Articles Tagged "Home Improvement"

Need extra space in your home? A detached garage can have a lot more uses than just parking your car or providing extra storage. Here are a few suggestions from our real estate agents for making use of the extra space in your detached garage.

• Home Gym
  Gym memberships are expensive, but fortunately, your detached garage may provide just the space you need. The ceilings in garages are typically high, providing plenty of space for taller equipment. Turning your detached garage into a gym also requires a few renovations. Durable flooring, access to electricity, and maybe a space heater in the winter are about all you need.
  
  
• Dance Studio
  Like a home gym, a dance studio makes itself at home easily in a detached garage. You'll likely want to get some portable dance flooring tiles to give yourself the correct type of floor to dance on, and you can mount mirrors and possibly a barre on the garage walls. Like the home gym, a dance studio will benefit from the high ceilings and wide floor space in a garage.
  
  
• Art Studio
  Do you need a place where you can be alone with your art? A detached garage makes a perfect art studio. The concrete floors and unfinished walls in most garages make it easy to make a mess and even easier to clean it up. Be aware of where the nearest water source is when you're planning your art studio, though, as access to water will be important for art as well as for cleanup.
  
  
• Workshop
  Do you find it difficult to find a good place for your workshop? The mess and the noisy equipment may have your workshop banned from the house, in which case the detached garage is the next best thing. Concrete floors make for easy cleanup, and being separate from the house will prevent the noise from ignoring anyone inside.
  
  
• Garden Zone
  Do you love to garden? If so, you probably always need more space than you have. Consider taking over your home's detached garage as a catch-all place for all your garden needs. In that space, you'll be able to set up a potting bench, a nursery with lamps to help baby plants grow, and an organized storage area for all of your garden tools and supplies.
  
  
• Play Room
  A detached garage makes a perfect place to set up a rough-and-tumble playroom. Because there's so much space and it's almost like being outside, there's more room for activities such as jumping rope and roller skating, making a garage playroom almost a necessity in poor weather. Temporary flooring and tumbling mats will make the garage an inviting space for when the kids want their own space.
  
  
• Office Space
  St. Louis homes for sale are especially appealing when they have office space! It may require a little bit more remodeling, but if you're hurting for a good place to work from home, consider converting your detached garage into usable office space. It'll enable you to have a quiet place to work away from the rest of your family members. You'll probably want to finish the space with flooring, walls, and climate control. You could even consider making the garage into a tiny apartment or carriage house that could be rented out. 

A detached garage is an often overlooked way to maximize the available space in your home. If you're looking for a way to boost your home's value, contact us today to discuss how to best put that detached garage to work.

If you are a first-time homebuyer, one of the things you might be excited about is that you can have a yard big enough for a garden. Our real estate agents can help you find the perfect property where you can grow your own vegetables and work on a new hobby for years to come. Get started with these easy-to-grow plants perfect for the area's climate.

• Bush Beans – Bush beans are probably the safest bet if you want to grow a vegetable that you can't mess up. Plant them. Keep the weeds away and watch them grow!

• Corn - Corn, along with beans and squash, make up the three sisters of the garden. The corn creates the foundation for the beans to grow around, and the squash creates the base. When all three are cooked together, you have succotash.

• Peas – Peas are exceptionally easy to grow but difficult to harvest. Since you can eat them right from the garden, you will often find children grabbing handfuls for a quick snack. Watch out for the adults too!

• Cherry Tomatoes – Cherry tomatoes are almost as hard to harvest as your peas. Once you get a few on the vine, though, you can harvest them for a salad or as a garnish for one of your home-cooked meals.

• Summer Squash – Summer squash is also extremely easy to grow and is known as one of the staples for many families who garden from year to year. You can find various types of squash growing at many St. Louis homes for sale.

• Garlic – Garlic is similar to onions and will produce a strong odor as it matures. It is easy to grow and you can harvest it as you need it.

• Cucumbers – Cucumbers look a lot like squash, but the plants have smaller leaves. Both squash and cucumbers grow quickly once they begin to appear on the vine. Harvest them when they are mid-size for the best texture and taste.

• Radishes – Radishes grow very fast. You may be able to plant and harvest twice during the summer months if they don't get too hot.

• Leafy Vegetables – Leafy vegetables like lettuce and kale are easy to grow and will provide you with everything you need for a tasty summer salad.

• Garden Herbs - No garden is complete without a little flavor. Many herbs are easily grown in your garden or in small pots in your kitchen. Rosemary, oregano, basil, parsley, and thyme can all be grown in your garden and harvested fresh whenever you need them. 

Other Tips for Your First Garden

Besides picking out the right plants to grow in your first garden, you also have to keep in mind how you'll keep pests away from your sprouting plants. In our corner of Missouri, rabbits, squirrels, and even deer are known to cause havoc in some gardens. Luckily, there are a couple of ways you can keep them at bay and protect your garden.

• Fencing – a variety of materials can help you keep any pests away. 
  
  
• Hot Pepper Sauce – Sure, you might like spicy food, but rabbits don't. Mix a hot pepper sauce with dish soap for a natural (and spicy) way to deter them from your garden.
  
  
• Identify the Plant Pests Like the Most - Are pests targeting one plant in particular? Head to your garden store and see if you can surround this plant with chicken wire to give it extra protection.

If you're ready to dive into gardening and are looking for the perfect home, contact us today. We can help you find a yard perfect for your gardening goals. 

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!

If you're selling your home now or plan to in the future, outdated appliances can make prospective buyers turn away from your home to look at another house with newer ones. Buyers can replace your appliances when purchasing a home, but they usually don't want to go to the trouble or expense to do so. And even if you're planning to stay in your home awhile, outdated appliances can make your home less attractive and functional than it could be.
  
Here's what you need to know about appliance upgrades that can boost the value of your home:

• Think of What Fits Your Home
  Consult one of our real estate agents to find out what type of appliances are popular in your home's price range. While you want to make your home more valuable, you don't want to price yourself out of the neighborhood.
    
• Look for Energy Star Appliances
  Appliances with the Energy Star sticker or tag meet strict energy-efficiency requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They'll help you save money on your energy bill, and when you're selling your home, they'll appeal to prospective buyers. Leave the Energy Star sticker on your appliances, so buyers know they'll save as well.

What to Replace  

• Refrigerator
  Kitchens can make or break a sale, so if you have money to spend, this is an excellent place to start. An upgraded refrigerator that has French doors, as well as built-in filtered water and ice dispensers, will appeal to the majority of buyers. The same is true of a stainless steel finish, which remains extremely popular. If you're thinking of going for a high-tech option like a TV-embedded fridge, it may not be a wise move unless you have a luxury home.
  
  
• Laundry sets  
  An appliance upgrade is definitely in order if your washer and dryer don't match. Not only does this make the set less attractive, but it also makes a buyer immediately realize that one appliance is older than the other. This makes them likely to wonder just how old it is and how long it will keep running efficiently. Aside from a nice, matching appearance, buyers want high-efficiency front-load and top-load units. And if you have a large home that might appeal to families, a large capacity washer and dryer is a good investment.
  
  
• Stove  
  A stove that's built-in will be more popular than a standalone one. And buyers also appreciate flat tops and stoves with self-cleaning functions since they're easy to keep clean. And if you have some gas utilities, gas stoves generally appeal to serious cooks.
  
  
• Appliance sets   
  Retailers often discount sets of appliances, so they can help you save money while ensuring that you have matching sets. For example, a kitchen appliance set may include items such as a stove, refrigerator, built-in microwave, and dishwasher. While there's usually no need to select the most expensive options with every imaginable bell and whistle, the cheapest set is usually not the best choice either. Instead, choose a mid-range set that will appeal to a larger number of buyers.

Contact us if you'd like to visit St. Louis homes for sale or, if you're selling your home, to receive expert advice on what kinds of upgrades can help boost its value. 

Fall is here, and so is a new wave of interior design trends. According to our real estate agents, this season's design ethos is all about comfort and self-expression. Let's delve into 5 of the most popular interior design trends this fall, how we've seen them applied in many of our St. Louis homes for sale, and how you can bring these ideas into your home. 

1. Earth Tones
   Fall's stunning orange and brown color palette is providing inspiration for some homeowners in 2021. In addition to rich chocolates and muted apricots, many choose to add soothing blues and verdant greens to their homes. These hues evoke the natural world. 
   
   Because many of these colors are very close to neutrals, they are very easy to incorporate into almost any room. Repainting the walls is the most obvious way to do this, but it isn't the only way. A small touch like a mist-colored vase or some mossy green curtains can go a long way. 
   
   
2. Soft, Cozy Fabrics and Textures 
   In stressful times, people often try to make their homes as comfortable and welcoming as possible. This might be why homeowners are currently so eager to add soft textures to their living rooms, bedrooms, offices, and other living spaces. At the moment, most use discreet, removable items like blankets and rugs for this purpose instead of permanent fixtures like carpeting or upholstery.  
   
   It's easy to bring this trend into your home with a single shopping trip. Look for throw blankets and decorative pillows, especially ones made of materials like wool, flannel, and sherpa. 
   
   
3. Dividers 
   In the past, homeowners often wanted to open up every space as much as possible. This is no longer the prevailing trend. Instead, many people are adding room dividers (screens, shelves, and other partitions) to their homes to break up those open spaces and create more intimate areas without having to actually build new walls.  
   
   If this idea appeals to you, experiment with different types of room dividers. An elegant folding screen, sturdy bookshelf, or long silky curtain can break up those large rooms and add some additional function or decoration to the space, depending on what you prefer. 
   
   
4. Natural Finishes and Other Elements 
   Homeowners are also taking cues from nature when adding furniture and fixtures to their space. Faux stone finishes, light natural woods, and other rustic accents are becoming increasingly common this season, especially in conjunction with nature-inspired color schemes. Together, these two design choices amplify each other and create an even more sense of soothing respite within the home. 
   
   Countertops, mantlepieces, coffee tables, and other focal points are great places to incorporate natural elements into your own home. 
   
   
5. Vintage Furniture and Housewares 
   Finally, fall 2021 has also brought an increased interest in vintage furniture and homeware pieces. After spending so much time in their homes over the last year and a half, homeowners see their interior spaces as an extension of themselves. This has led to an interest in personalizing spaces with art, furniture, or knickknacks from the past, especially if these items are family heirlooms. 
   
   These days, it's easy to find as many charming old items as your heart desires – if you can't find exactly what you want at local thrift stores and garage sales, hop online and see what's listed on sites like eBay and Craigslist. 

No matter how you choose to decorate the inside of your home, the most important thing is that you feel happy and at ease there. If you're in the market for a new home, contact us today. 

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. 

A healthy dose of natural light is an easy way to help any space look its best. Natural light illuminates the room, making it look larger and more inviting; high levels of natural light also boost your body's production of serotonin, one of the chemicals associated with happiness and better mood levels.

Our real estate agents suggest exploring options to increase the natural light in your home before you put your home on the market. Here are a few ways to boost your property's natural light. 

1. Choose Colors That Reflect Light
   When choosing paint colors for your home, stick with light hues that will reflect the light that enters the room. Darker hues absorb light, making the room feel smaller and more compact. If you're dealing with a room that you want to leave a darker color, try painting the ceiling, doors, and baseboards in a light color to lighten the room's look. 

2. Add More Mirrors
   Mirrors are an excellent alternative for sleek wall decor and for maximizing a room's natural light. For the best results, position the mirror on a wall across from a window. It will reflect the sunlight the enters the room, instantly increasing the size of the space and enhancing its appearance. The same concept also applies to shiny or reflective pieces of home decor. If you already have a mirror in a room or prefer to consider other options, add decorative pieces crafted from shiny metals or with metallic finishes. These additions instantly brighten the atmosphere in the room. 

3. Reconsider Your Furniture
   Instead of choosing furnishings crafted from dark wood tones and materials, opt for lighter tones. These light colors are another way to reflect the light already in the room. If you're craving a darker alternative, one solution is to use your throw pillows and decorative blankets to decorate in patterns or colors that aren't as effective at reflecting light. Or make sure that the largest pieces of furniture are in lighter hues.

4. Install Larger Windows
   If you're willing to explore more drastic alternatives, install larger windows or new doors in the room. Saint Louis homes for sale that have new, energy-efficient windows are also appealing to potential homebuyers. The presence of more windows is a fantastic way to permanently increase the natural light in your home. Or, if you simply want to replace a window, look for a design with lots of exposed glass. Bay windows and bow windows are both excellent possibilities. 

5. Wash Your Windows
   Even a property that's filled with windows will have insufficient amounts of natural light if the windows are dirty. Washing the interior and exterior of your windows is a simple way to make sure that dirt and grime aren't preventing outside light from penetrating your home. 

Interested in a property with more windows or even a sunroom? Contact us to start your search!

If you enjoy browsing vintage furniture and tend to see it for its potential, you might enjoy upcycling furniture. Upcycled furniture can be funky, trendy, or even classy with the right touch, and that one special piece might be great for starting a conversation with your guests or perfect when staging your home for sale, according to our real estate agents. Here are a few tips for giving tired outdated furniture new life.

1. Look for Good Bones
   When you're on the hunt for vintage furniture to upcycle, try to see past the current finish (or lack thereof), and instead look at the bones of each piece. You'll want furniture that is sturdy and made of real wood so that it'll stand up to the demands of a makeover and a new life. Look also for interesting features such as mid-century modern styling or interesting curves and carvings that painting and distressing would highlight.
   
   
2. Find a New Purpose for Old Things
   Part of the fun of upcycling furniture is thinking outside of the box. There are a lot of old pieces that don't necessarily have a purpose anymore, but you can make a trendy new purpose with a little creative thinking. For example, vintage crates can be stacked to use as bookshelves, a cozy little vintage dining table would make a great desk, and that vintage radio or record player could find new life retrofitted as a wine rack or liquor cabinet.
   
   
3. Update the Look with a Little Paint
   Typically vintage furniture is cast-off not because it no longer functions, but because the finish has become scratched and worn. Purists will repair or refinish a valuable piece, but you can give the more mundane pieces exciting new life with a little color. Perhaps the piece is perfect for your current look but needs a facelift with a new coat of paint. For something a little more interesting, you can opt for shabby chic with a distressed look, or aim for more urban with stenciled accents.
   
   
4. Stick to the Style
   While mixing and matching can be cool and trendy, you won't do the furniture any favors if you don't work with what you've got. Different pieces have different looks, and your upcycling will be the most successful if you stay true to the style. Furniture with straighter lines, such as mid-century modern, will look better with clean paint or geometric stenciling, for example. Furniture with graceful lines, carved details, or even simple country style will pair well with distressed finishes.

Upcycling furniture can be very rewarding, and you may find that your thrift store score ends up being one of your favorite pieces after a little (or a lot of) TLC. Just remember, if you'll be using the piece to stage your home for sale, that buyers tend to react more favorably to a neutral decor when browsing St. Louis homes for sale. For more information about how to stage a home for success on the sales market, contact us today.

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!

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.

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!

With the average cost of painting the interior of a home running approximately $959 to $2,772, handling the job yourself is an excellent way to save a few dollars. Our real estate agents know that a fresh paint job is appealing to potential buyers and ensures your home's spaces look bright, inviting, and clean. Here are a few tips to following from painting pros for expert-level results. 

1. Make Sure You Start with a Smooth Surface
   Before you start painting, see that you have a smooth surface for the job. Use the spackling paste to fill in any holes or imperfections in your drywall. If you have holes larger than six inches or so, you'll need to patch them using a drywall patch before covering the area with spackling paste. Once the paste dries, sand it using fine-grit sandpaper on a sanding pole. Press the sandpaper along the wall vertically, then horizontally, using gentle pressure to create a smooth surface. Wipe the walls with a damp cloth before you start painting to remove any leftover dust and grime from the sanding process. 

2. Properly Prepare the Room
   Don't start sanding or painting until you've prepared the room. Move all the furniture to the center of the room, and cover it with drop cloths. Make sure to tape the dropcloths together at the bottom so that dust and splatters don't get in. Cover your floors with canvas drop cloths. They'll protect your floors much better than old bedsheets or plastic drop cloths. Tape them down around the edges so that they don't come up as you walk on them and turn into a trip hazard. See that you also cover any light or wall fixtures that you're not removing. 

3. Use Painters Tape or a Quality Angled Paint Brush
   You'll likely have some areas that you want to keep a different color, like your baseboards or wooden trim. Protect these areas with painters tape if you have an unsteady hand; check that you firmly press the tape down so that it keeps paint from seeping underneath it. Or, if you have a steady hand, invest in a small, quality, angled paintbrush. This will allow you to paint around these areas with precision. 

4. Do One Wall at a Time
   When painting, you might be tempted to do all the edges in a room and then go back and do the bulk of the walls. Instead, do one wall at a time so that you don't inadvertently wind up with wall edges that are a slightly different hue. Doing one wall at a time makes it easier for you to produce a seamless look that will help your home stand out against other St. Louis homes for sale. The color along your walls and edges will be even and professional looking. 

5. Wash Your Paint Rollers Before Using Them
   A paint roller is an excellent way to reduce the amount of time it takes to paint a room. Before you get started, wash the rollers in your sink with a squirt of liquid soap. As you wash the roller, run your hands up and down the surface to remove any loose fibers. Rinse the roller well to remove all traces of the soap. You can start using them immediately (even if they're still wet). 

Ready to swap your home for another space? Contact us today to get started!

When potential buyers look at St. Louis homes for sale, the kitchen is always a focal point. Whether you're thinking about selling your home soon or you just want to make your kitchen look great, updating the backsplash is an excellent place to start. 

This small area that peeks out between your appliances and cabinets might seem like an unimportant detail. However, it actually has a major impact on the overall look and feel of your kitchen space. 

Our real estate agents have shown many homes with gorgeous backsplashes... and a few that didn't quite do the trick. The following five tips will help you make sure your kitchen looks great when you're done with your update.

1. Learn the Backsplash Basics
   The first thing you'll want to do is review the basics of backsplash design. Begin by sizing up your space. Multiply the height of the area by the width to get the total square footage. This is the total amount of materials you'll need. Make sure you add at least 10%, so you have enough extra tile to cover any mistakes. If you're thinking about adding any elaborate designs to your backsplash, make sure you put them in the primary focal points. This is typically the space above your kitchen sink and above the range. Small kitchens can also benefit from a backsplash that extends around the room. While this will make the project more expensive, it adds a contemporary look and also creates an optical illusion that makes the space look larger.

2. Consider Total Cost and Durability
   When choosing your materials, make sure you consider the overall cost and how well it will stand up to the test of time. For example, glass backsplashes are stunning, but many homeowners find this option overly expensive. Natural stone will also create a striking look, but you'll have to seal it every year. If you want a durable material that's reasonably priced and easy to clean, consider choosing ceramic tiles. Porcelain is another great choice. It's made from clay, just like ceramic, but it's denser. This makes it more resistant to moisture and less likely to suffer damage. 

3. Beware of Over-Matching
   It's natural to feel like you want everything to match, but if you match your tile too much, you'll end up with a boring, uninspired look. Instead, have some fun playing with patterns or adding in some complementary colors. 

4. Invest in Good Grout
   You might think that your color and pattern choices are the most important, but you'll also want to pay attention to the grout you choose. The grout is the backbone of your backsplash, so don't make the mistake of skimping on this critical detail. 

5. Don't Forget About Maintenance
   If you want your backsplash to keep looking as great as it did when it was first installed, you'll need to keep up with maintenance. Sealing your backsplash is critical. The recommended frequency of this task will depend on the material you choose. If you build your backsplash out of slate, marble, or granite, you'll need to re-seal it once a year. Opt for travertine, and you'll be able to extend this to once every two years. 

Are you thinking about buying or selling a home in the St. Louis area? CB Premier Group can help! Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started.