Articles Tagged "Florissant MO"

Longer days and warmer weather are almost here, making it an excellent time to make a plan for your spring cleaning. When compiling your list of spring cleaning tasks, it's easy to stick with the same chores.

Our real estate agents know that it's easy to inadvertently overlook an area needing cleaning when it isn't typically on your to-do list. Here are some spots to clean and organize this spring.

• The Crevices in Your Furniture
  When you vacuum your furniture or wipe it down, it's typical to focus on the upholstery since it's the area that you sit on and see the most. However, make sure that you also clean the crevices of your furniture. Use your vacuum cleaner's crevice tool to get into these tight spaces. You should also lift your cushions up so that you can clean the areas behind and underneath them. 

• Your Washer and Dryer
  Your appliances often accumulate lint, dirt, and other laundry debris around them. If possible, pull your washer and dryer completely out so that you can clean underneath and around them. This will make it simple for you to sweep and mop the areas that formerly housed the appliances. If moving your appliances isn't an option, your vacuum's most narrow crevice tool can be used to vacuum under the appliances and in tight areas between them. Make sure to also clean your dryer duct. There are attachments that attach to your vacuum so you can extend the vacuum into the duct to remove as much lint as possible. 

• Your Garbage and Recycling Cans
  Garbage and recycling cans are often sticky and smelly, thanks to leaking trash bags and product residue left in items thrown into the cans. While it's not hard to clean them, it's a task many homeowners overlook. Begin by donning a pair of gloves; remove any debris or trash in the cans. Then, spray the interior with your water hose. Combine four cups of water with half a cup of blue Dawn dish detergent. Use an extendable scrub brush to apply the cleaning solution and clean the inside of your garbage can. If there's still debris in the can, you may want to lay down a tarp or large trash bag, so the debris doesn't get in your yard. Rinse the inside of the can out. Use your cleaning solution to then scrub the outside of your trash can before giving it a final rinse. 

• Your Windowsills, Window Screens, and Window Coverings
  While many homeowners clean their windows in the spring so that dirty windows don't obstruct their home's natural light, it's common to overlook the other parts of your window. An extra benefit of this task is that if you're adding your home to the list of St. Louis homes for sale, potential buyers will find a home that's meticulously cleaned more attractive. Some curtains and drapes require dry cleaning, while others may be washed. Follow the laundering instructions for your set. When you take them down, dust your curtain rod with a wet cloth. Remove all your window screens. Then, vacuum them to remove dirt and debris. Spray vinegar on the screens and wipe them. You can then spray them off with your water hose before drying them. Open your windows, and vacuum your windowsills. Sprinkle a little baking soda before spraying a little vinegar. Scrub your windowsills to remove grime and mildew. Wipe them with a warm, wet cloth when you're done before drying them with a clean towel. 

Planning on completing extra spring cleaning tasks to get your home ready for the market? Contact us to get started!

With the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, St. Louis has long been a popular spot for outdoor exploration. In fact, this is the same place where Lewis and Clark started their legendary journey in 1804! Our real estate agents have some tips on the many ways that you can enjoy and explore the rivers around St. Louis.

1. Columbia Bottom Conservation Area – 801 Strodtman Rd., St. Louis, MO 63138
   With more than 4,200 acres of natural beauty to discover and a convenient location near St. Louis homes for sale, the Columbia Bottom Conservation Area is the perfect place to start exploring St. Louis rivers. There's an extensive out-and-back trail system that allows you to discover the vast natural beauty of the floodplain, a boat ramp that provides access to the Missouri River, and a separate access point for paddlers who want to explore the Mississippi River.
   
   
2. Audubon Center at Riverlands – 301 Riverlands Way, West Alton, MO 63386
   Located just a 30-minute drive from the heart of St. Louis, you will find the wonderful Audubon Center at Riverlands, your gateway to the mighty Mississippi River. If you love bird watching, this is the place to be. In addition to 8.5 miles of trails, it's home to a unique Avian Observatory with viewing scopes, picnic areas, and a helpful, knowledgeable staff to help you make the most of your time at the Audubon Center at Riverlands.
   
   
3. Jones-Confluence Point State Park – 1000 Riverlands Way, West Alton, MO 63386
   A short trip south from the Audubon Center will take you to the beautiful Jones-Confluence Point State Park, where the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers converge. This is the very spot where Lewis and Clark began their exploration of the western United States, with stunning views that make it a popular place to visit to this day. Hikes here present endless photo opportunities, and you may even spot a rare bald eagle as you travel the trails.
   
   
4. Big Muddy Adventures – 4662 Washington Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108
   We've talked about plenty of ways to spend time near the rivers, but what about when you want to spend some time on the water? Let the expert team at Big Muddy Adventures be your guide as you paddle along the great rivers of Missouri. Enjoy a quick, invigorating paddling trip that lasts a few hours, or go for a big adventure with a multi-day expedition that includes dinners on a private island. Big Muddy Adventures also operates a guide shop where you can pick up maps, gear, books, and even boats for your river explorations.
   
   
5. Sioux Passage Park – 17390 Old Jamestown Rd., Florissant, MO 63034
   No matter the season, Sioux Passage Park offers ample outdoor activities with views of the Missouri River all around you. During the winter, it's a designated winter sports area, with activities like sledding, cross country skiing, and snowmobiling permitted. During warmer seasons, the park offers nearly 200 acres to explore, with horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and camping among the most popular activities. It's also a great spot for a family outing near Florissant homes for sale, with picnic shelters, playgrounds, tennis courts, and some of the best disc golf in the St. Louis area.
   
   
6. Katy Trail – St. Charles, MO 63304
   Did you know that the area near St. Charles homes for sale is home to the longest developed rail-trail in the entire country? Boasting 240 miles and 26 trailheads, this trail is perfect for hiking or biking. Not only that, the Katy Trail travels right alongside the Missouri River, making it a great way to take in views of the river while you explore! 

Ready to buy or sell your next home close to all of the outdoor adventures around St. Louis? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the St. Louis area.

There are dozens of reasons to build a fence, and when done properly, it can add tremendous value to your home. But there are also several factors that will affect your decisions. We would like to make you aware of them before you make your plans. If you're considering one of the lovely St. Louis homes for sale, you may want to think about fencing before you buy. Here's what to know before adding a fence to your property.

1. Know the Rules
   Local governments and homeowners associations often have complicated regulations with respect to height, materials, and placement. Before you have your heart set on a particular design and style, make sure you understand all restrictions and limitations. Be aware of easements. Information regarding access through the property should have been disclosed in the closing documents when you purchased the house. If they aren't listed or are incomplete, property deeds on file through the county describe nonowner rights of usage. Our real estate agents can order a title report during the purchase process and advise you accordingly.
   
   
2. Check with your Neighbors
   A fence along your property line can affect them, too. On the positive side, they may agree that a fence would be beneficial to both parties and agree to share the expense of both building and maintenance. If, however, they regard a fence or wall an encroachment on their rights or block a view, you may be asking for a longstanding feud. Talk before you plan. They may not appreciate a wall but would be fine with another type of fence. Whether or not they have legal rights, a simple conversation might help you avoid conflict of any kind.
   
   It's also important to verify property lines so that you don't inadvertently build on part of their property. 
   
   
3. Match the Fence to its Purpose
   Picking a type of fence is easier when you consider why you want one in the first place. If for example, you wish to have your dog roam in the fenced-in yard, make sure it can't dig under it, wriggle through it or even jump over it. If you need the neighborhood children to stay off your lawn, you may need a short garden fence. Different materials provide different barriers, and it's important that the fence you build provides the benefits you are seeking. If your goal is privacy, you may wish to consider a hedge instead of a fence, but that will provide little in the way of security. 
   
   
4. Consider the Cost
   A brick wall may cost $45 or more per square foot, while stone costs upwards of $80 per square foot. Fencing costs also vary according to materials from $5 to $20 per linear foot, and lumber costs are rising. Consider the length of the fence. Will it surround a large property or just circle a small yard? You may need to mix fence types in order to address your needs economically as well as functionally. Rural properties may benefit from wire fencing to block wildlife, but make sure you don't disturb migration patterns or access to water. 
   
   
5. Learn about Required Maintenance
   Wooden fences require a good deal more upkeep than alternative materials but cost far less than most to construct. The beauty will fade when slats warp or decay. You'll need to make regular repairs to keep it looking attractive. Vegetation must be trimmed around the base of the fence. All of these issues should be discussed with your neighbors before you come to a decision.

Contact us for more information about the St. Louis real estate market. Our agents look forward to hearing from you. 

From the perfect morning pick-me-up to the ideal place to unwind after work, the coffee shops of the St. Louis area have something for everyone. The best coffee shops offer more than just your favorite drinks by fostering a sense of community, hosting fun special events, and making everyone who stops by feel like a regular. Our real estate agents have the delicious details on 6 one-of-a-kind coffee shops that you'll love visiting around St. Louis.

• The Wagamama – 5836-38 Macklind Ave., St. Louis, MO 63109
  The first coffee shop of its kind in St. Louis, The Wagamama is a dog-friendly coffee shop located near St. Louis homes for sale that allows you to bring well-behaved four-legged friends into the shop while you enjoy a great cup of coffee. Savor some delicious coffee in the indoor seating area, on the outdoor patio, or in the off-leash Barkyard, where both you and your pup can make some new friends.

• underGROUNDS Espresso Bar – 120 W. Front St., Washington, MO 63090
  With small-batch coffees and ingredients sourced mostly from local farmers markets, underGROUNDS Espresso Bar is your source for outstanding coffee near Washington homes for sale. Try an espresso flight to sample the best that this neighborhood coffee shop has to offer, and enjoy delicious, sweet treats from a variety of outstanding local vendors.

• Latte Lounge – 2190 N. Waterford Dr., Florrisant, MO 63033
  For the true coffee connoisseur, it's tough to top the experience at the Latte Lounge. This little shop, located near Florrisant homes for sale, offers a variety of ways to enjoy top-quality coffee. Try a coffee flight to sample five of your favorite latte varieties in one sitting, or order a split cup drink for easy sipping of two different lattes. With a mix of variety and quality, this shop has quickly established itself as a local favorite.

• Catalyst Coffee Bar – 1223 Pine St., St. Louis, MO 63103
  Operated in collaboration with Art St. Louis, a local non-profit dedicated to showcasing the work of local artists and bringing beauty to St. Louis communities, Catalyst Coffee Bar is so much more than just a wonderful place to enjoy your favorite coffees. It's a space where local artists and community members can build connections, get to know the vibrant St. Louis arts scene, and enjoy a carefully curated selection of coffee that always features something new to try.

• Rise Coffee – 4176 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110
  Founded in 2013 as both a community gathering space and coffee shop, Rise Coffee has grown into a St. Louis favorite. A newly added outdoor patio space provides a new way to enjoy a great cup of coffee and listen to live performances from local musicians every weekend. There's also a full breakfast, lunch, and brunch menu when you're hungry.

• Maypop Coffee & Garden Shop – 803 Marshall Ave., Webster Groves, MO 63119
  Coffee, gardening, great people... what's not to love? Maypop Coffee & Garden Shop blends those passions into one unique experience, all located close to Webster Groves homes for sale. The coffee shop features all of your favorite specialty drinks and baked goods from sustainable, local bakeries. While you're there, be sure to check out the greenhouse, which features a trendy selection of plants that can brighten any garden.

On the hunt for the perfect St. Louis home near all of your favorite coffee shops and dining destinations? Our local real estate team has you covered. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the St. Louis, MO area.

As we return to the workplace and travel becomes more frequent, many of us will be faced with the dilemma of pet care. If you are considering one of our St. Louis homes for sale, you are probably looking at a new community. You might not know your neighbors well enough to ask them to look after your dog. A kennel may work once in a while, and pet daycare could be an option. But our real estate agents suggest you consider another solution: a pet sitter who can come to your home. But where do you begin? These simple tips can get you started:

1. Use Reputable Resources
   Some of the trade associations that can help you initiate your search are The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), Pet Sitters International, and Fetch! Pet Care. Each offers a locator listing professionals in your area. Once you have located sitters you want to interview, check their references and reviews. When reviewing comments, make sure there is a "verified stay" indicator to ensure they were written by actual customers.
   
   
2. Select Bonded and Insured Sitters
   These designations don't just mean that you are protected in case of loss. They mean that the sitter has invested in a layer of trust between them and their customers, assuring quality and the integrity of the person entering your home when you are not present. Consider also a criminal background check and proof of sufficient training to perform services well. 
   
   
3. Arrange for Introductions
   It's important that you feel confident in the person that will be providing care. You'll want to watch the sitter interact with your pet. Dogs and cats are automatically drawn to some people and are equally repelled by others. You'll want to make sure that your pets are comfortable with the sitter and do not exhibit fear or nervousness around them. Make sure you allow time for them to meet and greet each other appropriately so that the sitter has the opportunity to comfort the pet. If your pet is not frequently socialized, this could take a little time for them to develop a rapport. 
   
   
4. Thoroughly Discuss Expectations
   Let the sitter know what services you expect and with what frequency. If you expect the pet to be walked, brushed, taken to dog parks or other activities or services, be sure to let the sitter know and obtain a formal agreement. It's important that they can commit the time and energy to meet your expectations. Include start and end times for each session. If there are activities you don't want them to do, be clear in your instructions. Make sure the sitter is aware of any dietary restrictions such as treats versus no treats or specific brands that should be avoided. 
   
   
5. Plan for Emergencies
   Prominently display contact information for you, emergency veterinary services, pet insurance information, and a secondary contact. Maintain a medical history for the pet in case the sitter must seek vet care in your absence. Make sure that you are able to reach the sitter via phone or email every day you are away. Agree upon a backup plan for any emergency that could arise, including a substitute sitter in case the regular sitter is unable to fulfill the agreement. 

If a new neighborhood is in your future, contact us. Our real estate professionals will be happy to help you find the perfect home for you and your family, including the furry members.  

When purchasing a home, ordering a home inspection is an essential item to add to your to-do list. Our real estate agents know that a home inspection is vital for revealing major and minor issues with a home. While a home inspection will cost you, detecting issues now can help you save money in the long run and give you peace of mind about the property you are buying. Here are some home issues detected by a home inspection. 

1. Problems with the Grading
   If the grading of the home's lot isn't scaled correctly, this can cause water to flow towards your home. Your foundation and crawlspace may have excessive levels of moisture; this can cause the frame of your home to rot or lead to the formation of mold. The placement of the windows and doors can also shift, eventually causing the home to appear uneven. 

2. Issues with the Roof
   A home's roof is a common source of issues during a home inspection. Since the roof covers such a large surface area, it's easy for a shingle or two to be damaged during a storm. This can allow water to seep in and damage the home's underlayment or ceiling. Or, the roof itself may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Your home inspector will also examine the components around the roof, like the gutters. It's common for gutters to be clogged and require cleaning. Or, a downspout might not be long enough to properly re-direct water away from your home. 

3. Trouble with the Windows
   Many home inspections reveal problems in and around the windows. If the windows are older, the problem may be that they aren't very energy efficient. Or, the windows can have cracks around them that need to be sealed. Problems with the windows can raise the home's heating and cooling costs and impact the air quality. St. Louis homes for sale with new, energy-efficient windows will have lower energy bills than those with older components. 

4. Complications with the Plumbing
   During the inspection, your inspector will run the faucets and examine the pipes for signs of a leak. They'll also see that the drains are draining correctly. A home's plumbing system is fairly comprehensive, making plumbing issues extremely prevalent. 

5. Defects in the Home's Exterior
   A home's exterior is another common source of issues detected in a home inspection. Wood homes must be closely examined for signs of rot and mildew. Vinyl siding homes may have sections that are damaged and require replacement. Stucco must be correctly installed, or it will present an opportunity for moisture to enter the home. 

6. Unauthorized Additions
   Many cities require a permit for home additions and certain renovations. These projects must also be completed according to the local building code, or the home will potentially have illegal modifications. Fixing illegal improvements is expensive and time-consuming. An inspector will look for signs of shoddy work and discrepancies among the home's construction. 

Are you ready to start shopping for your next home? Contact us today to get started!

National Golfer's Day is coming right up on April 10th. And after spending a long winter mostly indoors, our real estate agents are eager to enjoy a day on the links and some glorious spring sunshine in the St. Louis area. Plan your next golfing trip at one of these local courses. 

1. Birch Creek Golf Club - 499 N Service Rd, Union, MO 63084
   With a course layout designed to be accessible to golfers of all skill levels, Birch Creek Golf Club is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable golf courses in the St. Louis area. Subtle rolls and breaks, along with multiple pin placement areas on each green, make it fun as well as challenging. Birch Creek Golf Club is located less than an hour from St. Louis and just minutes from many Union homes for sale. 
   
   
2. Florissant City Golf Course - 50 Country Club Ln, Florissant, MO 63033
   First opened in 1964, Florissant City Golf Course has been one of the top courses in Missouri for more than 50 years. It has a championship par 72 layout, with rolling, always interesting terrain the provides endless challenges. With many Florissant homes for sale nearby, the Florissant City Golf Course is less than 30 minutes from the heart of Downtown St. Louis. 
   
   
3. Eagle Springs Golf Course - 2575 Redman Ave, St. Louis, MO 63136
   A favorite among St. Louis golfers for many years, the Eagle Springs Golf Course offers an 18-hole championship course that plays to par 72 from the back tees, as well as a 9-hole par 3 golf course. Both offer engaging play and splendid scenery, and the Clubhouse Restaurant offers great food and service on their outdoor patio. Plus, there are numerous beautiful St. Louis homes for sale in the area. 
   
   
4. Bogey Hills Country Club - 1120 Country Club Rd, St. Charles, MO 63303
   Bogey Hills Country Club has been one of the top courses in the St. Louis area for half a century, with beautifully maintained greens and fairways. The country club is also known for outstanding food, drinks, and service. Be sure to check out these St. Charles homes for sale a stone's throw from the Bogey Hills Country Club. 
   
   
5. Old Warson Country Club - 9841 Old Warson Rd, St. Louis, MO 6312
   Located on land that was once a cattle farm going back to 1812, the Old Warson Country Club was established in 1953 and has been a vital part of the St. Louis golfing community ever since. Numerous high-profile tournaments have graced its fairways, and the course has a beautiful layout that continues to challenge and reward pro golfers and weekend enthusiasts alike. 
   
   
6. Pevely Farms Golf Club - 400 Lewis Rd, Eureka, MO 63025
   Scenic, challenging, and well kept, the course at Pevely Farms Golf Club was designed by the famous golf course architect Arthur Hills on land that was once a dairy farm. It's one of the best public courses in the St. Louis area, with gently gliding terrain and tee times open to the general public seven days a week. Pevely Farms Golf Club is located near numerous Eureka homes for sale and just a half-hour outside St. Louis. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in the St. Louis Area!

Your home should be filled with things that inspire you, make you feel comfortable, and create joy in your life. Creating a special gallery wall that showcases cherished artwork, photos, and collectibles is one way to add personal style to your home. Whether you love paintings, photography, old family portraits, or antique plates, a gallery wall will add visual interest to any room, even a staircase.

To create the perfect gallery wall, you need to focus on hanging items cohesively so no one item stands out above the rest. It is a bit of a challenge, but it's easier when you follow certain steps.

1. Choose the Location
   The first step is choosing a location with some natural light and enough wall space. If you're hanging less than 5 or 6 smaller items, an entry, hallway, or bathroom is a good choice. If you plan to hang 10 or more large items in various sizes, consider a large room in the house or a staircase.
   
   
2. Measure the Wall
   Once you choose a location, measure the entire height and width of the wall, then decide on the amount of space needed to hang gallery items. It's best to leave a border of 1 to 2 feet above furniture items and between wall edges and ceilings.
   
   
3. Choose Frames
   If you're hanging artwork or photographs, you need to choose frames that complement other things in your room. To keep your gallery wall cohesive, it's best to keep framing materials and finishes to a minimum. It's okay to mix wood and metal frames but choose similar finishes.
   
   
4. Assemble Items
   Items on a gallery wall should complement each other. You can combine landscape paintings with scenic photographs, family photos with old memorabilia; black and white photographs with old quilts; and antique plates with woven textiles. Be creative, but don't let one item on the wall become the main focus.
   
   
5. Plan the Layout
   Before you begin hanging, plan the layout by placing items on the floor first. Make paper templates of each item or use painter's tape to create size and placement on the wall. When you're hanging various shapes and sizes, using templates or tape first will prevent unnecessary nail holes in your wall.
   
   
6. Create Visual Balance
   Gallery walls rarely have items with the same shapes and sizes. It's the variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and subjects that create visual interest and design appeal. It's often easier to place the larger items first then fill in spaces with smaller items. Gallery walls don't have to be symmetrical, just visually balanced.
   
   
7. Hang Large Items First
   When you're happy with your layout, you can begin hanging your gallery wall. Hang large or most important items first, then hang smaller items around them, leaving 2 to 6 inches between items. If you make a mistake, don't worry. It's easy to fill the nail hole with putty and try again.

At Coldwell Banker Premier Group, our real estate agents can show you a variety of Saint Louis homes for sale with stylish features, modern conveniences, and a range of prices. If you're searching for a new home in the Saint Louis area, we can help you find a home where you can create your own stunning gallery wall. For more information, contact us today.

Are you an active or retired military member with your eye on one of the wonderful St. Louis homes for sale? Uncle Sam wants to help make your dream of homeownership come true. Our real estate agents share significant changes to the VA loan program taking effect in 2021 and how they benefit you.

What Is a VA Loan?

Before reviewing the changes, it's helpful to clarify what constitutes a VA loan and how it differs from other mortgages. First of all, only active service members, veterans, and eligible surviving spouses can apply for a VA loan.

Some people mistakenly believe funding for the loans actually comes from the Department of Veterans Affairs or VA. Private institutions, such as banks and mortgage companies, are still the ones issuing the loans. The difference is that the VA guarantees a portion of the loan, making it easier for the borrower to obtain more favorable terms.

Benefits of VA Loans

If you're looking at some great Washington homes for sale with the intent of using a VA loan, you still have to go through the traditional steps: Get prequalified and preapproved, make an offer, have the home appraised, and complete the closing.

Here are the ways a VA loan truly works to your advantage:

• You can obtain a VA loan without a down payment. Many people cite the difficulty of saving for a down payment as the biggest obstacle toward purchasing a home.
  
  
• Mortgage insurance is a requirement for home loans secured with less than 20 percent down. Even without a down payment, mortgage insurance is not attached to VA loans thanks to the VA's guarantee.
  
  
• VA loans are not a one-time-only deal. You can use your VA entitlement for home purchases throughout your lifetime. Keep in mind, though, that VA loans are meant to buy a primary residence in "move-in ready" condition.
  
  
• Previous foreclosures or bankruptcies don't preclude eligibility for VA loans.
  
  
• There's no prepayment penalty for VA loans, so you can save money by making additional payments and retiring the loan early.

What's New in 2021

So what are the specific changes to the VA loan program going forward in 2021?

• Until this year, National Guard members, including reservists, had to have at least 90 days of active duty to qualify for a VA loan. Under a new law, members are eligible with 90 days of service. The one caveat is that at least 30 of those days must be consecutive.
  
  
• There is no cap to the amount of money a home buyer may borrow under a VA loan. Previously, however, limits were set to how much the VA would guarantee without a down payment. Those limits have now been eliminated for those with full VA loan entitlement. While this affects many VA loan applicants, there are two instances where VA loan limits still apply. One is in the case of those who have previously defaulted on a VA loan. The other is with homeowners who have one or more VA loans currently active.

Ready to start your search for a new home? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Premier Group to get started.

While the cold winter months are ideal for cozying up on the couch, sometimes it feels good to be productive. A little home maintenance will also ensure your home looks its best if you list it among the St. Louis market and surrounding area. Whether your home is in St. Louis County, Franklin County, or even further north in St. Charles County, our agents encourage you to work on these home improvement projects this winter. 

1. Declutter and Organize
   Winter is a perfect time to declutter and organize your belongings. You likely have some new holiday gifts that you need to make room for, and there's no better way to start the New Year than with an organized space.
   
   You can either tackle one room at a time, or you may declutter categories of stuff. For example, you might declutter all the clothing in your home or all your paperwork and mementos. Get rid of anything you no longer use, that you have too much, or that you haven't used in more than a year (aside from seasonal items).
   
   Once you know what you're left with, you can organize your belongings with containers, shelves, rods, and hooks. Our real estate agents know that a well-organized home also looks larger and more appealing to potential buyers. 

2. Replace Old Hardware
   Old hardware, like your door hinges, cabinet knobs, doorknobs, and door levels, can quickly make your space look dated. Give your home an instant facelift by replacing these items. You can replace most old hardware with a screwdriver, drill, screws, and wood putty. 

3. Service Your Ceiling Fans
   Did you know that you need to change the direction of your ceiling fans during the winter months? When the weather is cold, you want your ceiling fans to operate in a clockwise direction, so it pushes warm air down. You can adjust your ceiling fan's direction by using the direction switch on your fan's motor housing.
   
   While you're changing your fans' directions, give them a thorough dusting. Dust the fan blades with a microfiber cloth or duster that will prevent the dust from scattering. Wipe down the fan pulls with a damp cloth. 

4. Repair Any Wall Blemishes and Touch Up Your Paint
   If you've got some areas with scrapes or holes, winter is a fantastic time to patch these blemishes and touch up the paint. You'll be spending a lot of time indoors, and you want your home to look as inviting as possible.
   
   You can fix most small wall defects with a layer or two of spackling compound. Once it dries, sand the area smooth and add a fresh coat of paint.

5. Change the Batteries in Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
   Keep your family safe by changing the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Once the units have fresh batteries, test them to make sure they're working properly. If necessary, install additional detectors in your home.
   
   You should have a smoke detector in each bedroom, in the hall outside every sleeping area, and on each level of your home. There should be a carbon monoxide detector on each level of your home and in your garage. 

Ready to explore new properties for your family? Contact us today!

With 2021 fast approaching, we're excited to see what trends will catch on in the new year. With so many people spending extra time on home projects in 2020, we're expecting even more homeowners to take on home improvement projects to make their home extra special for themselves or to get it ready to list. Our real estate agents were so inspired by these St. Louis homes for sale, they decided to put together a list of their predictions for what trends you can expect to see more of in 2021. 

1. Coastal Themes
   Tranquility is going to be a very popular theme in 2021, especially considering the year we had. Many of us were forced to skip our beach vacations in 2020, so it wouldn't be surprising to see subtle coastal design themes pop-up in homes this year. Whether it's tropical leaves or flowers or the right mix of calming aquas and blues, pay attention to calming coastal design trends in 2021. This is a great option for those who love the beach and are looking to personalize their home office. 
   
   
2. Rustic Vogue
   For those who like a charming look mixed with a bit of upscale character, rustic vogue is definitely going to be the design trend for you. This look is usually best in homes that already have some rustic character, such as old doors or original floorboards. Simply add some upscale furniture, neutral colors, and some bright statement pieces to create that upscale cottage feel. To achieve this look, be sure to check out thrift stores for that one-of-a-kind look!
   
   
3. Pure Vintage
   Vintage designs and timeless looks will always be in style. Working antique furniture or pieces of architectural salvage into your living space is a great way to create a classic look. They really don't make furniture like they used to, so repurposing old pieces can really make a statement in your home.
   
   
4. Textured Walls
   We expect to see textured walls continue to increase in popularity next year. Stone, marble, and wooden beams all significantly impact perception and can really add a classy touch to any room. Textured walls change the ambiance of the room in a big way. Best of all, they're generally easy to install and can hide cracks, dents, and holes in your drywall.
   
   
5. Houseplants
   Get ready to step up your house plant game in 2021 because they're coming back in a big way. Retro 1970's hangers, unique succulents, and big blooms -- adding some green into your living space can definitely liven things up. They can also go a long way towards boosting your mood. Just make sure you buy plants that require little maintenance and are hard to kill.

Looking for a new home in the area for you to try new home improvement projects on in 2021? Contact us today!