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How to Turn Your Yard into a Home Soccer Field

June 30, 2016 By

Excited to spend summer days outside with your family? Upgrade your fun in the sun with a home soccer field right in your backyard. As the official real estate company of U.S. Soccer, Century 21® Real Estate knows that the sport has the ability to unify communities. Give your family the best experience possible with their own place to practice with these four easy steps.

Prep Your Yard

Understandably, you might not have a backyard capable of fitting a full-sized field at 75-by-120 yards. Instead, create a rectangular field with smaller dimensions such as 15-by-20 yards or 40-by-50 yards. Remove any debris, then mow your lawn to create an even, trim field.

Level the Ground

Unexpected ditches or holes in your yard can be dangerous to those running around. If you find any low spots in your yard, fill them in with a mixture of two parts topsoil, two parts sand, and one part compost. Pack this filler into holes and add water to make sure it’s compact. Wait at least one week before walking on it to make sure that it has properly settled. Then, continue to perfect your green field by planting grass on the top layer of the newly leveled area.

Mark the Field

Use stakes to mark off the four corners of your soccer field. You may find it helpful to use a tape measure to ensure the lengths are symmetrical to one another. Tie a string from one stake to another and pull it taut. Double check that the shape you’ve created with the string and stakes is a rectangle with four 90 degree angles. Once you’re sure, spray paint over the string to create the field. Remember to add a midline in the center.

Add Goals

Depending on you and your family’s needs, you can choose between various sized goals made from different materials. A four by six-foot goal is optimal for children as young as six years old, with larger sized goals increasing with age. In terms of materials, plastic is recommended for low-impact play, since it is lightweight and portable. However, if your family is more serious about the sport, metal frames prove to be more durable. Whichever one you choose, make sure to anchor it into the ground properly.

Get started today and give your family a fun space to play one of their favorite sports all summer long. Who knows, you may have a professional soccer player in the making!

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Removing Carpet: 3 Things to Know

March 1, 2016 By

Old carpet can be an eyesore for many homeowners, as it can collect dust and age the room. If you are put off by the wall-to-wall covering, consider removing it. You might improve your home aesthetics and increase your home’s value by doing so. Here are three things to know before you get started.

1. Decide What to Do with Your Old Carpet

Figure out what you want to do with your carpet before you remove it, so you’ll know whether to save the integrity of the material while working on it. An ecofriendly option is to recycle it, but that may cost an additional fee. However, if you think this is right for you, you can find out more from the Carpet America Recycling Effort. You can choose to donate if your carpet is in good condition, or even save it for yourself to repurpose for other household uses, like a cushion for your knees when cleaning low spaces or for a pet’s scratching post.

2. Prep the Room and Gather Tools

You may want to have a crowbar, pliers, gloves, utility knife, dust mask, and knee pads on hand. First, vacuum the carpet to cut down on dust and debris. If you can, temporarily remove doors that swing open into the room to avoid possible obstructions. This might also make new carpet placement easier, if you’re choosing to do that. Then, remove all furniture from the room.

3. Start in the Corner and Roll as You Go

Dislodge one of the corners of the carpet with pliers. You’ll find it’s attached to a piece of wood underneath, known as a tack strip. Once the carpet is loose from that, pull it away from the rest of the walls. If you’re not worried about saving the carpet, cut it into smaller more manageable strips to roll it up one section at a time. Beneath the carpet you’ll find a cushioning pad, which you can remove by the same method.

While these tips may make carpet removal easier for you, remember that you can always call a professional for assistance, if any part of the job seems too daunting.

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How to Incorporate Oscars Glamour into Your Home

February 26, 2016 By

If you love to watch the glitz and glam that surrounds awards ceremonies, then this weekend might be the most wonderful time of your year. Sure, you can host a viewing party to “ooo” and “aah” at celebrities’ outfits, but have you considered making your house just as swoon worthy? Try some of these tips to incorporate a glam style into your home that may last longer than just the awards night.

Roll Out the Red Carpet
An actual red carpet might be a bit much, but you can still hint at the iconic pathway with splashes of its deep, red hue. Follow the 60-30-10 rule, where your main decorating color takes up 60 percent of the space, your secondary color takes up 30 percent, and your accent color, 10 percent. Keep the red carpet vibe as an accent, and bump up it up to with pillows, throws, and candles in the vibrant color.

Dress Up in Black Tie
If you feel elegant when you dress in black, why don’t you apply the same dress code to your home? Consider painting a few pieces of furniture, such as a kitchen table set or a dresser. Be sure to apply a deglosser beforehand, so that the surface can accept new paint. Always use gloves, and work in a well ventilated area.

Shine like a Diamond
While diamonds aren’t the most practical item to incorporate into your home, you can capture their light reflecting qualities with a few tricks. Hang mirrors near light sources, such as near a lamp or across from a window and replace your coffee table with a glass one. The light reflected from the mirror can flow through the glass and potentially brighten up the whole room.

Set a Gold Standard
A bit of glittering gold is sure to catch the eye of anyone in your home, so add some sparkle where you can. Replace the hardware on cabinets and drawers with gold metallic ones — it’s an easy project that can refresh the whole look and feel of your room. Most hardware will have a clear coating to protect the metal from oxidation, so be sure to protect that outer layer when cleaning. Use a soft damp cloth to wipe them down and stay away from acid based cleaners.

With this décor style, your home may be award-worthy every day of the year.

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How to Choose Roofing – 6 Types to Consider

February 25, 2016 By

Whether you’re replacing an existing roof or researching options for a new home, deciding between roofing styles, materials and costs can be complicated. To help you determine the correct roofing materials for your home, here are the pros and cons of the six most popular roofing types.

#1 Asphalt Shingle
The most common roofing material, asphalt shingles, are affordable and simple to install. Asphalt shingles are produced when a fiberglass shingle is mixed with asphalt and finished with a textured surface. Asphalt shingles come in two basic configurations: single-thickness and laminate.
Pros: Asphalt shingles are available in an assortment of colors and are the most economical material available.
Cons: Asphalt shingles have a shorter life span and don’t offer the same level of insulation as other roofing alternatives.

#2 Wood Shake
For centuries wood was a common material used in residential roofing. But, due to its flammability, modern day use is less common.
Pros: Wood offers a natural, rustic look.
Cons: Wood shingles are flammable and can potentially suffer from mold or rot. The life span of wood roofing is also limited (similar to asphalt shingles).

#3 Metal (various types)
Aluminum, steel, copper, copper-asphalt and lead are the most popular metal roofing alternatives. Metal roofs are extremely durable but costly to install in both material and installation time.
Pros: Metal is strong and offers high solar reflectance, allowing for efficient cooling and heating of homes.
Cons: Metal is typically the most expensive roofing alternative.

#4 Ceramic and Cement Tile
Rounded tile roofing products are common with Spanish Colonial and Mission-style homes. Homeowners considering tile for their roof should be aware of the cost — anywhere between $400 and $800 on average per tile.
Pros: Tiles are durable and energy efficient.
Cons: The weight of tile roofing is heavy and may require additional framing for support.

#5 Slate Roofing
Slate is extremely durable and known for its many variations in origin, thickness and color.
Pros: Slate is dependable and considered to be a sustainable, recyclable roofing material.
Cons: Slate is expensive and requires additional roofing support to supplement its weight.

#6 Synthetic Roofing
Synthetic roofing products (rubber, plastic and polymer roofing) have been developed to provide the color, look and texture of other roofing materials (without the high cost).
Pros: Synthetic roofing is durable and affordable.
Cons: Due to their recent development, some synthetic materials have been known to absorb moisture.

Conclusion
When considering a roofing material for your home, consult with a local roofing specialist to ensure that you choose the appropriate material for your home’s aesthetic (and budget).

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7 Creative and Quick Dining Room Updates

February 16, 2016 By

With so many dining rooms being converted into part of the living room or kitchen these days, dining room design has kind of fallen by the wayside. But if you’re one of the lucky homeowners to have hung on to a formal dining space, you’ve got an opportunity to make some amazing modern updates. Here are 7 affordable ways to breathe new life into an old dining room:

#1 Perk things up with paint.
Are your dining room walls still the same color they were when you moved into your house 10 years ago? If so, there’s a good chance the color’s a little past its prime. In fact, it may also be doing an injustice to your furniture and the updates you’ve made in adjoining rooms as well. Refresh the walls with a paint shade that makes you feel comfortable and cozy. The room will reflect that feeling.

#2 Modernize the lighting.
Are outdated chandeliers and lamps gathering dust in your dining room? Consider sending them packing and installing some recessed lighting and pendants in their place. Pendant lights, in particular, come in a wide variety of styles and colors sure to add some new pizzazz to your space.

#3 Repurpose another room.
If your dining room is located in an undesirable space — a cramped corner of the house away from the kitchen, for example — pick a new place for your table and chairs. Put them in the kitchen, if you have the the space. Or, place the dining table somewhere right in your living room, where there’s easy access to the TV and stereo. You should always feel comfortable during a meal, and being confined to an area you don’t enjoy doesn’t contribute to that feeling.

#4 Add some visual appeal.
Visual appeal doesn’t stop at paint and lighting. It’s also important to consider how wall decor may increase the interest and comfort of the room. Blank walls may make it easy to zone out and focus on your meals, but your guests will surely enjoy looking at something a little more interesting. Depending on your budget and the size of your dining room, consider hanging potted plants and colorful pieces of art. Just be sure to balance wall decor with other elements in the room so your space doesn’t feel like it’s cluttered with stuff.

#5 Throw in a rug.
One of the worst sounds to hear is a chair scratching against the floor as you go to get up from the dining table. So fix the issue. Add a rug underneath the table and chairs to make things soft and cozy. Choose a rug that isn’t too thick with fibers. Otherwise, your chairs can get stuck and twisted. Of course, you’ll also want to make sure that the style and color of your rug complement the rest of the room.

#6 Use dividers.
Many newer homes combine kitchen and dining spaces. If you want to create a dedicated dining space, think about incorporating a room divider. It’s much cheaper than installing a wall — and you can add shelves, plants or a sliding door to further divide the two spaces. Plus, the flexibility of the divider allows to revert back to the bigger space any time you like.

#7 Build in.
How’s your dining room designed? Do you have a table that sits in the middle with four chairs around it? If you want to make the room more functional — and create more storage in the process — think about ditching the clunky furniture and opting instead for built-ins like bench seating, china cabinets and buffets. A professional can create custom built-ins to suit any style.

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Romantic Renovations That Will Last Longer than Valentine’s Day

February 12, 2016 By

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, you’re probably already getting your home ready for date night. While there are many things you can do to make a night at home special this holiday, don’t limit your romance to just once a year. Keep the sparks alive all year round with these romantic home renovations.

Light Dimmers
While candlelight may be the preferred lighting choice for romance, candles might not always be practical. Install light dimmers to achieve the same flattering level of light without fumbling for matches or worrying about open flame precautions. This project can be as simple as buying light dimmers from your local hardware store to replace your old switches. Just remember to turn off the power at the breaker before starting.

Surround Sound System
Since music may help set a more romantic mood in your home, invest in a surround sound system for better quality and easy listening. With the touch of a remote, you can play light music that will fill the house. Consider a wireless system to avoid an unsightly mess of wires weaving their way across the room.

Chandelier
Most date nights revolve around food, so consider upping the romance where you eat. A decorative hanging light fixture over your dining room table may add a luxurious feel to the room, transforming every dinner into something more. Make sure to choose a chandelier with a diameter that’s 12 inches smaller than the width of the table, so you don’t overpower the room. When hanging, the bottom of the fixture should be 30 inches above the table.

Whirlpool Tub
One of the reasons a night in may be so romantic is its comfort. Your home is a familiar place, so take advantage of your ability to relax there. Install a whirlpool tub so you can have a romantic, spa-inspired getaway any day of the week. Renovation tip: Always sit in the tub before you buy it. You wouldn’t want to spend the time installing a lux bathtub that’s ultimately uncomfortable to soak in.

Enjoy yourself and your home this Valentine’s Day, but don’t stop there. With these renovations, every night might have the potential for date night.

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What to do with Your Basement

January 30, 2016 By

Is your basement currently the deep, dark abyss where holiday decorations and outdated furniture get lost? It doesn’t have to be! Just because it is the bottom level of the house doesn’t mean you can’t make it a top priority on your home improvement to-do list. If you’re looking for a little inspiration on what to do with it, we have a few ideas.

For the Sports Lover
Transform your cold, dark digs into a space all sports fan could only dream of. Essentials you’ll need for the ultimate basement transformation may include big screen TV’s, a pool table, comfortable recliners, sports memorabilia and your own personal mini fridge. Your space will turn into a game day oasis for friends and family.

For the Athlete
Two words: personal gym. Save yourself time and money on those pesky gym memberships and build your very own dream fitness center. No longer will you have dart for the only open treadmill during primetime hours or worry if the person before you cleaned the machines. By purchasing your favorite pieces of equipment that will last, you can save yourself almost $2,000 each year on fees.

For the Entertainer
Do you find your family constantly hosting for holidays or celebrations? Wow them with an at-home bar, built by you. Stock the shelves with your favorite beverages, snag some awesome bar stools and let the fun begin! It’s the perfect place to direct everyone for an after dinner cocktail and some conversation. Just remember the rule of thumb, if you’re opting to build your own bar the average bar height is 42 inches to ensure that adults of all sizes can sit comfortably.

For the Artist
Always dreamed of having your own space to freely create masterpieces? Now is the time! Turn up the heat of your once cold and isolated basement with the warm hues of paints, pencils, and clays. Pick up some easels, fill the walls with things that inspire you and voila! Just keep in mind that because you’ll be in the basement with little light, choose a bulb with a CRI of 80 to 100 to reveal vibrant, natural hues.

For the Bookworm
You typically only see it on TV, but some homes do have beautiful built-in libraries. Build out shelving all around your basement, fill it with your favorite stories and cozy up on your favorite vintage chair to unwind from life with a good book. Are you making your own shelves? Cherry wood has a rich and warm red color that deepens over time, making it a perfect selection for shelving meant to be seen. Fellow book lovers might envy what you’ve done with your basement, and may even want to come browse your selections!

Don’t let your basement go unnoticed. Say goodbye to those stored away boxes and bags and hello to your new favorite place in the house. Have another idea? Share it in the comments below for other readers to get inspired by!

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Protecting Your Home: Safety Tips for the Homeowner

January 19, 2016 By

We often like to think good things about our new home, such as the memories our family will make there. However, there’s a less than wonderful thought that should also be considered: the risk of burglary. As a new homeowner, you may be at risk for this opportunistic crime, but you can take certain precautions to better protect your new home sweet home.

Install an Alarm System
One of the simplest ways to protect your home may just be to install an alarm system. When doing so, make sure to pick a smart location for the keypad. Choose a spot that’s convenient for you, but away from any doors or windows. You don’t want someone outside to be able to peer in and see whether or not the alarm is set. Also, request a decal from the security company to display on your lawn or window. A mischievous passerby noticing the added protection may decide to leave the house alone.

Plant Gardens Strategically
Gardens can be essential for creating aesthetic curb appeal, but did you know they may add to your home’s security as well? Planting a garden underneath ground floor windows may prevent people from casually walking over to your window to look inside. While it’s possible to just walk through the garden, doing so is a bit peculiar and may look suspicious to anyone nearby. Not wanting to call attention to themselves, potential burglars may just move on.

Don’t Leave Spare Keys Outside
Having spare keys to your house is a great idea, since we all have one of those days where we accidentally lock ourselves out. However, stashing a spare key outside, such as in a planter or under the doormat, is a mistake. Potential criminals know to check these areas. Instead, leave a spare with a trusted neighbor. You may have to work around their schedule in the event of being locked out, but the added security can make that worth it.

Keep up Appearances
Everyone needs a vacation, but you shouldn’t let on to everyone that you’re out of town. While you’re away, time both indoor and outdoor lights to go on at night and off during the day. This way, no one passing by will find a dark, seemingly unattended home. Also, ask a neighbor to collect any newspaper, mail, or packages that may be dropped off at your door, since a pile up of unattended items signals that no one is home.

With the added protection that these safety tips may add to your home, you can have peace of mind to relax and attend to more fun aspects of being a homeowner.

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How to Transition Your Kids’ Rooms

January 11, 2016 By

As your children grow and change, so should their bedrooms. However, if you were to revamp their rooms with every changing interest, favorite color or boy band, you would not only be spending a lot of time, but also a lot of money. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re looking to transition a child’s room as he or she continues to get older.

Start With Change in Mind

Designing a child’s nursery when you’re expecting is a fun and exciting experience. What parents may not plan for, though, are the unforeseen changes that the room might need as the child grows. Create a nursery with neutral wall colors and an open floor plan for playtime. It makes an easier transition that you can work with each changing year.

Consult With Them

When you’re planning to revamp your children’s room after a few years, make sure to consult with them. It’s likely they won’t hold back in letting you know what they want. You can enhance a child’s creativity and production levels if their rooms are filled with things that excite them.

Choose the Right Items

There are certain pieces of furniture and décor that can grow with a child. For example, a desk is a piece of furniture that can be added into a room and never seem to lose its importance, whether they’ll be endlessly creating works of art in coloring books or filling out college applications. Other items can include a classic bedframe and a monochromatic comforter.

Work Slowly but Surely

Make sure to try not to overwhelm your child with a lot of changes at once. If you’ve decided that it is time to “grow up” from the nursery, it may be best to do it little by little. Most parents choose to start with a new bed before gradually continuing to swap out the old with the new.

Remember Teen Tips

During the teen years, make sure to declutter (that garage sale money can go to their college fund), freshen up with a new paint job, and provide grown-up accessories. Allow room for self-expression, but with limits. For instance, you can frame posters instead of using thumb tacks or tape directly on the walls. A bold rug is fine for the time being, especially if it protects the carpet or floor from food spills or shoe marks.

Raising children can be one of the greatest joys in life, so make sure their room reflects that! Take these tips with you over the years and let the DIY project become a fun one you and your child can look back on.

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Bathroom Makeover: 4 Tips to Spruce It Up

January 4, 2016 By

Is your bathroom looking a bit dated? Whether on display for an open house or just there for guest use, it might be time to give the room a makeover! If completely remodeling isn’t feasible, there are still ways to update. Try these four tips that may help to spruce up your place without committing large amounts of your time and money.

Frost Windows

Since bathrooms tend to be smaller, they need as much natural light as they can get. While covering up bathroom windows with curtains is essential for privacy, you’re blocking precious sunlight. Instead, try frosting your windows for maximum light while maintaining your privacy.

Replace Showerheads

Still stuck with the same showerhead that was there when you moved in? Consider replacing it. It’s an easy installation that may make all the difference. Look for a showerhead with settings for water pressure and flow so that each member of your family can choose their own preferences.

Update Towel Racks

While towel racks and other hardware in your bathroom don’t exactly expire, their styles might. Browse options available across all types of racks, such as free standing, wall mounted, and over the door, to find a more current look that fits your home decor personality.  Visitors may notice that new pieces give an updated look to the entire room.

Add Fresh Linens

When was the last time you bought new bathroom linens? If you’re not sure, then it’s time for new ones. Set your new, fluffy towels on display (on that stylish towel rack you just installed) for a fresher look. Make sure to invest in a couple extra for any overnight guests to use.

You might be surprised with how these quick fixes can give new life to an older looking bathroom. Get started today!

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