floor for a few days, only to realize that weeks have passed. Creating a cleaning schedule that works for you is the best way to stay on top of things and avoid overwhelm. Here are a few of our favorite strategies:

• 1. Designate a day of the week for each task—then, add them to your calendar so you can’t forget. 
• 2. Create a shared schedule that assigns specific responsibilities to each member of the household. Post it in a prominent place, like on the refrigerator, or create a shared digital calendar.
• 3. Carve out 15 minutes a day for cleaning and decluttering. Set a timer on your phone and get as much done as you can before it goes off. 

It may take some trial and error to find the tactics that work best for you. The most important thing is to make a habit of cleaning so that clutter and grime don’t have a chance to build. And if you’d like some professional help, reach out for a referral to one of our favorite cleaning services!

Tackle Bigger Chores Seasonally
Many home care tasks are seasonal by nature and only need to be completed once or twice a year. But when we don’t have a plan to tackle them, it’s all too easy to put them off. Here are a few tips to stay on top of these chores:

• 4. Mark days on your calendar in advance to attend to annual or semi-annual chores, like cleaning gutters, washing windows, turning mattresses, and shampooing carpets.
• 5. Schedule just one primary task each weekend instead of blocking out a full two days. This will help ensure a good balance between chores and relaxation. 
• 6. Designate a date two to four times a year, depending on your lifestyle, to put away out-of-season items like clothes, holiday decorations, and sporting goods.
• 7. Take some time to sort through your seasonal items when you pack them away. Then you can toss, sell, or donate items that you no longer need or enjoy. 

Remember—breaking down these larger tasks can make them less overwhelming. If you space them out so that you can handle them one by one, even the most time-consuming chores become a lot more manageable.
And since all your time is valuable, don't hesitate to delegate these larger home care tasks to professionals. Give us a call for a list of our recommended service providers.

Reduce the Barriers to Cleaning
Set yourself up for success by ensuring you have the tools on hand to tackle small tasks with ease. Here are a few ways to make your cleaning supplies more accessible:

• 8. Store a broom, dustpan, and vacuum on each floor of your home so they’re easy to reach.
  
• 9. Stash containers of disinfecting and glass wipes under every sink for a mid-week wipe-down.
  
• 10. Place extra bags beneath the liner of your garbage pails, so you’ll have a replacement ready when you take out the trash.
  
• 11. Keep a paper shredder and recycling bin handy so you can dispose of unwanted mail as it’s opened.

By strategically placing your tools and supplies in the locations where you’re most likely to need them, you’ll make cleaning less of a chore and more of a habit.

Stop the Clutter Before It Starts
From coats to shoes to mail, it’s all too easy to find clutter taking over your home. Once these piles start to form, they can feel overwhelming—which only makes it harder to address them. 
To avoid this problem, stop the clutter before it starts. Assign every item a home and create storage spaces and “drop zones” in key locations.3 Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• 12. Install coat hooks and shoe racks in the entryway for easy access.
• 13. Add a key caddy or shelf for essential items to get you out the door.
• 14. Hang a letter bin to capture mail and newspapers as soon as you walk into the house.
• 15. Place a donation box in each closet for items you no longer want or need.

It can take a little time to get in the habit of returning items to their assigned space. But once you do, staying on top of clutter will become far more manageable. 
Are you considering a larger organizational upgrade, like a custom closet or pantry system? Reach out for a free consultation to find out how the investment could impact the value of your home!

Tackle Small Tasks Right Away
Sometimes, the mental load of thinking about a chore you need to do is worse than the chore itself. Plus, handling small tasks right away can reduce the need for lengthy cleaning sessions.3 
Try working these changes into your routine:

• 16. Learn to clean as you cook, rather than piling it all up for later. As you wait for water to boil or food to cook through, wash the bowls and utensils you used for prep.
• 17. Hang bath towels on a bar immediately after use. By allowing them to properly air dry, you can cut down on the frequency of laundering.
• 18. Bring items with you when you leave a room. For example, return plates and cups to the kitchen right away rather than letting them stack up in your home office. 
• 19. Take out the trash when you leave for work, school drop-off, or errands. This will save you the time and hassle of a second trip.

If you implement these small changes, your home will stay neater—and you’ll minimize the number of dedicated cleaning sessions you need to take on each week.

Embrace an Evening “Shutdown” Routine
Kitchens can get dirty and cluttered fast. But a few minutes spent cleaning up each evening can prevent the mess from getting out of control.4
Imagine your kitchen is a restaurant and you’re tidying it up before closing down for the night. These simple steps will prepare you for the morning rush:

• 20. Wipe down all surfaces, including countertops, stove, microwave, and sink. Then toss your soiled washcloth in the hamper and lay out a fresh one for tomorrow.
• 21. Load and run the dishwasher every night so you can empty it the next morning.
• 22. Prepare for breakfast by programming your coffee pot and setting out some grab-and-go options.

We all know it can be hard to find the energy for chores in the evening. But if you complete these small tasks each night, you’ll start the next day off right in a tidy, clean kitchen.


Think Outside of the Box When It Comes to Storage
Most of us have limited storage space. Unfortunately, without the right spots to stash our items, it’s easy to become disorganized. 

But we’ve found that using household items in innovative ways can help keep mess and clutter under control.5 Here are a few of our favorite swaps:

• 23. Place a magazine file in your kitchen for cookbooks, takeout menus, and meal kit cards.
• 24. Hang a pocket-style shoe organizer inside your pantry door to store granola bars, spice jars, and other small items.
• 25. Separate dress and athletic socks by turning dollar store bins into a drawer divider.
• 26. Repurpose glass jars by using them to store office supplies or bathroom essentials.
• 27. Store out-of-season clothes inside rarely-used suitcases, so all that space doesn’t go to waste. 

A little creativity goes a long way when it comes to making the most of your space. Just be sure that you’re creating systems you can stick with and not putting things where you might forget about them later!

WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOU MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR HOME
Keeping your home clean and organized can be a continuous struggle—there’s no need to feel ashamed of that. But taking the time to implement systems that work for you can make life more pleasant and less stressful in the long run.

We want you to love living in it. Reach out if you need referrals for house cleaners, window washers, or other service providers that can help you make the most of your space. 

The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only.  It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.
Sources:

1. Healthline -https://www.healthline.com/health-news/5-health-benefits-of-spring-cleaning
2. Forbes -https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/mental-health-clean-home/  
3. My Domaine -https://www.mydomaine.com/house-cleaning-schedule 
4. Housewife How-Tos -https://housewifehowtos.com/clean/10-tips-to-keeping-a-clean-house
5.  BetterHomesandGardens  https://www.bhg.com/decorating/storage/projects/simple-solutions/ 

Over the past few years, many of us have spent extra time at home—and that means we appreciate the personal design touches that make a house cozy and comfortable more than ever. Some of us have adapted our dwellings in new ways, from creating functional home offices to upgrading the appliances we use most. 
But while it’s important to make your home your own, it’s also smart to think about the long-term impact your renovations could have on its value. Choosing highly-personalized fixtures and finishes can make it harder for future homebuyers to envision themselves in the space. Even if you don’t plan to sell your home soon, investing in popular design choices that are likely to stand the test of time will make things easier down the road. 
And if you’re in the market for a new home, it’s wise to keep an eye out for features that might need to be updated soon so you can factor renovation costs into your budget.
We’ve rounded up six trends that we think will influence interior design in 2023, as well as ideas for how you might incorporate them in your own home. Remember, before taking action, it’s always wise to consult with a real estate professional to understand how specific updates and upgrades will affect your property’s value in your local market. 

1. Separate Kitchen, Dining and Living Areas

For years, home design has been dominated by open-concept floor plans, particularly for kitchen, dining, and living areas. However, as the pandemic forced families to work and study from home, many struggled to find the privacy and separation they needed. As a result, designers report that more families are choosing to bring back kitchen and dining room walls to break up the space and create quieter areas.1
 
That doesn’t mean that we’re returning to an era of dark and cramped spaces, however. Here in our local market, older homes built in the early 2000’s have the separate dining, and some have separate living rooms also. Buyers in North Florida are still requesting an open floor plan and many are not sure how to accommodate or use these separate spaces. Even as walls make a return or you already have the separation, it’s important to take care to retain a sense of flow within the home and to prioritize your needs on how to use each room. 
 
If you’re buying or building a new home, consider how you will use the space and whether or not an open floor plan will suit your needs. If you already live in a home with an open floor plan and it isn’t working for you, try rearranging furniture and strategically placing pieces like bookshelves, room dividers, or rugs to create distinct areas within the home and reduce noise.

2.  Nature-Inspired Design
​In the past few years, we’ve seen the “biophilia” trend explode, and there are no signs that it will be any less popular in 2023.2 This trend is all about bringing the outside in by adding natural touches throughout your home.  This year, design experts predict that natural, sustainable materials like bamboo, cork, and live-edge wood will lend character without being overwhelming. Wooden kitchen cabinets and islands will become more common in 2023, with white oak and walnut among the most popular choices.3,4 Wood will also appear in bathroom vanities and shelving and furniture throughout the home. 
 
Colors inspired by nature (think mossy greens and desert tones) will also play into this trend and will blend seamlessly with wood tones. We’re also seeing a return to natural stone countertop materials like quartzite, marble, dark leathered granite, and soapstone.4,5
 
If you’re planning to add new shelving or redo your kitchen, consider turning to these materials to embrace the biophilic look. Or, incorporate elements of the trend by choosing nature-inspired paint colors and adding to your houseplant collection.

3.  Lighting as a Design Feature
​Spending more time at home has shown us the importance of having the right lighting for specific tasks and times of the day. As a result, many homeowners are reconsidering the ways they light their homes and using light fixtures to change the usability and mood of their spaces.5
 
In particular, homeowners are rejecting bright, flat overhead lighting and replacing it with lamps and task-specific options. A layered approach to lighting—such as using a combination of under-cabinet, task, and ambient lighting in a kitchen—enables homeowners to tweak the level of light they’re using based on the time of day and what they are doing. 
 
In 2023, we expect to see more statement chandeliers, pendants, and wall sconces in a variety of shapes and materials.6 Thinking about switching up the lighting in your home? Start by adding floor or table lamps and swapping out fixtures before you invest in rewiring your space. Take note of what works and what doesn’t and watch how the light in your home changes throughout the day. You can then use that information to make lighting decisions that require a bigger investment. 

4.  More Vibrant Color Palettes 
After the long dominance of whites and grays, more vibrant colors are coming back as a way to add character and dimension to homes. 
 
This year, warm and earthy neutrals, jewel tones, and shades of red and pink are particularly popular.7,8 If your style tends toward the subtle, consider options like light, calming greens, blues, and pastels.
 
Major paint brands have responded to these homeowner preferences with their newest releases. Benjamin Moore’s 2023 color of the year, Raspberry Blush, is a lively shade of pinkish coral, while Sherwin William is embracing warm neutrals with Redend Point, a blushing beige.9,10 Behr’s choice of the year, Blank Canvas, is a creamy off-white that's a warmer version of the stark whites that have been trending over the past few years.11
 
If you’re planning to put your home on the market soon, it’s better to play on the safer side and avoid extremely bold or bright color choices when it comes to paint or fixed finishes like tile and countertops. Instead, try incorporating pops of color through throw pillows, art, and accessories.

5.  Curved Furniture and Architectural Accents 
Goodbye, sharp corners. In 2023, arches and curves lend a sleek feel that draws on classical design and retro trends while remaining modern.5,8 Rounded corners feel more relaxed and natural than sharp edges, lending more of a sense of flow and comfort to a home. 
 
If you want to incorporate the trend into your new build or remodeling plans, curved kitchen islands and bars and arched alcoves are all good options—or you can take it a step further with arched windows and doorways. You can also carry this trend through to your light fixtures by incorporating a bubble chandelier or globe pendants.
 
It’s easy to embrace this look without renovations, too. Look for a softer feel in furniture, with sofas, chairs, and tables that showcase curved edges. Or, break up your space with an arched folding screen and a circular rug.
​

 6.  Art Deco Revival 
Art Deco, the architecture and design style that took hold in the 1920s and ’30s, is enjoying a resurgence.12
 
As a style, Art Deco is marked by bold geometry, textures, and colors, as well as an emphasis on art. But the 2023 interpretation of this style is likely to be a bit less splashy than its historical roots. Designers predict that instead of incorporating all of the elements of the style, which could feel overwhelming, homeowners will pick bursts of color or bold accessories to bring some whimsy to their space. 
 
Keep an eye out for vintage mirrors, lamps, or vases that bring a touch of Art Deco glam to your home or embrace bold colors and fabrics like velvet. Choose pillows and throw blankets in bright colors and geometric patterns to nod to the look without diving in all the way. 

DESIGNED TO SELL
Are you thinking about remodeling or making significant design changes to your home? Wondering how those changes might impact your future resale value? 
 
Buyer preferences vary significantly based on your home’s neighborhood and price range. We’re happy to share our insights on the upgrades that will make it easier (or more difficult!) to sell your home. Give us a call for a free consultation before you start planning any renovations!

Here are some strategies you can use to boost your holiday budget by trimming household expenses: 
Hunt for Deals on Groceries
​If you're finding it harder than it used to be to serve your family dinner on a budget, you're not alone. With the U.S. food-at-home index (a measure of grocery price inflation) at a 43-year high, many families are struggling to control costs on food staples, such as meat, dairy, produce, and grains.4 
That's made pulling off holiday gatherings especially stressful lately. But don't despair: Even with inflation, retailers are still giving motivated shoppers plenty of opportunities to whittle down their bills. 
The key is to pay attention to the cost of each item on your shopping list—not just the most expensive—and look for easy swaps and discounts. For example, try buying non-perishable items in bulk, especially when they’re on sale, and only in-season produce. Or trade name-brand goods for less expensive options from a store's private label. As you tap into your inner bargain hunter, you could be surprised by what you save when you’re more mindful of your selections. 
And unlike in the old days, you no longer have to clip your way through paper flyers to snag a bargain. Instead, you can save both time and money by scouting for deals online, digitally clipping coupons, and earning cash back through special apps and browsers. For example, coupon aggregation sites, like Coupons.com, and shopping apps—such as Checkout 51 and Ibotta—make it easy to score discounts and cash back on a variety of purchases, including groceries.
Also, check to see if your neighborhood grocer posts their weekly flyers online. If you're hosting a holiday party, the markdowns you find can help you narrow your food and recipe choices, based on what's currently on sale.

Prep Your Home for Holiday Guests With Pre-Owned Finds 

You don't have to sacrifice style for the sake of preserving your holiday budget either. If you're expecting company this year and would like to add some festive flair to your home, you can do so inexpensively—especially if you're willing to decorate with items that are secondhand. 
Thrifting is back in vogue, with an increasing number of shoppers preferring pre-owned furniture and home goods. A recent study found that the “recommerce” market grew almost 15% last year, which was twice the pace of general retail.5 Plus, buying used isn’t just a great way to save money, it also helps the environment by keeping reusable items out of landfills.

Fortunately, it’s become easier to score secondhand deals online. For example, you can scout consumer marketplaces on Facebook, Swip Swap, Craig’s list. Or you can take advantage of neighborhood freecycles and “Buy Nothing” groups. And a number of thrift shops now have e-commerce sites, including major chains, like Goodwill. 

If you're handy with a paintbrush or have some basic carpentry skills, you can also modernize some of your existing furniture by upcycling it yourself. Or, if you enjoy crafting, search through your own recycling or sewing bin for raw material to make one-of-a-kind decorations.
Don't stress yourself out, though, if you don't have the time or money to dress your home the way you hoped.  Candlelight, a good meal, and time with family and friends makes a great night.

Forgo Major Renovations in Favor of DIY Home Improvements 
Holidays are always a tricky time to undergo big renovations. But with ongoing worker and material shortages, now is an especially bad time to commit. Inflated costs can add thousands to your reno budget –—and unnecessary stress to your holiday. 
 
Instead of suffering through an ill-timed remodel, you're better off saving this time of year for simpler, less expensive projects you can do yourself. 
 
One winter-perfect upgrade to consider: Build a DIY fire pit so that you and your guests can roast marshmallows and relax in the cozy comfort of your backyard. You can also add some extra ambiance by hanging energy-efficient LED outdoor string lights that change from white to colorful. These are festive enough for the holidays, but also versatile enough to use year-round.
 
Or, if you'd rather curl up by an indoor fire, channel your DIY energy into a fireplace upgrade. Adding a wooden beam to the top of your mantel can add an extra layer of coziness. Alternatively, re-tiling or painting your fireplace surround can lend contemporary flair. 
Just be sure to stick to DIY projects that you know you can do a quality job on—especially if your changes will be difficult to reverse. Feel free to reach out for a free assessment to find out how your planned renovations could impact your home’s resale value.
 
 Invest in Home Maintenance Projects That Cut Your Utility Bills   
You can save money by completing basic home maintenance tasks, such as swapping your furnace filter and updating your lightbulbs. But if you really want to lower your bills this winter, consider projects that make your home more energy efficient. 

According to the EPA, 9 out of 10 homes in the U.S. are under-insulated, which wastes energy and money.7 Luckily, there are plenty of DIY insulation projects that you can complete in just a few days. For example, the EPA offers guides on how to: 

• Insulate your attic or basement crawl space
• Weatherstrip doors and windows
• Seal areas around the house that may be leaking air, including electrical outlets and fireplaces

The savings you get from these projects can really add up. The EPA estimates that sealing and insulating your ducts can make your HVAC system up to 20% more efficient.8 And thanks to new provisions from the Inflation Reduction Act, you can also save a bundle this year by investing in certain energy-efficient upgrades and claiming a tax credit.9 Be sure to check with us about any local rebates and incentives that may be available, too, before getting started on a project. 

How do I update my dining room?
Formal dining rooms were very popular in the 80's - early 2000's.  A common room built as a separate room from the kitchen with matching chairs and table, accompanied by a matching large piece of furniture where the wedding china with all its accessories were displayed. It is commonly used on special occasions and holidays, and there was usually a bulky 'leaf' that extended the table to accommodate larger gatherings.  

Chances are if you owned a home that was built during this time, you have one of these rooms. If you haven't updated it since then, most likely it has a wallpaper border and maroon paint. There is probably a shiny brass chandelier in the room hung high above that matching dining set. Am I close?
With millennials flooding the market, the dining room already offers no appeal and most see it as wasted space. Now add a dining room that still boasts the traditional style, this will definitely distant buyers. 
So here are a few general updates you can make to that formal dining room so that it is staged to sell. 
1. Paint. Remove the wallpaper border, cover the shade of red with a light neutral color. Bold colors can make a great statement in the dining room if done right, but for resale it is better to stick with neutral colors. 

2. Replace Light fixture. Take away the shiny brass or the yellow frosted glass covers. Update the light fixture with a black wrought iron or brushed nickel finish which will appeal to more buyers. Also select a linear light for a rectangular dining table. 

3. Address the furniture. Transitional style is a common design style used in staging. It is a combination of traditional and modern. It appeals to multiple buyers and is a great style that can incorporate multiple design aesthetics.
​Swap out a couple chairs for a bench or larger fabric chairs at the ends of the table. Most importantly pre-pack the China sets. Display only large items through any clear glass or open shelves.  Best option would be to remove the large upright china cabinet and replace with a buffett table with a mirror or large art piece on the wall. Removing the bulky furniture from the room, opens up the room and provides a more modern feel. 

4. Remove curtains. Remove any floral valences above the windows and heavy drapery, dated patterned fabric and layers of curtains prevent natural light and can darken the room. Some curtain patterns will date the home and layers of curtains can block natural light coming from the window. If the window faces the front of the house, buyers would appreciate adding wood blinds or shutters than can be closed for privacy at night. 

These tips will help buyers see what the potential of the room can be and showcase the home in an appealing style.  
Head to our Room by Room Design  - Dining Room blog to see how you can design a show stopping dining room in your new home. 

​Check out the video showcasing one of our staged homes. See how we brought this dining room to a must-see in person, even with green painted walls. 

Looking to give your dining room a makeover, we can help with design concept boards and of course we can stage it when selling;)
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