New Year's Resolutions For Your Home: 5 Ideas to Organize in 2016

“One of my New Years Resolutions this year is to focus more on my home.. I am hoping to update my décor and get more organized. What are some areas I should focus on?”

January is here! The start of the New Year is so refreshing for many people. It’s a time to reset your goals and reflect on the previous year. Lots of us make New Year’s Resolutions, depending on your lifestyle and your objectives, these vary for everyone. Maybe you’re going to commit to the gym or a healthier routine, perhaps your goal is to save money, or to travel more this year. If your resolutions involve home décor, we have some fabulous suggestions for you. Here are 5 suggestions to kick off your new year resolutions.

Decluttering Closets: Closets are the spot where a lot of items can hide out behind closed doors. Out of sight, out of mind. Items just keep being piled in there and forgotten about, so why not sort and purge what you no longer require? Decluttering is a surprisingly great feeling. Getting closets organized is helpful for your everyday life, having extra useable space is never a bad thing. We recommend baskets and bins to make sure everything has a home and is placed back inside neat & tidy.

Paint: Resolve to paint one room in your home a different colour, however bold or muted you desire. A fresh coat of paint signifies fresh, new beginnings. Never underestimate the power of paint. Changing the colour in a room is an inexpensive way to change the mood and décor without having to replace everything in the space. Depending on your current décor, choose a paint colour that will be a noticeable change. This can be challenging if you have a very set colour palette in your current décor. Even using the same colour you currently have and making it a shade or two darker will be a welcome change. If painting the entire room is too large of a task to undertake, try painting an accent wall! Choose a colour from your current colour scheme and use that as your new accent wall.

Weekly Cleaning: Most of us clean our houses weekly in the common areas, bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchens etc. But there are many places that are often overlooked that need some TLC. For example, the inside of the kitchen cabinets as often ignored. Cleaning the inside of your fridge. Washing Baseboards. Dusting hard to reach places. Pick one “overlooked” area a week and focus on that as well.

Refresh some accessories: Depending on your budget, adding some newaccessories to a room gives it new life. This is a very budget friendly way to refresh your rooms. Adding a few new pillows, or a throw blanket, or maybe a new art piece will be a fabulous way to change up your décor and redesign your space. Try adding a colourful side table or garden stool, or changing some frames on your wall.

 

Fixing Odds and Ends: Do you have a “to do list” that just keeps piling up? Take the time and tackle these items. The little things that are ignored in your home continue to pile up, so just spend a few hours and get them done. You’ll feel so good knowing you can check off some items you’ve been meaning to get to.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Top 10 Home Buyer Turn-Offs

Looking for the perfect home can be a lot like dating to find 'the one' to settle down with and build a full life together. And just like dating, buyers looking for the house that is 'the one' well they have turn-offs, too.

If you are selling your home, you will want to make sure your home doesn't have any of these buyer turn offs.

1 Wacky paint colours
Some buyers can overlook strange decor choices and picture the house painted white or in tasteful neutrals, but many can't. Furthermore, colour can have a strong effect on mood, both positively and negatively. Don't take the chance.



 
2 Dirt
A house for sale should be as near to spotless as you can make it. Particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, grimy grout, stained countertops, dishes in the sink and crunchy floors are definite turn-offs. Do at least a light cleaning before every showing and a more thorough clean each weekend before the open house.

3 Odd (or oppressive) smells
If you smoke, at least take it outside while the house is up for sale. In fact, any noticeable odours, whether pets, lingering cooking smells or even heavy perfume, can turn away a potential buyer. Use fabric refresher on upholstery and air fresheners or room scents where needed, but use a light hand.

4 Unkempt exterior
Curb appeal makes a very strong impression on a potential buyer, and so does lack of it. Make sure the landscaping is trimmed and the lawn mowed; plant a few annuals or cover your flowerbeds with a neat layer of mulch, staying away from the bright red colour and opting for the natural coloured mulch. If the front porch needs painting, paint it. Also, keep the outside of your home as tidy as the interior: remove kids' toys from the backyard, and keep the porch steps swept.





5 Too many pets
It's hard to believe that not everybody loves Fluffy, Fifi, and Rover as much as you do, but they don't. A dog that comes barking fiercely to the door as soon as you ring the bell, or worse, a whole pack of them, is unnerving. One cat sleeping quietly in a chair might be fine; a noisy (and possibly smelly) menagerie isn't. Try to find temporary homes for your friends, at least while the house is being shown. And if you have carpets, get them professionally cleaned to get rid of the 'pet smells'

6 Wrong-headed renovations

This is on a slightly different scale than the other points mentioned here, but should be considered at the time of renovation if possible. A toilet off the kitchen; an open-concept reno that creates a vast, empty space; or an oddly configured hallway or room is viewed by a buyer as money they'll have to spend to put things right. Try to modify your alterations to make them more universal, or better still, avoid wacky renovations in the first place.

7 Dark and dingy interiors
You can't do much about the building two feet beyond your side windows, but you can do a lot to brighten the inside of your house. White or light walls and woodwork is a classic brightener; if you can afford to add windows, they're a good investment in a dark house. Adding more lighting, whether by wiring overhead lights or just installing more lamps, works too. At the very least, keep your windows clean, to let in as much natural light as possible.







8 Horrid basements
Again, this may or may not be under your control, but a dank, dingy basement, especially if the ceiling is very low, can be off-putting. If you have the option, painting the cement floor or installing low-cost carpeting can help cheer it up a little. Also, clear out all the junk, right to the walls, so that buyers can see how much space there is -- even if it's only for their own junk.

9 Dirty appliances
Even if the house is generally clean, don't discount the possibility that people will be looking inside the appliances (they are part of the home). Keep your fridge clear of old take-out containers and aging leftovers, wipe down spills-- and use the self-clean mode on your oven.

10 Swimming pool
It's perhaps unfair to include a pool as a buyer turn-off, since for some people it's a major attraction. But financially, pools rarely make back the money spent on them and can sometimes even lower a home's value. Almost certainly, a pool will cut down the number of potential buyers interested in the house. But if you do have one, make it look it's best !

We love Marsala! Here are some of our favourite decor pieces......

We love this year’s Pantone colour of the year: Marsala! It’s such a versatile colour that compliments every décor style! It’s also great paired with so many different colour palettes. If you’re looking to add some of 2015’s colour of the year to your space, check out some of our favourite Marsala décor pieces below!

Marsala in accent chairs..


Wayfair carries some amazing products and they have lot's of options in Marsala!
Here is another chair from Wayfair...



Marsala in area rugs …….

And another great option in this gorgeous hue..

This ottoman from Urban Barn is fantastic piece for a variety of spaces in your home such as Home office, Bedroom, Living room and family room!

This pillow is also from Urban Barn, adding a new throw pillow in the beautiful colour will instantly update your space! It doesn't take much to freshen up a room!

 

IDS 2015: Bold Area Rugs

Bold colours in area rugs were prominent this year at the IDS in Toronto and I have to say - I was thrilled!   I love bold colour and pattern and although I do love a bold piece of furniture, I traditionally stick to neutrals when it's a larger, more expensive item like a sofa, dining set, kitchen etc. So using colour in accessories and area rugs throughout a design is my favorite way to use it!

Colour has been a trend for a lot of years but this year it's out in full force. From rugs to vases to fridges, the trend was undeniable. Here is a few of my favorite bold area rugs for 2015…

Missoni Home 2015

 

FLOR Carpet Tiles

FLOR tiles are something I first came across at the IDS two years ago. This is a fantastic product for so many uses in your home. FLOR tiles are great because the variety of colour, pattern, size and price point make it super easy to customize to your personal taste and needs. FLOR tiles are fastened using an adhesive "FLOR Dot" which doesn't damage your hardwood floors and is easy to peel up should you want to move the rug. This is a fabulous product for families. If a carpet tile becomes stained or damaged you simply replace that particular tile. Where as if you stain or damage an area rug, you likely need to replace the entire rug. Check them out at http://www.flor.com , you’ll be amazed at the variety they offer!

AREA RUGS

Although similar to the above category, area rugs were bolder than ever before.‎ From the colours to the pattern to the texture, there were so many options I didn’t know where to start! The rich colour palettes and the assortment of pattern was one of the most exciting parts of the show. A beautiful area rug is art for your floor, and there were options galore!   This photo is of the Weavers Art booth, the selections they carry are incredible. If you're in the market for a statement area rug, check them out!

 

The perfect area rug can enhance a room SO much. Just remember to always make sure you are purchasing the correct size for your space. Buying a rug too small will make your space feel smaller and cramped.

 

Celebrity Style - Kid Rock

I noticed recently that this amazing home is up for sale ( not my price point) but it is absolutely stunning....and the seller of the property is Kid Rock! It's back on the market for $12,750,000, or 10 percent more than he paid. Located in Malibu, California,8,305 square feet and has five bedrooms and five bathrooms plus a guest cottage  - it might not be what you would expect from the outrageous rocker.  It is full of polished hardwood floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, high-ceilings, arched doorways, and multiple fireplaces.  There is a wrap-around terrace, a state-of-the art kitchen, a large dining room, and an office, exotic treasures, beautiful photography, a tranquil colour combination mixing light airy whites and deep rich espresso tones, organic textures paired with industrial touches. Kid Rock worked with designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard on the interior design.




I love the easy and calming exterior of this home.  it actually reminds me of a villa I once stayed in in Jamaica. The clean and crisp white exterior with lots of open entertaining space is just one thing that I love.  The gardens are pristine but not stuffy and formal.  The clean lines of the pool keep everything in balance too.



I love the mix of textures and tones in the space.  The leather, wood, and sea grass add a luxurious yet casual feel.  I love the pops of print too.  But the art displays are truly unique and really reflect the interests of the owner.   The mix of medium and deep rich tones really pop against the clean white walls.

The kitchen and dining space is perfect for entertaining.  The openness of the floor plan  allows for flow and the extra large windows let in a breeze and lots of light.  I love the mix of the large plank floors, the white walls and the industrial stainless steel accents in the lighting and in the kitchen. 

 


The master bedroom continues the theme of  contrast, texture and pattern.  I love the canopy bedding it's romantic and a bit exotic.  A truly romantic space....

Cottage Life At Home

The hot sunny weather is finally here!  I know everyone is complaining about the heat but I love it! And, really we only have it for so long, so enjoy it before the snow arrives :)

If you are lucky enough to have a cottage or summer home, I'm sure this weather is perfect but for those of us that don't (but wish we did), here are some great ideas to get that cottage look at home so you can kick back and relax cottage style but right at home.

1.  Think about colour.  What are the colours of summer? Light and fresh tones like blue, yellow, white and green are my favourites and they blend nicely with classic neutrals like grey, navy and khaki.  Try adding some summer colour in floral arrangements, pillows, art, candles, bathroom towels and other easy decor pieces.  You can re-use these items every summer season.



2.  Think easy fabrics.  Summer is all about casual entertaining and relaxing, so keep it simple.  Add some slipcovers to existing sofas and chairs to give them a new look but keep it simple with great basics like denim and canvas.  These fabrics are so easy to care for just wash and wear (or sit) and they get softer with every washing.  Again so simple to tuck away for the winter months and re-use when the summer season returns.



3.  Think texture.  When I think of summer I think about the outdoors - I'm not a cold weather person so I hibernate in the winter months.  In summer, I like to swim, walk, hike and take my kids to the park to play.  So bring the textures and beauty of the outdoor indoors!  Floral arrangements are an easy way to do just that but think about more creative ways like wicker furniture with comfy and cozy pillows and throws, bowls or fruit and veggies from the garden, an herb garden, hurricane lights with decorative sand and simple candles, or a soothing water feature wall from the local garden centre - so zen!



4.  Think outdoor furniture.  Not all of your time outdoors will be active so think about seating, lighting and entertaining outdoors.  Over sized candles in large lanterns is a great look with a large group setting or just for yourself.  Tiki torches are fun and festive plus they can keep the bugs away too.  Rocking chairs are great for reading, easy conversation or just soaking in the sunset.  A porch swing, a hammock so soothing...also outdoor fabrics are great for screened in porches, decks and sunrooms - they wash well, don't fade, easy to care for, too...Comfortable seating is a must - outdoor 'sofas' and even 'outdoor' bean bags are great and easy options that are perfect for lounging.  Don't want to spend a fortune on furniture that can't be used all year round??  Summer is the perfect time to fins deals and if you are a DIY guy or gal, try yard saling or thrift stores- it's amazing what deals you can find and what a can (or two) or spray paint can do...



5.  Think lighting.  In the summer the sun is so bright there's no real need for day time lighting but in the evening keep it low key and low energy with soft candle light and for reading be sure to have proper light but why not have some light fixtures with a more rustic, nautical or nature inspired look. 



6.  Think family.  One of my favourite childhood memory's is going to my cousin's cottage with the whole family.  We had some much fun - swimming, sunning, listening to music, BBQ's, playing cards and other board games, telling stories etc...so relive and record those moments by hosting family game night and host friends and family over for snacks and games be sure to take lots of photos of those memories, too!  And find a way to display your memories like with a photo gallery wall, photo album out and available for friends to view or scrapbook.  Surrounding yourself with things and the people you love will make your space more enjoyable for everyone!!

Clients first and the realtors who serve them....

Such a great video and it truly represents this brokerage - what they stand for, who they are and do for their clients...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0uIBvXByy_4

Giving back and doing good!

Now that March is here, the weather is warming up and the dreaded task of spring cleaning is upon us...if you have started already and have a bunch of children's books that you don't know what to do with, you could sell them at a garage sale or....for the month of March Michael's stores are collecting children's books in any language and donating them to the Boys and Girls Club



Other great organizations that help you with your decluttering....

Project Smile - collects stuffed animals for emergency responders to give to frightened children in the aftermath of fires, accidents or natural disasters.  www.projectsmile.org



Soles4Souls - provides shoes to people in need worldwide.  Enter your ZIP code to find a collection site near you.  www.soles4souls.org



Local daycare centres and group homes for troubled youth often appreciate gently used toys, books, magazines, games and even older model computers.

Dispose my meds - lets you search by ZIP code for local pharmacies with take-back programs to help keep potentially harmful pharmaceutical waste and personal-care chemicals out of the environment  www.disposemymeds.org



Recycle my cell phone - accepts old cell phones by mail and recycles or refurbishes them to prevent toxic metals from getting into landfills.  www.recyclemycellphone.org  Also most carriers like rogers and Telus will also take your old cell phones.



Earth911.com - helps you locate recycling centres near your home for batteries, electronics and more.  www.earth911.com



Replacements, Ltd - buys china, crystal, and silver - from soup bowls to nut dishes in more than 360,000 tableware patterns.  www.replacements.com



Media Exchange 123 - buys CD's, DVD's, Blu-Ray discs and video games.  Simply enter the UPC number of the item you'd like to sell to find out how much they'll pay.  www.mx123.com



Gazelle - buys a wide array of electronic equipment such as Blu-Ray players, camcorders, laptops and e-readers.  www.gazelle.com