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Odors are a huge turnoff for potential homebuyers and can be difficult to remove. The truth is that most homes have some sort of smell to them. Most often, the people who live there dont even notice.

This is especially true of pet odors. Owners become accustomed to their pets smell, such as from litter boxes for cats or from shedding. Visitors, however, are going to notice these odors, especially if the home is not properly cleaned.

Pet owners should use a carpet deodorizer when vacuuming”one that is designed to remove animal smells. Check your furniture for odors as well. If you smell your pet, wash the cushion covers or use a deodorizing product if they arent machine washable. If the pet smell is very prominent, consider having the carpets and furniture professionally cleaned. Cat owners should clean out the litter box daily and should wash it with water and liquid soap regularly.

Non-pet owners arent off the hook odor-wise. Many things can make a home smell, but there are four easy steps to take to cut down on strong odors.

Think about what you cook. Even with an exhaust fan, things like fish and bacon can produce odors that linger. Baking cookies before showings or open houses is a classic trick to give a house a pleasant smell.

Light a candle. Scented candles can add a pleasing smell to the home and set a relaxing mood. Pick candles with more neutral smells or think seasonal (pumpkin in the fall, pine during the holidays, etc.).

Take out the trash. Empty all trash containers around the house before showings or open houses. Focus on the kitchen as its likely to contain food scraps. Also consider washing the trash container if you havent in a while. Empty trash baskets are more visually appealing anyway.

Maintain a clean fridge. Cleaning a refrigerator is a must when selling a house. Empty it out regularly so that food odors dont build up. Dont forget to add a box of baking soda to absorb odors.

And if the weather permits, open up the windows. Even if its just for a short amount of time, its the simplest way to clear out odors!

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Here are a few reasons why a turnkey residence is more likely to appeal to luxury buyers.

Convenience

Many of todays top buyers are willing to pay more for a property that already meets their expectations without having to put more work into it.

Easier to Envision Themselves

Homes that look brand new are much easier for buyers to envision themselves in over a more personalized, lived in space.

Costs Are Upfront

If a home is already equipped with everything a buyer is looking for, then it can be very appealing to know they wont have to invest any more money in upgrades.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Owning a home is probably on everybodys success checklist. Yet, it is a box that often goes unchecked for many years for those first starting out in the workforce. We all know it takes more than just the desire to buy a home in this day and age”if you have not been working toward it for some years, its time to put thoughts into action. Keep these insights in mind when working toward owning a home.

First and foremost are your finances. If you dont have enough money saved up for a down payment nor a steady income to pay your mortgage bill, then homeownership is still out of your reach. Of course, even with our finances in check there is more to consider, such as appraisal fees, home inspections, closing costs, homeowners insurance, private mortgage insurance (PMI) if your down payment is below 20%, any repairs a home may need or furnishings, to name a few. Make sure you are prepared for additional spending.

The ideal home-buying scenario is when youre not in a rush. You dont want to rush through open houses to later realize that youve overlooked some important features of the home or neighborhood. You also dont want to rush into buying a home if youre not sure that you will be staying in the same area for at least a five-year period. Do you anticipate a big job move? Are you applying to out-of-state positions? Then it might be in your best interest to wait until you are ready to settle down.

Becoming a homeowner isnt an impossible feat. You just need to be aware of what your step-by-step goals should be. Short on down payment funds? Save up. Feeling pressed for time? Extend that rent contract one more year while you settle your affairs. Taking a big leap at the workplace? Do it now.

Homeownership is on peoples success checklist because it is a good investment, and it gives you a sense of pride and security. Reorganizing a few things in your daily routine will have you a homeowner in no time. Just take it one step at a time, and remember to breathe.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

So you want to add a little feng shui flavor to your home? The following tips can help foster a strong connection between your space and your energy, which can impact the way you feel when you move through your home, and attract positivity in your life.

1. Pay attention to your entryway. Everyone likes to make a grand entrance, right? Pay mind to how you decorate the front hall or front door of your home; it’s the first thing you see when you enter, and sets the tone for how you will feel as you transition into your space.

2. Add plants. Houseplants quite literally breathe life into your space. They foster growth and creativity, and clean your air. Win! Choose something easy to care for, like a fern or a succulent.

3. Balance your bed. To feel more grounded and balanced, make sure to even out each side of your bed. This means have matching nightstands and lamps on each side so the room looks and feels even. It also helps promote equal energy between you and your sleeping partner, should you have one.

4. Center your desk. If you work at home even occasionally, pull your desk away from the wall and face it out into the room, or at a window. Facing a wall can block creative energy. Open your space to let the energy move freely.

5. Create a gallery vibe. If you’re a fan of art or have a large collection of family photos, arrange them gallery-style, not in a straight line. Sharp edges (like those found in a straight line of photos) can be off-putting. Instead, arrange your photos in the floating, visually-appealing style of a gallery wall.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

A bold and beautiful combination of Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern, heres how to infuse the Hollywood Regency Style into your home.

Bold Patterns and Palettes

Contrasting color combinations and simple patterns are used to create visual drama throughout.

Go Big on Lavish Details

Bring out the lacquered furniture and metallic finishes. This is a style for those who want to put grandeur on full display.

Plush Textures

It wouldnt be glamorous without a few sumptuous layers, like silk window treatments and velvet throw pillows.

Embrace Your Eclectic Side

Juxtaposing modern and traditional elements is a hallmark of Hollywood Regency.

Published with permission from RISMedia.