How to Decide What to Renovate Before Moving into a New House

There's nothing quite like the thrill of moving into a new home. But sometimes, your new home may require a little bit of TLC before you move all of your stuff in. If you've just bought your dream home, you can make it feel every bit the part if you do some renovations before moving day arrives.

So what should you get to work on? That's really up to you. It's best to take a look at the house and take inventory of what might need fixing or replacing. But there are many easy renovations you can make before you move in too. An added bonus of putting the time in before you move is that you can start and complete projects without the hassle of having to watch out for furniture or belongings.

Start Painting

It seems that every new homeowner decides to undertake a painting project at some point, whether it's repainting the kitchen or you're prepping a nursery for a newborn. By picking colors out and painting, you can really make a new home feel like your own. You can use low VOC paints to keep the air in your house clean too. You'll find it's a lot easier to paint before furniture and appliances have been moved in and it can be as expensive or inexpensive as you want to make it.

In 2016, it was estimated that more than 85% of renovations were paid for in cash or with savings. So if you've been keeping a rainy day fund for moving, you can head to your local home improvement store and pick up all that you need. If you're on a budget, you can choose an inexpensive paint or you can choose a high-end paint if you want to go that route.

Install Air Conditioning

It's estimated that more than 84% of American homes have some kind of air conditioning system. If your new home needs air conditioning, putting in the units is a good idea before you move everything else. That way you can have a nice, cool house, especially if you're moving in the summertime. On the flip side, you might also consider looking into a central air unit before you move into your home. This will eliminate the need for air conditioning units in every room and allow you to toggle between heat and air depending on the time of year.

Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and the exterior of your home sets the tone for visitors and future buyers. Enhancing your home's curb appeal before moving in can make a significant difference. According to home flipping experts, simple upgrades like repainting the front door, power-washing the driveway, adding outdoor lighting, or updating landscaping with fresh plants and mulch can significantly boost a property's value. Even small changes, such as installing stylish house numbers or a new mailbox, can elevate the look of your home and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Go Green

Another option you have before you move into your home is making your home more energy-efficient. After all, it seems most companies these days are encouraging folks to go green and do things more efficiently. If you want to go big, you can certainly do that. Consider installing something like a new energy-efficient water heater. It may cost a lot up front, but it should save you money in the long run, considering water accounts for about 18% of a home's energy use. But realistically, you don't have to go that big. You can do small, but effective things like changing out light bulbs for energy-efficient ones. You can also add weather stripping around your windows to make them less drafty, or you could install low-flow showerheads to lower your water use. Even taking little steps can make a big difference.

Endless Possibilities

Being a new homeowner can be thrilling, but it can be even more thrilling doing renovations and really putting your stamp on your homestead before you move in. There are any number of renovations and projects you can undertake before you move, and it will make a big difference in the long run.

Your First Look At 147 Ludlow In The Lower East Side

Credit: MW Studio

Today Grid Group, a full-service family-operated real estate development firm with a dedication to quality and craft, has announced the launch of sales at 147 Ludlow. The timeless property features eight luxurious loft-style residences priced from $1.895M. Initial availability includes two and three-bedroom lofts along with a full-floor four-bedroom duplex with 37 ft of frontage on Ludlow Street, and 647 square feet of private outdoor space with panoramic views of the downtown skyline including a 36’ x 15’+ terrace and private balcony. Nicole Hechter and Masayo Hashimoto of Corcoran New Development are leading marketing and sales efforts.

147 Ludlow is 100% complete and buyers can move in imminently. It is designed by DHD Architecture and Interior Design, which has tremendous experience designing for indoor-outdoor living. All residences at 147 Ludlow boast 9’6 ceilings, white oak floors, and oversized European casement tilt and turn windows, allowing natural light to fill the expansive living spaces while providing the maximum sound attenuation. Every residence has gracious and private outdoor spaces, optimally built for relaxation and entertaining with a backdrop of quintessential New York City views. 

“147 Ludlow Street exceeds all expectations for today’s buyer,” says Yiannes Einhorn, Principal at Grid Group. “We’re excited to present this development to the market and continue our collaboration with Corcoran New Development who partnered with us on downtown sellouts 124 West 16th Street and 246 West 16th Street.” 

Scroll to see the Penthouse currently listed for $5,495,000

“147 Ludlow Street is a boutique offering with a very limited number of residences and offers great private outdoor space,” says Nicole Hechter, who is leading sales with Masayo Hashimoto for Corcoran New Development. “This is the exact product type that is commanding bidding wars and selling out during this time period so it’s critical that brokers and prospects engage now. Buildings developed by Grid have a track record of selling out quickly and we anticipate the same here.”

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Where To Eat And Lounge In The Hamptons This Summer

By Alexandra Reconco

The Hamptons is the place to be as Summer winds down, for its amazing lounges and restaurants. Here is a list of some of the best lounges and restaurants in the area for you to enjoy and discover.

Photo via

75 Main

“The perfect Hamptons hangout,” 75 Mian is the premier Hamptons locale for modern Italian fare in a chic and seductive environment. Offering an assortment of sumptuous culinary specialities, 75 Main is the place to be to relax with sultry music and with a sophisticated atmosphere.

Oreya

Located in the beautiful Southampton, Oreya is a new mediterranean dining experience that features lush outdoor seating, a newly reinvented pool, and open air lounge. Serving innovative cocktails that feature the latest on mixology trends that are for sure to impress. Oreya’s mission is to restore the grandeur and sophistication of dining in the Hamptons. “Oreya is not a meal, it is a lifestyle experience.”

Gurney’s

This seaside restaurant is downtown Manhattan meets Montauk which offers soulful Italian food with seasonal dishes, fresh seafood selection and a list of world-class wines. Every table has a panoramic view of the ocean that makes this restaurant a place to visit when in the Hamptons.

668 The Gig Shack

Live Music. Surf Cuisine. Local Wine & Beers.
668 The Gig Shack is a local favorite that stays true to its Montauk root yet with a unique international twist. Offering live music, surf cuisine and local wine and bees, this lively location is the place to unwind and have some fun.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Our Favorite Listings For The Week

Looking for a new place to live or just curious about what's on the market? Check out our favorite homes you should make an appointment for this week. 

Have a listing you think should be featured? Submit your open house or contact us to tell us more! And be sure to view our new Listings Calendar

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11 Mercer Street, Apartment 3A

This chic quintessential prewar loft located in a prime Soho boutique condominium features over 4000+ square feet with soaring 13-foot ceilings. A keyed elevator opens directly into the full floor apartment with grand entertaining space and oversized windows. The apartment includes 3 bedrooms, a media room/office, 2 renovated bathrooms, and spacious closet space throughout. The open kitchen is ideal for interacting with guests and features top of the line appliances. Washer/Dryer in the unit. Represented by Chris Poore of Brown Harris Stevens. Asking $6,595,000.

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1280 Fifth Avenue, 14-EF

One of the largest layouts available at One Museum Mile, this Central Park-facing three or four-bedroom condo offers the best in design, flexibility, space, view, and customization. With oversized windows overlooking the most beautiful corner of Central Park and designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects and Andre Kikoski, this home offers a gracious layout including a kitchen with top-of-the-line Bosch and Thermador appliances and granite countertops, a master suite with a huge walk-in closet and an en-suite bathroom, and one of the most expansive great room configurations in the building. The closets have been completely customized and the apartment comes wired for sound with built-in Sonos speakers.

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429 Kent Avenue #D714

This 2,333 square foot duplex at The Oosten in the heart of Williamsburg blends modern and classic design by acclaimed architect, Piet Boon. The lower level features a spacious open floor plan with kitchen and entertainment space. Double height ceilings and large casement windows bring in light and to the living room overlooking a beautiful courtyard. Additional building amenities include a gorgeous lap pool, state of the art fitness center with spa, 24-hour concierge and more. Alyssa Brody with Development Marketing Team is the Listing Agent.

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A Look At Olympia Dumbo Topping Out

Olympia Dumbo celebrated its topping out last Tuesday (August 3rd) to become the tallest residential building in DUMBO, Brooklyn, at 401-feet and 33 stories. Developed by Fortis Property Group with architecture by Hill West and interiors by Workstead, Olympia Dumbo will feature 76 condominiums and over 38,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities.

Sales are handled by The Eklund | Gomes Team at Douglas Elliman and Karen Heyman of Sotheby’s International Realty.

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Why Your Family Should Vacation at a Timeshare

Is your family looking for a great place to stay on vacation, and you aren't sure exactly where you want to go? If so, you need to consider high-quality timeshares seriously. This option has become more and more popular in recent years due to the unique benefits that this option provides. Understanding why your family should own one will make it easier to identify an opportunity you enjoy. It’s also important to check reviews of timeshare cancellation companies.

Timeshares are Very Comfortable

While hotels can be pretty relaxing, a timeshare is more like a home away from home. They have separate rooms, great beds, comfortable seating areas, and much more. These benefits are enormous if you want to have a fantastic vacation with your loved ones that help everyone relax.

For families looking to explore the latest in timeshare offerings, understanding what is HGV Max can provide insights into innovative vacation options that combine luxury and convenience.

Perhaps that's why over 9.9 million families in the country own timeshares in various vacation spots. Whatever your needs, you should find a comfortable and enjoyable option that works for your loved ones and makes your vacations more enjoyable and exciting for your needs.

Timeshares Have Fewer Restrictions

While timeshare options do have restrictions, they are much fewer. And the benefits that you get (such as easy access to a pool or exercise room) help make this benefit huge for those who want to go on a vacation every year. Although, holiday goers prefer to venture out a little more and don't necessarily want to be restricted to one place, so you will find that they look for best timeshare exit companies to help assist with leaving the timeshare, but this all depends on what kind of holiday your prefer. Timeshares are certainly a popular option for those who aren't looking for as many restrictions during their holiday!

While timeshare options do have restrictions, they are much fewer. And the benefits that you get (such as easy access to a pool or exercise room) help make this benefit huge for those who want to go on a vacation every year.

Timeshares Save You Money

While you might end up paying more for a timeshare initially, you'll save yourself a lot of money in the long term. Rather than renting overpriced hotel rooms, you can go to a great and relatively inexpensive timeshare, allowing you to focus more money on different elements of your life instead.

As a result, you can rent a car that will make it easier to get around during your vacation. We strongly suggest getting a car with window tint, as it can block 99% of harmful UV light and keep your loved ones safe from sunburns or even the risk of problematic melanoma dangers.

Timeshares Create Easier Accessibility

One of the most frustrating things about going on vacation is finding a place to stay the night when you get to where you want to go. However, if you book a timeshare in advance and work around its schedule, you will have a great place to stay that is immediately accessible.

Even better, you can walk into your timeshare and feel like you're at home right away. Unlike hotels, a timeshare is usually quite large, allowing you to relax in comfort and enjoy yourself. This benefit is critical for those who want to minimize their issues with finding a place to live.

Timeshares Can Be Insured

Lastly, you can ensure a timeshare in ways you can't if you rent a hotel room. This benefit is critical because it can make sure that your items are protected. And it will also help to give you the ability to protect the timeshare, as well. So in a sense, it works a lot like renters insurance.

When buying insurance, your cost will vary based on the property and the type of protection you want. Typically, you'll end up paying about 0.5% of the purchase price for the timeshare. So keep this factor in mind when you decide to buy a timeshare and use one for your vacation needs.

By now, you should know if a timeshare is right for your family or not or if the timeshare if you have is a timeshare sales scams. You might be surprised at just how many unique options are available and how well they work with most rental needs. With timeshare as a family vacation option, your memories will reflect the words in the best family adventure quotes.

Context Travel Around The World From Your Home

Annabella Pardo

Traveling the world is a luxury many of us crave and long for in order to live a long, happy, and fulfilling life. With the world slowly opening up again we are very excited to begin to visit our favorite museums, landmarks, and gelato shops once more. In preparation of our global travels, here at Off The Mrkt we are learning directly from the experts themselves at Context Travel. Context Travel is a network of scholars and experts who specialize in fields such as art history, archaeology, cuisine, architecture, history, and theology, who offer private, custom, and small group walking tours in 60 cities across six continents for almost 20-years. 

Photo via @ContextTravel

Context is now the only travel company that allows you to start learning before you hop on a plane. People are craving year-round learning to supplement their travel experiences or to serve as an alternative to in-person travel entirely.

The digital learning program is called “Context Learning,” and it offers live interactive seminars and courses on a variety of cultural and historical topics with the company’s vast network of well-versed, PHD or MA-level degree scholars. Think of this as a LIVE version of Netflix where theres tons of options to choose from, select which one is most of interest to you and learn about your favorite subject.

Photo via @ContextTravel

Now that travel is coming back IRL, Context is continuing these seminars and courses to help fulfill not only the pre- travel enrichment and allow them to learn before hopping on a plane, but also provide the opportunity for adults to become lifelong learners (the courses are so in-depth you feel like you’re learning from a professor in school).

Photo via @ContextTravel

Due to popular demand for long form travel, and because Context participants have built relationships with their experts/scholars over the course of the pandemic, Context is now taking one step further to launch  Context Journeys – the brand’s first fully planned, multi-day, small and group tours in cultural capitals across the globe.

Journeys will be led by the brand’s network of scholars, many of which hold PhDs or other terminal degrees in their field and teach at the university level, who specialize in fields such as art history, archaeology, cuisine, architecture, history, and theology. Not to be confused with your everyday tour guide, these experts have dedicated their lives to learning the history and culture of these cities and can offer unique insight and connections to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation for the destinations.  

Photo via @ContextTravel

The pre-planned itinerary, which includes hotel accommodations, on-the-ground tours and logistics and most meals, will also include experiences exclusively for Context travelers. For example, in Amsterdam, the small group will tour Rembrandt’s house before heading to dinner in an original canal house to tour a private art collection. As Context’s experts have deep and long-term connections with the museums and locations being toured, each Journeys participant will receive VIP treatment.  

Get started learning from the best travel experts in the world, at Context Travel.

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Our Favorite Listings For The Week

Looking for a new place to live or just curious about what's on the market? Check out our favorite homes you should make an appointment for this week. 

Have a listing you think should be featured? Submit your open house or contact us to tell us more! And be sure to view our new Listings Calendar

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Penthouse E at 11 Hoyt

Located in Downtown Brooklyn, 11 Hoyt is a 57-story tower that rises 620 feet and spans almost an entire city block and was designed by MacArthur Fellow Jeanne Gang, founding principal of Studio Gang Architects, with interiors by Michaelis Boyd Associates. The building offers an expansive collection of over 55,000 square-feet of thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor amenities, including an elevated, private park for residents.

PHE, listed at $5,000,000, is a gracious three-bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom corner residence that is perched on 11 Hoyt’s highest floor: a one-of-a-kind residence centered on a spacious corner living and dining room that is ideal for entertaining, relaxing, and everyday living. Offering soaring ceilings, stunning southern and eastern views that incorporate the tranquil tree-lined streets of brownstone Brooklyn, the Verrazano Narrows Bridge, and the ocean beyond, Residence PHE will enjoy tremendous light and air, with the entire borough of Brooklyn as its picture-perfect backdrop, and is available with an optional custom gas fireplace by Michaelis Boyd.

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4 Deer Run in Sparkill, NY

Courtesy Douglas Elliman

Michelle Licata of Douglas Elliman has listed the long-time home of award-winning perfume bottle designer, Marc Rosen, and his wife, Hollywood legend, Arlene Dahl at 4 Deer Run in Sparkill, NY. The estate is offered for $4.95M.

Marc found the home for him and Arlene 40 years ago when they were engaged and oversaw a complete renovation and restoration of the estate – returning it to its original glory. Marc brought back the original layout as close as possible and stripped paint from the eight fireplaces to reveal the original marble.

Over the years, Marc and Arlene have hosted many star-studded charity events, holiday parties and even weddings at the home, including that of Arlene’s son, actor Lorenzo Lamas. An early party was a celebration of Helen Haye’s 80th birthday party. Other celebrities who’ve graced the grounds include Brooke Shields, Rosie O’Donnell, Joan Collins, Joan Rivers and Jane Powell.

While Arlene has starred in films such as “Journey to the Center of the Earth” (1959), “Slightly Scarlet” (1956) and “Three Little Words” (1950), Marc has a successful track record working with world-renowned brands such as Karl Lagerfeld, Fendi and Elizabeth Arden, designing artful cosmetic and fragrance branding and packaging.

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15 East 30th Street #18D

The home's interiors were designed by Amy Kalikow Design and it features 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms spread across 1,622 sqft. With an asking price of $3,425,000, the home has beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline to the south, east and west. Like all of the residences at Madison House, the home has 9-foot-tall doors, 11-foot-tall ceilings and a column-free layout with corner views. Amy Kalikow Design worked closely with Madison House developer JD Carlisle to make sure the interiors complemented the home's beautiful views and further enhanced the sense of volume.

Located at 15 East 30th Street, Madison House sets a new standard for luxurious residential living with striking interiors by Gachot Studios and inspired architecture by Handel Architects. Architecturally conceived from the inside-out, Madison House is a decagon and has 10 corners, a rare building layout that ensures all of the 199 bespoke homes features open and airy floor plans, corner windows, and at least 11-foot ceilings that all together create an incredible sense of volume, while maximizing light, air and the unobstructed views of the New York City skyline.

In addition to a double-height lobby, Madison House features over 30,000 square feet of hotel-style amenities for wellness and leisure, including a 75-foot lap pool, hot tub and cold plunge pool, a spa, gym, and golf simulator. Residents will also be able to enjoy a landscaped rooftop garden and a free one-year membership to Sollis Health, a member-only medical concierge service with 24/7 uptown and downtown facilities that provides white glove medical services. Residents will also be able to enjoy a landscaped rooftop garden and private lounge with chef’s kitchen and dining room for entertaining.

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426 West 22nd Street

A stunning townhouse in West Chelsea that was once owned by Emmy-winning soap opera actress Ellen Parker, best known for a long run as Maureen Reardon Bauer on “Guiding Light.” It's asking $7.7 million.

The townhouse is currently configured as a 3-family home with approximately 4,180 square feet of interior space. It's an ideal situation for anyone who wants to live in a beautiful space while additional,learning income.

The recently-renovated ground floor duplex is optimal for a user, comprised of approximately 2,306 square feet. This pristine unit includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, four wood burning fireplaces, a washer/dryer, and a host of high-end appliances. The beautifully landscaped 818 square foot private garden can be used as a personal refuge from the city or act as a spacious venue for hosting guests. The other two units each boast tremendous character with exposed brick, high ceilings, two working fireplaces in each and private outdoor spaces.

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LIC's ATHA Is Now Fully Leased

The Ivan Mijalkovic Team at The Corcoran Group is pleased to announce that ATHA, a boutique luxury rental located 21-59 44th Drive in Long Island City, Queens, is now fully leased. Developed by Athienou Properties LLC and designed by Z Architecture PLLC, this 20-unit building was named after Athienou, an ancient village on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus – and the hometown of one of the development partners.

After launching in March 2021, the building quickly attracted tenants from the local community, the New York metro area, and beyond. This is a testament to ATHA’s unique appeal, as well as Long Island City’s continued status as one of the region’s most desirable - and livable - communities.

“New residents at ATHA are a diverse mix of LIC locals who moved from large towers, New Yorkers coming back to city from Long Island and Upstate, and those who relocated for work from places like Georgia, New Hampshire and Minnesota,” reports Mijalkovic. “All appreciated the building’s boutique luxury feel and its thoughtful design.”

At ATHA, there are only 2-5 apartments per floor. All residences boast in-unit washer/dryers, central air (vs. loud and space consuming PTAC units), properly vented kitchens, and coveted private outdoor space. The 10’ and 11’ ceiling heights, fully customized California closets, and floor-to-ceiling windows also proved compelling to prospective renters. Luxury finishes include white Caesarstone countertops and stainless steel appliances in kitchens, and baths lined with Italian porcelain tile.

The building’s prime location was another factor in the building’s success. ATHA is situated adjacent to the Court Square station, which provides access to the 7, G, E, and M trains, making Manhattan and Brooklyn within easy reach. Trader Joe's recently opened two blocks away, and the brand new Bonjour Food Market will anchor the building’s commercial space – both provide convenient food shopping options for ATHA tenants. In addition, MoMA PS1, the Murray Playground, and a variety of renowned neighborhood restaurants and cafes are also nearby.

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450 Warren Launches Sales in Brooklyn

Here is your first look at 450 Warren in Gowanus, Brooklyn, developed by Brooklyn-based developers TANKHOUSE and visionary architects SO – IL; it’s a truly unique condominium where residents will experience a novel, (almost experimental,) way of indoor/outdoor living in New York City.

The most unique thing about the architecture is that between entering the building lobby to arriving at their apartment, residents never have to be enclosed inside four walls. Within the developer's vision, a garden with 40-foot trees spirals through the center of the building, serving as an open hallway with outdoor corridors and stairs. Walls are replaced with transparent mesh to allow light and changing seasons to permeate the building’s activity. Each apartment is entered directly from the exterior, and a foyer vestibule/front porch begins the transition to private space, reminiscent of neighborhood front stoops, a threshold between in and out.

There are so many interesting stories about 450 Warren connecting city and nature - the building will include three planted courtyard gardens with smart irrigation systems from Netherlands-based MetroPolder; the first time this environmentally-friendly system has been used in a condominium in the United States. They are also partnering with the Gowanus Canal Conservancy to fill the shared courtyard with landscape design informed by plant species native to the Gowanus Greenway.

Residents will have access to a boutique gym, a yoga and meditation area, a dog wash station, and a flexible coworking lounge with additional courtyard tables and seating. Onsite parking is available for purchase with provisions for electric chargers and bicycle storage in the garage with access to both Bond Street and the center courtyard. 450 Warren will also include multiple retail spaces totaling over 4,000 square feet on the ground floor.

“With residences featuring significant outdoor space, beautiful finishes, and a unique design that perfectly encapsulates this moment in time, we have seen incredible interest already from buyers who want to live, work, and play in Brooklyn,” said Behzad Amiri of The Corcoran Group.

The materiality of 450 Warren is like nothing ever seen in New York City construction. 50,000 green-hued terrazzo-ground custom concrete blocks manufactured in Turkey form the facade, which are lifted into place individually by the masonry experts at the building. Stainless steel mesh from Germany will envelop the walkways and bridges throughout the center courtyard, where all exterior passages will have radiant heating.

Located in Gowanus, two blocks from the Bergen Street F and G trains, 450 Warren exists at the nexus of all the restaurants and bars, shopping, cultural institutions, parks, and waterfront access that Brooklyn has to offer.

Behzad Amiri is exclusively handling the sales and marketing for 450 Warren with Corcoran New Development. For an onsite tour of the model residence, contact 718.810.4012. Pricing starts at $1.675 million for a two-bedroom. Three-bedroom penthouses start at $3.35 million

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How to Stock Your New Home for Back-to-School Sickness Season

Whether you rent or own, it's important to get your home into shape from the back-to-school sickness season. Roughly 50% of all cold cases occur during the fall and spring, making them more likely to be picked up at school. Although we wish we could avoid it, it's, unfortunately, a very common occurrence. To help you prepare, here is what you need to know.

1. Stock Up On the Necessities

There are a few things that you need to keep in your home for when sickness rolls around. A thermometer, for instance, will be essential for helping to pinpoint a fever -- which usually ranges between 100.4 F and 104 F. You'll also want to keep lots of easy to digest soups on hand, electrolyte filled drinks for hydration, and disinfectants to help prevent the illness from spreading around the house.

2. Stock Up On Immune Boosting Foods

Although it's good to keep things on hand for when sickness occurs, it's also important to stock up on things to prevent it. Antioxidant-rich foods like the maqui berry have an oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) of 19,850 per every 100 mg. Similarly, fresh blueberries have a slightly higher ORAC value of 21,080 per every 100 mg. Adding foods like this to your kid's lunches or using them as a snack when they come home, can help boost their immune systems and keep them from catching anything during the school year.

3. Stock Up On Medicine

You don't want to wait until someone is sick to run out and get medicine, so it's important to keep some key OTC medications on hand at all times. Some of the most important include:

• Aspirin

• Acetaminophen

• Ibuprofen

• Decongestants

• Antihistamines

• Cough syrup

• Tums

All of these are important to keep on hand so that you're prepared to tackle a whole range of problems, no matter when they occur. However, it should be noted that if a problem doesn't get better in a couple of days, you should always speak to your doctor to see if a prescription is needed.

4. Masks

Depending on where you live, some schools may require students to wear masks during classes. You can stock up on reusable masks so that your kids have a clean one for every school day. These masks can also be used in the home if someone gets sick, and they can wear them when they leave their rooms, or if someone needs to check on them. This can further help to keep the illness from spreading around your home and putting everyone under the weather.

5. Buy a Sanitizing Laundry Detergent

To help ensure that clothes, sheets, and towels get as clean as possible -- especially if someone's been sick -- you should keep a disinfecting laundry detergent on hand. These laundry detergents can help kill additional bacteria and keep illness from spreading. There are many different sanitizing detergents available in stores, and some are designed to be added alongside your usual detergent. This means you won't have to give up your preferred brand, but can still benefit from the added cleaning power of the disinfectant.

Staying Healthy All School-Year Long

Although it can be difficult -- if not seemingly impossible -- to keep your kids healthy the whole school year, with some preparation you can help increase their chances of staying healthy. However, it's always good to keep a stock of medicine and necessities just in case they do fall ill. Keep these five tips in mind, and you can help make your home as ready as possible for the coming school year.

Tips for Buying Your First House with a Partner

Couples in long-term relationships have different obstacles to overcome to make their lives better. The rising costs of rent and economic uncertainties are among the obstacles they must overcome to meet their objectives. These factors push couples to look for the best and practical ways to make their lives easier. Buying a house remains one of the practical ways that unmarried couples opt for. While this is a good idea, it is still important to consider the following tips for buying a house with a partner.

Evaluate Your Relationship and Finances

Buying a house with a partner is a big step in any relationship. An unmarried couple should be sure of the direction they are taking before making such a decision. It will serve their interest to evaluate the relationship before taking further steps in buying a house. It is important to ascertain that your partner can handle hardships and the related obstacles to owning a house. Most couples date for five years, on average, before settling down and deciding on getting married. Within this period, chances of a couple breaking up due to conflicting interests are higher. Finances are among the major causes of breakups. So, before buying your first house with your partner, ensure that you evaluate the relationship to make the right decisions.

Create Separate Must-Have Lists

Couples can disagree on even the smallest of issues. For the relationship to be productive, a couple needs to have many things they can agree on to lower the chances of conflicts. Create a must-have list and compare the things you feel the house should have before engaging in the house buying process. You will find it easier to streamline the process when selecting the right house. The location, the number of rooms, the size of the backyard, and the type of roofing materials are among the many things that should be on the must-have list. You should note that in North America, roof shingles are the commonly used material. This is on about 75% of all houses present. As a couple, you should have a must-have list to create a level ground for the things needed in the house.

Decide Who Is Applying for the Mortgage

You and your partner need to compare mortgage options and determine who is applying for the home loan before the search. This is crucial because buying a house is a commitment that needs everyone on board. You should understand that applying for a mortgage is like separate individuals for unmarried couples. This also means that you should evaluate your financial standing and agree on the best person to apply for the mortgage. You should be keen on personal needs such as rent costs that you are currently handling as they influence your financial preparation.

Decide How You Will Split Costs

If you reached a cohabitation property agreement on the house buying process, you still need to clarify the pending costs within the house. You need to furnish the house and make it hospitable and comfortable. It is important to decide on how you will split the costs and settle the additional house expenses. You should decide if buying a carpet is the right choice and how you will maintain it. On average, a carpet should last up to 15 years. This is after proper care and maintenance efforts. These additional expenses can be costly, and as a couple, you should decide how to split the costs.

Look for a Realtor to Mediate the Process

You need to have a professional who will listen to your dispute as a couple and help find effective ways to bridge the gap. There are also legal requirements that you should meet as an unmarried couple that calls for professional guidance. The experience and intimate knowledge of the market are what you need to streamline the house buying process. Working with a realtor makes it easier to find and buy and your first house with a partner.

Many stressful situations are present in life, and buying your first house with a partner is among the major ones. While you might find it easier to rent and cohabit with a partner, buying a house calls for proper information, guidance, and sane decision-making. Consider the above discussion and employ the highlighted tips to achieve your objectives.