Wreaths, Not Just for Christmas

A few years ago, if we said we were going to write about wreaths, the image that would have come to mind is pretty easy to guess. Something evergreen, with red berries, pine cones and maybe a bow, right? But not anymore.

WreathCollageNow there are spring, summer, and fall wreaths. 4th of July wreaths. Valentine’s Day wreaths. Wreaths supporting your favorite sports team. Monogram wreaths for everyday use. You name it, someone has made a wreath for it.

Wreaths have become a HUGE trend in home décor and we love it. Here’s why:

  • A well done wreath adds instant curb appeal.
  • Wreaths are an easy way to dress up your house for any occasion, just put a hook on your front door and you’re done.
  • Wreaths don’t damage your home in any way (think Christmas lights and nail guns).
  • Wreaths can be store bought or homemade.
  • Wreaths can be very inexpensive.

The best part is, that ALL of these reasons that we love wreaths also make them great for staging your home.

For a little wreath inspiration, visit our Pinterest account.

Tips for Increasing Your Home’s Appeal

If you’re considering listing your home, remember, this is your chance to make the best first impression possible and charm buyers by creating a wonderful atmosphere as they compare your home to others available on the market. Here are some simple and significant ways to maximize your home’s appeal.

House Exterior 2Create Curb Appeal

  • Keep grass cut, trim trees and remove all toys and clutter from yard.
  • Weed and add mulch to flower beds along with a few seasonal flowers.
  • Power wash your home’s exterior; clean windows inside and out.
  • Ensure all gutters and downspouts are firmly attached and functioning.
  • Buy a new welcome mat and keep front porch swept.
  • Place potted flowers near the front door.
  • Make sure the door bell works.
  • Tighten and clean all door handles.

Welcome Buyers with a House they Can Picture as Their New Home

  • Ensure your home remains free of all pet, smoke and cooking smells.
  • Remove furniture that interrupts “the flow” or makes the room appear smaller.
  • Consider renting a storage unit to move items off-site.
  • Get the kitchen sparkling clean including stove, oven and fridge.
  • Remove excessive counter clutter.
  • Clean and organize cabinets, closets, drawers and bookshelves.
  • Clean all light fixtures, ceiling fans, mini blinds and window sills.
  • Remove excessive wall hangings and knick-knacks.
  • Shampoo carpets.
  • Repair all plumbing leaks, including faucets and drain traps.
  • Make minor repairs (torn screens, sticking doors, cracked caulking).
  • Fix or replace tub & shower grout and replace any broken tiles.

Doing that Little Bit Extra

  • Buy new towels for bathrooms and replace shower curtain
  • Buy new bedding for bedrooms and replace old lamps or lampshades.
  • Paint the front door; clean or paint walls and ceilings.
  • Replace worn cabinet doors, cabinet pulls and door knobs.
  • Replace worn countertops.

Formal Dining 04Tips for Showing Your Home at It’s Best

  • DO NOT fry anything while your home is for sale; cooking smells linger for days.
  • Vacate the property while it is being shown.
  • Open all drapes and shutters in the daytime; turn on all the lights.
  • Keep pets secured outdoors.
  • Play quiet background music.
  • Clean out fireplace ashes.
  • Infuse home with a comforting scent, such as apple spice or vanilla.
  • Set the dining room table for a fancy dinner party.