Autumn is in full swing, which means the year is drawing to an end. If you're like a lot of homeowners, you started off the year with a long list of home improvement projects, and you didn't complete as many as planned. But have no fear — there's still time to turn things around. Our real estate agents are excited to share some quick home improvement projects you can still complete by the end of the year.

• Paint a Room
  Is there a room in your home that just looks a bit drab and outdated? Change things up with a fresh coat of paint.
  
  To get professional results, make sure you use a good-quality primer and let it dry completely before applying the paint. Start by "cutting in" around the edges with a paintbrush, then use a roller to paint the flats of the walls.
  
  
• Power Wash Your Walkways
  Concrete and stone walking paths tend to become caked with algae and grime. Use a power washer to blast this all away. Start with a good concrete cleaner applied with the low-pressure setting. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse it away with the high-pressure setting.
  
  
• Update Cabinet Hardware
  Replacing your cabinet hardware is a fun, quick way to give your kitchen a facelift. Replace older, dated hardware with new, nickel, or brushed bronze hardware. All you need is a screwdriver and some patience. 
  
  
• Replace Your Switchplate Covers
  If you have boring, white, or beige switchplate covers, consider replacing them with more interesting, decorative ones. You can pick a different switchplate cover to suit the theme of each room. For instance, you may want a train-themed one in your child's bedroom and one with sunflowers on it for your sunroom. 
  
  
• Create a Chalkboard Wall
  This project works well in a home office or even in a child's playroom. Purchase a bucket of chalkboard paint, and use it to paint one wall. You will probably have to use two coats, so plan for several hours of drying time between coats. Use a roller so the paint goes on as smoothly as possible. You or your kids can then write or draw on this wall with dust-free chalk. 
  
  
• Paint Your Front Door
  If your home's facade could use a makeover, start by simply painting the front door. Choose a different color — one that coordinates with the rest of your home exterior but still stands out. Bright, stand-out front doors are trendy right now, and if you decide you want a different color, later on, you can always re-paint it. Just make sure you use high-quality exterior paint.
  
  
• Replace Your Light Fixtures
  New light fixtures can transform your room! Shop for fixtures that represent your current sense of style, and install them throughout your home. Whether you like hanging light fixtures or flush ones, there are some beautiful options on the market these days.

There's still time to update your new home with some quick projects this year. If you're still searching for the perfect home, don't hesitate to contact us. We'll help you find Bradenton homes for sale and Sarasota homes for sale in time for the new year.

Barn doors look lovely in country chic homes and even in some cottage-style houses. They work well as closet doors, pantry doors, and even as laundry room doors. While there are plenty of pre-made barn doors for sale, making your own barn door is a fun project — and a great way to personalize your new home! Follow these steps from our real estate agents to make your own barn door.

1. Purchase and Mount the Hardware
   Your barn door will need a track to slide on. Visit a home improvement store, and look for a barn door track in your preferred style. You want it to be at least 4 inches wider than the door opening. Follow the instructions on the package to mount the garage door. Screw it directly into the wall studs for maximum security.
   
   
2. Measure and Cut the Vertical Boards
   To determine the width of your door, measure the door opening and add 4 inches. Measure the height of your door, start at the track, and measure down to the floor. Subtract 1/2 inch so the door has plenty of clearance over the floor.
   
   With these measurements in hand, start cutting your boards down to size. For a simple barn door, it is easiest to use 1 x 6" pine shiplap boards. They are inexpensive and take stain well. If your door width is not a multiple of 6, then you will need to cut one or more boards width-wise. 
   
   
3. Cut the Horizontal Boards
   In addition to your vertical boards, you will need three boards to stretch horizontally across the door. Cut these as long as your door is wide.
   
   
4. Sand Everything
   Once your boards are cut down to length, sand them well. Start with coarse sandpaper, such as 50- or 60-grit. Then, go over the boards again with a fine, 100-grit sandpaper. You can sand the boards as smoothly as you like. Leave them a little rougher for a more rustic look, but be sure there are no patches rough enough to cause splinters.
   
   
5. Assemble Your Door
   Lay your sanded, vertical boards out on the floor, side by side, in the shape of your final door. Then, lay the horizontal boards across them. One horizontal board should go across the top and another across the bottom. The third should stretch across the middle. Measure to make sure it is properly placed. 
   
   Have someone help you hold the boards in place as you drive screws through the horizontal boards, down into the vertical boards.
   
   
6. Stain the Door
   The great thing about making your own barn door is that it can be any color you like. Choose a stain you love. Apply it according to the instructions on the tub or can. Usually, you have to apply the stain, wipe off the excess, and let it dry for a day before handling the project again.
   
   
7. Mount the Hardware
   This is the final step. Once your stained door is dry, mount the sliders to the top of the door. Usually, they will hook over the door, and you'll secure them with a couple of screws.
   
   When the hardware is in place, have a friend or family member help you lift the door and hook the sliders over the wall-mounted hardware. Slide the door from side to side, step back, and admire your good work.

With these instructions, you'll have a DIY barn door to be proud of. If you're still looking for the perfect home for your barn door, contact us. We'll help you find incredible Sarasota homes for sale and Bradenton homes for sale in your style.

People often say that the kitchen is the heart of the home. But the pantry is a close contender! As the place where you store your snacks and cooking ingredients, your pantry deserves to be an organized, efficient space. You'll love being able to open the door and find what you need in an instant without having to search multiple shelves. So, how do you go about organizing a pantry? Our real estate agents have broken this task down into seven steps, which are presented below.

1. Sort Through Everything
   Before you start putting items into place, pull everything out of your pantry. Sort through your items, throwing away products that have expired. If there are foods you know that you'll never use, donate them or give them to friends.
   
   With the extras gone, make a list of the products that remain. If there are items you use regularly but don't have on hand right now, make a trip to the store to purchase them. Then, add them to your list.
   
   
2. Categorize Your Items
   Look down your list, and start dividing your items into categories. Good categories to include are spices and seasonings, pasta and dried goods, canned goods, baking ingredients, and sauces. Once you've categorized your list, move your actual items into piles based on how you categorized them on paper.
   
   
3. Transfer Open Items Into Clear Containers
   It's hard to maintain an organized pantry with a bunch of half-empty bags and boxes. Plus, opened boxes attract pests. So, invest in some clear containers and empty those boxes and bags into them.
   
   There are lots of good brands that make clear, plastic, and glass pantry containers. Pick containers that are stackable and easy for you to open.
   
   
4. Label Your Containers
   Even if you can see into the clear containers, labels make things more clear. You'll also have an easier time figuring out what you need to buy to fill empty containers. If you have a label maker or can borrow one from a friend, that's awesome. Otherwise, you can make your own labels by writing, with markers, on white stickers.
   
   
5. Line Your Shelves
   Before you put your containers back into the pantry, use a stick-on shelf liner to line your shelves. Our agents have seen this in some Bradenton homes for sale and Sarasota homes for sale, and it really does make pantries easy to clean. Choose a cute pattern or a solid color that matches your pantry walls. The shelf liner should come with application instructions on the package.
   
   
6. Organize Your Shelves
   Decide on a shelf for each category of items. You'll want to put items you use more often on shelves close to eye level. Those that you use less often can go further down where you have to bend to reach them. For example, if you only bake a few times a year, your baking items can likely go on the bottom shelf.
   
   
7. Add a Few Extras
   Once all your food is back in the pantry, it is time to add a few extras to help keep the space more organized. Consider mounting a marker board on the pantry door. You can use this to keep track of your shopping list. Find a bag holder to mount to the pantry door, too. This will give you somewhere convenient to stick plastic bags when you get home. Add any other extras you think may come in handy, too.

If you spend the weekend organizing your pantry, you'll save so much time when you cook and snack later on. Contact us if you're still looking for the perfect home — and pantry — to call your own.

Having a pool gives you a quick, enjoyable way to cool off in the summer. We've seen so many lovely Bradenton homes for sale and Sarasota homes for sale with pools. If you buy a home with a pool, you should know there are plenty of ways to customize your pool and pool area, making it feel more like your own. Here are a few features to think about adding.

• Slides
  A slide can be an awesome addition to your pool. People often think of slides as being for kids, but there are models large enough for adults to use, too. A straight slide gives you the perfect way to make a splash with your entrance. A longer, spiral slide can be fun for older, more independent kids to play on. Keep in mind that water slides are usually only recommended for deeper pools since landing in shallow water can be dangerous.
  
  
• Bubblers
  If you want to create a peaceful, relaxing environment in your pool, consider adding a bubbler to one corner. The gentle bubbles that emerge will mander through the water before rising to the surface and gently popping. Surround this corner of your pool with plants, and you have the perfect little resting spot.
  
  
• Spillways
  A spillway is basically like an artificial waterfall built into one wall of the pool. It's typically mounted a foot or two above the water level so the water can come tumbling out and land in the pool. The sound of the tumbling water adds to your ambiance, and it can be fun to splash around under the spillway.
  
  
• LED Lighting
  Swimming at night can be much more fun with LED lights in your pool. Most of these lights are color-changing. You can set them to rotate through colors every few minutes, or you can select a color for them to remain all night. Imagine lighting your pool up blue and red for Independence Day or green for St. Patrick's Day. LED lights are also energy-efficient, so you can feel good about this eco-friendly pool addition.
  
  
• A Fountain
  If your pool has more of a classic look, you may want to add a fountain to its design. You can find fountains that feature sculptures of everything from fish to Greek gods. Pick one that coordinates with the rest of your landscape as a way of making your pool feel like a more integrated part of the yard.
  
  
• Natural Rock Waterfalls
  Many pool companies will come to add natural rock waterfalls to the edges of pools. They can create a unique pile of rocks and hide a pump inside them. Water will tumble down over the rocks, creating a peaceful experience. You may want to have some built-in seats added near the waterfall so you can enjoy a close-up view more often.
  
  
• Outdoor Shower
  Hygiene is important, even when you're in your own private pool. Showering before you get in the pool can help conserve the chlorine and keep the pH levels in check. Showering after you get out of the pool can rinse the chlorine off your skin, so you don't feel too dry. There are plenty of freestanding pool showers that can be installed just outside or next to the pool. You and your guests can then rinse off quickly while dressed in your bathing suits.

With the right features, your pool will become one of your favorite parts of your home. If you're still looking for the perfect Florida home with a pool, our real estate agents can help. Contact us to learn more about our services.

First impressions are everything. This is as true in the world of real estate as in any other. When a potential buyer first walks into a home, the first things they see (and smell) play a huge role in determining their interest. If your home makes a great first impression, you'll have an easier time making a sale — and you'll probably get higher offers, too. After years of experience, our real estate agents know this to be true!

One of the ways you can improve your home's first impression is by steam cleaning the carpets prior to your first showing or open house. Why is steam cleaning so important? Take a look.

• Steam Cleaning Removes Trapped Odors
  Your home doesn't smell, right? We'll let you in on a little secret: you wouldn't necessarily know if it did. Homeowners become nose-blind to odors over time, but newcomers definitely notice those smells. When buyers look at Sarasota homes for sale, they want them to smell nice.
  
  Carpets have a bad habit of holding onto smells, and simple vacuuming doesn't do much to remove them. Steam cleaning, on the other hand, will remove trapped odors, including any you've become nose-blind to. Potential buyers will then be greeted by a fresh scent.
  
  
• Steam Cleaning Removes Evidence of Pets
  Even if potential buyers own pets themselves, they don't want to see evidence of pets in a home they're thinking of buying. Buyers looking at Bradenton homes for sale want those spaces to look fresh and new. Even a little pet hair or one tiny stain can turn a buyer off. Steam cleaning removes evidence of pets from your carpet, reassuring buyers that your place is clean and well cared for.
  
  
• Steam Cleaning is More Affordable Than Replacing the Carpet
  If your carpet looks a little discolored and dull, you may be thinking of replacing it before you sell. Sometimes, this might be a good idea. However, since carpet replacement can be costly, it's often wise to try steam cleaning first. 
  
  Steam cleaning costs a small fraction of what you'd pay to replace the existing carpet. In many cases, it will make your carpet look as good as new.
  
  
• Steam Cleaning Ensures a Good-Looking Backdrop
  When you're preparing to sell your home, you can cover up minor faults like a divot in the wall or some scratches on the baseboard. But the carpet is a big element. It serves as the backdrop of your room, in a way. If the carpet does not look clean, that's something that buyers will notice.
  
  Steam cleaning ensures this major element of your decor looks its best. When the carpet is clean, buyers generally assume the rest of the home is clean, too.
  
  
• Steam Cleaning Removes Allergens
  The last thing you'd want is for a buyer to walk into your home and start sneezing. While vacuuming does pick up some allergens, it also tends to disperse those allergens into the air. Steam cleaning does a more thorough job of removing pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and other allergens from the carpet. A home with carpets that have recently been steam cleaned is less likely to cause symptoms for allergy sufferers.

Preparing your home for a showing can go a long way toward helping you find the perfect buyer. If you're thinking about selling and are looking for an agent to represent you, feel free to contact us. Our experienced real estate agents can guide you through both the buying and the selling processes and ensure everything goes smoothly.

When you're first settling into a new place, you may not want a lot of projects on your plate, but a few carefully chosen DIY projects can help your new house feel like home. Here are a few quick and relatively easy projects our real estate agents recommend for helping you feel at home.

• Paint the front door.
  Especially if your new home hasn't seen a coat of paint in some time, painting the front door can make a huge impact on how it looks and make it feel a little more like yours, even if you don't have the time, money, or bandwidth to paint the whole home just yet. Consider painting it a fun new color, such as red, green, or blue, as it will liven up the look of your house. Remember, Bradenton homes for sale and Sarasota homes for sale are often painted in neutral color schemes so as not to turn off potential buyers, so repainting that door can add a little of your personality to your new home.
  
  
• Update your house number.
  While you're painting that front door, consider updating your house number as well. It's not unusual for homes to have small, outdated house numbers that are hard to see, so make sure whatever you choose is well lit and large enough to be easily seen from the street. Choosing more modern-looking numbers and changing how they're mounted will also give your home a more updated look, even if that (and painting the front door) is all you do.
  
  
• Hang string lights.
  Want to make your outdoor living spaces in your new home both cozy and cool? Hang string lights from your patio or porch roof, or use them to brighten a gazebo or pergola. Even if you don't have a roof or fence to hang them from, you can make your own planter posts for hanging lights using wooden barrel planters.
  
  
• Modernize your popcorn ceiling.
  Nothing dates a house faster than a popcorn ceiling. They're not only unsightly, but they're also a magnet for cobwebs and dust. Fortunately, they're easily removed with a drywall knife, a shop vac, and a fresh coat of paint afterward. Remember that some popcorn ceilings could contain lead or asbestos, though, and have your ceiling tested before tackling it as a DIY-er, especially if your home was built before 1979.
  
  
• Replace kitchen hardware.
  An easy way to make your kitchen feel more like home is to update the kitchen hardware to something more in line with your tastes. Swapping out cabinet hardware is fairly easy and can be done in an hour or two unless you choose to repaint the cabinets while the hardware is off. The hardware store offers a variety of options, so there's sure to be something that suits your tastes, whether they are traditional or modern, classic or funky.
  
  
• Paint the kitchen cabinets.
  While you have that cabinet hardware off, think about whether you'd like a whole new look in your kitchen. Painting the cabinets is usually a fairly fast job compared to repainting the rest of the house and uses considerably less paint. That being said, it's also a project that yields big results for its relatively small investment, as changing the color of your cabinets can make your kitchen look like an entirely different room.

Little DIY projects like these are a fun way to help you settle in and improve your new home, but it's important to find the right house to start with. Contact us today and let us help you find your dream home.

Living in Southwest Florida means warm sunshine, cool evening breezes, and lots of fresh air. If you're looking for Sarasota homes for sale or Bradenton homes for sale, you hope to find a home with large windows, sliding glass doors, and great outdoor features so you can enjoy everything a Florida lifestyle has to offer.

When warm sunshine starts filtering through your windows, it's time to shake off the winter dust and tackle some deep cleaning chores in your home, including all those dirty windows that you've ignored during the winter. Before spring arrives, our real estate agents recommend some deep cleaning tips for your windows, so you can open them up, let in the breeze, and enjoy the view.

Take a Look at Your Windows

Before you begin, walk around your home and assess your cleaning tasks. You may have hard-to-reach windows that require a ladder or special equipment to get onto the roof. Don't attempt to clean windows, doors, or skylights that may result in a dangerous fall. For hard-to-reach windows, it's best to call a professional window washer who has the right equipment for the job.

If your home has a second story or multiple levels, start cleaning on the highest level and work your way down. This way, you can make sure that all windows get cleaned in an organized manner, and you won't have to backtrack to check for windows you missed.

Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Whether you have stationary windows or windows that open, you'll need some basic cleaning supplies and a container to carry them around. Look for a plastic tote or sturdy basket with handles that can hold your essential supplies:

• A spray glass cleaner, a mixture of mild soapy water, and a mixture of water and white vinegar

• A squeegee

• A duster and a hand-held vacuum

• A synthetic brush or broom

• Microfiber or lint-free soft cloths

• Paper towels

Stationary Windows

For stationary windows, start by wiping loose dirt from the glass with a soft, dry cloth or duster. Next, use your synthetic brush or hand-held vacuum to remove dirt and debris from the window frame, sills, and tracks. Apply your cleaning solution to the glass, then remove the solution with a squeegee or clean, lint-free cloth. If you use a squeegee, make sure to wipe the squeegee clean with a cloth or paper towel after each swipe on the glass.

Single or Double Hung Windows

Many replacement windows available in today's market come with a convenient tilt-wash or tilt-sash feature that allows you to easily clean the inside and the outside of the window from inside your home. You don't need to go outside and climb a ladder to clean exterior glass. If your single-hung or double-hung windows have a tilt-sash feature, simply unlock the window, release the tilt-sash mechanisms on the top of the window frame, and tilt your window towards you to clean the glass.

Sliding Glass Doors

If you have interior or exterior doors with window panes or sliding glass doors, you can clean the glass with non-abrasive glass cleaners or mild soapy water. You can use a soft cloth on the interior glass, but it's best to clean the exterior glass with paper towels. Exterior glass can get extremely dirty since it's exposed to the elements. You don't want to ruin your cleaning clothes or transfer bacteria from your exterior glass to other indoor surfaces.

If you're thinking about buying a home in Southwest Florida, contact us to view available properties in desired areas that match your lifestyle and financial needs.

Do you feel overwhelmed at the idea of tackling home improvement projects? If you're like most homeowners, you can just walk through your home and see so many tasks awaiting your elbow grease. If you're thinking of listing your home among Sarasota homes for sale, you may want to get a handle on prioritizing projects.

One of the first steps is to decide how you want to categorize your repairs and renovations. You might jot down categories such as these, and then under each one, list projects that fall under that heading:

• Safety
• Damage prevention
• Cosmetic
• Updating to increase home value

Here are some additional tips for organizing your thoughts and knowing which projects to tackle first.

1. List Projects that Affect the Safety of the Home
   Safety should always come first. Maybe there are electrical problems that threaten the safety of the home's occupants. Do you need to install security lighting and cameras outside the home and replace failing door hardware and locks? Is the HVAC on its last leg, and does it need replacement, or will some repairs get it into good working order? In most of these cases, you will likely need to call an expert, so plan your budget accordingly. 
   
   
2. List Projects that Prevent Damage to the Home
   After you worked on projects causing an immediate safety hazard, look for ones that prevent potential damage. Do rain gutters need repair to save the roofline? Are there severe drafts in winter because of structural problems or because the windows need weatherstripping and caulking? Is the plumbing or roof leaking? Do trees need to be cut back, so they don't damage the roof? Once again, some projects you can likely tackle while others will need an expert. 
   
   
3. Consider Cosmetic Changes
   Once you prioritize the must-dos for safety's sake, assess the cosmetic changes you think you'll need to sell your home, or if you're not going anywhere, to make you feel better. Cracks in the wall? Do the bathrooms need new tile? Could some of the rooms use a new coat of paint? Tackle one room at a time. You'll feel encouraged to move to the next project once you complete the first one on your list. If you're able to do it yourself on some of these, so much the better. 
   
   
4. Consider Projects that Increase Value
   Exercise caution when it comes to initiating renovations to increase home value. Some will do just that, and some won't. Some projects that will add value: bathroom remodels; kitchen renovations; replacing old appliances with matching, energy-efficient models; remodeled attic or basement; adding a deck; boosting curb appeal by cleaning, trimming, and planting some color in the front yard; and increasing energy efficiency by air sealing your home, adding insulation, and installing efficient windows. Projects that won't increase value include luxury upgrades, garage conversions, and swimming pools. Before starting one of these projects, consider whether you plan on being in your current home for a long time. 

Do you need advice on prioritizing your home improvement projects before listing your home among the Bradenton homes for sale? Our real estate agents can help. Contact us today.

Your dream house has a beautiful yard with grass, trees, shrubs, even a flower garden. There are plenty of Sarasota homes for sale that fit the bill. Our real estate agents can help you find the one that meets your needs. Caring for your new lawn, though, is up to you.

One of the most important aspects of lawn care is water - giving the area just enough water, just often enough, without doing it too much or too frequently. To do that, you'll need a sprinkler system that's designed just for your lawn's needs. You can have it professionally installed, but as long as you're reasonably handy, you might prefer to go the DIY route instead and install it yourself. Here are some tips for installing your sprinkler system.

What You'll Need

Before you begin the installation, you need to make sure you have all your tools and materials ready. Here's a list of what you'll need:

• PVC Pipes and Fittings. PVC pipe is sturdy and durable but easier to work with than metal, so you can cut it down to lengths of whatever size you need. The fittings let you put the pipe segments together in different formations, as needed: elbow fittings, for joining two lengths together around a curve, and T-fittings, for joining three.
• Sprinkler Heads. The most important part of your sprinkler system. You can choose the direction of the spray, as well as how much and in what pattern. You'll also need risers to connect the heads to the PVC pipe.
• Timer. Allows you to set when and how often your lawn gets watered. A smart timer can automatically adjust to weather conditions so it doesn't go off when it's raining.
• Valves. The valves allow you to control how much water flows through your sprinklers. They're accessed through a valve box and connected to the system with wiring.
• Drains. These remove the excess water from the pipes when the sprinklers aren't on. It can be done either manually or automatically.
• Backflow Prevention. Sometimes, water from the soil can flow back into your water supply, contaminating it with dirt and bacteria. A backflow prevention valve keeps this from happening.

What to Do

The first step is to find the pipe that you'll be using as the water source for your sprinkler system. Water will flow from that pipe through all of your PVC pipes and be distributed to your lawn. Check the pressure of that pipe to make sure it's up to the job.

Next, dig trenches around your yard in the pattern in which you want to place your sprinklers. Also, dig one from the water main to where you want to place your valve box, and dig a hole for the valve box. Dig the trenches between four and twelve inches deep. You'll want to rent a trenching machine to help you get them the right width and depth. Then, lay the PVC pipes in the trenches.

This is just the basics. There's a lot more to know about sprinkler installation. Don't attempt to install your own sprinklers unless you know what you're doing or have an expert on hand to help you. If you're unsure, call a professional.

If you're looking for Bradenton homes for sale with great lawns that are perfect for DIY gardening projects like this, contact us! We'll help you find the home of your dreams!

One of the best parts of buying a new house is giving it those personal touches that help turn it into a home. Our estate agents can help you find Bradenton homes for sale, but only you can make that home your own. One simple and rewarding touch you can add to any home is houseplants. What kind should you have, though? Here are a few things to consider when selecting houseplants.

1. Benefits
   Think about what benefits you want. For instance, if you want to reduce stress, go with a lavender plant. Its scent has a calming effect and can improve sleep. Maybe you're looking to make your air more breathable. In that case, peace lilies and English ivy absorb toxins to improve indoor air quality. Or you might want to add a splash of color to your decor. If so, coleus comes in various bright shades, including purple, orange, and red. Gardon croton has leaves of red, yellow, green, and copper. And bromeliads bloom in red, orange, yellow, and pink. There are many other houseplants with myriad other benefits. Do some research and find out which ones best suit your needs.
   
   
2. Environment
   Consider where your houseplants will be kept and what their needs are. How much sunlight does it need? What temperature range does it thrive in? Does it need a dry environment or a humid one? If you're looking for a plant for your bathroom, for instance, you should try the humidity-loving monstera plant. If you have a room without windows, try a snake plant. If you've got a big window with lots of sunlight, consider a jade plant or a lemon tree.
   
   
3. Care
   Perhaps the most important consideration is how much care your plant will need and how much care you'll be able to give it. How often does the plant need to be watered? Does it need any other care, such as pruning? If you travel a lot, then look for a plant that doesn't require as much care - or be prepared to get a plant-sitter. Air plants, for instance, don't even need soil. Keep them in indirect sunlight and water them every two weeks, and they'll thrive. What if you're afraid you'll forget to water your plant on a regular schedule? Or that you'll accidentally overcompensate, watering it too often? Set a reminder on your phone to alert you when your plant needs water or other care. It can be set to go off automatically once a week, every two weeks, or however, often your plant needs attention.
   
   
4. Containers
   Once you've chosen your houseplant, it needs to go in the right container. Porous clay pots are good for your plants and the environment. They retain moisture while letting soil toxins escape. You might also consider a glass terrarium designed to keep in moisture and heat. Whatever container you use, make sure it's got holes on the bottom for water drainage. If you're buying a baby plant, know how much it will grow over time, and get a container that will accommodate it - or be prepared to transplant it later. A larger pot can also allow you to put multiple plants in the same space. 

If you've got houseplants inside, you're likely going to want a few outdoors as well. Fortunately, there are plenty of Sarasota homes for sale with big front and backyards, perfect for gardening. Contact us to help you find the space that's right for you!

If you're new to Florida, you might be surprised to learn that yes, we do get the occasional frost here in Sarasota and Manatee Counties in the late winter and early spring. This is just one of the things you need to know as you embark on gardening in your new home, acquired either from Bradenton homes for sale or Sarasota homes for sale. Fortunately, frost is rare and not much of an impediment to producing fabulous flowers, fruits, and vegetables in Florida.

While we suggest Floridians start planting long before National Plant a Flower Day, which is March 12, this national celebration, which promotes looking forward to spring by encouraging flower planting, is a great reason to jump right in.

And the good news is, after mid-February, the chances of a frost damaging seedlings or other plants are very low. So feel free to head to your local garden center and acquire some fabulous flowers to celebrate March 12 with a burst of color in your yard.

But before you start, a little planning is in order. What can you plant in our region of Florida? So many things, from tropicals to perennials, lush annuals, flowering shrubs, and glorious flowering trees. The key is making sure whatever you choose can tolerate our heat and humidity. 

What to Plant

The flowering plant palette for Florida is extensive. Among the most common flowering plants, you'll note are these.

• Pentas. Also known as Egyptian Star Cluster, Pentas are evergreen perennials and come in pink, magenta, lilac, and white. They prefer full sun and are seasonal bloomers. An added bonus is they attract butterflies.
• Coreopsis. You can't not plant Florida's state flower, the Coreopsis. It's a member of the aster family and has bright golden disk and ray flowers. It's a brilliant addition to any garden. 
• Blue Salvia. Although native to the Southwest, Salvia farinacea does well in South Florida and can flourish in a hot, dry location. Low-maintenance Blue Salvia (also known as Mealycup sage) is an annual further north but blooms like a perennial in our climate. Pollinators love it.
• Mexican Heather. A low-growing ground cover, Mexican Heather or Cuphea loves full sun, although partial will do. Plant it in a well-drained location. It produces lavender-pink to white flowers almost all year long.
• Bougainvillea. One of our most spectacular bloomers, Bougainvillea's showy display isn't actually flowers at all, but rather colorful leaf bracts. It needs six hours of sun a day, and for that, you get an explosion of color most of the year.
• Lantana. Another pollinator attractor (including hummingbirds), Lantana is available in pink and yellow or bright orange and yellow, and more. Deadhead flowers to keep the plant producing most of the year. Be sure to water Lantana when the weather is dry; mulch and fertilizer help promote abundant flowering.
• Periwinkles. Also known as Creeping Vinca, Periwinkle is a creeping vine with pretty blue flowers, often used as a ground cover, and which can choke out weeds. Best blooming will occur if it's planted in partial shade.
• Plumbago. This sprawling shrub is grown for its clusters of blue, phlox-like flowers. Plant Plumbago over a stone or wood retaining wall for a beautiful effect. It prefers full sun but will tolerate some shade.

Our real estate agents have more tips for how you can improve your property, indoors and out. Contact us today.

Renovations are a great way to keep your home up to date, to add value, and to compete with other Bradenton homes for sale when it comes time. Unfortunately, many homeowners put off updating their homes because of how complicated it is to get work done when you have pets. Here are a few suggestions for keeping your pets safe and minimizing stress so that you can do the work when it's needed.

1. Find a safe place.
   Workers tend to leave doors and gates open, and honestly, it's not their job to watch out for your pets. The best thing for everyone is for you to find a safe place to keep your pet while workers are in the house. This might be a back bedroom, or it might be a crate. Try to include some things to keep your pet comfortable, like their favorite bed, blanket, or toys, plus necessities like food, water, and a litter box.
   
   
2. Make sure everyone knows.
   Definitely let contractors know where you'll be keeping your pet, so they make sure not to let them out. As a precaution, if you're keeping your pet loose in a closed-off room, post a sign on the door reminding everyone to be careful opening the door.
   
   
3. Do a safety check at the end of the day.
   Once the workers leave for the day, you'll likely be in a hurry to let your pet out so they can enjoy some freedom for the evening. But wait! Before opening that door or crate, do a walk-through of all the areas where the contractors have been throughout the day. Make sure doors, windows, and gates are all closed, and be sure there are no safety hazards such as sharp objects or loose wires.
   
   
4. Know the schedule.
   It's also important to know where the contractors will be and what they'll be working on each day if only to make sure that you don't inadvertently put your pet in a room they need access to. Check-in regularly and make sure you know if there are any delays or changes in the schedule. In fact, it's probably in your best interest for a lot of reasons to know these things, and not only for the safety of your pet.
   
   
5. Consider getting your pet out of the house.
   In some ways, having renovations done is a little like showing your home while it's on the market. Some homeowners leave their pets locked up in a room, but our real estate agents always appreciate it when pets are removed from the home. That way no one has to watch out for your pet, and it may minimize your pet's stress, too. Consider boarding your pets, or asking a friend or relative to keep them at their place during the day when the workers are there. Dogs could also be dropped off at doggy daycare, or if you have a job that allows it, brought to work with you.

Keeping your home up-to-date compared to other Sarasota homes for sale is an important part of owning property. If you're ready to list your home for sale, or even if you just have questions about what renovations you'll need to do before selling, contact us today, and one of our agents will help guide you through the process.

If you're currently a homeowner or are planning to purchase one of these Bradenton homes for sale, familiarizing yourself with basic fire prevention tips is one of the most important things you can do to protect your assets. While no one wants to think about losing their home to a fire, knowledge is power when it comes to preventing a disaster. With National Fire Prevention Week starting Sunday, October 4th, it's a great time to review some common fire prevention strategies. Our real estate agents pulled together a quick list of tips to review:

1. Test Your Smoke Alarms Regularly
   Ensuring your smoke alarms are in working order is arguably the most important fire safety tip. Functioning smoke alarms can alert you and your family to potential danger before it's too late. Testing your smoke alarms is easy -- simply press and hold the button until you hear a loud sound. If you don't hear a sound, or if the sound is weak, replace your batteries right away. Make sure to test each of your home's smoke alarms every month.
2. Keep Your Dryer Clean
   The most common cause of a dryer fire is a failure to clean it. Dryer lint is extremely combustible, so you must remember to clean it every time you put in a new load of laundry. Otherwise, it could continue to build-up until it reaches the heating element.
3. Keep Cords in Working Condition
   Frayed or chewed cords can be a fire hazard, so be sure to check the cords of all appliances before plugging them in. Never plug an appliance into an extension cord and avoid running any cords under carpet or rugs, as this could cause them to overheat.
4. Don't Forget About Candles
   Candles are one of the leading causes of house fires year after year. Never leave a room or fall asleep with a candle burning unattended. Also, be sure not to place them on uneven surfaces and keep them far away from flammable materials such as clothing or blankets.
5. Invest in a Fire Extinguisher
   If a fire does occur, a fire extinguisher is your best bet at putting it out. It's usually a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher in every room with a significant fire risk. If you're considering one of these Sarasota homes for sale, make sure to purchase an adequate number of fire extinguishers before moving in. Also, make sure everyone in the house knows the proper way to handle and use a fire extinguisher.
6. Cook With Caution
   If you're cooking, always remain in the kitchen while the oven, stove, fryer, or grill are on. If you have to leave, be sure to turn your cooking unit off, or at least reduce the heat. After you're done cooking, make sure to remove any leftover food particles from the oven or stove, as they could potentially catch fire the next time you cook.
7. Grill Safely
   Everyone loves to grill, but grills can create a fire risk. Always place your grill well away from your home, be sure you keep the grill clean, and never leave your grill unattended. Have baking soda on hand to control a grease fire and a fire extinguisher nearby for other fires. If you don't have a fire extinguisher, keep a bucket of sand next to the grill. Never use water to put out a grease fire.

By taking the necessary precautions and educating yourself on fire safety, you can minimize risk and prevent loss from fire. For more tips on fire prevention, visit www.firepreventionweek.org.

While the warm summer weather is perfect for tasty cookouts and swimming, it also brings a variety of pests who want to make your house their new home. Don't let summer bugs distract you from your summer fun.

The good news is you don't need harsh chemicals to get rid of these unwanted pests! Instead, check out these natural remedies for eliminating summer bugs. All of these remedies below are kid and pet-friendly, and they won't cover your home in chemicals. 

1. Use Dish Soap Where Bugs Have Been Spotted
   Dish soap is a cheap, quick way to eliminate pests from your home. Plus, you likely already have dish soap in your home. Grab a spray bottle and fill it 3/4 full with water. Then, add 10-20 drops of your favorite dish soap. Spray the solution in bug-prone areas. This option is especially effective at killing ants.

2. Break into Your Spice Collection
   Spices aren't just for cooking; they can also help you deter bugs from entering your home. The smell from your spices acts as an insect deterrent. Bay leaves are one strong-smelling alternative. Sprinkle the bay leaves in your cabinets and pantry to ward off Indian meal moths and other hungry pests. 

3. Trap Flying Pests with Apple Cider Vinegar
   Apple cider vinegar is an economical way to fight back against flying pests such as houseflies and fruit flys. You can use the fact that these flies are often attracted to apple cider vinegar to your advantage. Pour a little bit of apple cider vinegar in an old bowl or cup. Cover it with plastic and poke a few small holes so that the flies can get in. Once they're in, the flies won't be able to get back out. Some people also like to add a few drops of dish soap to the trap so that the flies drown quicker. These jar traps will work rapidly to get rid of flying pests. 

4. Slice Up an Onion
   Want a natural way to deter spiders? Slice up an onion and put the slices in a bowl of water. Put the bowl wherever you've noticed spiders entering your home. The smell from the onion will deter the spiders and encourage them to stay outside.

5. Raid Your Cat's Supply of Catnip
   Catnip isn't just a cat-friendly herb; it's also a pest repellent. The pungent smell discourages icky pests like cockroaches from living in your home. You can sprinkle catnip directly in areas where you've spotted cockroaches, or you can soak cotton balls with catnip oil and put them in pest-prone areas. An advantage of this option is that it's easy to clean up the catnip when our real estate agents notify you that a potential buyer wants to see your home. Just sweep up the catnip or cotton balls, and your home is as good as new. 

6. Pick Up a Bag of Cedar Shavings
   You can buy a bag of cedar shavings for under $10; this is the bedding commonly used in small animal cages. Grab a handful of cedar and sprinkle it in your bug-prone areas. Silverfish and spiders are just a couple of the pests who dislike the smell of cedar. 

Ready to sell your home? Contact us today to have our team help list your home among the many wonderful Sarasota and Bradenton homes for sale. 

Gardening is one of the most enjoyable, family-fun activities we can think of, and you can even include a science lesson as a bonus! If you're looking at Bradenton homes for sale or Sarasota homes for sale, we can help you find a property that offers possibilities for creating your own vegetable garden. After all, it doesn't take that much land to produce a significant amount of food! 

1. Choose Your Site
   Choose a level site that gets plenty of sunshine. Make sure you have access to water, be it an irrigation system, a soaker hose, or a garden hose. If you live in a community with homeowner's association, be sure to check to be sure that you're following any rules related to gardening on your property.
2. Create Raised Beds
   Depending on your yard, you might be better off utilizing a raised bed. For this type of garden, you'll need a flat, 4x8-foot area. Double dig the soil, removing rocks and roots. Acquire a frame for your plot from the home and garden store. Build up your soil (layer newspaper or plastic weed barrier, topped with 2-3 inches of garden soil and compost) inside the frame, and you're ready to plant. Raised beds make it easier to keep pests out, prevent soil compaction, and to provide adequate draining. 
3. Choose Your Plants and Plant Them
   You can plant just about anything in Florida. The key is knowing when is the best time to plant. Whether you grow your plants from seed or transplant young plants from the garden center, choose carefully. Note the plant's needs; for instance, tomatoes need full sun, so don't put them in a shady location. You can't do better than to consult the Old Farmers' Almanac website, adapted for modern gardeners to target specific areas such as Bradenton, with dates for seed starting indoors and outdoors, and for planting. Be mindful of planting dates: with increasingly hot summers, vegetable crops can be damaged by extreme heat, so plant heat-sensitive vegetables early enough so they can set fruit before the hottest months arrive. Some plants may require shade cloth during exceptionally hot times. Follow directions on seed packets or seedling trays for planting. Add mulch around seedlings to keep moisture levels even and to cool the ground. 
4. Keep an Eye on Your Crops
   Don't just plant your plants and leave them on their own. Check their moisture levels, watering as needed, especially during very hot periods. Fertilize with organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion, bone meal, or seaweed. Spray as a foliar application or pour on roots. Also, check for insect and plant pests, treating with organic applications if possible. 
5. Enjoy Your Harvest
   Nothing beats fresh from the garden produce! Take this time to note your favorites and consider what you'll grow next year. 

Find just the right Bradenton or Sarasota home to grow your garden. Our real estate agents can help. Contact us today.

The 2020 hurricane system is off to an early start thanks to the appearance of a tropical disturbance in mid-May. There is no time like the present to start preparing your family and your home for hurricane season. Check out these must-do tasks to add to your hurricane prep list.

1. Gather Your Hurricane Emergency Kit
   Hurricane preparedness requires some shopping to create your emergency kit. Find retailers who are selling the items you need, or you may order them online if the brick and mortar stores are a little bare. Here's what a basic hurricane emergency kit should have:

• • A gallon of water per person per day for three days (if your family has four people, this would equal 12 gallons)
  • A three day supply of non-perishable food
  • A manual can opener
  • Batteries for your flashlights and radio
  • Flashlights
  • A hand-crank radio
  • Food and water for your pets
  • Leashes or crates to transport your pets
  • Prescription or over-the-counter medication
  • Dust masks
  • Plastic bags
  • Plastic ties
  • Wet wipes
  • An emergency whistle
  • A small tool kit
  
  Consider stowing your emergency kit in plastic tubs. These tubs are easy to transport, and they'll prevent your essentials from getting wet. 

2. Check Your Insurance Coverage
   Insurance is essential to ensure you're protected against hurricane-related damage. Otherwise, financial complications can prevent you from adding your home to the inventory of Bradenton and Sarasota homes for sale. See that your policy levels are high enough to replace your belongings and rebuild your home. Since the cost to rebuild or repair a property fluctuates, it's important to take these changes into account when reviewing your policy limits. Take a few moments to photograph your possessions (especially items of significant value). Store these pictures on a cloud-storage website. If flood damage from a hurricane is a potential risk, you'll need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy. 

3. Complete Any Overdue Home Maintenance or Repairs
   A properly maintained property is more likely to withstand hurricane-force winds and rain than one that's been neglected. Our real estate agents also find that maintained properties usually generate more buyer interest when they're on the market. Does your roof have a few loose shingles? Have these shingles replaced so that rain doesn't cause moisture damage? Caulk, seal or repair any cracks or holes in your home to keep moisture out and to prevent animals searching for a dry space from entering your home. Want to bolster your home against wind damage? See if storm windows are right for your home. Storm windows are additional windows that you add to the exterior of your home for additional protection.

4. Research When a Hurricane is Coming
   When a hurricane is officially on the way, you need to know what additional things you should do. Make sure that your cars are filled with gasoline, as gas stations may have low supplies and high demand due to the impending storm. Secure any loose items on your deck or patio that can turn into projectiles. This includes things like deck furniture, fire pits, outdoor toys, and planters. Make sure that you have a little cash-on-hand. If the power is out, retailers won't be able to process credit or debit cards. 

Our team hopes these tips help your family prepare for this year's hurricane season. Have more questions about life in Southwest Florida and real estate opportunities? Contact us today!

Spring cleaning isn't something we all look forward to, but while we're sticking close to home, this is an excellent opportunity to organize and clean house. To make it more manageable, we advise creating a five-day plan, focusing on a section of the house each day. Set some goals, write them down and check them off. Here are some suggestions that you can adapt as needed.

1. Monday -- Clean appliances and cabinets under sinks.
   Let's get some of the most challenging tasks done first. Start by deep cleaning your kitchen appliances until they sparkle, but first remember to check cleaning recommendations for appliance surfaces, particularly stainless steel. Clean out cabinets under bathroom and kitchen sinks, throwing away whatever you no longer use, disposing of any cleaning products according to local regulations. Vacuum the coils under your refrigerator to keep it running efficiently.
2. Tuesday -- Clean closets, cupboards and the pantry.
   This is another task you may be putting off, but don't,  in fact, be merciless. Go through clothes, shoes, toys, household items, and if you haven't worn or used something in a year, it's time to say goodbye to it. If possible, box and save these items to donate them to charity. Throw away out-of-date food in the pantry. Clean shelves and redo shelf paper if you use it. 
3. Wednesday -- Perform outdoor tasks.
   Sweep the sidewalks, porch, and patio. Make your own glass cleaner with 2 cups of water (distilled or filtered is best so it doesn't leave residue), 2 tablespoons vinegar and 10 drops essential oil of choice to cut the vinegar smell) and clean exterior windows and door glass, light fixtures, and patio furniture. Take a look around the HVAC condenser and trim back bushes so the unit can maintain proper airflow. Clear grass, leaves, and weeds away from the base of the unit.
4. Thursday -- Clean interior glass.
   Grab an old t-shirt (they're pretty much lint-free), and continuing your window cleaning from the inside, along with door glass, and mirrors. Work top to bottom, wiping the water away with a squeegee to avoid streaks.
5. Friday – Clean the garage.
   Start by separating everything you absolutely need from items you can, want or should donate, sell or throw away. If you don't have shelving, cabinets or other types of storage units, now is a good time to consider them. Everything needs to have a place to avoid piles of clutter.
6. Saturday – Relax and take the day off.
   Time for a break! If you are thinking of moving, we recommend taking a virtual tour of Bradenton homes for sale and Sarasota homes for sale to see what's available in the area, and of course our real estate agents are happy to help. Contact us today!

If your living space is starting to feel a little stale, there are a few things you can do about it. 

Our real estate agents know what it takes to successfully stage Bradenton and Sarasota homes for sale, and we can assure you that arranging the furniture appropriately can change the entire look and feel of a room. Here are a few simple furniture changes that you can make to improve your space. 

1. Find the Balance
   Interior decorating focuses on striking the right balance. Never is this more important than when it comes to arranging furniture. To avoid rooms feeling lopsided or unsettled, consider both the size and placement of each piece so that you don't end up with all the large or small pieces of furniture bunched together. 

2. Don't Push Furniture Against the Walls
   Though it might sound counterintuitive, leaving a few spare inches between your furniture and the wall behind can actually make the room feel bigger. Determining how much space to leave should be dictated by the size of the space, but even in smaller rooms, it's best not to have furniture pushed right up against the walls. 

3. Choose a Focal Point
   Some rooms have a natural focal point, like a fireplace or a prominent set of windows. If that's the case, you can arrange the furniture around that point. If not, you can create your own focal point, such as a large coffee table or an entertainment center, and use it as the central focus of the room. Furniture doesn't have to be directly pointed at the focal point, but it should be arranged so that the eye is drawn toward that focal point. 

4. Use the Right Size Area Rugs
   Area rugs should generally cover most of the floor, leaving just a bit of extra around the walls. An exception to the rule is if you have hardwood floors you want to show off, but still want a few smaller area rugs to add a splash of color or tie the space together. 

5. Mix Colors and Textures
   A lot of your furniture and decor can be arranged by color, but don't forget about texture as well. If you're arranging throw pillows on a sofa, for example, mixing up colors and contrasting textures helps keep the eye interested. You don't want colors to clash with each other, but they shouldn't all be too similar. 

6. Go With the Flow
   One of the most important considerations, when you arrange furniture, is the natural flow of traffic through the room. The last thing you want is to have people tripping over furniture. Make sure each piece of furniture has enough space to walk by it if needed, especially between the coffee table and any couches or chairs that may be nearby. 

7. Let There Be Light
   Lighting is one of the best tools you have to tie a room together. Use light to your advantage by incorporating a variety of sources, including floor and table lamps as well as ceiling and wall-mounted fixtures. Use natural light as much as possible, with curtains or shades that allow you to control the lighting in each room.

Contact us today to learn more about transforming your living space. We've helped countless families find their dream homes in Florida, and we can't wait to help you find yours!

The return of springtime has our real estate agents thinking about gardening again! Whether you have a huge yard with lots of room for planting, or simply want to try out container gardening on your back patio, you might be surprised how much you can grow. 

Did you know that some of the most common fruits, vegetables, and herbs can be regrown from kitchen scraps? It's true! Those kitchen scraps can create a fun project that entertains and educate kids, and gives your old veggies a new lease on life!

Are you wondering which plants can be regrown? You'll be amazed… 

• Onions. Members of the onion family (including garlic, scallions, and leeks) are some of the easiest vegetables to regrow from scraps. Save a small piece of the base of the bulb or stem, with the roots still attached, and place it in a shallow container of water. New shoots will start to come up very quickly, and you can harvest them as needed, or plant the whole new bulb in your garden. 
• Potatoes. You've probably had the experience of leaving potatoes in the bag too long and seeing them start to sprout. To get them to regrow, all you have to do is cut potatoes into pieces so that each piece has at least one "eye" (the indentations that the sprouts grow out of). Plant the pieces in the soil with the eyes facing up. 
• Celery. Simply cut off the stalks so that you have an inch or two left at the base. Set the base in a shallow dish with a bit of warm water at the bottom, leave it in a warm, sunny place, and wait for new leaves to start. Once they do, you can replant the celery in the garden, where it will become a new, full-sized plant. 
• Carrots. Keep the tops off your carrots. Just place the tops in water, and they will start to grow new roots, as well as greens that you can harvest as needed. 
• Leafy Greens. Lettuce and most other head-forming greens can be regrown simply by keeping the rooting portion of the head and leaving it in water so that new leaves can grow. Lettuce and bok choy can also be regrown from a single leaf. Just place the leaf in a bowl with a little water in a sunny spot. Mist the leaf every day to keep it moist, and eventually, new roots will start to grow. 
• Herbs. Many herbs can be grown from scraps too, including basil, cilantro, and mint. All you have to do is place 4 inches of the stem in a glass of water so that the leaves are above the water. Roots will start to grow, and soon you will have whole plants that can be transferred to the garden. 

Regrowing veggies in your kitchen is fun, but when you're ready to expand your gardening horizons, we're here to help. Our team has helped countless families find beautiful Bradenton homes for sale and Sarasota homes for sale, including houses with ample room for backyard gardening! 

Contact us today to learn more about life in the Bradenton and Sarasota areas, and talk to our team about finding your dream home.

Having a home office is becoming a sought-after feature for many home buyers. Whether you're an at-home worker or someone who just needs an occasional space to work on taxes and bills, you can enhance your experience by sprucing up your office space.

Our REALTORS® can help you with advice about what kind of office space might work in your home. In the meantime, here are some clever ways to improve your home office.

1. Let the light in.
   No matter the type of work you do or the business you're in, light can help you see better, think better and energize you. Considering painting your office walls off white or bright white. Light paint will make the space look much larger.
    
   Lighting things up can also include locating your office space in front of or beside a window to take advantage of natural light. If natural light isn't an option, adding an attractive light fixture can creating an inviting work space as well.
2. Think vertically.
   You can turn a small space into a larger space by making use of available walls. Add a wall-mounted desk to save floor space, then mount modular shelves so that they "climb" the walls. These bins become the perfect storage space for office supplies. Alternate bins with books, prints, statuary and plants (succulents, slow growers, are a good choice) to create visual interest.
3. Go a little crazy with furnishings. 
   Nothing says "office" like a steel gray desk and a filing cabinet, but why be boring? There's no rule against eye-catching office decor. These days, you can find office-appropriate chairs in green velvet or a pretty in pink Ikea molded model. Introduce splashes of color into your office environment to create a space that you enjoy working in. 
4. Don't forget the flooring. 
   Why settle for worn, dingy, or dark old carpet when there are so many great choices in flooring! Faux wood vinyl flooring can completely change the vibe -- just one large piece will do. Other trending flooring choices include responsibly sourced wood floors with non-toxic finishes, and engineered wood with a plywood core, an economic and sustainable choice. 
5. Create a gallery on the wall.
   Don't need that backsplash above your desk for shelving? Create a gallery with artfully cropped prints, family pictures, your own doodles, found objects and work from your favorite artisans. You'll enjoy endless pleasure arranging your choices, and then gazing at your creation.
6. Add a feeling of spaciousness with a mirror.
   A mirror can make your office space seem larger than it is. Go for an antique or contemporary standing floor mirror.
7. Go green.
   Bring in the oxygen and help filter out airborne pollutants with a ficus, or similar low light-loving plant in a container. If you don't trust your green thumb, consider botanical prints, and use green accents. Green is a soothing color that helps people feel centered.

Our real estate agents are ready to help you realize the potential of your home office space. Contact us today. 

10 Expensive Mistakes to Avoid in Your Home

For most of us, our home is our biggest investment. While we do our best to keep it in top shape, it's easy to make small mistakes that can end up costing us big time. This quick read can save you money in the long run. Remember to:

1. Clean Out Your Air Ducts
   Cleaning out your air ducts is a task that's easy to forget about, but dirt and debris build-up can cause real problems. Eventually, dirty ducts will start to restrict airflow and make your HAVC system work less efficiently. After a while, this can shorten the life expectancy of your system. 
2. Pay Attention to Leaking Faucets
   That dripping faucet is more than just annoying. Did you know that even one drip a minute can waste up to 34 gallons a year? Not only is this terrible for the environment, but it will raise your water bill. Something as simple as a washer can solve this quickly and easily. 
3. Hone Your DIY Skills
   Sure, there are some things that you should leave to the pros, but learning some basic DIY skills will help you save a ton of money when it comes to home repairs and upgrades. YouTube videos are an excellent resource for minor repairs.
4. Research Before Taking on Home Improvement Projects
   Sure, it might seem like a great idea to add a cheetah-print carpet in your closet or build a cat-patio in your back yard, but an impractical home improvement could end up hurting your resale value.  If there's something you really want and you plan to stay in your home for a long time, this might not matter to you, but it's always smart to stop and think these things through before you make a commitment. 
5. Avoid Over-Watering Your Lawn
   A lush, green lawn is every homeowner's dream, but when it comes to watering, more isn't always better. In Florida, watering needs change with the seasons Instead of relying on your automatic sprinkler, check in with our local Cooperative Extension for advice on proper watering to ensure you aren't wasting water and money. 
6. Check Your Roof
   It's important to have your roof and gutters checked at least once a year so that you catch small problems before they get big. 
7. Control the Temperature
   While many newer homes already have programmable thermostats, older homes often do not. Heating or cooling an empty house is just a waste - with a programmable thermostat you'll quickly make your money back in the form of savings on your energy bill. 
8. Stop Using Traditional Light Bulbs
   Traditional light bulbs suck up energy and cost you money. Change these out for LED bulbs, and you'll notice a change almost immediately. 
9. Keep an Eye on Your Home's Foundation
   Watch for signs of damage, like mold on the outside of the house, insects inside, or noticeable cracks. If any of these red flags arise, have the foundation looked at right away. 
10. Consider Fast-Tracking Your Mortgage Repayment
    The longer it takes you to pay off your mortgage, the more you'll pay in interest fees. Make extra payments when you can, and you can shave thousands of dollars and several years off your repayment plan! 

You can protect your home by creating an annual home maintenance checklist to remind yourself to stay on track with home maintenance.

Like it or not, summer is behind us, and cooler weather is headed our way. Luckily, living in Florida means the changes in the seasons aren't nearly as drastic as those experienced by our friends up north. Still, our real estate agents in Bradenton want to make sure you're ready for the change. These are the steps you should take this fall to get your Bradenton home ready for winter. 

A Checklist to Get Your Florida Home Ready for Fall

1. Make Sure Your Gutters Are Clear
   If you live in a house with lots of overhanging trees, you might be shocked to discover the amount of leaves, debris and organic matter that pile up in your gutters over the course of a year. This can cause a lot of problems, including potentially costly water damage during rainy conditions, so make sure your gutters are clear before winter arrives. 
   
   
2. Check the Heating System
   Chances are, you haven't used or even thought about your heating system since last winter. But the day will inevitably come when you have to fire it up again. Before that day arrives, have your HVAC cleaned and serviced by a pro to make sure it's in good working order. 
   
   
3. Seal the Gaps
   Air leaks around windows, doors and anywhere wires or pipes enter your home pose two potential problems. Not only do they let conditioned air escape – which makes your home more difficult to heat and cool – but they can also let mice, insects and other critters into your house. Winter is the time when small animals are most likely to want to seek refuge in your home, so do a thorough check to make sure you don't have any gaps. If you find any, use caulk or weather stripping to seal them up. 
   
   
4. Inspect Your Roof
   Winter rains can take a toll on your roof, especially if it's already in not-so-great shape. Give it a thorough inspection, looking for moss, wet spots, loose or broken shingles and any other damage that might cause a leak. If you're not comfortable climbing up there on a ladder, hire a pro who can tell you whether or not your roof is sound.
    
5. Turn Off the Irrigation
   Frozen pipes aren't necessarily common in our neck of the woods, but they're not impossible either. Before the threat of freezing temperatures arrives, winterize your irrigation system to make sure it doesn't freeze. Turn off the water at the main shutoff valve, and then open up each outdoor valve to let the water drain. 
   
   
6. Add Insulation
   If you're concerned about being able to stay warm this winter, or if you want to reduce your utility bills by making your house more energy-efficient, adding some extra insulation is one of the best options. In most homes, the attic is the most cost-effective place to add insulation.
   
   
7. Inspect Smoke Detectors
   Fall is one of the crucial times of year to make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries and are working correctly. This is especially true if you have a fireplace that you plan to use this winter, but even if you don't, winter is still the season when the most house fires occur. While you're inspecting your smoke detectors, check your fire extinguisher and make sure that everyone in your household knows how to use it. 

Contact Wagner Realty today to learn more about adjusting to the changing seasons in Florida, and to find out how we can help you make your dream of living in the Sunshine State a reality. If you're looking for Bradenton homes for sale, our team is here to help.