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There are many advantages of homeownership, but the burden of maintaining, repairing and replacing home appliances goes right along with it. The decision to repair or replace a broken or failing appliance is often made under pressure and without adequate knowledge about the nature of the appliance or its expected lifetime.

Water Heaters
Unless the water heater isnt working properly because of a part thats easy to replace, its almost never a good idea to repair it. The primary causes of water heater failure are tank leaks or corrosion, neither of which can be repaired.

Refrigerators
Many repairs for refrigerators are easy and affordable, especially if the problem is a bad motor, a refrigerant leak or issues with electronic controls. However, door seals can fail, causing the appliance to run overtime or build frost in the freezer section. Between the cost of replacement seals and the labor to install them, it often makes sense to replace the refrigerator instead of repairing it.

Dishwashers
Mechanically, dishwashers are fairly simple appliances that are easily repaired. Problems associated with the door seal or holes inside the tub often prompt a replacement rather than a repair, though.

Stoves and Ovens
Because stoves and ovens have few moving parts, they break down less often and replacement is typically a matter of personal preference rather than necessity. However, stove and oven heating elements do fail, and unless the appliance is too old, replacement burners and elements are readily available. Newer ovens and ranges may have control panels built into them that can fail. Prices for parts vary, and it may be better to replace the unit rather than the component, especially if theres an active home warranty.

Washers and Dryers
Water leaks and broken belts are common problems associated with washing machines and easy to repair. A burned-out motor may prompt a replacement, depending on the washers age and condition. Clothes dryers create a good deal of heat, and when they malfunction, it can be dangerous if their safety switches malfunction. A dryer that overheats clothing is a fire hazard, and unless the breakdown results from a failed motor or timer, its probably a good idea to consider replacing it.

Major appliances do make life easier and more comfortable, but theyre often a mystery to homeowners. When making a repair-or-replace decision, consult the manufacturers or representatives that service them.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

As millennials continue to have an ever-increasing impact on the luxury property market, its important to consider how this can affect your homes value. Over the past few years, millennials have established that their tastes and preferences significantly differ from those of their parents. If youre hoping that your house will appeal to this new group of luxury homebuyers, here are five features that millennials look for in real estate.

Privacy
With the rise of technology and the amount of personal information that gets put into the public sphere, millennials have placed a premium on their privacy. They want to be able to enjoy their living space without having to worry about prying eyes, whether that means being in a gated community, living in a building with a doorman and security, or simply having a backyard thats enveloped by trees and vegetation.

Eco-friendly
Millennials are more mindful of their carbon footprint than past generations, and for good reason. Because of this, they have demonstrated a willingness to pay extra for energy-efficient appliances that have a lower impact on the environment. By investing in sustainability, youre increasing the value of your home.

Smart Tech
Being able to control your thermostat or make sure you remembered to lock the door using your mobile phone are luxuries that emerged as this group came of age in the real estate market. Millennials see smart home technology as a way to save time while also delivering extra peace of mind.

Proximity to Nature
Whether theyre in the city or the suburbs, having access to nature is essential for todays young and affluent demographic. Younger consumers today are more active and health-conscious than ever before, meaning that communities with walking, hiking and biking trails will speak to millennials. Additionally, lush outdoor living areas where they can unplug from technology have major appeal.

Home Office
Millennials are a generation of entrepreneurs and remote workers. Because of this, theyre more likely to work from home. Having an office or designated workspace is conducive to their lifestyle, which mixes work and play more freely than past generations.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

While it might sound a bit unorthodox, here are a few benefits that you can expect from introducing plants to your property that are indigenous to the area.

Sense of Stewardship

Native plants help support local wildlife and maintain a healthy ecosystem. Non-native species can be invasive and even detrimental to the area.

Eco-Friendly

Because they are already adapted to the local climate, they often need less watering and dont require pesticides or fertilizers.

Low Maintenance

Because local vegetation is well-suited to flourish on its own, you wont have to spend endless hours in the garden to keep your plants alive.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Exercise rooms have fast become an expected amenity for luxury homebuyers. Being able to stick to your daily fitness regimen or have a session with a private trainer without leaving your house is an extraordinary convenience. Besides, we dont all have time to get to the gym!

Some people hear the term home gym and picture a cavernous basement or garage with a set of weights. If youre looking to design an exercise room thats a cut above, here are a few tips to get started.

Locate the Space

Youll have to first pick out which part of the home can be transformed into your gym. In this case, the bigger the better, as youll appreciate having extra space to freely move around. Also consider the equipment required for your preferred type of exercise and how it can be accommodated.

Mind the Floors

Rubber flooring is typically the first choice if youre going to be weightlifting and potentially drop dumbbells on the floor. If thats not necessarily in store, however, hardwood floors are a more stylish option and you can always place small mats around the room to stretch or place equipment on.

Maximize Light

Ideally, youll have large windows and plenty of natural light, especially if you plan on using the space as a yoga or meditation studio. If youre going to put your exercise room in the basement, pay extra attention to lighting to ensure an optimal workout experience. Recessed or track lighting can be practical solutions for a well-lit workout area.

Mirrors Galore

Having full length mirrors are essential when working out and its not just so you can admire your physique. Mirrors allow you to observe your form and practice proper technique to avoid injuries. And, fine, maybe snap the occasional gym selfie!

Music Motivation

An audio system of some sort, be it built-in or portable Bluetooth, is a great way to get pumped up during each session. Or, if you prefer to get your news during your morning exercise routine, having a TV in your home gym is also a great option.

Published with permission from RISMedia.