Is Buying A Vacation Home The Right Move For You?

Many people dream of owning a second home they can use to escape the city or enjoy a well-earned break away from day-to-day life. If you’re thinking about investing in a vacation home, it’s essential to weigh up the pros and cons before you make a decision. In this guide, we’ll share some important points to consider to help you decide.

Can you afford a second home?

Financial planning is key when purchasing real estate. Whether you’re buying a house for yourself, a vacation home or an investment property, it’s crucial to make sure that your finances are in order and you can afford to proceed. Set a budget before you start searching for properties and try to avoid overstretching yourself. In the case of a vacation home, it’s important to think about how you’ll pay for the upkeep of the property, as well as the mortgage repayments. Many people who have a second home use it as a business to bring money in, but some people prefer to keep their vacation homes for private use. 

Are you aware of the legal processes involved if you want to let your home?

Buying a house or an apartment to let is different from purchasing a property you plan to use as your primary home. If you want to let your vacation home, it’s wise to seek legal advice and make sure you understand the processes and regulations involved in renting the property and generating an income. Experts like those at Manfred Sternberg & Associates can help you to navigate the legal processes and ensure that you understand your responsibilities and liabilities as a property owner and landlord or landlady. Working with experienced real estate lawyers can also help you to get the most out of your investment. 

Is now the right time to buy?

Timing plays an influential role in the success or failure of property investment. If you are buying a second home, it’s beneficial to monitor the market and keep a close eye on property prices in your chosen location. If you buy when prices are peaking, it’s more difficult to generate profits. If you can’t afford to buy in established vacation hotspots, consider expanding your search to include up-and-coming areas and places that are starting to attract more visitors and tourists. It’s beneficial to bide your time if you’re not in a hurry to buy if the timing isn’t right. 

Does it make sense for your schedule and lifestyle?

The idea of owning a vacation home may be very different from the reality. Before you commit, ask yourself if it makes sense for your schedule and your lifestyle. Do you have time to take on a second property? Will you use your vacation home? Does it make financial sense to buy a place rather than hiring a villa, house or apartment or staying in a hotel in a place you love to visit?

When you take a vacation in a stunning location, it’s natural to dream of buying a property you can retreat to whenever you want. In reality, owning a second home isn’t always sunshine and rainbows and it doesn’t always make sense. Before you decide whether or not to take the plunge, it’s important to consider your financial situation, the timing and market conditions and your schedule and lifestyle. If you want to proceed, seek legal advice before you submit an offer.

10 Bedroom Remodeling Essentials: Where to Save and Where to Splurge

The bedroom is one of the most important private spaces in the house since you sleep and store your personal belongings there. At times, you must remodel your bedroom to ensure optimal comfort, privacy, and aesthetics. However, you may not know which upgrades to prioritize or forego.

During the planning stage, you can try virtual staging to see your bare bedroom before remodeling. You don't have to spend much to see your vision in digital form for sharing or illustrative purposes.

Here are some of the things you shouldn't spend money on when remodeling your bedroom:

Save on

1. Provisional or temporary fixtures

Remodeling incurs several costs, so it's not the time to create temporary structures. You should save on making fixtures you plan to take down in the future because they will only incur more costs. Create setups that will last you until the next renovation or remodeling.

2. Bulky furniture

Remodel your bedroom with minimal furniture to get more mental health space for exercise or meditation. Asian households even use foldable or collapsable pieces of furniture because they're lightweight and easy to put away. Smaller rooms can also benefit from smaller types of furniture.

3. Paint

Contrary to popular belief, you don't always have to repaint your bedroom when remodeling unless the existing paint is cracked or chipped. If you have to paint again, choose neutral or pastel shades you can easily redecorate around. Sometimes, using wallpaper is more cost-effective than repainting the entire room.

4. Expensive lighting

Light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs are cheaper and offer flexibility in colors and shapes. Suppose you're planning to develop aesthetic ceiling designs. In that case, you can use the flexibility of LED strips to light corners or use changeable RGB LED lights that a remote control can operate.

5. Carpets

Carpets look beautiful in photos, but they're hard to clean. You can forego the fancy rugs on your next remodeling and focus on better flooring. Instead of carpets, you can use wood, laminate, or stone flooring that also offers temperature benefits.

Aside from the ones to save, we'll discuss the ones you should splurge on.

Here are some of the things you should prioritize in bedroom remodeling:

Splurge on

6. Comfort

The bedroom should be comfortable so that you can splurge on relaxing items like additional cushions or paddings. You can make a cushioned headboard for your bed if you want to sit on it while reading books at night. You can also improve the mattress and pillow qualities.

7. Privacy

Your bedroom is one of the places where you can be vulnerable and alone, so privacy is of utmost importance. Improve your door or window by getting better blinds or lock mechanisms. You can also upgrade your room to a digital door lock if you live in a shared household.

8. Smart home tech

You should include innovative home technology in your product purchases to take your bedroom remodeling to the next level. An assortment of available smart home tech is perfect for your bedroom remodeling, from smart plugs, bulbs, and temperature regulators to beds and pillows.

9. Entertainment

Your room should be comfortable and entertaining, especially if you plan to have guests over. Don't be afraid to splurge on leisure such as speakers and smart television (TV) to make the bedroom more lively. However, even simple things like hobby cabinets or picture frames can elevate the entertainment value if you're on a budget.

10. Soundproofing

Working at home has been one of the primary reasons for bedroom remodeling, so the home office is a consideration. Bedrooms doubling as work offices need soundproofing, especially near noisy roadsides or neighborhoods with loud dogs. It would help if you also regarded aesthetics when soundproofing since they may also look out of place.

Conclusion

Remodeling your bedroom is an exciting endeavor and a way to improve your private space. However, you should carefully plan your remodeling to avoid overspending or unfinished project due to budget shortages. Creativity and practicality should go hand in hand to ensure a successful remodel without breaking the bank.

How to Defrost an Ice Maker

If you've owned your ice maker long enough it may ice over or have a frozen tube which will interrupt the supply of ice cubes. When this happens, you need to defrost your ice maker.

You can defrost your ice maker by allowing the ice to naturally thaw; it would require emptying your fridge. Another option is to use a hair dryer or melt off the ice with steam. Avoiding these problems all start with choosing the right ice maker. Find out how at kismile.com.

We outline several ways to defrost your ice maker in our detailed guide. Keep reading. 

 How to defrost ice maker naturally

This is the slowest method but equally efficient. We recommend doing this during the night. This way, your ice maker is up and running by morning. There are two ways to defrost your ice maker naturally. You can defrost manually or choose to ''force defrost'' your ice maker. The Force defrost procedure depends on your ice maker model.

Defrosting your ice maker manually.

Unplug your freezer. Doing this, makes the ice melt naturally. Keep the freezer door open to speed up the thawing process, and don't forget to place towels in the freezer to soak up all that water.

Force defrost

Press the power cool and saver buttons simultaneously. Press until the screen goes blank. 

Press the power cool button three times, and the ice maker goes into defrosting mode. 

How to defrost an ice maker using a hair or blow dryer

The hand dryer method gets you quicker results when compared to the other defrosting methods, like natural and steaming defrosting. The ice in and around the ice maker fill tube quickly melts when you blow hot/cool air from the dryer. 

Method

The first step is unplugging your refrigerator and water supply line so the ice in your ice maker thaws. 

Put towels in your fridge and under your ice maker to absorb water that drips as the ice melts, including excess water from the filter. 

Switch your hair dryer on low or medium-speed settings and blow directly on your ice maker to defrost. It will take only a few minutes till all the ice on your appliance melts away.

How to defrost an ice maker using a bowl of hot water

The steam defrosting method is slower than the others and requires more effort. We caution you to use this method as your last resort because condensation will affect the heating coils in your appliance. 

Method

Prepare a bowl of hot water and place them inside your fridge closer to your ice maker. 

The steam from the hot water thaws the ice. Once the water gets warm, replacing it with another bowl of hot water will keep the melting process going. 

Why should you clean your ice maker?

With time, your ice maker will get dirty and accumulate debris and bacteria. This impacts the taste and smell of your ice cubes. Even if you have never used your ice maker to do anything other than produce ice, minerals from hard water form a plaque. 

Once your ice-cubes start tasting and smelling unusual, it may be time to clean your ice maker. The perfect time to do this is after defrosting your ice maker. Cleaning your ice maker regularly ensures you always have clean and great-tasting ice cubes, especially if you rely on high-quality ice cube machines to meet your needs.

How to clean an ice maker

We recommend cleaning once every two weeks to prevent any build-up on the coils. All you need is dish soap, a sponge or washing cloth, vinegar, a toothbrush and warm water. Also, avoid cleaning your ice maker with strong scented soaps because they can affect the taste and smell of the ice cubes.

Step 1:  Turn your fridge off. Then take out its contents so your food and condiments do not spoil or become contaminated.   

Step 2: Take the ice maker from the fridge. You can wait for it to melt naturally by leaving it out or use hot water to thaw the ice in the ice maker. 

Step 3: Carefully wash your ice maker with mild soap and rinse it well. Pat dry or leave it out. 

Care and maintenance tips for your ice maker

We recommend using baking soda to dissolve build-ups and remove stubborn stains. 

A toothbrush helps you clean hard-to-reach areas of your ice maker, including the corners of your freezer. The corners of your ice maker typically harbour bacteria plaque, and leaving them there will cause harm to your health. 

Run cycles after putting your ice maker back in the fridge to remove all the odour. Doing this helps freshen your appliance. If this isn't done, your ice cubes will maintain that funny smell and taste.  

Unclog your water filter or install a new one if it is damaged. You may have to call a technician/repairer if your ice maker does not work after trying the steps above. 

So, there you have it! You can defrost your ice maker by allowing the ice to thaw naturally, melting the ice with a hand dryer or using good ole steam to get the job done. 

Mistakes to Avoid When Renovating Your Kitchen

Are you looking to give your kitchen a makeover? When renovating your kitchen, it is important to avoid common mistakes that can cost you time and money.

Before beginning the project, take the time to research your desired changes and create a realistic budget and timeline for the renovation.

Take measurements of your space and create a plan outlining all of the changes you want to make. Think about the style you are going for as well as practicality. You will want to consider the design of the cabinets and countertops as well as how energy efficient an appliance is. It's always better, for example, to research Fairfax kitchen countertops, or similar countertops wherever you are, before you start your project. This helps to create a cohesive design that other elements can be designed around.

You will also need to install everything in the right order to avoid a variety of problems. Research your appliances well to find the ones that are right for your space and have the features you are looking for. Additionally, they should also be energy efficient.

Below is more information about just some of the things to avoid when undertaking a kitchen renovation project.

Not Realizing Kitchen Costs

When it comes to a new kitchen cost, it can get out of hand quickly. Establishing a clear budget is one of the most important steps in renovating your kitchen. Without a well-defined budget, you risk overspending before the renovation is complete. That is why it is important to research kitchen prices. Knowing how much you are willing to spend on the renovation will help you avoid making costly mistakes, such as choosing expensive materials or hiring contractors who charge too much. It is important to understand the costs associated with each component of the renovation, such as materials and labor, so that you can set a realistic budget. Additionally, you should be aware of any kitchen costs that may arise during the renovation. Developing a comprehensive budget can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and save money in the long run. If you are looking to find out further information about kitchen costs, click the following link to read about everything you need to know all in one place.

Not Thinking About the Style You Are Going For

You should also consider the style of the renovation, whether you are going for a classic or contemporary look, what colors you want to be in your new kitchen, and any other features you would like included, such as a backsplash or an island counter. Having a clear idea of the style you are going for will help you make better decisions when it comes to picking materials and colors. If you are clear on the kitchen design you want, you can pick out materials that work together to create the atmosphere and look you desire.

Not Considering Space and Practicality

Additionally, it is important to consider space and practicality when renovating your kitchen. It is all too easy to get carried away with aesthetics, but it is important to remember that your kitchen needs to work for you and be easy to navigate. Think about how easy the materials you want are to clean and maintain. Consider your available space and how to best utilize it. For example, if you have a smaller kitchen, you may need to look for space-saving solutions, These could include using up your vertical space for shelves or having kitchen appliances built into cabinets. It is also important to remember that the layout of your kitchen should make sense. You will want to have a logical flow of activity, and you don't want to clutter your kitchen with unnecessary items. For instance, it is best to keep frequently used items in the most accessible locations and store those that are used less often out of the way.

Installation in the Wrong Order

Kitchen floors should be installed before the cabinetry and countertops. Installing the flooring after the cabinets and countertops have been installed means multiple problems.

Choosing cabinetry before appliances is also important. If you are remodeling your kitchen, it is wise to select cabinetry before purchasing appliances. That is because otherwise, you could end up with appliances that do not fit in the space you have designated for them. Installing the flooring after the cabinets and countertops have been installed can create a number of issues as well.

Not Researching Your Kitchen Appliances

It is important to do some research before selecting your kitchen appliances so that you can determine which ones will be the best fit for the size of your kitchen and the amount of space you have available. They should also have the features you are looking for. Look out for the features that will be suitable for you and avoid the ones you do not need.

If you do not do research, you run the risk of having appliances that are too large to fit in your kitchen space. If you are working with a very small space, you should look for compact appliances that are designed to fit in tight spaces, as these can make your kitchen much more functional. You could even have them built in to save even more space.

It is also important to take into consideration the energy efficiency of any appliance you purchase, as this can make a big difference to your electricity bill. Doing a little bit of research before making any major appliance purchases can be beneficial. And it does not just save money. It is also the more environmentally friendly option, as more efficient appliances tend to use fewer resources and produce less pollution. Although they may cost more initially, the cost may pay off down the line.

Conclusion

Renovating your kitchen can be an exciting but daunting experience. When renovating your kitchen, it is important to avoid common mistakes that can cost you time and money. And there are a number of those mistakes, some of which are mentioned here.

Before beginning the project, take the time to research your desired changes and create a realistic budget. Developing a comprehensive budget can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and save money in the long run.

Additionally, it is important to take measurements of your space and create a plan that outlines all of the changes you want to make. Failing to do so may result in purchasing the wrong materials, ordering too little or too much of something, and other costly mistakes. But also think about practicality when designing your new kitchen.

If you are remodeling your kitchen, it is wise to select cabinetry before purchasing appliances. Installing the flooring after the cabinets and countertops have been installed can create a number of issues.

Appliances should be selected with research and careful consideration. You will want to make sure the appliances you select are suitable for the size of your kitchen, as well as reliable and efficient. Additionally, you should consider the design of the cabinets and countertops when choosing the appliances. It is also essential to think about how energy efficient an appliance is before you buy it. All of these factors should be taken into account when selecting your appliances.

These are just some things you do not want to forget as you get into the process of renovating your kitchen. But ensure that you do research so that you make informed decisions as you embark on this journey.

5 Helpful Tips for Landlords to Know This Year

As you go down the path of real estate investing and consider the benefits of becoming a landlord, there are plenty of things to keep in mind. While making money off of your property in a hot rental market is always a great way to make extra income, there are some things to remember about life as a landlord. Take a look at these tips: 

Know your tenant

If you want to have a smooth experience as a landlord, it’s wise to take time to find good tenants. From using websites that help you screen potential tenants to also investing resources to check a tenant's credit, it’s important to do a little leg work before taking on just anyone as a tenant. 

You want to avoid renting out to someone with a questionable past, whether it’s criminal related or related to their previous rental history. 

Think about hiring a property manager

Because taking care of the ins and outs of renting your property can consume a lot of your time, it’s wise to consider working with a professional property manager. This is especially true if you happen to travel a lot or have a full-time job that demands most of your time. Sometimes you may have a simple issue like trying to figure out how long do ants live because you have an ant problem or it could be a more serious problem like an appliance needing repair; either way, any issue will become less of your problem if you have a property manager. 

A property manager will take care of anything regarding your property in a professional way. They'll also ensure your property is in good hands while protecting your time. 

Utilize software for landlords

Something to think about doing as a landlord is streamlining communication, damage reports, and rental payments in one place. Thanks to some great landlord software out there, it can be a lot easier for you to manage tenants and details related to your home and property. There are plenty of options out there, so check out the various kinds of landlord software available to find a website that best suits what you need in your specific situation. 

When the price is right

Some landlords may be tempted to price their units or homes high. After all, if you’re in a city with a competitive rental market, it can be tempting to go overboard simply because you can. However, you may find it much more challenging to get a reliable tenant this way. 

Plus, an overpriced rental property may get rented for a one-term lease, but that may be it. If you find good tenants, you may want to keep them for as long as possible, so consider the benefits of pricing your rental property just right. 

Have it all in writing

Look, renting out to friends can be great because you know them as people and you trust them. But you still always want to get everything in writing. They may be the vision of reliable individuals, but you’ll want them to sign a lease. 

While presenting your friends with a legally binding document may be hard, it's worth it if it will protect your property. For the most part, your friends would understand why you’re asking them to sign a lease. It goes without saying—renting to tenants that you do not know at all is a situation where a lease document is a must-have. It will protect them, but most importantly, it will protect you and your property. 

In Conclusion 

From protecting your home and assets through lease documents to hiring a property manager to help take care of your property, there are many things to stay on top of as a landlord. 

While it can be overwhelming to stay on top of everything, a rental property can bring you the passive income you want and help you build financial wealth.

Top 5 Amazing Ways to Enjoy the Sun in Winter

We are in the middle of winter, which means that it is freezing. While we appreciate the snow and the cold season, we cannot help but dream about sunny and warmer days. However, just because it is freezing outside doesn't mean you cannot feel warm.

Also, just because it is cold outside doesn't mean the sun no longer shines.

Today, we want to tell you about a few ways to enjoy the sun in the wintertime. You might as well want to get a pair of Carrera sunglasses so that whenever you step outside, you can freely move around on the sun's radiant energy without getting affected by the UV rays.

Here are a few ways you can enjoy the sun when it is freezing and snowing outside.

Read on to learn more!

Allow the Sun in – Through the Curtains

The sun is gorgeous in the winter, too – all you need to do is to look outside, and there it is. The trick is that as soon as you see the sun, you will want to pull aside the curtains, open the blinds, and allow natural light to flood into your interior space.

Reflect Sunlight & Make Your Space Magical 

If you live in a particularly cold region, you can have the chandelier or any other light-reflecting disco light that will make your interior space magical. Sunlight specks can fill the entire space with a bit of light everywhere and beautiful rainbows.

Find That Bright Spot in Your House

There is always a bright spot in the house – when the sun is out shining in the cold season. And if you are a cat owner, you might already know the sunniest spot in your house where you can chill for hours.

Stay in that spot for as long as you want or until the sunlight heats you up.

Wear Your Sunshades Outside

Sunglasses seem to be the perfect staple for the warmer season; however, you will also be surprised to find them helpful in the winter season.

If you are looking for new shades, you might want to order a pair from Vision Direct. Believe it or not but snow can reflect sunlight and actually blind you. So, you will want to play safe and wear a pair of sunglasses outside.

Vibing in the winter sun with a pair of sunglasses is the best way to enjoy the energy ball in the winter.

Get a Wall Reflector

If your home doesn't receive natural light directly, you can get a wall reflector and enjoy a sweet sunny spot in the cold season.

A wall reflector is also ideal for bringing more sunshine into your interior space. Depending on the size of the wall reflector, the wall reflector receives natural light at its entire height, eventually enabling it to redirect into the rooms.

The wall reflector is like a shutter and can be easily adjusted. All you need to do is choose the spot within your interior space that you want to lighten and brighten up.

Make the Most of the Solar Noon

If you have a backyard, you are lucky as you can make the most of solar noon, which is the time when the sun is at its highest in the sky. You already know that direct sunlight is crucial for getting your daily dose of vitamin D.

You might have a busy schedule throughout your day – but it hurts no one to take fifteen to twenty minutes to sit in the sun and expose their skin. Surely, you can take Vitamin D supplements, but basking in the sun is quite helpful.