<span class="hide-blog-title">The Inspector</span>By NPI, Inc.https://npiweb.com/Blog/PostsHow to Build a Treehouse Without Hurting Your Treehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1580/how-to-build-a-treehouse-without-hurting-your-treeDIY,SafetyMon, 05 Feb 2024 20:25:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO BUILD A TREEHOUSE WITHOUT HURTING YOUR TREE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> February 5, 2024 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/landscaping">landscaping</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kids">kids</a></p> <p>As a kid, there’s nothing like spending the summer hanging out in your own custom-made treehouse, looking out over the neighborhood like you’re on top of the world. Many homeowners have a nostalgic attachment to their own childhood treehouses or miss the treehouse experience they never had.</p> <p>For the ambitious homeowner looking to get their kids to spend some extra time outside or to give themselves a more unique hideaway, a DIY treehouse project can be an exciting endeavor. However, treehouses can have the unintended effect of harming your tree if you don’t take the right precautions. To create a memorable hideaway that doesn’t sacrifice the health of your tree, keep these points in mind.</p> <p><em>Note: Check with your local building authority, HOA, and your neighbors before getting started. Certain areas may require special permits, and it’s always a good idea to talk with your neighbors before building something that might block the view!</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Pick the Perfect Tree</span><br /> No matter your building practices or your comfort with larger scale projects, the success of a treehouse DIY project lives and dies by whether you’ve identified the right candidate for the foundation. A stable and safe treehouse needs a tree that’s matured, with well-established roots, and a large canopy overhead. The best options are any hardwood tree (oak, maple, or beech, for example).</p> <p>If a particular tree catches your eye, perform an informal check-up to get a better handle on its health. Trees that are in good shape shouldn’t be marred with discoloration or other damaging marks, covered in mushrooms, or losing dead branches frequently. Some pests that weaken otherwise healthy trees can be easily overlooked! Consider consulting a tree doctor or arborist if you’d like to give your tree a clean bill of health before getting started.</p> <p><em>Note: Certain treehouse designs utilize more than one tree, to spread out the expected load. Remember to also consider the view you’ll have when all is said and done - that’s half of the fun of a treehouse!</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Build Your House, but Limit the Stress</span><br /> Treehouses can be very custom, or homeowners can draw closely from a design that they’ve purchased. For a treehouse that lasts the test of time, reducing stress on the tree is absolutely crucial - though this means reconsidering some of the classics. For example, ropes, cords, and wires wrapped around a tree branch can actually cut off circulation, which limits the flow of vital nutrients and water. Tire swings may be fun, but installing them in this way can lead to weakened or dead limbs.</p> <p>A tree trunk is extremely important for the overall strength and health of a tree, so try to limit any punctures or holes whenever possible. Treehouse Attachment Bolts (or TABs) are heavier duty hardware designed to handle more of the load and limit damage to tree trunks in the process. Additionally, treehouse designers recommend leaving extra space around branches and tree trunks to allow for natural growth.<em>For kits, hardware, and treehouse plans that limit damage to the tree, check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.treehousesupplies.com/" target="_blank">TreehouseSupplies.com</a>!</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Take Precautions, and Keep the Risks in Mind</span><br /> Starting a more advanced DIY project can be exciting, but when it comes to building a treehouse, keep in mind what can go wrong if you cut a few too many corners. Trees, especially large, strong trees, offer tons of benefits for a treehouse. In the summer, the shade doesn’t just provide a cool area to beat the heat, but the coverage also increases your home’s energy efficiency and extends the lifespan of your siding.</p> <p>During storms, trees are excellent windbreakers as well, and as tree roots die, the added organic matter provides great fuel for the rest of your yard’s ecosystem (learn more about the benefits of adding trees to your lawn from experts over at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/articles/benefits-of-planting-trees-in-your-yard#:~:text=Cozy%20for%20Winter.-,Trees%20Can%20Help%20Prevent%20or%20Minimize%20Flood%20Damage,on%20the%20soil%20is%20massive." target="_blank">USNews.com</a>). Make sure your treehouse project results in the perfect club house for your kids - not a call to your local tree removal service.</p> <p><em>Did you know that tree roots can cause damage to your main sewer line? <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">Ask your local NPI inspector</a> about a sewer scope to learn the condition of your key systems!</em></p> 1580Does Your Home Need To Be Tested for Radon?https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1575/does-your-home-need-to-be-tested-for-radonDIY,Home Inspection,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 01 Jan 2024 19:24:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">DOES YOUR HOME NEED TO BE TESTED FOR RADON?</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> January 1, 2024 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/radon">radon</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/foundation">foundation</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ventilation">ventilation</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a></p> <p>Every year, people all around the world make resolutions to live a little more productively, pick up a healthier lifestyle, and maybe make smarter choices with their money. While many resolutions revolve around bettering their own lives in some way, most should consider whether they’ve been showing their homes the same amount of care and attention. The unfortunate truth is that many homes carry hazards that owners are completely unaware of, hazards that present a very real and persistent threat to their own health and the health of their families.</p> <p>Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that infiltrates homes through natural processes such as through miniscule cracks in the foundation or through drinking water. Homes everywhere are impacted by radon to a certain extent, but homeowners continue to be mostly unaware of the ever-present danger that this gas poses as the second leading cause of lung cancer in the US. According to the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.epa.gov/radon/health-risk-radon" target="_blank">EPA</a>, radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year, and 2,900 of those deaths were people who never smoked in their lives.</p> <p>January is known as National Radon Action Month, a time to bring awareness to the increased efforts each state is taking to fight radon and to alert unaware homeowners that the time is now to learn the condition of their homes. Although the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.cdc.gov/radon/radon-facts.html#:~:text=There%20is%20no%20known%20safe,air%20(pCi%2FL)." target="_blank">CDC</a> rightly advises that there is no safe level of radon, knowing the levels of your home can help you determine what mitigation efforts best fit your needs. Radon testing is essential to ensure a healthy home environment for families, but not all testing is created equal.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Free Charcoal Test Kits</span><br /> One advancement that many states have been making when it comes to radon awareness and defense is the availability of free testing kits. Today, nearly every state offers a program where homeowners can order do-it-yourself test kits that are meant to give a general idea regarding the level of radon within a home. The problem is that these free tests don’t give the full picture, and they can often be misleading regarding the status of radon in a house.</p> <p>Charcoal test kits, which tend to be the free option available in most states, are based on the ability of charcoal to absorb radon gas between a few days and up to a few months, taking advantage of how these materials naturally react to one another. While these tests seem user-friendly and are certainly cost effective, they face a number of hurdles that ultimately make them unhelpful more times than not.</p> <p>For one, while charcoal is meant to absorb radon throughout its test period, radon isn’t the only element known to affect charcoal. The <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8122700/" target="_blank">National Library of Medicine</a> took a deep dive on the subject, placing the effect of humidity, time table, and temperature under consideration as influencing factors for the effectiveness of charcoal as a radon test. Put simply, charcoal test kits can be distorted by natural factors, even in controlled scenarios. With free test kits, results are also affected by inevitable mistakes untrained homeowners may potentially make.</p> <p>The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that homeowners order tests through state or nationally certified radon testing professionals for a number of reasons beyond the fact that specially trained contractors have the knowledge to aid a more accurate reading. First, licensed or certified contractors are subject to one of the two recognized radon proficiency programs: the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.epa.gov/radon/find-radon-test-kit-or-measurement-and-mitigation-professional#who" target="_blank">National Radon Proficiency Program</a> (sometimes also known as AARST or the Indoor Environments Association) and the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://nrsb.org/" target="_blank">National Radon Safety Board</a>. Certified professionals perform radon tests that aren’t subject to the same user error probability in DIY home tests.</p> <p>Additionally, certified professionals use labs that are regulated while consumer labs aren’t required to have any certification whatsoever. Radon is a prominent danger in homes throughout the U.S., and although more access is available for testing than ever before, homeowners who want the most accurate reading of radon levels in their home should stick with a certified professional.</p> <p><em>Every NPI home inspector’s goal is to keep their clients informed and confident about the condition of their homes. Find an NPI inspector <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">near you</a> to schedule a Radon test today!</em></p> 1575Setting the Stage for Your Home Sale: DIY Home-Staging Tipshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1562/setting-the-stage-for-your-home-sale-diy-home-staging-tipsCleaning Tips,DIY,Home MaintenanceMon, 27 Nov 2023 18:53:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">SETTING THE STAGE FOR YOUR HOME SALE: DIY HOME-STAGING TIPS</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> November 27, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/living-room">living room</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bedroom">bedroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bathroom">bathroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/windows">windows</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/floors">floors</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a></p> <p>When putting your home on the market, you obviously want to get as much out of the sale as you can. And ideally, you’d like the process to run quickly. Throughout the years, agents, interior designers, and other real estate professionals have searched for the best strategies to make residential transactions move as smoothly as possible, and what they’ve discovered is the fine art of <em>home staging</em>.</p> <p>Home staging is the act of redecorating, cleaning, and designing a home so that buyers can more easily imagine themselves living there. Real estate agents are professionals at accentuating the strengths of a home while bringing any flaws into perspective, and home staging is there to reinforce these efforts through what potential buyers actually see and experience during a tour.</p> <p>According to a National Association of REALTORS (NAR) Research Group’s <a class="color-secondary" href="https://cdn.nar.realtor//sites/default/files/documents/2023-profile-of-home-staging-03-30-2023.pdf" target="_blank">2023 Study</a>, 81% of buyers’ agents said that home staging made it easier to visualize the property as their future home. Despite this, many home sellers skip this step in order to save on costs. Since the largest investment most people will make is their home, home staging is well worth the cost and time commitment.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">3 Options for Home-Staging</span><br /> Home sellers can go in a few different directions when planning to stage their homes, and each has their own strengths and weaknesses:</p> <ul> <li><strong>The Do-It-Yourself Option</strong><br /> By far the most cost-effective, albeit demanding option is going the DIY route. There are tons of things that can be done to stage a home better which sellers can easily implement quickly and at a low cost, However, due to limited experience in real estate, it is possible that these quick changes can do more harm than good without expert advice. Still, depending on comfort and home maintenance experience, sellers should always look at doing some DIY home staging.</li> <li><strong>Ask Your Agent</strong><br /> Real Estate Agents know what buyers are looking for and what might turn them away from a purchase. For staging a home, sellers should draw from their agents as much as they can and lean on their perspectives when possible. Some agents may even offer up things like alternative furniture to borrow, welcoming artwork, and other resources to help present the home in its best light.</li> <li><strong>Hire a Professional Home Stager</strong><br /> Finally, for the most hands-off approach, sellers should look into hiring a professional home stager that works in their area. Minor repairs, temporary decorations, and new interior furniture orientation all designed to ensure selling a home at its highest possible value can all be expected when working with these servicers at reasonable rates.</li> </ul> <p>All of these options will improve a seller's experience while their house is on the market, but let’s tackle some of the most effective DIY home staging tips for those looking to maximize their ROI!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Target the High Impact Areas</span><br /> The first thing to keep in mind when thinking about staging a home for sale is that you don’t have to fix every single problem you have with your property. The best thing that a homeowner can do is to focus on the “high impact” areas of their house, in other words, the places that most influence a buyer’s decision on whether to make an offer. Within the home, this means the living room, the kitchen, the master bedroom, and (to a lesser extent) the dining room. If these areas are all attractive and inviting, offers are bound to come quickly!</p> <p>In general, one change that may be worth making throughout these areas is to switch from carpet to hardwood flooring wherever possible. Carpets can get worn and stained, and it’s often replaced or removed when new homeowners move in anyway. Hardwood floors, on the other hand, have widespread appeal, and that’s what home staging is really all about. Remove aspects of the home that might turn buyers away, and replace them with neutral or commonly preferred alternatives.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Make Your Available Space Look Usable</span><br /> Next, sellers should always look to accentuate the strengths of their homes, and one way that they often miss out on this is by masking their homes' true size. Large or clunky furniture that fills up a room too much can make a home feel cramped and small. Additionally, rooms that serve more than one purpose (like a laundry room / exercise room) can make a house feel like it’s limited. Switch out that huge couch for one that shows off the floor space, and have each room focus on one purpose in particular to make it clear that potential buyers won’t struggle for breathing room.</p> <p>Next, homeowners need a lot of storage, but junk rooms do little to impress during open houses. Clear out any finished areas (including attics and basements!) and transform them into temporary offices or reading nooks to emphasize the possibilities. Even if that’s not how these spaces were used, the point of staging is to get the buyer’s mind thinking about what they could do with the home. Storage areas, unfortunately, don’t provide much inspiration.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">De-Personalize and Remove Controversy</span><br /> The best homes become a reflection of the people that live within them, but the fact is that whoever moves in next will have their own style preferences. This means that, although you might have loved your lime green wallpaper, it might be wise to take that down and repaint your living room with some neutral colors. A well-staged home should be like a blank canvas, not a finished work of art where buyers struggle to imagine different options.</p> <p>It’s for this same reason that agents recommend removing family photos, hobbyist equipment, and toys before showings. All of these are fabulous reflections of whoever lives in the house, but buyers don’t want to see someone else’s home - they want to see their potential home. Features that are distinct and remind buyers of what a home is distracts them from what the home could be in the future.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Clean! Clean! Clean!</span><br /> Finally - and this might be the most important advice to apply if you weren’t already planning on it - sellers should focus primarily on making their home as clean and fresh as possible! Bathrooms tend to become neglected overtime, windows need to be washed to let light in, and odd lingering odors should be addressed during the home staging process.</p> <p>For the exterior of the home, consider using a power washer as a quick way to vastly improve curb appeal without investing in a fresh coat of paint. Additionally, it can be a smart investment to purchase a new welcome mat and prioritize the front pathway. A successfully staged home will be fresh, inviting, and full of possibilities. Sellers who opt not to skip on the easy steps like home staging will see this small investment pay dividends after they close.</p> <p><em>If you’re looking to sell, have you considered ordering a Pre-Listing Inspection? Buyers who know a property’s condition upfront tend to reach agreements much quicker! <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">Contact your local NPI home inspector</a> for a quote today.</em></p> 1562Homeownership Is A Journey. But Are Container Homes the Answer?https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1557/homeownership-is-a-journey-but-are-container-homes-the-answerDIY,SafetyMon, 20 Nov 2023 15:24:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOMEOWNERSHIP IS A JOURNEY. BUT ARE CONTAINER HOMES THE ANSWER?</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> November 20, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/windows">windows</a></p> <p>The modern home comes in many strange and striking varieties. From the staple Mid-Century Modern to classical Queen Anne homes, the residential market never stops innovating to fit new tastes. One new trend that’s been turning heads and appealing heavily to DIYers everywhere is known as the <em>container home</em>. In other words, homes constructed fully out of shipping containers. That’s right! Although it may sound strange to those unfamiliar with the concept, many homeowners are using those same steel-based boxes used to transport goods across the ocean as bases for their own prefabricated house, or the start of an ambitious DIY project.</p> <p>So, are container homes just a quirky, trendy home alternative that’ll fade away in a few years, or can these lego houses make a practical impact that lasts? To try and answer that question, let’s take a deeper dive into what makes these homes tick.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What is a Container Home?</span><br /> Container homes are a newer trend of homebuilding that seems to be cut from the same cloth as <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/tiny-homes-a-forgotten-fad-or-a-major-movement">tiny homes</a>, appealing to individuals and families who would like to cut down on unnecessary space, while having an incredible amount of input on the construction of their homes. One way that container homes might differ from tiny homes, however, is in their creation.</p> <p>Shipping containers are designed to be extremely durable and weather-resistant to protect the materials within from the wear and tear of oceanic travels. However, due to the costs of shipping an empty container back across the ocean, most companies opt to sell their shipping containers on arrival. The result? Many large, steel containers are available across the United States for fairly low costs (in comparison to the price of a new, traditionally built home).</p> <p>Either privately or through a company that specializes in working with shipping containers, homeowners have been using either one, or multiple shipping containers stacking upon each other to create affordable, unique residential properties after a few adjustments (adding insulation, plumbing systems, doors, windows, etc.).</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Why are People Choosing to Live in Shipping Containers?</span><br /> As mentioned, container homes seem, in part, to appeal to the same sort of people interested in tiny homes. For some, having a more direct involvement in the construction of their home gives them a stronger sense of ownership and satisfaction over their property. For others, the low costs and quick construction are enough of a draw for them to opt into this style.</p> <p>Due to the high availability of shipping containers, some even believe that these homes are a natural answer to the housing crisis that much of the States are facing today (see more on the subject in <a class="color-secondary" href="https://renovated.com/can-shipping-container-homes-ease-the-housing-crisis/#:~:text=Shipping%20container%20homes%20could%20ease%20the%20housing%20crisis.,solve%20a%20current%2Dday%20problem." target="_blank">this article</a> from renovated.com). Container homes don’t just have availability going for them, though! Plenty of people love the style of these modular homes, including the modern vibe. With that said, container homes aren’t without their problems.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What are the Concerns for Container Homes?</span><br /> Many container home advocates point out the red tape that can often be a hurdle for owners looking to DIY or purchase their own shipping container house, and some areas pose unique restrictions that limit these types of properties. Detractors of these properties aren’t just against the look–their structural limitations might be hazardous.</p> <p>Obviously, shipping containers weren’t designed for residential occupancy in mind, so when doors and windows are cut into the steel structure of these containers, they become compromised, requiring new and expensive reinforcements as well as renewed sealing to protect from water intrusion. Other problems arise due to the difficulty of installing insulation and basic appliances. Most shipping containers are limited strictly to around eight feet in height, which creates further limitations for adding necessary home systems.</p> <p>On top of all of this, finding help from contractors becomes more difficult since the best professionals on traditional homes simply aren’t familiar with the nuances of container homes. While these homes have their interesting strengths, the inherent problems seem daunting enough to limit widespread popularity.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Are Container Homes Here to Stay - Or a Passing Trend?</span><br /> Problems with container homes might be resolved in time through creative innovations or new technologies but for now, most seem to think these homes will be limited in their popularity in areas where weather varies more widely, or hits extremes. That isn’t to say that Container homes don’t provide an exciting option in emergency scenarios or as temporary residences. Overall, container homes show how the real estate market is constantly evolving and is inhabited by some of the most creative minds out there!</p> <p><em>For more real estate topics and trends, stick <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog">right here</a>! NPI is the nation’s premier network of home inspection experts. To learn more about how your local home inspector can meet your needs, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">call for a quote</a> today!</em></p> 1557How to Start a Little Libraryhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1555/how-to-start-a-little-libraryDIY,Home Decor,Just for FunMon, 06 Nov 2023 15:18:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO START A LITTLE LIBRARY</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> November 6, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/garden">garden</a></p> <p>One major challenge that can come from moving into a new neighborhood involves transforming your new house into your new home. As we’ve discussed recently, a great way to become comfortable with a new city or a new area is to invest in relationships with your neighbors! Becoming familiar with (and hopefully liking) your neighbors often sounds nice in concept, but breaking through that initial comfortability barrier can be tough. The good news is this: there are many underutilized strategies that new homeowners and long-time homeowners alike can employ to make their neighborhood of strangers feel much more like a community.</p> <p>As homeowners, learning how to be a little more self-sufficient is smart. Challenging yourselves with progressively difficult DIY projects should give you an excuse to spend some more time outside and break the ice while meeting new neighbors. For a beginner-level DIY project that can be as simple or complex as your experience allows, nothing works quite as well as starting a Little Library.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What is a Little Library?</span><br /> Also known as Little Free Libraries, Library Boxes, or just Neighborhood Book Exchanges, Little Libraries have been popping up more and more in coffee shops, apartment buildings, and neighborhoods all around the world in the past few decades. While designs can vary wildly, the main concept remains consistent: small, usually creatively designed boxes displayed in public places which contain books and a simple “take a book, leave a book” policy.</p> <p>Bibliophiles everywhere tend to be big fans of these “Little Libraries” due to their access to a free, cycling source of new books as well as an outlet for their own, unsolicited recommendations, but even the literary-agnostic have found reasons to fawn over these front yard accessories. Since Little Libraries are usually built, designed, and maintained by a single homeowner, some may not immediately see the benefit of going through the effort. But for many, this minor fixture has made a major change in their own neighborhoods.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How Library Boxes Can Enrich a Neighborhood</span><br /> The first and most obvious benefit that Little Libraries offer to a neighborhood is the promotion of literacy. According to a recent <a class="color-secondary" href="https://testprepinsight.com/resources/us-book-reading-statistics/" target="_blank">PEW research poll</a>, only 64% of American adults reported having read a book in the past 12 months (as of the end of 2022). Homeowners are responsible for creating the type of neighborhood that they want to live in, and what Little Libraries can bring is an increased appreciation for books, even if it’s on a smaller scale.</p> <p>It can be smart to pick up a few outdoor hobbies or start a project in the yard when moving into a new home so that neighbors have more opportunities to introduce themselves early on. A Library Box installation just might be the best conversation starter there is, and in an ideal scenario, a neighborhood book exchange has the potential to greatly accelerate the development of community. Is there a better way to get to know somebody than to learn about some of their favorite books first hand?</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How to Start Your Own Little Library</span><br /> Building a library box isn’t very difficult. Start by deciding your strategy based on your experience and the amount of time you’d like to devote to the project. While a fully DIY library box will result in the most custom feel, there are plenty of simple designs available online for free and even full boxes available for purchase. Check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://littlefreelibrary.org/" target="_blank">Little Free Library's website</a> to explore these options, and get your library box on their official registry!</p> <p>For some general design advice, remember to place your library box far enough away from your home so that you retain your privacy and so that your neighbors don’t feel as though they are invading your space. Library boxes are there for the neighborhood to use after all! Consider placing it strategically at the end of your property to make your open invitation clear.</p> <p>When it comes to filling your little library with boxes, have fun with adding some of your favorites, but remember to consider your audience. If your neighborhood is full of kids, try to incorporate plenty of children’s books or young adult novels. If the area is more diverse, feel free to make the initial collection more eclectic! Then, leave room for others to join in on the fun and leave their own recommendations.</p> <p>The best little libraries tend to take on a life of their own when the neighborhood embraces them. Just remember to check in from time to time, and be sure to attend to minor maintenance needs when necessary. Water intrusion and wood-destroying organisms like termites can spoil the fun if left to their own devices, but these issues can be easily resolved through regular self-inspection. Little libraries are a great way to add curb appeal and make a new house feel like home! Give it a try - you won’t regret it!</p> <p><em>National Property Inspections is dedicated to helping homeowners make wise decisions with what is likely their biggest investment. We also teach you how to keep your home in good working order for the long haul. For residential purchases and any home maintenance concerns, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">call NPI</a> to work with America’s premier home inspection experts!</em></p> 1555Tricky and Easily Overlooked Areas of the Home That You Should Clean Todayhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1537/tricky-and-easily-overlooked-areas-of-the-home-that-you-should-clean-todayCleaning Tips,DIY,Home MaintenanceMon, 25 Sep 2023 21:10:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">TRICKY AND EASILY OVERLOOKED AREAS OF THE HOME THAT YOU SHOULD CLEAN TODAY</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> September 25, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/living-room">living room</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bathroom">bathroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/plumbing">plumbing</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/electrical">electrical</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/appliances">appliances</a></p> <p>Managing to keep an entire home clean is no easy task. Between doing the laundry, vacuuming the rugs, cleaning the dishes, and taking out the trash, there are plenty of hours in the day already dedicated to housekeeping. Naturally, things fall through the cracks, and certain items in the home are naturally overlooked. The problem is that certain items that might have been easily cleaned in the past can prove a much more difficult task if neglected for too long. If you are interested in being proactive about keeping your home clean, consider taking another look at these often-ignored home items.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Spend Some Extra Time in the Kitchen</span><br /> Do people spend a lot of time cleaning their kitchen? Of course they do. Do people still overlook a few areas in their kitchen due to inconvenience or lack of awareness? Absolutely! Kitchens can become one of the grimiest, dirtiest areas in a house if homeowners aren’t consistent about their cleaning habits due to the many kinds of messes and spills that are bound to happen while cooking. It’s when only the surface areas are taken care of that problems begin to pile up.</p> <p>Starting with the dishwasher, some may think that this appliance stays clean simply by performing its function. But those who have noticed distracting smells or extra spots on their dishes are probably experiencing the effects of a dirty dishwasher. As a general practice, rinsing off plates and silverware in the sink prior to running a cycle is a great way to limit food buildup, and filters should be cleaned regularly based on how frequently the dishwasher is used. Additionally, running the washer with any dishwasher cleaner according to its instructions around once a month should correct some of those pesky problems with dirty dishes.</p> <p>Regarding other mostly out-of-sight areas of the kitchen, many homeowners tend to completely ignore the spaces beneath their dishwasher and other appliances, the cracks between the stove and the counter, and on top of their fridge. To clean underneath larger items without moving them, simply use something like a ruler or other skinny implement to knock loose any debris, then choose a flat vacuum attachment or broom to take care of the rest. Accumulating dust can cause damage to refrigerator coils over time, which means that incorporating regular cleaning into a proactive home maintenance routine should extend the life of these pricey items.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Treat Your Electronics Well</span><br /> Considering the amount of attention some family TVs and computers get, these items get very little TLC. Smudges on their screens and dust accumulation naturally add up over time and can affect these device’s performance, but cleaning electronics can make many homeowners nervous. To clean screens without causing lasting damage, start by using a dry cloth to dust, then using a screen-safe cleaner. <em>Note: Apply screen cleaners to the cloth rather than to a screen directly to avoid damage.</em></p> <p>To clean a television’s remote control, start by removing any batteries, then use a damp cloth for basic cleaning. It may be necessary to use a cotton swab or a toothpick to address any debris caught between buttons or in any other crevices. Compressed air is also a great option for getting at any vents or other difficult-to-access areas on the body of a television that are bound to gather dust over time.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Take Another Look At Your Faucets</span><br /> Somewhat similar to the reasons why dishwashers can be neglected, faucets and shower heads are mainly involved in cleaning other items, so it might be odd to think about them getting dirty. With that said, these items are some of the items in a home that cause the most shocking reactions once homeowners finally take notice of how bad they’ve gotten. With the build up of mold, mildew, or other debris which can lead to diminished water pressure and distorted streams, shower heads and faucets certainly benefit from regular cleaning.</p> <p>For both items, one common remedy involves using a mixture of vinegar and water to break down the debris that’s built up on faucet and shower head exteriors. Try using a plastic bag to hold the mixture, then wrap it around the faucet or shower head. This solution should be left in place anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours depending on the severity of grime that needs to be broken up. Afterwards, simply run some water for a few minutes to clean out the remaining vinegar, and viola!</p> <p>In addition to these cleaning strategies, regularly unscrewing and rinsing out a faucet’s aerator is a great habit to get into. Sometimes, appliances and systems that aren’t performing up to expectations can be vastly improved in just a few short steps.</p> <p><em>Did you know that, just like proactive cleaning, many of your home’s primary features’ lives can be considerably extended through regularly checking in on their condition? Call your locally owned NPI inspector to learn more about the benefits of a <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">home maintenance inspection</a> today!</em></p> 1537The Keys to Assembling a Great House Flipping Teamhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1534/the-keys-to-assembling-a-great-house-flipping-teamDIY,Home Inspection,Home MaintenanceMon, 04 Sep 2023 20:53:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">THE KEYS TO ASSEMBLING A GREAT HOUSE FLIPPING TEAM</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> September 4, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home-seller</a></p> <p>Some of the best must-see reality television today comes from house-flipping shows: seasoned real estate experts find appealing residential properties or fixer-uppers, then transform them into dream homes for a tidy profit. It’s no mystery why these shows are so popular either, as real estate window-shoppers, amateur handymen, and people with an entrepreneurial spirit are all drawn to the home renovation genre. With that said, the average Joe who might be interested in jumping into the house-flipping world should take pause due to the considerable learning curve involved.</p> <p>Anyone who hosts a show on HGTV is going to have vast experience and a top-notch team behind them that can make house flipping look far easier than it really is. To break into the house-flipping world successfully, a person would either need broad experience in real estate and home improvement or (much more realistically) a great team to lean on. If you’re looking into house flipping for supplemental income or a career shift, here’s some of the essential traits you’ll need on your team.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What is House Flipping?</span><br /> Before jumping into the deep end, let’s review a few important definitions. Namely, what is house flipping anyway? “House flipping” is a term best understood as the act of purchasing a house with the intent purpose of improving and reselling in a short amount of time for profit. This can be done with old or neglected homes that need major TLC, or it can be done with properties that could simply benefit from updating or trend-chasing.</p> <p>While many home improvement shows depict full-time home flippers making consistent investments that lead to impressive profits on resale, real-world flippers recognize the risk-reward nature of these projects. Too many naive, would-be real estate investors might attempt to flip a home, only to discover that they lack the know-how, the capital, and the insight to make the right choices. The good news is that this isn’t the case for everyone, and it doesn’t need to be! Success in this field starts with patience and the right background experience.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Who Do You Need On Your Team?</span></p> <p><span style="color:#00685e;"><strong><em>1. The Practical One</em></strong></span></p> <p>The financial specialist probably isn’t the flashiest or most exciting position on a home renovation crew, but they are the most important. While theory-crafting how to quickly upgrade a home can be exciting, someone has to be able to determine how much the project will cost and whether the anticipated profits warrant the investment.</p> <p>The core principle of house flipping starts with the 70% rule, which dictates that a buyer shouldn’t pay more than 70% of a home’s ARV (or after-repair value). In other words, someone needs to crunch the numbers of how much an expected renovation will cost, how much a home should re-sell for, and factor in things like mortgage payments, property taxes, and other recurring costs until the house can be placed back on the market. On top of all of this, funding can be a concern for those who don’t have a lot of liquid funds. According to real estate data experts at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.attomdata.com/news/market-trends/flipping/attom-year-end-2022-u-s-home-flipping-report/" target="_blank">ATTOM</a>, nearly two-thirds of all home purchases with the intent to flip were cash-only offers due in part to how reluctant many banks are to provide loans for risky investments like house flipping.</p> <p>Teams that have a good financial expert in the fold can advise on realistic investments based on budget and will know to wait for the right home opportunity, rather than jump at the first interesting listing that could be more trouble than it’s worth. Whether this is a former accountant, or just someone who is great with numbers, an organized bookkeeper is a must for every house-flipping crew.</p> <p><strong><span style="color:#00685e;"><em>2. The Real Estate Market Expert</em></span></strong></p> <p>Next up is the person that is up to date on what sells, where the sought-after homes are located, and what the local market is projected to do during the timeframe of renovations. Ideally, this person would have extensive experience working in the market, coordinating purchases and sales as a real estate agent.</p> <p>Agents tend to have insider knowledge within the area they work, and will more likely have an accurate pulse on a local market to help make determinations on which homes are a smart purchase and which might be a bigger job than anticipated. Additionally, once a project is completed, the task of marketing and selling a renovated home can be extremely difficult without the help of a skilled real estate agent. Since time is always a factor with house flipping, having a reliable agent contact is vital when it comes to closing quickly and securing the best return on investment.</p> <p><span style="color:#00685e;"><strong><em>3. The Home Renovation Extraordinaire</em></strong></span></p> <p>A large portion of house flipping involves the actual renovation portion of the project. Because of this, many flippers have a background in things like contracting, plumbing, electrical work, or carpentry. “Sweat equity” refers to putting actual labor into a project, beyond logistical coordination and negotiation. Without this form of investment done right, a home flip is dead in the water.</p> <p>When hiring for contractors and other skilled laborers, it’s important to find people who can be trusted to do a good job and give informed, reliable advice. In addition, if the renovation work can be accomplished without hiring out, a considerable amount of the overall budget can be recovered immediately. This doesn’t mean that amateur handymen should attempt to renovate a house on their own, however. Jumping into a home flipping project with limited experience is a sure way to make costs rapidly inflate until it may be time to cut your losses altogether.</p> <p><span style="color:#00685e;"><strong><em>4. The Details and Crisis Manager</em></strong></span></p> <p>Speaking of cutting losses. An investor never wants to find a great flipping opportunity, investing time, energy, and funds, only to discover that a major issue means that repairs will be much more expensive than previously calculated. Otherwise exciting projects can be considerably derailed by discovering things like mold, wood-destroying organisms (such as termites or carpenter ants), or <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/home-features-that-ward-off-radon-a-guide-for-homebuyers">a high concentration of radon</a>.</p> <p>The beautiful thing about these home-flipping shows is that viewers get to watch houses get transformed and reach their full potential. This is why discovering a major issue can be so crushing beyond just the financial loss, and the truth is that these experiences could have been avoided with the right experience or assistance.</p> <p>People with a keen eye, and in-depth experience on some of the more costly home defects are important for home flipping because their input is the difference between catching larger repairs and being surprised with them later on. Home flipping is said to be a risky business, but partnering with residential home inspectors, commercial property inspectors, or other people that have a reliable track record of being thorough and detailed will help reduce the uncertainty inherent in these projects.</p> <p><em>NPI’s nation-wide network of professional home inspectors receive world-class training and is backed by decades of experience. To schedule your next home inspection, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">call NPI</a> before you buy.</em></p> 1534How Pets Are Changing The Way We Design Homeshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1533/how-pets-are-changing-the-way-we-design-homesDIY,Home Decor,Just for FunMon, 28 Aug 2023 20:49:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW PETS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE DESIGN HOMES</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> October 28, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just For Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/pets">pets</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/walls">walls</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/laundry">laundry</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a></p> <p>Pets demand so much attention, but homeowners have a tendency to bend over backwards in order to accommodate. Frequently, cats and dogs can seem to rule their homes, and since the pandemic saw over 23 million American homes adopt pets (per the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2022/01/07/covid-dogs-return-to-work/" target="_blank">Washington Post</a>), the ways in which homeowners are learning to spoil them seem to be spiking.</p> <p>Barkitecture is a term used in reference to the recent trend of remodeling homes with pets specifically in mind, with more permanent and invasive remodeling efforts invested to make family dogs and cats feel more at home. If you’re in the market for a new home, or you’re considering a remodel to make your dog feel more at home, here are a few stylish and subtle home designs you might want to try out.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Starting with the Classics</span></p> <ul> <li><strong>Durable flooring</strong> is always something to consider, depending on your pet. Outdoor pets are notorious for tracking in all sorts of messy stains, and toenails can tear up carpet or many harder flooring materials. To avoid wearing out your floors, consider investing in luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, or other harder, scratch-resistant options like tile or terrazzo to make clean-ups quicker. Additionally, carpet is notorious for collecting hair and holding onto unpleasant odors. As always, the best pet-friendly homes start with the right flooring. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/why-hardwood-floors-are-awesome-and-how-to-keep-them-that-way">Click here</a> for more information on hardwood flooring for your home!</li> <li><strong>Matching rugs</strong> to your pet’s fur color is a design shortcut that will make your home feel cleaner and sharper right away. Even when opting for durable flooring, homes will seem bare without rugs in key positions. However, as dark-haired dogs and cats shed onto lighter contrasting rugs and flooring, their fur will become a major distraction. Although it shouldn’t be an excuse not to clean, gray cat hair on gray carpeting should allow for some extra wiggle room.</li> </ul> <p>With these more traditional pet accommodations in mind, let’s move onto some of the more unique home Barkitecture trends that are changing home design.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Home Barkitecture Trends</span></p> <ul> <li><strong>Built-in dog washing stations</strong> have been growing in popularity, utilizing extra space in mudrooms, laundry rooms, and garages to reduce unwanted mud and dirt being tracked into the home. While some homeowners have invested their time constructing impressive DIY washing stations, many have opted for more elaborate projects with tile to match their home decor. Depending on how active of a lifestyle a dog leads, they may need to be fully bathed once every two weeks or so (according to <a class="color-secondary" href="https://be.chewy.com/how-often-should-you-bathe-your-dog/" target="_blank">dog experts at BeChewy</a>). Whether for cleaning off dirty paws or for making bath time less of a struggle, built-in washing stations are a great feature for families with dogs.</li> <li><strong>Wall shelves</strong> have traditionally been reserved for books or wall art as homeowners look to utilize unused space to enhance their overall room design. For people whose cats are best known as “tree dwellers,” these spaces have been reclaimed as elevated sleeping nooks and precarious obstacle courses where anything breakable isn’t likely to survive for long. With this in mind, some homeowners have finally dropped the pretext, filling their homes with wall stairs, bridges, and towers fit to entertain while keeping important items safe and protected elsewhere. Some might say that indulging in a cat’s climbing habit in this way might be, but many shelf designs and styles are attractive enough to be wall art on their own, matching a room’s existing decor perfectly.</li> <li><strong>With catios</strong>, homeowners have started to expand their cats’ freedom to a shocking degree, as these extended, open air outdoor spaces allow for fresh air without the dangers of roaming completely free. Catios come in many different shapes and sizes, but most include an easy access cat door onto a cage-enclosed patio attached to the home, but designed only for feline-usage. Again, the level of complexity changes depending on DIY experience and investment, but this feature is another example of homeowners prioritizing their pets’ health and their natural need for exploration, sun, and open air.</li> <li>For the dog-lovers that might think cat owners have lost it with that last home feature, <strong>dog rooms and dog houses</strong> are perhaps the entire reason for the Barkitecture name (and the inspiration for this blog article). Guest rooms being claimed by family dogs as their own bedrooms is a common phenomenon, but some homeowners have taken this idea a step further, designing and decorating spare rooms entirely for their dogs. One common dog room renovation project involves utilizing unused space under staircases, carving out miniature rooms and covering the new walls with dog-themed wallpaper or pictures.</li> </ul> <p>Dog houses, on the other hand, have been around for quite some time. In the past, these structures have been fairly simple, usually consisting of a few walls and a pitched roof. Nowadays, as <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@chipgirlhere/video/7037616069871226118?q=insane%20home%20features%20for%20pets&t=1692634973968" target="_blank">TikToker @chipgirlhere has shown off</a>, dog houses are becoming a bit larger and more luxurious than in the past. Pets have been changing the way homes look for a long time, and these changes seem to be getting bigger and more eye-popping every year.</p> <p><em>For more information on the latest <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/the-latest-interior-design-trends-for-2023">interior design</a> and home trends, stick right here on NPI’s Inspector blog. To schedule your next home inspection, schedule with <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">your locally-owned NPI inspector</a> today!</em></p> 1533Painting Perspectives: How to Pick the Right Shade of White For Your Homehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1532/painting-perspectives-how-to-pick-the-right-shade-of-white-for-your-homeDIY,Home DecorMon, 21 Aug 2023 20:44:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">PAINTING PERSPECTIVES: HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT SHADE OF WHITE FOR YOUR HOME</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> August 21, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/walls">walls</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ceiling">ceiling</a></p> <p>Moving into a new home or giving a home new life through a renovation is very exciting! Understandably, new homeowners waste little time in finding ways to make their spaces feel like theirs - a visual nod confirming they’ve embarked on a new chapter in life. Over time, homes tend to naturally take on the personality of the people who live in them, but the best way to kick off this identity on the right foot is with a fresh coat of paint.</p> <p>Of all the creative, bold, and eye-catching options out there, some might wonder why people so often end up just going with white. For starters, white has remarkable staying power and versatility! White is closely tied to modern aesthetics, but it also fits well with classic architectural styles. Homeowners who would rather not overly experiment with their paint choices don’t have to worry about their white walls going out of style in a couple years. Plus, (depending on the shade) white can be used to emphasize virtually any furniture layout or interior design concept.</p> <p>Painting your home white is a fantastic choice, but with over 350 different shades of white available on <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Paint-Ideas/white/00" target="_blank">Home Depot's website</a> today, navigating the right choice for your home can be intimidating. To help you navigate your next home or room makeover, here’s a few tips for selecting the right option!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Wait, There’s More Than One White?</span><br /> That’s right! For those that haven’t attempted to weave through the seemingly endless options of hues and shades of white paint out there yet, there are indeed many different kinds of white paint. White can be warm or it can be cool, and it can be glossy or flat. Different shades work better in different situations, and even those that think they’re color-illiterate will be able to tell very quickly that they’ve entered a room with some clashing shades.</p> <p>The key to understanding the different shades of white paint is to look at undertones and finishes. “Cooler” whites have undertones of cool colors (like blue, purple, or green). Likewise, “warm” whites carry shades of warm colors (such as red, orange, yellow, or pink). A paint’s finish, meanwhile, refers to the level at which it reflects light. Glossy finishes reflect the most light, matte (or flat) finishes reflect the least amount of light, and finishes like eggshell or silk sit somewhere in the middle. In short, different combinations of these features are what leads to so many different shades of white - but it is to the homeowner’s benefit! Depending on taste and context, some whites are much better suited for the situation.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Take Context Into Consideration</span><br /> Ultimately, a white paint might seem nice in concept, but a strong shade that succeeds in one home might not do the job in another. This is all because of that context. Starting with natural light, rooms that lack windows or other access to light will generally not work very well with cooler shades of white. In these areas cooler whites often become too exaggerated, pulling seemingly further towards its blue or green shades than intended, and warm whites in areas with a lot of natural light can start to appear yellow.</p> <p>Regarding finishes, flat and matte finishes can perform better in heavily-trafficked rooms (especially in homes with rowdy kids or pets) since they can be touched up so easily. This doesn’t mean that glossier finishes should be off limits, of course! It’s just best to apply them to areas where they are less prone to scuffs or dings. Your paint will ultimately need to match well with your furniture and the overall feel you’re planning with your home. Again, while these rules work in concept, the best thing to make the right choice is to try your favorite shades in person.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Make Comparisons To A Constant</span><br /> Once it is determined whether a warmer or cooler white is needed, homeowners should grab a sheet of plain white printer paper and head to the store (the paper makes determining shade much easier). No one wants to repaint a room, so grabbing more options to test than necessary is better than grabbing too few.</p> <p>After having your options in hand, test them in the spot where you plan on painting. Hang your swatches, or paint your walls and ceilings then watch how they look in the morning, during the day, and at night. Warm, cool, glossy, flat - if your shade of white doesn’t work for you, then none of that matters in the end. Ultimately, just pick the shade that seems to fit your home the best and, if white isn’t doing the trick, there are other options.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Make Comparisons To A Constant</span><br /> Once it is determined whether a warmer or cooler white is needed, homeowners should grab a sheet of plain white printer paper and head to the store (the paper makes determining shade much easier). No one wants to repaint a room, so grabbing more options to test than necessary is better than grabbing too few.</p> <p>After having your options in hand, test them in the spot where you plan on painting. Hang your swatches, or paint your walls and ceilings then watch how they look in the morning, during the day, and at night. Warm, cool, glossy, flat - if your shade of white doesn’t work for you, then none of that matters in the end. Ultimately, just pick the shade that seems to fit your home the best and, if white isn’t doing the trick, there are other options.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">On Second Thought…Maybe Don’t Pick White</span><br /> One of the biggest reasons why people love white so much is that it can go with anything…until it doesn’t. When white isn’t doing the trick, there are tons of other more neutral shades that make great paint choices. From tan to taupe and gray to greige, there are many colors that can effectively brighten your kitchen, bedroom, or living spaces while featuring your furnishings well. And hey, if paint isn’t doing it for you, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/wallpaper-sticking-around-home-design-in-2021">wallpaper is coming back</a> into style in a big way! So, what are you waiting for?</p> <p><em>For more tips on interior design trends and home living hacks, stick right here on NPI’s <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog">home blog</a>! To schedule your annual home maintenance inspection, contact <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">your local NPI property expert</a> today.</em></p> 1532Renter-Friendly Interior Design Hacks: How to Make Your Rental Feel Like Homehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1517/renter-friendly-interior-design-hacks-how-to-make-your-rental-feel-like-homeDIY,Home DecorMon, 14 Aug 2023 18:05:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">RENTER-FRIENDLY INTERIOR DESIGN HACKS: HOW TO MAKE YOUR RENTAL FEEL LIKE HOME</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> August 14, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/floors">floors</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/walls">walls</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a></p> <p>We’ve seen people make their homes in all sorts of unique and strange places. From trendy <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/tiny-homes-a-forgotten-fad-or-a-major-movement">tiny homes</a> to flat-out bizarre <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/passive-aggressive-architecture-the-odd-phenomenon-of-spite-houses">spite houses</a>, homeowners seem to have tons of freedom to personalize their spaces into something that is totally unique to them. Owning a home comes with plenty of work, but this ability to remodel, redesign, and remake is one of the things that makes homeownership such a sought-after goal.</p> <p>With that in mind, it’s easy to see why renting can be frustrating. Too many apartments lack character, and many tenants find themselves living in drab, cookie-cutter flats of uninspired architecture. Finding ways to tailor these spaces into something that feels a little more “homey” without making any permanent changes can be tough. The good news is, creative renters have found ways to have fun with decor, even while keeping to their lease agreements. To make your rental yours, here are some transformative, renter-friendly interior design tips.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Hang Some Temporary Wallpaper</span><br /> The first step to truly transform the overall look and feel of a room is to figure out what to do with the walls. Landlords tend to prefer keeping their walls in shades that are inoffensive to avoid turning away tenants, but this also leads to thousands upon thousands of neutral off-whites to choose between. In units that do not allow painting, removable wallpaper is a fabulous answer for this common issue.</p> <p>There are so many designs and styles of wallpaper available that come designed for easy application (and easy removal for renters). Just remember to clean the walls thoroughly and always hang wallpaper from top to bottom for a smooth application process. You’ll be shocked how much this simple step alone will make your rental feel yours.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Paint When Possible!</span><br /> Alternatively, some landlords can be shockingly amiable when it comes to paint (usually with the caveat that you repaint everything back to its original color when moving out). Painting a room can seem like a big undertaking, but a weekend’s worth of work might be the most impactful change that you can make on your space’s overall appearance. Even re-painting your walls the same color will make your rental feel fresher and cleaner.</p> <p>If painting isn’t listed as an option, try asking about adding just an accent wall. Painting only certain areas can create a sense of separation in rentals where space is limited, and the original wall color is still there for comparison when repainting later on. Check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.thespruce.com/accent-walls-tips-essential-dos-donts-797861" target="_blank">this article</a> from interior design experts at The Spruce to learn more about accent walls! Don’t take a landlord’s allowance for paint for granted.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Invest in Your Own Tile and Backsplash</span><br /> Flooring is one area where renters can feel limited in their options. Again, landlords tend to choose more conservative, muted flooring options to not scare away the average renter. This naturally leads to uninspired, tired floors that can drag down an otherwise satisfying floor plan. What most renters don’t realize is that rugs aren’t their only option.</p> <p>Peel-and-stick tile flooring can be laid right on top of any existing flooring, and there are plenty of more affordable options that add color and style to rental properties. Likewise, temporary backsplashes are an underrated kitchen upgrade worth exploring. When stuck with something that doesn’t quite resonate with your style choices, cover it up with something that does!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Replace Your Hardware With Something Distinct</span><br /> For this next move, all you need is a screwdriver and a place to store the old fixtures. Doorknobs, cabinet handles, and power outlets can all be easily exchanged for new options of your choice. Even lights and faucets could be switched out with the right know-how (though proceed with caution). Although some of these purchases can get pricey, the great thing is that all of these items can be packed up and reused at your next home.</p> <p>As an extra note, electrical replacements can involve interacting with exposed wiring in some situations. Always err on the side of caution in these situations, and refer to the advice of an experienced electrician when possible. Lamps and adhesive, stick-on lights can do the trick of adding stylish lighting that these more direct replacements might have done.</p> <p><em>Ready to make the move from renter to homeowner? It’s best to be informed before making a big purchase. Always be sure to order a home inspection with every home purchase - <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">call NPI</a> before you buy.</em></p> 1517Spiders, Silverfish, and Termites: DIY Solutions for Ridding Your Home of Infestationhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1516/spiders-silverfish-and-termites-diy-solutions-for-ridding-your-home-of-infestationCleaning Tips,DIY,Home MaintenanceMon, 07 Aug 2023 18:02:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">SPIDERS, SILVERFISH, & TERMITES: DIY SOLUTIONS FOR RIDDING YOUR HOME OF INFESTATION</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> August 7, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bathroom">bathroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/first-time-homeowner">first-time homeowner</a></p> <p>Many are quick to point out the bad wrap that insects tend to get. Bugs are a part of the diverse and fascinating ecology that lies just outside of our homes, after all, and their roles in pollination and sanitation cannot be overstated. Yes, some have found that the prevailing stigma associated with our many-legged friends to be a tad judgmental and unfair, given their thankless efforts. However, others will contend that while these truths are all well and good, bugs can stay outside of my house and far away from me, thank you very much.</p> <p>Homes can become infested by a wide range of the creepy and crawly-variety. For homeowners who would like to deal with their bug problems now rather than later and would rather not pay a hefty pest control bill, here are a few DIY solutions for dealing with bugs.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How to Annihilate Ants</span><br /> Ants are one of the most common home invaders throughout the United States, and they come in many different varieties, from the common pavement ant to the dreaded carpenter ant. Ants aren’t commonly known to bite people like some other bugs (though they can). However, they are known to contaminate food and carry disease. Carpenter ants are particularly troublesome due to their potential to cause serious damage to homes as they create their nests. If you are seeing a larger than normal number of ants in your home, you might have an ant infestation on your hands. Before calling the exterminator, though, there are some possible DIY solutions worth exploring!</p> <p>Ants tend to be drawn to different kinds of food based on the time of year and type of ant. According to pest experts over at the Family Handyman blog, homeowners can lay out a selection of proteins, sweets, and fatty foods in their home to determine which foods their ants are most drawn to. From there, toxic ant bait that corresponds to these different “diet preferences” can be used to lay waste to any ant colonies that have found their way indoors. For more information on handling ant infestations, check out the rest of the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/how-to-get-rid-of-ants/" target="_blank">Family Handyman's fabulous article</a>.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How to Clobber Cockroaches</span><br /> If you have never had to deal with roaches, consider yourself lucky. Cockroaches are one of the most common insects known to invade homes around the world, and, interestingly, they seem to be one of the most common insect-related phobias. Despite not commonly carrying diseases, biting, stinging, or sucking blood, cockroaches somehow climb to the top of most people’s insect “ick” lists.</p> <p>Award-winning journalist and fellow bug-despiser Rachel Nuwer writes about this phenomenon in a BBC article saying, “...many people suffer from katsaridaphobia, or cockroach phobia…[though the vast majority] never seek help, primarily because they want to do everything possible to avoid even speaking of those creatures.” For anyone interested in seeing many more pictures of these frequent household visitors, check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20140918-the-reality-about-roaches" target="_blank">Rachel’s article</a>!</p> <p>The best answer to keep cockroaches away is to clean up spills quickly, avoid leaving out food for long periods of time, and take out the garbage in a timely fashion. Cockroaches are known to reproduce extremely quickly, so catching sight of a single one of these critters should trigger homeowners to take action. Chemical bait can be placed under sinks and near trash cans, enticing roaches to bring the toxic food back to their families. This then eliminates the colony.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How to Terminate Termites</span><br /> For homeowners, the structural damage that termites can cause leads to more nightmares than all of the other insects on this list combined. Knowing the costly harm that can come from termites, this is one infestation where it may be worth contacting the pros rather than relying on DIY remedies. Still, there are options homeowners can take to fight against termites.</p> <p>The most reliable method for terminating termites is through using boric acid, an ingredient in certain insecticides. Drill holes into infected wood and apply this spray to cracks and other access points to eliminate termites where they’ve established themselves. Another option for a DIY termite trap is simply laying two wetted cardboard pieces on top of one another, leaving it near a termite nest, and allowing the insects to become caught in the material. This method isn’t thought to be as effective or consistent as using high-powered poisons and baits, but can be employed as a supplemental option. Remember, when in doubt with this issue, call a local pest control specialist!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How to Slay Silverfish</span><br /> Although not the most numerous or harmful insects found in homes, silverfish are nonetheless a common unwanted guest. These insects are incredibly quick and are known to make their homes in moist or humid areas like bathrooms or under sinks (similar to many bugs). Their resilience is also something not to balk at, as scientists trace back their existence to times before even dinosaurs walked the earth. Apparently, humans have been contending with these pests for ages, but modern homeowners may have found a few tricks to help deal with them.</p> <p>Silverfish are drawn to common household items like glue, carpet fibers, and paint. So, a solid DIY way to catch silverfish is to wet a roll of newspaper and lay it out for a few days. Silverfish are likely to crawl inside the paper and can be disposed of easily. Alternatively, pest experts at Good Housekeeping <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/a20706230/how-to-get-rid-silverfish/" target="_blank">recommend making use of diatomaceous earth</a>, a white powdery substance said to be harmful to these insects.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How to Smash Spiders</span><br /> Lastly, spiders might not be the most common infestation since they are known to be mostly solitary creatures. With that said, spider infestations plague many houses across the US. Even if a homeowner doesn’t necessarily consider themselves an “arachnophobe,” chances are that most would prefer to do without too many of these eight-legged companions in their cribs.</p> <p>To begin a fight against spiders, homeowners should thoroughly vacuum their homes, including under furniture and inside closets. Spiders tend to establish their lairs in seldom-frequented corners of houses, so a committed effort is needed for this step. From there, any pesticides or repellents can work nicely. As a homemade option, essential oils are said to be effective such as lavender, rosemary, and peppermint.</p> <p>In general, homeowners can work to keep pests out of their homes by doing things like trimming back bushes, and sealing openings to the outdoors. For more information on keeping pests away before they find their way in your home, check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-avoid-unwelcome-household-pests-before-they-move-in">this quick guide</a>!</p> <p><em>One of the things that make bugs so unnerving is that once found, you wonder how long they were wandering around just out of sight. Home inspectors know exactly where to look to identify the otherwise overlooked issues that lead to major maintenance problems in the home. Schedule a <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">home inspection</a> with NPI today to avoid an unwelcome surprise tomorrow.</em></p> 1516Home Design Content Creators You Should Start Followinghttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1508/home-design-content-creators-you-should-start-followingDIY,Home Decor,Just for FunMon, 10 Jul 2023 15:55:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOME DESIGN CONTENT CREATORS YOU SHOULD START FOLLOWING</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> July 10, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/walls">walls</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/living-room">living room</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bedroom">bedroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a></p> <p>One of the biggest benefits of the many social media and content creation platforms that are widely accessible today is that there are more engaging content creators than ever before. For people that are compulsive DIYers themselves or for those who are interested in learning more about intriguing interior design styles, finding a popular vlogger is a great way to build motivation and fuel inspiration.</p> <p>Pick your poison! Between Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, there’s no shortage of home and lifestyle content creators ready to hook you in. If you’re interested in checking out a few new creators, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few home and lifestyle content creators that you should definitely check out!<br />  </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px;"><span class="emphasis-primary">DIY Content Creators</span></span><br /> There is no better genre of content creation when it comes to personal motivation than DIY content creators. Homeowners often feel limited in how they can transform their houses due to budget constraints, and home improvement jobs tend to feel intimidating for people that lack experience using tools, making measurements, and designing home features. The best DIY content creators are able to balance specific home improvement tutorials with fun and well-edited videos that show how accessible many projects are—even for beginners.</p> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-5"><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Content Creators/comestayawhile-01.jpg?ver=FazOTqSjSlNR2hlPZl0zFA%3d%3d" width="100%" /></div> <div class="col-sm-7"> <p><strong>Amanda Vernaci | <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.instagram.com/comestayawhile/" target="_blank">@comestayawhile</a> on Instagram</strong></p> <p>Amanda Vernaci is a wife, a mother, and a DIY instagram star who encourages her followers by saying, “If I can do it, so can you.” The majority of her content consists of shorter, edited video montages of herself running to hardware stores, assembling new cabinets, or installing custom backsplashes in her kitchen.</p> <p>Amanda points out when she makes mistakes and invites her audience along to celebrate with her as she highlights the final product. Homeowners who are a little nervous about starting their first DIY project or just looking for an entertaining creator to follow should check out Amanda Vernaci on Instagram <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.instagram.com/comestayawhile/" target="_blank">@comestayawhile</a>.<br />  </p> </div> </div> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-5"><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Content Creators/diypete-01.jpg?ver=PUg7MNLMeOp6sWcrwzKAAA%3d%3d" width="100%" /></div> <div class="col-sm-7"> <p><strong>Pete Sveen | <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.youtube.com/@DIYPETE/featured" target="_blank">@DIYPETE</a> on Youtube</strong></p> <p>Known as DIY PETE on YouTube, Pete Sveen is a family man who gives in-depth DIY tips as he works through various ambitious projects on his spacious property in Montana. Pete’s videos often see a project from its very beginnings all the way through to its completion so, although his videos tend to be on the longer side, DIY PETE may be the most valuable resource out there for DIYers looking to improve on their skills.</p> <p>Pete does a great job of listing off each specific tool he uses and demonstrates proper usage throughout each tutorial video. Though somewhat limited when it comes to cinematic editing and use of music, Pete Sveen is a great go-to source for DIY content. As a side note, his black lab Helena is a fantastic helper who is frequently present during Pete’s projects. Check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.youtube.com/@DIYPETE/featured" target="_blank">Pete on Youtube</a> for more fantastic DIY tutorials!<br />  </p> </div> </div> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-5"><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Content Creators/modernbuilds-01.jpg?ver=KWhefDuR9MwiqP0IhUTtkQ%3d%3d" width="100%" /></div> <div class="col-sm-7"> <p><strong>Mike Montgomery | <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.instagram.com/modernbuilds/" target="_blank">@modernbuilds</a> on Instagram & <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ModernBuilds" target="_blank">@ModernBuilds</a> on Youtube</strong></p> <p>For a combination of DIY and design, Mike Montgomery is a fantastic follow on Instagram and Youtube for his Mid-Century Modern interior design makeovers. As “Modern Builds,” Mike walks his audience through a wide variety of home renovation jobs including a recent Joshua Tree home makeover and a school bus-tiny home conversion.</p> <p>Mike’s designs include plenty of custom-made wooden consoles, coffee tables, and unique flooring patterns that bring some rustic details into his homes as well. Some of Mike’s DIY tutorials can be a bit more advanced than many are likely comfortable with replicating, but his positive energy and enthusiastic persona is infectious. For a great mid-century modern specialist, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better follow than <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.instagram.com/modernbuilds/" target="_blank">@modernbuilds</a>!<br />  </p> </div> </div> <p><span style="font-size:18px;"><span class="emphasis-primary">Interior Designers</span></span><br /> Interior design creators find a natural home on platforms like Instagram where they can feature artistically framed examples of their work and edit montage-style showcases of their scenes. These content creators tend to be light on tutorials and place a heavier emphasis on the “before and after” comparison shots. The best interior design creators will depend highly on personal taste and preference for content style, but here are a few who know how to stand out.</p> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-5"><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Content Creators/daniklaric-01.jpg?ver=N9HmqHeFo6ifQL-i-cqPtw%3d%3d" width="100%" /></div> <div class="col-sm-7"> <p><strong>Dani Klaric | <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.instagram.com/daniklaric/?hl=en" target="_blank">@daniklaric</a> on Instagram & <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@daniklaric?lang=en" target="_blank">@daniklaric</a> on TikTok</strong></p> <p>Dani Klaric has developed massive followings on both Instagram and TikTok showing off her vintage business and home makeover projects. Dani’s bright personality and high-energy narratives match her style of bold, contrasting colors mixed with thrift shop gems.</p> <p>In addition to behind-the-scenes perspectives of Dani’s projects as an interior designer, Dani’s followers have also joined her as she’s opened her own small business with a friend. Dani Klaric’s content is a fantastic cross-section of small business ownership, creative editing, and vintage home decor.<br />  </p> </div> </div> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-5"><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Content Creators/taybeepboop-01.jpg?ver=dIhMbK9JHiEUbL-JaFpcBg%3d%3d" width="100%" /></div> <div class="col-sm-7"> <p><strong>Tay Beepboop | <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.instagram.com/taybeepboop/?hl=en" target="_blank">@taybeepboop</a> on Instagram & <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.youtube.com/@TayBeepBoop/featured" target="_blank">@taybeepboop</a> on Youtube</strong></p> <p>Another great follow for interior design is a Hawaiian-born creator that goes by “Tay Beepboop” online. Tay’s style is quite similar to Dani Klaric’s (in fact, they recently collaborated on an apartment suite in Australia together). Bright colors, vintage wallpapers, and curls are common sights in her home decor designs, and Tay will frequently feature items directly purchased from thrift stores in her room designs.</p> <p>Tay will veer into simple tutorials a bit more often than Dani, but odds are that followers that enjoy one’s content will likely enjoy the other as well. Be sure to check out both of these creators on their various social media platforms!<br />  </p> </div> </div> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-5"><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Content Creators/coreydamenjenkins-01.jpg?ver=PUg7MNLMeOp6sWcrwzKAAA%3d%3d" width="100%" /></div> <div class="col-sm-7"> <p><strong>Corey Damen Jenkins | <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.instagram.com/coreydamenjenkins" target="_blank">@coreydamenjenkins</a> on Instagram</strong></p> <p>If Dani and Tay aren’t your style, you might consider checking out interior design Masterclass instructor Corey Damen Jenkins. Jenkins and his firm, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://coreydamenjenkins.com/" target="_blank">Corey Damen Jenkins & Associates</a>, have been featured by Architectural Digest, Vanity Fair, The New York Times, and more. Residing in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Jenkins’ style puts a contemporary twist on the refined classic architecture in the American Northeast. As you’ll see from his Instagram, Jenkins isn’t afraid of bold color and playful patterns.</p> <p>“There are design principles but there really are no rules,” Jenkins said in <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.homesandgardens.com/advice/designer-profile-corey-damen-jenkins" target="_blank">a previous interview with Homes & Gardens</a>. “Principles are to be followed and you should honor the principles of good design, but the rules are to be bent and broken. I’ll break a rule in a heartbeat if it makes sense for the project.” follow along with Corey Damen Jenkins and his projects on Instagram <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.instagram.com/coreydamenjenkins" target="_blank">@coreydamenjenkins</a>.<br />  </p> </div> </div> <p><span style="font-size:18px;"><span class="emphasis-primary">Home Maintenance & Real Estate Trends</span></span></p> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-5"><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Content Creators/npifranchise-01.jpg?ver=jPJy2K03nYX4XA4yiFg-Jw%3d%3d" width="100%" /></div> <div class="col-sm-7"> <p><strong>National Property Inspections, Inc. | <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.instagram.com/npifranchise/" target="_blank">@npifranchise</a> on Instagram & <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.youtube.com/user/npisocial" target="_blank">@npisocial</a> on Youtube</strong></p> <p>There are so many fantastic home design content creators out there worth exploring! With that said, there are likely very few creators out there that will match the combination of varied content with expert opinion from the perspective of professional home inspectors. If you are interested in interior design, DIY projects, commercial real estate trends, or anything else in the world of real estate, definitely give our page a follow! We’re excited to share our experiences with you!</p> </div> </div> <p><em>Let us know which home design content creators we should start following, and if you’re gearing up for your next home improvement project, don’t forget to get your annual home maintenance inspection in the books! <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Schedule</a> a consultation with NPI today!</em></p> 1508The Ultimate Guide to Lawn Care Part 1: Tips for a Healthy and Beautiful Yardhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1490/the-ultimate-guide-to-lawn-care-part-1-tips-for-a-healthy-and-beautiful-yardDIY,Home MaintenanceTue, 06 Jun 2023 17:35:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO LAWN CARE PART 1: TIPS FOR A HEALTHY AND BEAUTIFUL YARD</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> June 5, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=DIY">DIY</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/guest-post">guest post</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lawn-care">lawn care</a></p> <p class="emphasis-primary"><em>By Kym Preslar, Content Manager of <a class="color-secondary" href="https://sodlawn.com/" target="_blank">SodLawn</a></em></p> <p>There's just something about a well-manicured lawn that gives a property that special touch. A beautiful lawn not only adds curb appeal, but it can also increase the value of your property.</p> <p>Achieving a healthy and beautiful lawn, however, is not as simple as mowing the grass every other week. It takes effort and the right know-how to get that perfectly lush and green yard you've always wanted.</p> <p>In this ultimate guide to <a class="color-secondary" href="https://sodlawn.com/a-beginners-guide-to-lawn-care/" target="_blank">lawn care</a>, we'll give you tips and tricks that will help you achieve a lawn that will make your neighbors green with envy!</p> <p>Whether you're a new or seasoned homeowner, this guide covers everything you need to know to achieve a healthy and beautiful lawn.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Understanding Your Lawn</span><br /> Your lawn is the centerpiece of your home's outdoor space, and it deserves the utmost attention and care to look its best. Understanding your lawn is the first step to achieving a lush, green oasis right in your backyard.</p> <p><strong>Different Types of Grasses</strong><br /> Did you know that there are more than 10,000 varieties of grasses? Choosing the right grass for your lawn is an essential step in maintaining a healthy lawn.</p> <p>The most common grass types used for lawns are Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysia, and Fescue.</p> <p>Bermuda grass is ideal for warm climates, while St. Augustine grass is perfect for those who live in regions with high humidity. Zoysia grass is preferred for its soft texture, while Fescue grass is best suited for cooler climates.</p> <p>When selecting a grass type to plant, you should consider the climate, soil type, amount of sunlight, and your preferences.</p> <p><strong>How to Determine Soil Type and pH</strong><br /> The soil is the foundation of your lawn, and its condition determines the health of your grass.</p> <p>Understanding your <a class="color-secondary" href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/SS480" target="_blank">soil type and pH</a> is crucial in providing the right nutrients for your lawn. To determine your soil type, you can conduct a simple soil test by taking a sample and analyzing the texture and color.</p> <p>There are three main soil types: sandy, clay, and loamy. Sandy soil drains quickly, while clay soil retains moisture, and loamy soil is ideal for most grass types.</p> <p>The soil pH also plays a significant role in your lawn's health. The optimal pH range for most grasses is between 6.0 and 7.0. You can adjust the soil pH by adding lime to raise it or sulfur to lower it.</p> <p><strong>The Importance of Sunlight and Water</strong><br /> Sunlight and water are the essential elements that your lawn needs to thrive. Grasses require at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to grow healthy and correctly. If your lawn has areas that receive less sunlight, you can consider planting shade-tolerant grass types such as Fine Fescue or St. Augustine.</p> <p>Watering your lawn is also critical in maintaining its beauty. It's recommended to water your lawn deeply and infrequently, once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. Overwatering can lead to fungal growth, while underwatering can cause your grass to dry out and turn brown.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Lawn Maintenance</span><br /> A well-maintained lawn is not just aesthetically pleasing, but it also adds value to your property. However, it takes some effort and dedication to create and maintain a healthy, lush green lawn.</p> <p>There are several factors to consider and techniques to execute, but don't worry. Here's what you need to keep in mind.</p> <p><strong>Mowing</strong><br /> One of the most basic, yet essential, elements of lawn maintenance is mowing. It's essential to ensure that your grass is cut to the right height and is cut regularly. Set your mower blades at the highest setting to avoid cutting the grass too short, which can be detrimental to its health.</p> <p>Mowing frequently when the grass is wet or overgrown is not recommended, as it can damage the grass and cause it to look brown and uneven. Ensure that your mower blades are sharp and in good condition as blunt blades can cause the grass to shred, bruise, and affect its overall health.</p> <p><strong>Fertilization</strong><br /> After mowing, the next step in lawn maintenance is fertilizing.</p> <p>Fertilizers contain essential nutrients that nourish the grass and keep it healthy, green, and lush. However, it's vital to apply the right type and amount of fertilizer based on the soil's pH level, the grass species, and the weather.</p> <p>Over-fertilizing can cause the grass to grow too much too quickly, leading to disease and pest problems. Conversely, under-fertilizing can result in a lack of nutrients, slow growth, and discoloration. So, be mindful of the right amount and frequency of fertilizer application.</p> <p><strong>Aerating and Dethatching</strong><br /> Over time, soil compaction can occur, resulting in reduced air, water, and nutrient flow to the grassroots.</p> <p>Aeration involves creating small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the soil and reach the roots.</p> <p>Dethatching, on the other hand, involves removing the layer of dead grass, roots, and debris that accumulates above the soil's surface. This layer can block sunlight, air, and water from reaching the grass, leading to unhealthy growth.</p> <p>Both of these methods can improve the soil quality and enhance the grass's health and beauty. They tend to be important aspects of <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/6-essential-fall-lawn-care-tasks">fall lawn care</a> in particular but can be done at any time of the year.</p> <p><strong>Proper Watering Techniques/Frequency</strong><br /> Water is an essential component for the grass's growth and health, but over or under-watering can be detrimental to the grass's health. It's essential to water the lawn deeply, but infrequently.</p> <p>Watering daily or too shallowly can lead to weak and shallow root systems, which can make the grass more susceptible to disease and pest problems. Aim for about one inch of water per week, and make sure that the water reaches the roots and does not pool or run off.</p> <p>It's best to water your lawn during the early morning or late evening when less evaporation takes place.</p> <p><em>For more information on how to handle common lawn care issues and the most important tools to take care of your yard, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/the-ultimate-guide-to-lawn-care-part-2-dealing-with-common-lawn-problems">check out part 2</a> of this guide!</em></p> <p> </p> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-3"><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/2023/author-photos_kym-01.png?ver=ME-9bixuW9fX9Wqo8d_LvA%3d%3d" width="100%" /></div> <div class="col-sm-9"><span class="emphasis-secondary" style="font-size: 130%">About the Author</span><br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Kym Preslar, <em>Content Manager at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://sodlawn.com/" target="_blank">SodLawn</a></em></span><br /> Kym Preslar is a bit of a gardening and home improvement fanatic. She’s been working on her garden for over 5 years and loves writing about everything landscape-related. Whether it’s keeping care of sod or the greenhouse, she’s been there and done it all. Currently, she’s enjoying her time working at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://sodlawn.com/" target="_blank">SodLawn</a> as their Content Manager.</div> </div> 1490Why Is Vinyl Flooring So Popular? Should Homeowners Be Concerned?https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1495/why-is-vinyl-flooring-so-popular-should-homeowners-be-concernedDIY,Home Decor,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 01 May 2023 19:07:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">WHY IS VINYL FLOORING SO POPULAR? SHOULD HOMEOWNERS BE CONCERNED?</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> May 1, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/floors">floors</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/first-time-homeowner">first-time-homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a></p> <p>Anyone familiar with the home real estate market has surely experienced the impressive prevalence of vinyl flooring. From the basement to the dining room to the family room and everywhere in between, it can seem impossible to avoid this synthetic flooring option. In fact, it has officially become the most popular flooring option on the market (just behind carpeting).</p> <p>However, for designers and homebuyers who prefer natural materials, the massive footprint of vinyl in the flooring market is a frustrating turn. After all, vinyl flooring is ultimately just an imitation of the authentic stuff (hardwood, stone, or tile). Other than affordability, is there any benefit to opting for vinyl flooring? To help drill down the real reasons for why vinyl flooring is so popular, let’s look at its potential benefits before discussing its lesser known problems.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What is Vinyl Flooring?</span><br /> Far from a recent invention, vinyl can trace its history back to a legacy of “resilient flooring,” or flooring materials that were bendable and flexible, which made them much easier to install. In the late 1800s, vinyl was developed and first introduced to the public when incorporated into golf balls, shower curtains, and shoe heels. Vinyl actually wasn’t proposed as an option for flooring until the 1930s.</p> <p>Marketed and coveted for its versatility and flame-resistant nature, vinyl flooring rapidly grew in popularity, especially as the material was slowly improved upon over the decades by features like cushioned flooring for increased comfort. Today, vinyl flooring can be installed in plank flooring or smaller tile flooring depending on what sort of material is being simulated.</p> <p>Vinyl flooring has a sizable presence in both the residential and commercial real estate sectors, and its ability to replicate the look and feel of natural materials seems to improve every year. The benefits of vinyl flooring don’t stop there, by any means, though.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What Are The Benefits of Vinyl Flooring?</span><br /> As previously mentioned, vinyl flooring really cannot be beat when it comes to affordability. According to an article published by <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/flooring/types-of-flooring/" target="_blank">Forbes</a> comparing the costs of various flooring types, vinyl flooring was by far the most economical option ($1.50 - $6 per square foot at the time of publishing).</p> <p>Homebuyers and renovators looking for the most budget-friendly option are naturally drawn to these savings, but vinyl flooring is also designed with DIYers in mind. Rather than paying for professionals to install hardwood flooring, homeowners can save even more by installing vinyl flooring themselves. Vinyl can be installed over pretty much anything, including concrete, hardwood, or even different layers of vinyl.</p> <p>Vinyl flooring is flame-resistant, waterproof, and incredibly durable with resistances to scratches and scuffs. Thanks to these traits and its low demand on maintenance, families with younger children and pets are even more drawn to vinyl as a flooring material for pretty much any room in the home. Seemingly on every point vinyl flooring looks to be a strong option for homes and commercial properties, so what’s with the detractors? The truth is, as some argue, vinyl flooring might have their own health concerns that remain largely unknown to the general public.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Problem with Vinyl Flooring</span><br /> Many homeowners prefer the look and feel of natural materials in their flooring, even though hardwood floors or stone materials are more costly and require more maintenance. However, the reason why some have become a bit more alarmed by vinyl flooring options is due to the discovery that some of its materials may contain toxins.</p> <p>Healthline Media, a health information publication based out of San Francisco, published an <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.healthline.com/health-news/vinyl-floors-expose-children-to-harmful-chemicals#The-bottom-line" target="_blank">article</a> criticizing flame retardants used in vinyl flooring and furniture due to their association with “...respiratory problems, neurological issues, skin irritation, and cancer.” In addition, a group of chemicals called “phthalates,” which are used to make flooring materials more durable, have been attributed to negatively affect development in young children.</p> <p>Although there is plenty of dissension and skepticism towards some of these somewhat alarmist health claims, the negative qualities of vinyl flooring may be too quickly overlooked due ease of installation and minimal maintenance needs. Hardwood flooring, tile, and stone material designs can be beautiful and tie a room together in ways that synthetic alternatives just can’t match.</p> <p><em>Neglected home maintenance tasks can lead to major problems down the road. Need an update on the condition of your home? <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Schedule</a> a home maintenance inspection today!</em></p> 1495Tiny Homes: A Forgotten Fad Or A Major Movement?https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1488/tiny-homes-a-forgotten-fad-or-a-major-movementDIY,Home Inspection,Just for FunMon, 17 Apr 2023 17:20:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">TINY HOMES: A FORGOTTEN FAD OR A MAJOR MOVEMENT?</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> April 17, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/moving">moving</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/organization">organization</a></p> <p>For many people, motivation comes from upgrading to the next big thing in all facets of life. Every morning they wake up and go to work, looking to save up for that fancy new riding mower, a new car, or maybe a bigger, nicer home. Because of this near-universal grinding mindset, the trend that’s become known as the “Tiny Home Movement” has turned many heads.</p> <p>Where most look to trade up, tiny home-owners downsize and purge in order to follow this minimalist trend. For those wondering what the draw is and whether the movement has already passed by, here is a bit more information about the absolutely endearing tiny home.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What Is a Tiny Home?</span><br /> Most who have already heard about tiny homes probably encountered the concept as it gained popularity through online content creators and shows like <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.fyi.tv/shows/tiny-house-nation" target="_blank"><em>Tiny Home Nation</em></a> in the mid-2010’s. Through these mediums, viewers watch as homeowners reject the large, ostentatious homes that most strive for in favor of building their own intensely creative miniature-sized homes.</p> <p>Dubbed “tiny homes,” these unique residences have very few standardized characteristics due to the strong hand their owners have in their personalization. Rarely larger than 500 or 600 square feet in total, Tiny Homes are simply recognized by their strikingly small size and their innovative space-saving features.</p> <p>Disciples of the movement will make an important distinction that tiny home life is about more than simply owning a small home, however. In a word, owning a tiny home means freedom.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Why Would Someone Want A Tiny Home?</span><br /> The main aspects that have brought people into the tiny home lifestyle are related to a desire to save money and an interest in reprioritizing goals. With this, one unique experience that many people gain in pursuing this alternative lifestyle is the experience of building their own home.</p> <p>Tiny homes are wildly less expensive than traditionally sized homes in every aspect. Fewer square feet of foundation, fewer materials, and less space that key systems need to heat, cool, and power mean savings from every angle. But many people take this to the next step by choosing to switch to a lifestyle that’s a bit more “off-the-grid.”</p> <p>Living in a tiny home is already radical, but embracing the lifestyle in its full extent includes rejecting the excess “stuff” that tends to pile up and distract from the things that really matter. For some, this lifestyle provides the monetary opportunity to travel more and reconnect with friends. Some even opt to live in a tiny home on wheels (THOW), taking their houses on their vacations with them. After all, what’s better than combining holiday adventures with all the comforts of home?</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Why Wouldn’t Someone Want A Tiny Home?</span><br /> With every benefit of tiny home living comes a clear drawback. Some of these drawbacks are obvious like a massive drop in storage space and an incompatibility with hobbies that require a large footprint (eg. weightlifting, painting, or music). Other disadvantages may not be as obvious, however.</p> <p>While some tiny home-owners like the idea of regularly moving their homes to new and interesting locations, every state, county, city, and municipality has different laws governing exactly how long someone can park their “home,” and where they are allowed to stay. For some areas zoning laws cause considerable restrictions, and other areas provide no distinction between Tiny Homes and things like recreational vehicles or accessory dwelling units (ADUs).</p> <p>Additionally, homes on wheels are limited even further in size since they need to be driven on roads while not presenting danger to other drivers. Many aspects of tiny homes can seem romantic and exciting, but in the end, the realities of tiny home living just might not be for everyone.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Do Tiny Homes Require A Home Inspection?</span><br /> While this trend may not have the same national spotlight as in past years, many claim that tiny homes have staying power. Over time, societal adaptation could make these sorts of homes more common and easier to transition into. For homeowners considering something out of the box like a tiny home, they may wonder where home inspections fit into this trend.</p> <p>Whenever someone purchases a new home, regardless of size, a home inspection is the only way to get a full understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the building. While tiny homes are obviously meant to be small, safety standards must be met, like a minimum ceiling height of 6 feet 8 inches, and the presence of a skylight or roof window as an emergency escape (according to the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2018P7/appendix-q-tiny-houses" target="_blank">International Residential Code</a>).</p> <p>If opting to construct a tiny home from scratch, coordinating with a property inspector in order to ensure compliance with any area-specific regulations would also be a great benefit. Whether big or small, a home should be safe, well-ventilated, and properly insulated.</p> <p><em>National Property Inspections is the top name in property inspections, with professionals spanning from coast to coast! To find a skilled expert in your area, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">visit our website</a> today!</em></p> 14885 Traits That Make The Perfect Home Officehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1477/5-traits-that-make-the-perfect-home-officeCleaning Tips,DIY,Home DecorMon, 27 Mar 2023 18:39:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">5 TRAITS THAT MAKE THE PERFECT HOME OFFICE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> March 27, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/office">office</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/organization">organization</a></p> <p>A major benefit from the recent changes to the modern workplace has been the newfound flexibility in where people can do their work. Whether that means spending time at the office or remoting in from a coffee shop across the country, learning how to maximize productivity while capitalizing on opportunities this freedom affords has been an ongoing process for employers and workers alike.</p> <p>Home offices are coming back into style in a big way, as remote or hybrid workers have searched for ways to increase their at-home productivity. If you are looking to adapt a room in your home to improve your remote working conditions or you’re interested in a revamp of your current workspace, here are a few traits that will make your home office first-class!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">1. Select the Right Space</span><br /> The first and most important aspect you must consider when setting up your home office is the location. Homes are full of distractions, especially if there are kids running around. Ideally, locate an area that is separated from the majority of natural traffic and noise so that you have the opportunity to focus on your work. Additionally, do what you can to separate yourself from home leisure items as much as possible. Television, instruments, or speakers have the potential to divert your focus and drain away productive hours.</p> <p>Attics and basements tend to create an element of mental separation that lends well towards “resetting” minds from at-home relaxation-mode into work-mode. Considering the mounting evidence of the positive impact people receive from natural lighting (as expert office designers at New Day Office <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.newdayoffice.com/about-new-day-office" target="_blank">report</a>), make rooms with windows a priority. If the option is available, a roomy attic space with a view is ideal!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">2. Find the Right Furniture</span><br /> With your location sorted, the next most vital aspect of your home office is your furniture, namely your chair. There are many great DIY options that homeowners can look at for saving money during room makeovers. However, considering the amount of time spent in it, your office chair is one accessory worth a little extra investment.</p> <p>After selecting a nice, ergonomic seat, you have the freedom to get creative with your office depending on the amount of space you’re working with. Couches and extra seating can be beneficial if you anticipate occasional in-person meetings, and lounging spaces may come into use when stumped on a particular subject.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">3. Make Technology Your Friend</span><br /> These days, conducting business in a professional and timely manner is impossible without a reliable computer and a stable internet connection. If working at home is a new prospect, you may need to take stock of your current internet speeds and potentially upgrade to a higher speed plan with your provider. Directly plug your desktop into your router to keep costly disconnects during meetings and calls to a minimum.</p> <p>For offices that lack direct access to sunlight, consider how you will keep your space well lit. Softer lights are best for sensitive eyes and should look the most natural through a computer camera. With your technical accessories set up, take the time to properly arrange your cords. Unsightly tangles can be a distraction, either directly or subconsciously.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">4. Decorate to Match Your Goals</span><br /> Finally, it’s time to make your home office truly your own! When decorating your workspace, take the time to think through your goals. While concentration is important for a productive space, certain jobs also benefit from creatively inspiring surroundings.</p> <p>If you are looking for an office space that eliminates all distractions and allows you to maximize your focus, paint your walls neutral colors and apply a minimalist philosophy to your decorations. Alternatively, if maximizing endurance and sustaining through long hours is a concern, prioritize comforting soft color palettes on your walls and add pictures of friends, family, or pets.</p> <p>Remember to take advantage of vertical spaces through shelving units if space is at a premium as well! Plants (even fake ones) can have a positive psychological impact throughout the workday, and even small points of greenery can have a surprising impact on your room as a whole.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">5. Keep Your Space Organized</span><br /> Perfect home offices don’t stay perfect without the appropriate effort and careful planning. To keep your home office clean and organized, make sure that every regularly used item has a dedicated space where you retrieve and replace it. Workplaces can become cluttered very easily and a chaotic atmosphere will build unnecessary stress. A regular routine of cleanliness and organization should always be a priority.</p> <p>For your keyboards, keep a compressed air can on hand so that dust and debris doesn’t pile up between the keys. Also when selecting a trash can, be sure to pick one with a cover. Remember, clutter and garbage can be another unwanted distraction! Garbage can covers will help take these things out of mind.</p> <p>Home offices are a great place for homeowners to express their creativity! By understanding your own needs and tendencies, your home office can become a productive space that even surpasses what can be accomplished in a traditional work setting.</p> <p><em>Small home maintenance issues can grow into shocking distractions! To cut down on these unwanted expenses, contact National Property Inspections and <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">schedule</a> your annual home maintenance inspection!</em></p> 1477How to Remodel Your Basement on a Budgethttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1476/how-to-remodel-your-basement-on-a-budgetDIY,Home DecorMon, 20 Mar 2023 18:36:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO REMODEL YOUR BASEMENT ON A BUDGET</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> March 20, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=DIY">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/basement">basement</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ceiling">ceiling</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/walls">walls</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/floors">floors</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a></p> <p>Whether you are a new homeowner looking to make some alterations or you’re finally ready to make your dream home a reality, there is no project as impactful to the way you live in your home than a basement remodel. Depending on the size of your home, finishing your basement could double your usable living space! Additionally, with cost savings from added insulation and value added to your home on resale, it’s no wonder that homeowners get so excited about starting their basement remodeling projects.</p> <p>Too often, though, our imaginations are limited by our budget. While a basement could transition into a cozy home theater for a movie night in, or a wide area for the kids to play, the costs of remodeling a basement can stack up quickly. For any prospective DIYers or homeowners looking to make the most of their money, here are some quick tips for how to remodel a basement on a budget.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Pace Yourself</span><br /> The first thing that every homeowner should do when planning a home improvement project is to assess their capabilities. While it’s true that there is the potential for substantial savings by doing some (or all) of your renovation work on your own, key areas done incorrectly can lead to major problems down the road.</p> <p>Waterproofing your basement might be the most expensive part of finishing a basement, but it’s also the most important. While you may benefit from seeking out less expensive alternatives in other areas, waterproofing is not an area that homeowners should look to cut corners.</p> <p>After taking care of the necessities and any structural repairs first, plan out the remodel in chunks or stages. Target spaces that you plan on using first, and leave areas that you occupy less often for later. Section off spaces that contain things like your furnace, water heater, or electrical panel, and plan a room or smaller area to start. This strategic allocation of your budget will allow you to see the most use out of each dollar spent.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Pick Your Materials Wisely</span><br /> Another major expense during a remodel comes from the selected materials themselves. If you plan on installing a second kitchen or bathroom, the project will always demand a more considerable investment. However, savvy homeowners can look to select cheaper material alternatives without sacrificing style.</p> <p>While nothing matches the selection that comes with ordering custom cabinets, stock cabinets can work great with the right design philosophy! In addition, rather than opting for tile or wood flooring, carpet squares or concrete with epoxy can be both inexpensive and attractive. With the right picture in mind and a bit of creativity, homeowners can see the most overall savings on their remodeling job just from smart material selection.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">When in Doubt, Paint</span><br /> Let’s say your budget is even tighter than you thought, but you’re committed to finishing that second living space. No problem! One of the best things that any homeowner can do to clean up the look of a room is to use paint.</p> <p>Whether finished or not, paint your basement walls, your concrete floors, and even your exposed ceiling! The transformation that takes place can be shocking with this inexpensive move, but be sure to select your colors with the correct considerations in mind. Basements tend to have a dark, unwelcoming ambience naturally, so brighter colors are best to counteract this tendency. Additionally, bright ceilings can actually make a room seem taller and more open naturally.</p> <p>If you choose to solve your remodeling woes with paint, there are a few things to keep in mind. When painting an unfinished ceiling, consider using a sprayer to effectively blend together pipes, beams, and other fine-detailed components. Also get ready to shake loose plenty of dust from these areas in the process!</p> <p>Remodeling or finishing a basement can add a surprising amount of character to a home. With the right plan in mind, homeowners can take on this project with confidence (and without breaking the bank).</p> <p><em>Did you know that minor structural damage discovered during renovations can lead to major expenses down the road? Be sure to <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">schedule</a> a yearly home maintenance inspection to stay on top of your home’s health!</em></p> 1476How to Paint a Home’s Exterior (And When To Hire a Professional)https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1472/how-to-paint-a-homes-exterior-and-when-to-hire-a-professionalDIY,Home MaintenanceMon, 13 Mar 2023 17:38:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO PAINT A HOME'S EXTERIOR (AND WHEN TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL)</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> March 13, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/spring">spring</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/summer">summer</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/fall">fall</a></p> <p>There are so many reasons why people paint their homes. Maybe a room has gotten a bit stale and could use a new color, or nicks and scratches have been compounding the need for some serious TLC. A fresh coat of paint is a great way to solve these aesthetic issues, but paint has many other benefits for a home’s exterior! Good quality paint will help protect homes from the elements, insects, weather, and even wood rot.</p> <p>While a home should never be judged solely on its exterior, a tidy, attractive first impression is crucial for every home sale. Before getting too excited though, there are a few things every homeowner should know when considering a home exterior makeover.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Pick the Perfect Day</span><br /> If you are set on painting your home’s exterior yourself, it’s important to understand what you’re in for. Painting a home is a big job that should start a long before you pick up a brush or roller. Unlike interior jobs, a successful day of painting a home’s exterior is heavily dependent on the weather.</p> <p>Direct sunlight will cause paint to dry more quickly, and certain types of paint will thicken in colder temperatures. In addition, things like moisture and dirt will cause your paint to struggle adhering to surfaces. Look ahead and find a day that isn’t too cold, humid, or windy (since gusts can carry dirt and other unwanted granules). It may be possible to paint effectively in the spring or even into the winter with the right equipment and types of paint, but most painting experts recommend sticking to summers and early autumn.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Prepare Your Exterior</span><br /> Once you’ve selected the perfect time and date for the job, you should plan to get your home’s exterior ready for the new coat. Depending on the condition of your siding and the current coat of paint, extensive scraping and power-brushing can remove dirt and other obstructive substances. Sanding your walls will help primers smoothly bond to the surface for the best painting experience.</p> <p>While cleaning off these surfaces, you should also plan on making minor repairs as you encounter them. Fill holes and repair the natural wear and tear that every home exterior is bound to experience throughout its lifetime. Importantly, keep caulk on hand so that you can eliminate air leaks and reduce chances of water penetration into your home.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Get to Work!</span><br /> Once those steps have been crossed off, you should be ready to paint! A word of caution: while many homeowners should be fully capable of doing a great job painting their home’s exterior, there are situations where bringing in a professional would be the wiser choice.</p> <p>Consider the size of your home. It may seem obvious, but multi-story buildings will require a ladder to complete a painting job. Homeowners will need ladders long enough, painting supplies with the appropriate reach, and they will need to be comfortable painting while high in the air. If you don’t have brushes, rollers, or stable ladders with enough reach, hiring a professional may end up saving you money on the job when all is said and done.</p> <p>Professionals will have experience reducing things like lap marks or brush marks that tend to be common with DIY jobs. Additionally, ambitious homeowners might attempt to purchase and operate a sprayer without sufficient operating knowledge in an effort to save time. Be realistic with your abilities, and the time that you can afford to invest into a job like this before making a final decision!</p> <p><em>Did you know that home inspectors are trained to identify issues on your home’s exterior, landscape, and your roof? To avoid letting minor issues grow into major maintenance problems, always schedule a home inspection with your home purchase! <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Schedule</a> a home maintenance inspection with your local NPI property inspector today!</em></p> 1472Why Hardwood Floors Are Awesome (And How To Keep Them That Way)https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1463/why-hardwood-floors-are-awesome-and-how-to-keep-them-that-wayCleaning Tips,DIY,Home Decor,Home MaintenanceMon, 20 Feb 2023 14:57:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">WHY HARDWOOD FLOORS ARE AWESOME (AND HOW TO KEEP THEM THAT WAY)</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> February 20, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/floors">floors</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/living-room">living room</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bedroom">bedroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/office">office</a></p> <p>Finding the perfect look for your home can take a lot of experimentation before everything comes together. Maybe a new shade of paint is the missing ingredient for your living room, or perhaps it’s a new set of countertops that would result in the kitchen of your dreams. While there are many changes that can radically alter the look of a room, there is almost no change as impactful as switching to hardwood floors.</p> <p>For many new homeowners, installing hardwood floors is at the top of their to-do list. While carpet can provide a feeling of warmth and comfort for a family, any new occupants may see old carpeted areas as a den of decades-old germs and allergens ready to strike. If you haven’t made the switch already, here are a few benefits of hardwood floors, along with some strategies to maintain them.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Advantages of Hardwood Flooring</span><br /> For any style or color scheme, hardwood flooring is extremely versatile. While interior design can boil down to a matter of taste, nothing matches the dynamic that hardwood floors can bring to a room—and designers swear by them! While certain woods lend themselves well to certain styles, stains and refinishing options can make your hardwood floors fit any concept.</p> <p>As mentioned earlier, a constant concern for homeowners is the quality of their air. Carpets are known to easily trap dust, dirt, allergens, germs, and other particulate matter. These substances can accumulate and settle, reducing the quality of air within the home (especially for a family with pets). Even flooring options like laminate and tile have grout lines that hardwood floors don’t. Comparatively, hardwood floors are easy to clean and require less maintenance than most other alternatives.</p> <p>For some homeowners, they may be hesitant to commit to hardwood floors due to their steep price tag. Hardwood floors cost more to install than carpet or tile. However, homeowners that make the switch can benefit from its advantages and may actually save money over time. Hardwood flooring (when well-maintained) has a much longer lifespan than carpet. Depending on the wear and tear experienced by carpet, homeowners will likely need to replace their carpeting every 10 years or so. This also assumes that the carpet won’t be permanently stained and need to be replaced even earlier. Meanwhile, well-maintained hardwood floors can last over 100 years.</p> <p>Depending on the specific type of wood, hardwood floors are famously durable. Though they can scratch or dent in areas with heavy traffic, this damage can be easily repaired. Worn sections can be re-stained periodically, and the need for full replacements are extremely rare. Between all of these benefits and the resale value added, every homeowner should consider hardwood floors for their next home upgrade.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Hardwood Floor Care Routine</span><br /> The best way to take care of your beautiful hardwood floors is to develop a consistent maintenance routine. Incorporate these tasks into your regular home maintenance schedule to keep your hardwood floors looking brand new!</p> <ul> <li><strong>Daily</strong> - Dust your floors every day to work towards preventing scratches and scuffs that gradually grow with regular wear and tear. Dusting reduces the presence of allergens and dust that can lead to sickness.</li> <li><strong>Weekly</strong> - Clean your floors with a damp mop and use a cleaner that works with your stain and your wood type. Overcleaning can dull your stain, and cleaners that are too acidic can damage your finish. Be sure to research before selecting the best cleaner for you!</li> <li><strong>Every Three Months</strong> - Polish your floors to reduce minor damage and add a renewing shine. Be sure to sweep or vacuum first, and target water-based polish to avoid introducing toxins into your home.</li> <li><strong>Once Every 10 Years</strong> - Refinish your floors to restore their original appearance. This is the key step for longevity!</li> </ul> <p>A few additional tips: scratches are the number one battle that homeowners with hardwood floors need to combat. High heels and pets with untrimmed nails can cause dings and damage if not regarded with caution. In addition, rugs and placemats can protect highly-trafficked areas or entryways where moisture can collect and cause wood floors to swell.</p> <p><em>Remember to schedule an inspection with NPI before any major remodel! Only a certified inspector can ensure that your home is in good condition for that next home improvement project. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Call National Property Inspection today</a> to be paired with a professional in your area!</em></p> 1463How To Show Your Home You Carehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1454/how-to-show-your-home-you-careDIY,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 13 Feb 2023 20:51:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO SHOW YOUR HOME YOU CARE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> February 13, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=Safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/laundry">laundry</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/first-time-homeowner">first-time homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a></p> <p>Our homes are always there for us. They keep us warm and dry on rainy nights. They offer a calming retreat after a hard day’s work. Life is busy. Oftentimes, homeowners get caught up with their regular routines, and many helpful home maintenance tasks understandably get forgotten. People do what they need to and rarely much more.</p> <p>Considering everything that our homes do for us, we should take every opportunity to give back! Going above and beyond with home care can extend the lives of crucial systems, and mitigate potential breakdowns. To add to your regular routine, add these home maintenance tasks to show your home you care.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Test Your Sump Pump </span><br /> While not every home has a sump pump, these drainage systems are vital to avoid flooding. Located in basements, sump pumps consist of a small basin and a hole which detects water levels. When working properly, these pumps expel water from homes when these levels are too high and redirect floodwaters safely away.</p> <p>Homeowners can test their sump pumps easily by filling a bucket with water and dumping it into the drain. If things aren’t working properly, discovering the issue during one of these controlled tests is certainly preferable in comparison to discovering a flooded basement after vacation. It’s important to test your sump pump a couple times a year.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Flush Out Your Water Heater </span><br /> Homeowners are well aware of their water heaters. Between doing dishes, taking care of laundry, and taking a nice hot shower this system is another example of how our homes take great care of us. One way to keep up the performance of your water heater is to perform a regular “flush.”</p> <p>Water heaters will slowly build up sediment consisting of magnesium and calcium. With too much build-up, water heaters will need to work much harder than usual. Loud noises should provoke immediate action as this could be an early sign of rusting or even a breakdown. Flush out sediment from your water heater once every year.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Clean Your Cleaning Appliances </span><br /> Many home systems are solely dedicated to cleaning. Maintaining a clean home does wonders in keeping a clear and positive mind. To show appreciation for these appliances, homeowners shouldn’t neglect their cleaning systems.</p> <p>Every six months, homeowners should use a shop-vac to rid their dryer ducts of dust, pet hair, and other debris (all common causes of house fires). Additionally, vinegar solutions are great for cleaning dishwashers, washing machines, and shower heads. Any staining or substance accumulation can cause appliances to run less efficiently and perform poorly. Clean machines this way about once a month, and soak shower heads once every three months.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Clear Dust From Your Fridge Condenser Coils </span><br /> Refrigerator condenser coils release heat and keep the system cool. When these coils get clogged with dust or pet hair their jobs get much harder. Homeowners can clean these coils once every three months, using a vacuum, a cleaning brush, or just a washcloth.</p> <p>Issues with refrigerator condenser coils are a leading cause for breakdowns. To cut down on these interruptions and to save on energy bills, homeowners should add this quick task to their regular routines.</p> <p>Simple home maintenance routines like these are commonly overlooked and forgotten by most homeowners. Homeowners who incorporate these strategies into their regular routines keep their home in tip-top shape and will ultimately save on otherwise unnecessary system replacements.</p> <p><em>A regular home maintenance inspection is the best way to track the health and status of a home’s key systems. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Schedule</a> your next inspection through NPI for peace of mind!</em></p> 1454