Category Archives: Home Maintenance

Your Guide to Choosing Patio Stones

paito pavers

“Creating that special outdoor space to relax in takes some planning.  Patio stones are an easy choice that you can usually do yourself.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Originally published on Houselogic

By: Andrea Nordstrom Caughey

Published: April 9, 2013

With so many patio stones on the market, it can be hard to choose. So we’ve done the research to help you make the right choice for your home.

Brick

Brick pavers are classic. They’ve got lots of character, and you can explore your creative chops by setting them in intricate patterns. Thinner than typical “builder bricks” used on home siding, they’re made to hold up under heavy foot traffic.

Brick pavers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and finishes, and can look old or new. Because they’re smaller than other pavers, they take a while to put in place, and installation costs can be higher.

You can do the job yourself for $3 to $5 per square foot. You’ll need to rent a brick saw — a heavy table-mounted saw that makes cutting masonry a snap. Cost: $60 to $95 per day. Don’t forget: You’ll need to figure out a way to get the brick saw to your house.

For a pro-installed brick patio, you’ll pay $12 to $18 per square foot, professionally installed.

Concrete

Concrete can be finished off in lots of imaginative ways — brushed, acid washed, scored, and stamped — and lots of colors. Its long lifespan and relatively inexpensive installation make it a popular choice.

“For colder climates, consider adding $1 to $2 per square foot for a specialized base preparation and concrete additive,” says Chris Fenmore, principal with Garden Studio Landscape Design.

Stamped concrete can simulate flagstone, brick, cobbles, and other decorative patterns, but adds about $3 per square foot to installation costs.

Figure $6 to 12 per square foot, depending on finish and color.

Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers offer an embarrassment of riches — there are shapes, sizes, textures, and colors galore. Some are plain; some look like real stone; others have intricate patterns embossed on their surfaces. They’re readily available at home improvement centers and are well-suited to DIY patio projects.

Interlocking concrete pavers have tabs and slots so they fit together like pieces of a very simple puzzle. They’re fairly inexpensive, have minimal maintenance, and install quickly.

Concrete pavers are $2 to $8 per square foot. If you’d rather have a pro do it, you’ll pay $7 to $15 per square foot, including materials.

Rubber Tiles

Rubber tiles are made from recycled tires. They’re designed to go over any surface, and their light weight means you can use them on decks. They look like concrete tiles, with finishes that resemble brick and terra cotta. They’re fairly new on the market, so the jury is still out on how they perform over time.

Rubber tiles are strictly a DIY material, and they snap together with connector clips. They’re good for quickly covering up old, cracked, worn patio surfaces. You’ll pay $3 to $5 per square foot.

Flagstone, Slate, and Marble

Almost any stone can work as a paver, but most are either sandstone, limestone, slate, or granite. The materials you select will be especially cost-efficient if they come from locally operated quarries; check your local stone supplier before looking at national home improvement chains.

Stone pavers are cut into modular shapes; 6-by-12, 12-by-12, and 18-by-18-inch sizes are standard. Uncut pavers have rough, irregular edges and come in various sizes.

When it comes to installing uncut stone, an experienced pro works quickly and is your best bet for a good-looking patio with even spaces between stones.

Pro installation is $12 to $28 per square foot, depending on the stone you choose.

Want to see some stone patios that really rock?

Decomposed Granite and Pebble Surfaces

Decomposed granite is made up of very small pieces of granite, ranging in size from 1/4-inch to the size of sand. It’s an affordable way to go, and some folks really love the slightly crunchy texture underfoot, and the way rain disappears — no puddles!

You’ll probably have to refresh and replenish the granite now and then, as the surface can erode with time, so there’s some preventative maintenance involved. Figure about $1 per square foot every three years for upkeep.

Also, decomposed granite isn’t solid and furniture legs tend to sink into the stones. Adding stabilizers that help bind particles together can strengthen the surface.

Cost: $1.50 per square foot without stabilizers, $2 with stabilizers.

Finding Your Own Recycled Materials

Like the idea of upcycling? A patio is a good way to reuse old building materials, and it’s a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to new materials. Plus, you’ll be building a one-of-a-kind creation. Tip: Look for materials that provide uniform thickness.

  • Cast-off concrete sections from a neighbor’s old driveway or sidewalk.
  • Check nearby construction sites for old materials — be sure to ask permission before hauling anything away.
  • Know of a building scheduled for demolition? See if there’s any old brick or stone is going to be discarded.

Although the materials are usually free, it’s a good idea to enlist some strong-backed helpers and the use of a pick-up truck. For a typical 12-by-12-foot patio, you’ll save $500 to $800 versus new pavers. Spend some of that on a patio party for your helpers.

(If you’re a salvaged materials aficionado, check out our slideshow on clever ways to use salvage in your home.)

Mixing Materials

Remember, you’re not stuck with one type of patio paver. Combining different materials — such as brick together with concrete, or stone with rock trim, can create a cool, customized look.

Southern California designer Chris Fenmore notes, “Too much hardscape can be tedious. I often like to use four-inch troughs separating masonry from concrete that can be filled with gravel, beach rocks, or ground cover. They provide a bit of relief from the hardscape and nice detail, adding to the custom look of the yard.”

Getting on Base

Choosing paving materials begins with a basic: the base or foundation. The base supports your pavers, and it’s got to be firm, strong, and designed to stand up to years of wear and weather. A poorly installed base leads to shifting and settling that’ll crack concrete and make your patio pavers look like choppy seas.

A sand-and-gravel base is a good DIY project; leave a concrete slab base to the pros.

A gravel and sand base is a simple foundation that lets you “dry set” pavers — you put the pavers on top of the base, then sweep fine sand into the joints to hold them there. Building a gravel-and-sand base is an easy (but time-consuming) DIY project. You’ll pay $2 to $3 per square foot for a DIY job. If you’d rather have a pro do the work, figure $3 to $5 per square foot.

With a sand or gravel base, chances are there’ll be some settling over time. Every couple of years, plan on resetting individual pavers that have gotten out of whack because of settling.

A concrete base offers greater longevity and stability, with less potential for settling. On a concrete slab base, the paving materials are set permanently with mortar, and ongoing maintenance is minimal.

Working with concrete is a challenge for weekend warriors, so skip experimentation (mistakes in concrete are permanent) and go with a pro. You’ll pay $5 to $8 per square foot for a professionally installed concrete base.

If you’re a fan of concrete, check out these imaginative ways to use concrete inside your house.

Read more: http://members.houselogic.com/articles/smart-options-patio-pavers/preview/#ixzz3liNs4OY5
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Shave Up to 15% Off Your Heating Bill with This Simple Tip

Thermostat

“So you think you know how to save money on your heating and cooling bills?  Not everything we’ve been taught is correct.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Originally published on Houselogic

By: Deirdre Sullivan

Think you’re saving on your heating bill by keeping it at a constant 68 degrees? You’re not, and here’s why.

It’s easy to imagine your energy bill going sky-high when you hear your furnace fire up.  That’s the reason so many people believe keeping a steady temperature of 68 degrees is the key to energy savings. But that’s a myth.

In fact, the lower the temperature, the slower your house loses the heat, according to energy.gov. And that keeps your hard-earned money from floating out the door.

So if you truly want to see your heating bill drop, you need to turn down the temperature another 10 or 15 degrees for eight-hour stretches on a regular basis — like when you’re at work, sleeping, or out of town.

When you return, turn it back up to 68 degrees. Or better yet, take advantage of what a programmable thermostat can do.

In the summer, just flip the strategy:

  • Set your AC to 78 degrees when you’re home.
  • When you leave, turn the AC off or set your thermostat to a much warmer temperature.

Here are some other misconceptions about and tips for reducing your heating and cooling costs.

Resist the Urge to Crank Up the Thermostat

Turning up the thermostat past your desired setting won’t speed heating. Your furnace works at the same pace regardless of temperature settings. That also applies to your AC; setting the thermostat to its coolest temperature won’t chill your home any faster.

A Programmable Thermostat Doesn’t Automatically Reduce Energy Use

Installing a programmable thermostat with factory settings isn’t going to do you much good. You can only reduce the amount of power your home consumes if you create a personalized heating and cooling program that makes the most of your own energy-saving opportunities.

Programmable thermostats come in four different pre-set schedule styles, so it’s important to pick one that’s in sync with your household’s scheduling needs:

  • 7-day programming offers the most flexibility. It allows you to set a different heating and cooling schedule for each day of the week.
  • 5-1-1 programming is a good choice if you have a predictable weekday schedule. It lets you set an identical heating and cooling plan Monday through Friday, and a different plan for Saturday and Sunday.
  • 5-2 programming is similar to the 5-1-1 programming, except you can only program one heating and cooling schedule for both Saturday and Sunday.
  • 1-week programming is a good choice if you stick to the same schedule every day of the week. It allows you to create a single heating and cooling plan that repeats daily.

Bonus tip: When daylight savings comes around, remember to adjust your settings so your heating and cooling program isn’t off by an hour.

Some Smart Thermostats are a Lot Smarter Than Others; Choose Wisely

Smart thermostats aren’t all the same. Sure, all offer Internet connectivity for remote management using your mobile device. But each thermostat brand uses a different proprietary self-programming technology.

For example, Google’s Nest relies on sensors and a learning algorithm to manage your heating and cooling preferences. Honeywell’s Lyric uses GPS technology to trigger heating and cooling automatically via your smartphone.

But here’s the kicker: Just like manual or programmable thermostats, it’s up to the user to set preferences that enable energy savings. And for those of you who still believe a smart thermostat can shave 30% of your utility bills, here’s a reality check: A study conducted by Nest revealed its users can only save up to 12% on heating costs.

Don’t assume every smart thermostat is user friendly.  A recent study on thermostat usability by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District revealed that the ballyhooed Nest thermostat isn’t all that user friendly. The Nest was tested against a mix of 11 smart and programmable thermostats for ease of use without using a manual. It received the second-worst rating.

Which thermostat came out on top? One by a company with a century of cooling experience: the Carrier ComfortChoice Touch. The study participants also selected it as their preferred choice for purchase out of the models they tested.

Bonus tip: Avoid those wireless apps that let you control the thermostat remotely. A study on Wi-Fi enabled thermostats says that using them remotely can boost energy use. This is because they allow users to crank up the heat or AC remotely before they return home.

Related: The Warm and Cozy Home Guide

Read more: http://members.houselogic.com/articles/ways-to-save-money-on-bills/preview/#ixzz3liLjQX61
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Your Guide to 10 Landscape Materials

“Sometimes you want to do something ‘different’ in certain areas of your yard, but your not sure what that might be.  Here are some great ideas as alternatives to grass for your outside areas.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
Paving a landscape investment, and the cost varies considerably based on the type used and how readily available it is. Cast-in-place concrete is usually the cheapest and most easily installed paving option, but those who live in regions with naturally occurring stone like limestone, granite or slate can use that local stone at a more affordable price.

Here are our guides to 10 of the most popular paving materials. Whether you are repaving or paving new, you can use them to understand the basics about paving to make an informed decision based on your situation and where you live.

Contemporary Patio by Arterra Landscape Architects
Arterra Landscape Architects
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Cast-in-Place Concrete: Budget-friendliest

Concrete is the standard because it’s affordable, easy to install and easy to maintain. However, cast-in-place concrete doesn’t have to be boring just because it’s the standard. There are many ways to create patterns, textures and colors to liven it up.

Guide: Pros and cons of cast-in-place concrete

Contemporary Patio by Bagnato Architects
Bagnato Architects
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Precast Concrete Pavers: Best color and texture variety at an affordable price

Precast concrete pavers are modular pavers that come in a dizzying number of sizes, shapes, colors, textures and patterns. Precast concrete pavers are a great choice for those who want a different look but don’t want to pay for natural stone. Modular permeable systems, which soak up water instead of creating runoff, are available for driveways, walkways and patios.

Guide:Pros and cons of precast concrete paving

Traditional Pool by Morehead Pools
Morehead Pools
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Brick: Classic style and works in all climates

Brick in the standard 4-inch-by-8-inch size can be used to make many fun patterns, including herringbone, without looking too busy, and its reddish tones bring warmth to the garden. Brick also works well with many other hardscapes, which is why you’ll often see it used with wood decks and other paving materials.

Guide:Pros and cons of brick paving

Farmhouse Patio by Butler Armsden Architects
Butler Armsden Architects
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Gravel: Great for permeability and to soften a hardscape

Gravel is available as decomposed stone by the bag or pallet and can be used for paths and patios where you want a softer look. It needs to be bound by some kind of rigid edge, like in the space shown here, to contain it.

Guide: Pros and cons of gravel paving

Mediterranean Patio by Bliss Design Firm
Bliss Design Firm
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Limestone: Great for reflecting heat in hot climates

Limestone is typically white to off-white and sometimes a grayish white. Its light colors make it fantastic for warm climates, where it can reflect heat. It also brings a nice brightness to shaded garden areas — lightening up even places in deep shade.

Guide:Pros and cons of limestone paving

Contemporary Pool by Dean Herald-Rolling Stone Landscapes
Dean Herald-Rolling Stone Landscapes
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Travertine: Best for surrounding a pool

Travertine is harder and less porous than its cousin limestone, which makes it somewhat easier to maintain. It stays cool to the touch and makes a lovely poolside surface for bare feet.

Guide: Pros and cons of travertine paving

Mediterranean Entry by V.I.Photography & Design
V.I.Photography & Design
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Tile: Great colors for warm climates

Tile is bold and funky because it comes in bright and rich colors and is a nice choice for warm climates. It can be tricky to maintain, so be sure you are ready to keep up with tile maintenance.

Guide:Pros and cons of tile paving

Rustic Landscape by Matthew Cunningham Landscape Design LLC
Matthew Cunningham Landscape Design LLC
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Granite: A superior tough stone that’s excellent in cold climates

Granite is expensive, at $14 to $20 per square foot installed, but it may be worth the investment for you because it lasts several lifetimes. If you live near the granite quarries of the Northeast, it’s also a sustainable, local building material.

Guide: Pros and cons of granite paving

Contemporary Patio by The Garden Builders
The Garden Builders
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Slate: Great for cold climates and deep in color

Slate has a deep, rich color and is available in many tones, from deep charcoal to jade green. Slate withstands the coldest climates and works like a champ in the freeze-thaw cycle.

Guide:Pros and cons of slate paving

Contemporary Garage And Shed by Berger Partnership
Berger Partnership
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Bluestone: Elegant, upscale and fantastic in a flagstone pattern

Bluestone is a flaky kind of stone that is broken along its fissure lines to create some of the most elegant flagstones. It’s also available as dimensioned rectangular pavers, if you want a regular pattern for your patio.

Guide:Pros and cons of bluestone paving

Traditional Patio by Archer & Buchanan Architecture, Ltd.
Archer & Buchanan Architecture, Ltd.
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Designer tip: Bricks, precast concrete, stone pavers and all the other modular paver types listed here are available for reuse — you just have to know how to find them. Some municipalities have reuse warehouses where residents can pick up salvaged building materials, and some paving suppliers specialize in historic reclaimed granite pavers and street bricks.
Originally published on HOUZZ, by Falon Mihalic

8 Clever Ideas for Under Your Stairs

“There are so many ways to use that space under the stairs…Sitting Area, Bookshelves, indoor door house.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
The proverb “Waste not, want not” applies to many aspects of life, and interior design is no exception. Making the most of every square foot of your home is a great way to gain the most value (both financially and emotionally) from it. If you live in a house with stairs, the space beneath them is a gold mine of creative possibilities. Here are eight ways to make the most of it.
Farmhouse Staircase by JWT Associates
JWT Associates
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1. Reading Nook

The small dimensions of the space under the stairs make it ideal for creating a cozy reading nook. This Los Angles book nook, designed by JWT Associates, is wrapped in tongue-and-groove wood paneling for a down-on-the-farm aesthetic.

Traditional Staircase by Case Design/Remodeling, Inc.
Case Design/Remodeling, Inc.
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With its white beadboard walls and storage cabinets underneath, this cozy Washington, D.C., reading nook is a great place to unwind with a good book.

Explore 15 cozy book nooks

Traditional Staircase by Jon R. Sayler, Architect AIA PS
Jon R. Sayler, Architect AIA PS
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This reading nook, by architect Jon R. Sayler for a home in Seattle, was designed around a full-size mattress. It’s a comfortable napping spot and overflow guest quarters.
Transitional Staircase by Lynn Donaldson & Associates
Lynn Donaldson & Associates
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2. Bookshelves

The shape of the space under the stairs also lends itself to built-in bookshelves. Unlike standard shelves or bookcases, under-the-stairs units take up just the right amount of space and can be made in a variety of styles.

This angular built-in bookcase in Calgary, Alberta, includes a bottom row of drawers for extra storage.

Wall paint: Lava Gray, PPG Pittsburgh Paints

Contemporary Staircase by Glenn Gissler Design
Glenn Gissler Design
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A curved staircase, like this grand example in New York, creates the perfect space for a dramatic library wall along the stairs.
Scandinavian Staircase by Texas Construction Company
Texas Construction Company
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A single-shelf bookcase cut into the bottom of the stairs can be eye-catching, as in this contemporary home in Austin, Texas.
Transitional Staircase by Von Fitz Design
Von Fitz Design
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3. Playspace

While putting a child’s bedroom under the stairs à la Harry Potter might be a little cruel, the space can make for a great play area for the young ones.

A narrow door built into the side of this Los Angeles staircase leads to a private retreat for the homeowners’ children.

Transitional Kids by Von Fitz Design
Von Fitz Design
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The interior of this playspace under the stairs include vibrant green walls, a shaggy throw pillow, faux-fur rugs and a helpful reminder about the importance of brothers.

Wall sign: Pottery Barn Kids

Contemporary Hall by CplusC Architectural Workshop
CplusC Architectural Workshop
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This contemporary nook cut into the stairs is a magical place in which kids can play and dream. CplusC Architectural Workshop designed this space for a home in Sydney.
Contemporary Home Office by Risinger Homes
Risinger Homes
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4. Office

If you don’t have an entire room available for a home office, consider the space under the stairs as a great alternative. The built-in desk and bookshelves of this modern office in Austin, Texas, make for a stylish workspace.

Discover 95 dazzling deskscapes

Contemporary Home Office by Andrew Snow Photography
Andrew Snow Photography
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It’s not necessary to build an entire office under the stairs. Sometimes a desk and chair below an open staircase do the trick, as shown in this industrial loft in Toronto.

Eames aluminum Management Group leather chair: Room & Board

Contemporary Hall by Maison de Reve Builders LLC
Maison de Reve Builders LLC
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5. Pet Space

The space under the stairs offers a wonderful private spot for a family pet. This doghouse in New Orleans features a custom wrought iron gate made to match the stair railing above.

Contemporary Entry by Candlelight Homes
Candlelight Homes
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Simply adding a water bowl, food bowl and dog bed to an alcove under the stairs also creates a custom and stylish space for your pet.
Contemporary Powder Room by Electric Mirror
Electric Mirror
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6. Powder Room

Adding a bathroom, even just a powder room, is a great way to raise the value of your home. The space under the stairs may provide just enough space for a toilet and sink, as seen in the marble-clad powder room above.

Traditional Powder Room by My Bespoke Room Ltd
My Bespoke Room Ltd
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This London powder room, by My Bespoke Room Ltd., makes good use of the small space under the stairs.

Browse 102 pretty powder rooms

Contemporary Staircase by Pinnacle Mountain Homes
Pinnacle Mountain Homes
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7. Wine Storage

For the wine enthusiast, finding storage space for bottles can be a challenge. Consider the space under the stairs as a prime location to add wine racks or even a walk-in wine cellar, as seen above.

Contemporary Staircase by Jeri Koegel Photography
Jeri Koegel Photography
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If you don’t have enough room for a walk-in wine cellar under your stairs, a few stylish wine racks might do the trick. This modern space in Los Angeles can hold up to 33 wine bottles.

Eames molded plastic stacking side chair: Design Within Reach

Traditional Staircase by Keechi Creek Builders
Keechi Creek Builders
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8. Hybrid

If you’re having a difficult time deciding between one option for your space under the stairs, why not try two? This Houston home, designed by Keechi Creek Builders, has both a doghouse and office space under the stairs.

Eclectic Staircase by Feldman Architecture, Inc.
Feldman Architecture, Inc.
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This San Francisco home, designed byFeldman Architecture Inc., includes a built-in bookshelf under the stairs …
Eclectic Staircase by Feldman Architecture, Inc.
Feldman Architecture, Inc.
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… and the bookshelf is also a secret door that leads to a children’s playspace.

Discover secret doors and hidden passages

Eclectic Laundry Room by John Hannah Architectural Design & Rendering
John Hannah Architectural Design & Rendering
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Finally, this cleverly designed space under the stairs in a Montreal home has a washing machine and dryer, as well as an alcove where the family cat likes to hang out.
Originally Published on HOUZZ, by Bryan Anthony

Gap Under the Deck: Hide It or Use It!

“Knowing what to do ‘under’ your deck, can be a challenge.  To do storage, or not to do storage.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
At last your ready to install the deck of your dreams. Before you begin construction, it’s important to consider how to address the underside of the deck and accompanying staircase. If the deck will extend from the second story, this can be quite a lot of potentially usable space. There will be less space to address if the deck will extend from the ground-level story, but the eye will still be drawn to that dark (often weedy) slit of earth.

So how do you maximize this awkward space? Whether you want to completely hide this area, create a semiprivate screen or turn it into storage, here are six ideas to help transform what’s often a landscape eyesore into a landscape feature.

Modern Landscape by ecodesign Pty Ltd
ecodesign Pty Ltd
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1. Soften the edges with plantings. If you don’t feel the need to completely obscure the deck’s underside, try surrounding it with plants. They will soften the deck’s edges and in the absence of railings will act as a natural barrier to keep people from stepping off into the surrounding bed.

Tip: Be sure to include some evergreens so there will be screening year-round. Agaves surround this Australian deck.

Asian Landscape by Kikuchi + Kankel Design Group
Kikuchi + Kankel Design Group
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Depending on your home’s style, mixing boulders with plantings can work well for obscuring the underside of a deck as well.
Contemporary Landscape by D-CRAIN Design and Construction
D-CRAIN Design and Construction
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2. Terrace with planters. If you want to completely block the underside of the deck, one option is to build a planter around the deck’s perimeter. It is a great way to soften the deck’s edge with plantings and is an interesting alternative to railings.

Tip: It’s standard that a deck 30 inches or more above grade level must have a railing at least 36 inches tall. Be sure to check your local building codes.

Step Up Your Garden Game With Terraced Plantings

Traditional Porch by Gardner/Fox Associates, Inc
Gardner/Fox Associates, Inc
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3. Screen artistically. A screen can be a perfect solution if you want to obscure the underside of a deck or staircase while still allowing light to pass through. This is a good option if the space underneath the deck will be used for storage or as a separate entertaining space. A trellis for this purpose is both functional and economical.
Modern Patio by Keith Willig Landscape Services, Inc.
Keith Willig Landscape Services, Inc.
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Tip: A trellis surrounding a deck or staircase is a great place to grow vines or an espaliered tree. It helps break up the space and provides seasonal interest and color.
Contemporary Exterior by Mark English Architects, AIA
Mark English Architects, AIA
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The underside of a staircase can be especially tricky. Try horizontal slats. This is definitely a modern look, but it’s a great way to turn an awkward space into a feature that ties in with the home’s architecture.
Eclectic Landscape Global Garden, San Carlos
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Why not use this space to showcase your creative side? Laser-cut metal panels allow light to pass through in beautiful patterns while providing ample screening and privacy. These panels have a fabric backdrop and are backlit at night for drama.
Traditional Patio by Goodman Landscape Design
Goodman Landscape Design
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4. Build a solid wall to blend the deck with the house. If you want to completely hide the area under your deck, create a wall that extends from the base of the deck to the ground.

Tip: Use materials that match the style of your home. Here wood shingles on the side of the deck mimic the wood shingles on the home. Matching materials is a great way to create a cohesive look between your home and its surrounding landscape features.

Contemporary Exterior by Sam Crawford Architects
Sam Crawford Architects
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5. Extend steps the entire length of the deck. By extending the steps the length of the deck, you not only will successfully hide the underside of the deck, but you’ll also create an open, graceful transition from the deck to the garden beyond.
Contemporary Deck by RDM Architecture
RDM Architecture
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Tip: Create wide steps with a run of 1½ feet or more. By doing so, you’ll lessen the angle of descent, making them safer as well as creating an inviting place for casual seating.
Traditional Deck by PLATFORM design studio
PLATFORM design studio
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6. Add storage. Creating ample storage around the home is a challenge for most of us, especially when it comes to our yards. Just like indoors, the underside of a deck or staircase is a perfect space to convert into storage; use it for items such as garden tools, empty pots and outdoor recreational equipment.

Tip: Even if your deck is only 2 or 3 feet off the ground, creating a hatch for access to the crawl space is a good idea if you have utilities or pipes that run under your deck.

Rustic Porch by Tate + Burns Architects LLC
Tate + Burns Architects LLC
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Make sure the items stored under your deck are weatherproof. If not, place them in watertight bins, as rainwater and runoff from pots will seep through deck boards onto whatever is placed below.

Regardless of the size of the space under your deck and stairs, there’s a creative solution for every situation that will suit not only your needs but also the style of your home and garden.

Originally published on HOUZZ, by Courtney Olander

Pegboard Ideas for Your Whole House

“It’s amazing how useful pegboard can be all around the house, and it doesn’t have to be a dingy ‘board’ color.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
Pegboard is an old-fashioned material that today’s savvy homeowners are using in rooms throughout the house. I’ve spied items as disparate as kitchen utensils, baseball mitts, hammers, necklaces and even paintings and sock monkeys pegged to walls featured on Houzz. If you have an area that needs some organizational help and you’ve run out of shelf and closet space, check out these clever ways to make pegboad work hard for you.
Contemporary Garage And Shed by Wyndhamdesign
Wyndhamdesign
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Over the workbench. When my family was house-hunting years ago, my father kept saying, “But where am I going to put my [work]shop in this house?” My mother replied, “Danny, all you do in your ‘shop’ is hang your tools on a pegboard and open paint cans!” Which sent us all into fits of laughter, picturing the carefully hung tools that never seemed to leave his pegboard. But I digress. Pegboard’s classic spot is above a workbench, with all those myriad tools hung within easy reach.
Eclectic Kitchen by Liv By Design Interiors
Liv By Design Interiors
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In the kitchen. Julia Child famously appropriated the workbench staple for her kitchen, hanging copper pots and utensils on it. Today you can see her kitchen at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.

More: Boost Your Kitchen Storage With Pegboard on a Wall

Eclectic Home Office by Valerie Wilcox: Photographer
Valerie Wilcox: Photographer
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In the study or drafting studio. Pegboard is a material that architects, interior designers and others have been using in their studios for a long time. It’s a great place to hang the compass, T-square and other drafting tools and art supplies. It also provides space for inspirational artwork.
Contemporary Home Office by Bright Bold and Beautiful
Bright Bold and Beautiful
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In the art studio. Watercolor artist Laura Trevey uses this pegboard to display her work. Notice how she painted the pegboard a lovely pale blue and framed it with molding. Also worth noting is the easy solution of hanging unframed (perhaps even wet) artwork with binder clips.
Contemporary Nursery by The Home
The Home
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In a child’s room. Art, utensils, supplies, even a stuffed monkey can be hung and moved around with ease on pegboard. Covering the entire wall gives the objects a cohesive look.

Safety note: Be sure to keep the objects out of the reach of tots who are able to pull themselves up to a standing position.

Contemporary Nursery by The Home
The Home
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Here’s a closer look at the variety of things the pegboard holds in the nursery. With shelves like these, pegboard near a changing table could hold lots of supplies, such as baby powder and wipes.
Scandinavian Kids by Mitchell Wall Architecture & Design
Mitchell Wall Architecture & Design
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A triptych of blue pegboards serves a similar function in an older child’s room.

Light: Ikea

Transitional Home Office by Bickford And Company
Bickford And Company
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In the craft or sewing room. If you make regular trips to fabric and craft stores such as Michaels and Jo-Ann, you’re probably in dire need of pegboard. Keep hoops, ribbon, pliers, thread, tape, scissors and other tools organized so you can find everything you need when you need it.
Transitional Laundry Room by JALIN Design, LLC
JALIN Design, LLC
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At a gift wrap station. Long pegs can hold all of your ribbons, while standard ones will hold scissors and tape. Hanging baskets can corral gift tags and pens.
Transitional Closet by Clos-ette Too
Clos-ette Too
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In the dressing room. There’ll be no more tangled necklaces if they’re hanging from pegboard. There’s plenty of room for hats, scarves and headbands too. If you aren’t lucky enough to have a walk-in closet or dressing room, this idea can also work well on a bedroom wall.
Contemporary Bathroom by ZeroEnergy Design
ZeroEnergy Design
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In the bathroom. I know whenever I need to reach for my hair dryer, I’m going to knock over every other object in the cabinet as I pull it out. A pegboard insert in this clever medicine cabinet has a special place for everything, keeping counters clear and cords untangled.
Contemporary Kids by Wanda Ely Architect Inc.
Wanda Ely Architect Inc.
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In the playroom. Hang canisters from pegs to hold crayons, markers and safety scissors in the art area. This will provide a place for everything and help keep the area neater when it’s not in use. Pegboard also provides a spot to hang fresh artwork from binder clips, as previously seen.
Midcentury Entry by Front Studio Architects
Front Studio Architects
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In the entryway. This New York City couple covered two walls and the ceiling in simple pegboard from Home Depot. In terms of function, they wanted a place to hang all their kids’ gear and their own bags and hats before the stuff made its way into the living spaces and cluttered things up. In terms of form, covering two walls and a ceiling gave the space a unified look.
Midcentury Home Office by Hunkydory Home
Hunkydory Home
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At the landing strip. If you’re not ready to cover a wall in pegboard, that’s OK. Even a small pegboard can hold keys, tickets, sunglasses and those other important items you need to grab as you go out the front door.
Modern Garage And Shed by Joseph Sandy
Joseph Sandy
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In the garage. More expansive sheets of pegboard and heavy-duty pegs can hold large tools and keep floor space open for the car.
Contemporary Garage And Shed by diamondLife
diamondLife
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If you think pegboard might look too old-fashioned for you, check out new options in steel. They’ll fit right in if the room is sleek and contemporary.

Pegboard: PegBoard X2 in stainless steel

Originally published on HOUZZ, by Becky Harris

Get Your Broom Closet Just Right

“Is your pantry or hall closet overflowing with stuff and you don’t know what else to do?  Here are several ideas that you can try in your home.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team 
The Broom Closet (or cupboard) may be tiny, but it can cause major frustration when it’s not designed well. Whether you’re looking to incorporate a new broom closet into your remodel or want to better outfit your existing utility zone, these ideas can help.

Hardworking space: The broom closet.
The challenge: This compact space has a very specific purpose: storing the tools you need to get household jobs done. But with brooms, mops and unwieldy vacuum hoses tumbling out, and a jumble of cleaning products in the way, what should be quick and easy can be a real headache. These tips will help you choose the right spot for storing housekeeping necessities and organize them well.
Good to know: If you’re having trouble fitting all of your cleaning tools and supplies in the kitchen, consider spreading out. Put the big vacuum in another closet and store only the broom and dustpan or a slim stick vacuum in the kitchen cupboard.

Contemporary Kitchen by Oakville Kitchen and Bath Centre
Oakville Kitchen and Bath Centre
Design idea: Shallow broom cupboard.

Why: The appeal of a shallow cupboard for storing brooms and cleaning supplies is that everything can be easily reached, which means no tumbling bottles!

Planning tips: If you are planning a kitchen remodel, it’s ideal to figure out which cleaning tools and products you need to store beforedeciding on a broom cupboard. If the only tools that need storing are a broom and a basic mop, you may be able to do a broom cupboard as shallow as 6 inches deep. Even a very shallow cabinet can hold a broom, a stepladder and essential cleaning supplies, as shown here. If you have a stick vacuum or bulky mop, you may require 12 or 16 inches.

Kitchen by MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc.
MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc.
Extras: Customize your broom cupboard with a wall-mounted holder designed to keep long-handled items like brooms, mops and dusters upright and out of the way. A separate upper cabinet for heavy-duty cleaning supplies allows for latching, which is especially important if there are kids in the house.

Layout tip: The area beside the refrigerator is a good place to look for a few extra inches of space for your slim broom cupboard.

Cost: Starting at around $100 (plus installation) for a no-frills Ikea model; $500 and up for finer finishes and better materials; more for a custom design. Be aware that most professional kitchen designers will do a piece like this only as part of a larger job — and estimating the cost of one component can be complicated.

Traditional Closet by Nicholson Builders
Nicholson Builders
Design idea: Subdivided cabinet.

Why: If you have the space, a tall cabinet with a partition in the center is a great way to store a lot while keeping everything in its place — vacuums and sweepers on one side, cleaning products on the other.

Extras: A tall, slim basket unit with pullout drawers is a good way to organize supplies. Install a few hooks in the cabinet or on the inside of the cabinet doors to hang a step stool, dusters and other tools. If you use a cordless stick vacuum, having an outlet installed inside the cabinet will make it easy to charge it between uses.

Contemporary Closet by Leicht Küchen AG
Leicht Küchen AG
More ideas for extras: A vacuum hose guide is a worthwhile (and sanity-saving) investment that wrangles that unwieldy hose. In a smaller cabinet, wall-mounted wire baskets are a good option for keeping small items at hand.

Cost: Around $550 to $1,500 for a tall cabinet with a single partition; more for a custom design. If you want to add an electrical outlet inside the cabinet, you may need a permit. Wall-mounted basket units and vacuum hose guides cost around $10 and up each; a basket unit with pullout drawers costs $100 and up.

Traditional by Carmel Builders
Carmel Builders
Design idea: Pullout broom closet.

Why: To take advantage of a narrow but deep space in your kitchen.

Hardworking details: A space accessible from both sides is handy for stowing a small garbage can or recycling bin. Choose adjustable shelving whenever possible, since this will allow you to get just the right shelf height for what you’re storing. And if you really don’t want to let an inch go to waste, use the inside top of the cabinet to install an old-fashioned pencil sharpener — look closely and you can see one here.

Cost: From around $250 plus installation for a basic ready-made pullout cabinet from Ikea; more for a solid wood or custom design.

Closet Hardworking Home: Hall Closets
Small-space organizing tip: Use the back of the door.

How: Houzz user Kara Gilbert sent in this photo of her organized broom closet with a shoe rack on the back of the door — perfect when you need to make a closet work as hard as possible. The shoe rack holds first-aid supplies and toiletries in labeled pouches, while bins on open shelving provide ample storage. A small wall-mounted holder keeps cleaning tools out of the way, and a vacuum with a small footprint sits on the floor.

Rustic by LLG Residential Design LLC
LLG Residential Design LLC
Alternate idea: If you don’t have a dedicated broom closet, install a holder on the back of your pantry or kitchen door to stash brooms, mops and dusters.
Contemporary by storeWALL
storeWALL
Design idea: Storage wall in a utility room.

Why: If you have the luxury of more space for storing cleaning tools and supplies, make sure it’s put to good use by installing a versatile wall-mounted storage system that can handle anything from mops to hammers.

How: Choose from ready-made wall storage systems, like the one shown here, which can be customized with shelving, baskets and other features. Or craft a DIY version using basic pegboard from the hardware store and outfit it with hooks and baskets.

Cost: Wall storage systems can cost from $200 to $600 (and up), depending on size and features. You can install a pegboard for $100 or less, using materials from the hardware store and your own labor.

Smart Solutions for Clothes Closets

“Ever struggled with how to store your clothes in the space you have?  Looking for some new ideas?  These just might work for you.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
Whether yours is spacious or practically pocket size, the clothing closet is a space that can nearly always use some improvement. Here are tips for adjusting the layout, choosing the right closet components and finding extra space.

Hardworking space: The clothes closet.
The challenge: When the clothes closet is working well, it makes getting ready (and getting on with your day) a breeze; when it’s not, mornings can become a hassle. These ideas can help you find the right storage and organizing plan for your space.
Good to know: It helps to measure your stuff before investing in a closet system — that way you can be sure you’re getting exactly the right storage for your wardrobe.

by Neat Method San Diego
Neat Method San Diego
Design idea: Double up on hanging rods and make room for narrow shelving.

Why: Having enough room to hang your crisp shirts is a must, but using a sliver of extra closet space for a tall, narrow shelving unit can be worth sacrificing a bit of hanging space — shoes, jeans and sweaters can all fit on shelves 12 to 16 inches wide (measure your belongings to see what size you need).

Cost: From $100 for a simple freestanding shelving component; more for a semicustom unit with integrated shelving and hanging rods.

by Neat Method San Diego
Neat Method San Diego
DIY idea: Bookcase as closet storage.

Why: A simple bookcase with adjustable shelves is often just the right size for holding shoes, boots, bags and more.

Extras: To use your bookcase as storage for sweaters, add shelf dividers to keep piles from toppling over. If you keep your shoes in their boxes, label the outside with a photo of the shoes so you can tell what’s what at a glance.

Cost: From about $150 for a simple bookcase. Or repurpose a bookcase from elsewhere in your home for free.

Contemporary Bedroom by Sims Hilditch
Sims Hilditch
Contemporary Bedroom by Sims Hilditch
Sims Hilditch
Design idea: Wardrobe behind the bed.

Why: Get more function out of a spacious master bedroom by using free space for a dresser and wardrobe. Positioned in the same zone, these pieces act like a dressing room, with everything you need to get ready in one place.

How: Position the master bed in the center of the room instead of on a wall to allow room for a dressing area behind the bed. This works best with a large (king- or California king–size) bed with a solid headboard, as shown here. Place your dresser behind the headboard, facing the closet or a freestanding wardrobe.

Layout tip: This arrangement works well onlyin large bedrooms — once everything is positioned, you should have 3 to 4 feet (or more) between the dresser and closet doors.

Contemporary Closet by Gregory Davies Photography
Gregory Davies Photography
Design idea: Sliding shoe shelves.

Why: This smart space saver can pack dozens of pairs of shoes into a relatively small space.

How: Many cabinets and closet systems can be customized with sliding shelves. If you already have a closet system, purchase components from the same manufacturer to ensure that they fit. If you are creating a closet from scratch, work with a closet designer toget exactly the shoe storage you need.

Planning tips: Note the measurements of the shoe shelves you will be purchasing, and tape out the dimensions on your floor. Then fill the space with shoes you want to store — this will allow you to know precisely how many pairs each shelf will fit. Pay attention to the height of the shoes you want to store, too — flats and sneakers can go on shelves positioned closer together; heels and boots need more space.

Cost: From $50 to $150 and up per shelf.

Eclectic Closet by Jason Snyder
Jason Snyder
Small-closet tips: Make the most of a small, shallow closet by outfitting it with components that make sense. Instead of one long hanging rod, go with a pair of shorter valet rods to hang clothes boutique-style. Fill in all the extra space above and below the rods with shelving for shoes, accessories and sweaters, and install hooks under the shelves to hold bags or scarves.
Transitional Closet by BHSDesign
BHSDesign
Design idea: Pullout accessory cabinet.

Why: Sneak a lot of storage into a sliver of space with a slim pullout closet component for shoes, bags and more.

How: This is best worked into a larger closet design plan. Look for pullout shelving in a ready-made closet system, or work with your closet designer to create the perfect slide-out shoe shelf for you.

Planning tip: Take the time to measure your shoes, bags and anything else you hope to store before choosing a piece like this — it won’t do you much good if your favorite shoes are too big to fit inside!

Cost: Around $500 and up, with higher costs for better materials, more intricate details, additional shelving and custom designs.

Eclectic Closet by Nanette Wong
Nanette Wong
DIY project: Make your own scrap-wood closet components.

Why: Handy folks can save cash by building their own shelving and hanging rods. Doing it yourself also will allow you to customize the pieces to fit your space perfectly.

How: Use scrap wood and simple brackets to create shelves to store clothes, shoes and accessories. To make a hanging rod, drill a hole near each end of a wooden pole. Thread rope through each hole and knot it securely before attaching to the ceiling — an improperly tied knot, an insecure connection or too much weight on the rod can cause it to fall. If you’re at all unsure, get a handyperson to install it for you.

Cost: If the components are purchased new from a home improvement store, a project like this could cost from $200 to $500. To keep costs lower, search locally for free or low-cost scrap wood and supplies.

My Houzz: 2 Tools + 1 Resourceful Guy = Lots of Great ‘New’ Furniture

Contemporary Closet by Architecture Architecture
Architecture Architecture
Design idea: Ceiling-mounted curtain track.

Why: Hide a wall of clothing storage with the sweep of a curtain — a great solution for studio apartments and other small spaces.

How: Hang ceiling-mounted curtain tracks along the length of your closet storage wall.

Planning tip: Measure carefully before ordering curtains to ensure they are long enough to reach from ceiling to floor — you can always have them hemmed a bit shorter, but if they are too short, there’s not much you can do.

Cost: $5 to $50 for a ceiling-mounted curtain track, plus the cost of the curtains.

Hardworking Home: Clothes Closets
Design idea: Outfit a spare room as a dressing room.

Why: If you’re short on closet space but lucky enough to have a spare room, turning it into a spacious walk-in closet and dressing area can make getting ready a pleasure. Using closet components that can be removed will give you the flexibility to use the room for another purpose (guest room, nursery, office) down the road.

How: Houzz user babacon, who shared this photo with us, used pieces from the Hemnes line at Ikea to transform a small spare room into a highly functional dressing space. Dresser drawers and shelving hold folded clothes and shoes, while storage above hanging rods holds items used less frequently.

Cost: $400 to $800 for dressers and basic closet components, installed yourself.

Turn That Spare Room Into a Walk-In Closet

Hardworking Home: Clothes Closets
Extras: Houzz user pmartinezv used Ikea’s Pax closet components to turn a spare room into a walk-in wardrobe — and kicked it up a notch by adding a sparkling chandelier and a comfy stool for perching while putting on shoes.
Traditional Closet by 3north
3north
Design quandary: Open or closed storage? If your closet is visible from the master bedroom, consider going with closed storage— an open closet can be less-than-restful to look at when you’re trying to unwind. A few doors with mirrors will save you from needing to hang a full-length mirror elsewhere. If you have a walk-in closet, you may want to leave off the doors. It will cut costs and allow you to see your wardrobe at a glance.
Contemporary Closet by C+M Studio
C+M Studio
Design idea: Open hanging and accessory storage space in the bedroom.

Why: Supplement limited (read: overstuffed) closet space with a hanging rod, a bench and woven bins for accessory storage in the bedroom. Give outfits for the upcoming week room to breathe and keep favorite shoes and accessories close at hand with this setup.

How: Install a ready-made hanging clothes rod or create your own using plumbing pipe and fittings from the hardware store. A bench positioned beneath the hanging rod (purchased or made to fit) can be a perch for putting on shoes or can act as a shelf. Tuck a few baskets beneath the bench to hold accessories or sweaters.

Clutter-busting tip: This setup runs the risk of looking messy if you store too many clothes on the rack. Instead of thinking of this as a second closet, treat it as a weekly display area where you can keep your current seasonal favorites within reach and come up with new outfit combinations. Pay attention to what you bring into this zone — things that don’t make the cut could be items to consider culling.

Cost: From around $20 to $75 for a hanging rod or plumbing pipe and fittings, depending on materials and size, plus the cost of the bench and baskets.

Originally published on HOUZZ, by Laura Gaskill

7 Deer-Resistant Flowering Trees

“Tired of deer munching on your trees.  But not sure what they ‘won’t’ eat?  Here are some tree that you can plant that deer don’t seem to care for.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
Deer love to browse the tender, succulent growth of most young trees and will sometimes strip the bark from them as well. As the trees mature, it’s not uncommon to see deer up on their hind legs yanking down tasty leaves. There are very few flowering trees that deer don’t enjoy, so we’re offering a list of seven of the best.Fall planting season is just around the corner, so we’ve decided to provide a comprehensive guide for deer-resistant species. Just as you’d expect with any good planting guide, we’ll break it down by specific plant categories — here with flowering trees. Whether you’re gardening in USDA zone 2, 10 or somewhere in between, there’s a tree here for you.

Landscape Chionanthus Virginicus
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1. Fringetree
(Chionanthus spp.)Fringe trees aren’t a household name, but they should be. The dainty, fringy flowers appear in early spring, just as the leaves unfurl. They’re quite shade-tolerant and are commonly planted as an understory specimen in a shade garden, where they really light up the space when in bloom. They will also tolerate full sun.

The Chinese fringetree (C. retusus) is particularly deer-resistant, though the Eastern U.S. native white fringetree (C. virginicus) is also a worthwhile choice where deer are an issue.

Where it will grow: Hardy to -20 degrees Fahrenheit (USDA zones 5 to 9; find your zone)
Light requirement: Shade-tolerant but will also tolerate full sun
Water requirement: High
Mature size: 15 to 20 feet tall and wide

See how to grow white fringetree

Transitional Landscape by Creative Environments
Creative Environments
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2. Crape Myrtle
(Lagerstroemia indica)Crape myrtles are one of the most popular flowering trees in warm climates. They have smooth, exfoliating bark and their brightly colored, paper-textured flowers make a stunning midsummer display — few trees flower for as long as crape myrtles. These sun lovers are tough, easy to grow and quite unpalatable to deer.

Many varieties of crape myrtle are available with different flower colors and sizes. Shades of pink, purple and white are most common, and sizes range from 18-inch dwarves to 40-foot giants.

Where it will grow: Hardy to 0 degrees Fahrenheit (zones 7 to 9)
Light requirement: Full sun
Water requirement: Moderate
Mature size: Varies by species

See how to grow crape myrtle

Craftsman Exterior by Acton Construction, Inc.
Acton Construction, Inc.
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3. Saucer Magnolia
(Magnolia x soulangeana)With their delicate pink blush and teacup size, the flowers of saucer magnolia are a real head-turner when they emerge on the tree’s bare, gray branches in late winter. Despite their delicate appearance, these flowers are fairly resistant to deer damage. Plant these small- to medium-sized trees in full sun in a fertile bed of topsoil to encourage good health and abundant flowering. Saucer magnolias grow slowly to 20 or 25 feet, though there are related magnolia varieties, such as M. ‘Ann’, that stay under 10 feet tall when mature.

Most magnolias are quite deer-resistant, so you can also consider star magnolias (M. stellata), with large, white, star-shaped flowers; southern magnolias (M. grandiflora), with white, cup-shaped flowers on a large evergreen tree; and many others. Saucer magnolias are hardy in zones 5 to 9, but some magnolia varieties survive down to Zone 3.

Where it will grow: Hardy to -20 degrees Fahrenheit (zones 5 to 9)
Light requirement: Full sun
Water requirement: Moderate, but prefers moist, fertile soil
Mature size: 20 to 25 feet tall

See how to grow saucer magnolia

Traditional Landscape by GardenArt
GardenArt
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4. Serviceberry
(Amelanchier spp.)Serviceberries are native throughout North America and are known for their delicious blueberry-like fruit, as well as the profusion of white flowers that appear when the trees break from dormancy in early spring. They tolerate partial shade to full sun.

There are numerous species of serviceberry, all of which show good deer resistance. They are a popular choice in cold climates; one species, commonly referred to as a Saskatoon (A. alnifolia), is hardy all the way down to Zone 2. The same species can be suitable all the way up to Zone 10, making it one of the most widely adapted flowering trees. The cold- hardiness of other serviceberry species falls somewhere in between. Most varieties grow about 15 to 20 feet tall, though the downy serviceberry (A. arborea) grows up to 40 feet.

Where it will grow: Hardy to -50 degrees Fahrenheit (zones 2 to 9), depending on species
Light requirement: Varies by species
Water requirement: Varies by species
Mature size: Varies by species

See how to grow serviceberry

Landscape by Monrovia
Monrovia
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5. Flowering Quince
(Chaenomeles spp.)This type of quince is known for its spring flower display, not for its fruit.The flowers are most often seen in shades of pink or red, but white cultivars are also available. Flowering quince is a true dwarf that rarely grows more than 6 feet tall and wide. The variety pictured here is called ‘Pink Storm’.

Where it will grow: Hardy to -20 degrees Fahrenheit (zones 5 to 9)
Light requirement: Full sun
Water requirement: Moderate to regular
Mature size: 6 feet tall and wide, depending on species

Traditional Pool by Golightly Landscape Architecture
Golightly Landscape Architecture
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6. Hawthorn
(Crataegus spp.)There are many species of hawthorn available, and on the whole they are tough, adaptable trees, tolerating both wet and dry sites. The white flowers are often tinged with pink, like an apple blossom. They are, in fact, closely related to apple trees and produce a small crabapple-like fruit that is edible but usually very bitter.

Hawthorns vary in size, but most are in the range of 15 to 30 feet tall and wide. They are cold-hardy trees, with some species growing as far north as Zone 3. Other hawthorns tolerate warmer regions up to Zone 9. ‘Winter King’, the variety pictured here, is hardy in zones 4 to 7.

Where it will grow: Varies by species
Light requirement: Full sun
Water requirement: Moderate
Mature size: 15 to 30 feet tall and wide, depending on species

Traditional Landscape by Wallace Landscape Associates
Wallace Landscape Associates
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7. Chinese Dogwood
(Cornus kousa)Chinese dogwood is absolutely covered in white flowers in spring. It is also known for its ornate shape and 1-inch red berries that ripen in summer (they’re edible but bland).

Where it will grow: Hardy to -20 degrees Fahrenheit (zones 5 to 8)
Light requirement: Full sun or part shade
Water requirement: Consistent moisture
Mature size: 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide

Guide to Selling Your Home and Moving

“It can be a daunting task to get ready to sell your home and move.  Having a list of steps to follow makes things easier.  Work with your Real Estate agent to make sure which ones of these apply to your situation.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson
From finding a real estate agent, prepping, staging and selling your home to packing up and moving, the entire process of getting out of one home and into another can be overwhelming. Whether you are still debating if you should remodel your home or just move, or feel ready to put up a for-sale sign, this guide is a good place to start — it’s packed with advice and articles from Houzz covering just about every aspect of selling and moving. It can’t do the work for you, but perhaps it will at least help you feel more organized in the middle of this inevitably messy process.
Contemporary Kitchen by LINCOLN BARBOUR PHOTO
LINCOLN BARBOUR PHOTO
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Find the right real estate agent. A good real estate agent is one you not only trust to help sell your home quickly and for the best price, but also to support and educate you throughout the selling process. As you are searching for an agent, look for someone with a realistic but tactful approach. A good agent will be able to name a few drawbacks of your home — as well as the selling points.

Beach Style Entry by Francesca Owings Interior Design
Francesca Owings Interior Design
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Make a plan to prepare your house for sale. As soon as you make the decision to sell your home, start a master list (or several lists) to keep track of potential home repairs and other tasks, from tiny to major. It’s easy to let the to-dos make your head swim, and having everything on paper (or a note on your phone) can help you stay on track. Decide on a timeline for the “launch” of your home sale, and work backward from the date of your first open house to figure out when you need to complete tasks.

Tip: If you need to get a lot of furniture and accessories out of your home while it’s on the market, consider renting a storage unit. It could be worth the expense it if it helps your house show better and sell faster.

Transitional Kitchen by Annette English
Annette English
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Decide what to fix and what to leave be. The sad fact is, it is unlikely you will be able to recoup the full cost of home improvements in the sale of your home — so make the most of your money and choose fixes wisely. One criterion to use when deciding whether to fix something before the sale is to ask if the item gives the impression that the property has not been well cared for. Leaky faucets, cracked tiles, a broken doorbell or anything that doesn’t work as it should can raise a red flag for buyers.

Tip: Always ask yourself if you can you find a less expensive fix before committing to a big-ticket item. Can you repaint the cabinets rather than replace them? Clean and polish the wood floors instead of refinishing?

More: Fix It or Not? What to Ask When Prepping Your Home for Sale

Traditional Porch by Highland Homes, Inc.
Highland Homes, Inc.
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Boost curb appeal. There’s much ado about curb appeal in the real estate world with good reason — many potential buyers make a first drive-by trip to see your home and decide then and there whether attending the open house is even worth a visit. Draw people in with big, bold house numbers, a freshly painted front door and blooming flowers.

Tip: Don’t forget the garage door. If your garage is positioned near the front of your home, any flaws in this area can detract from the overall impression.

More: 17 Ways to Increase Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Traditional Exterior by Eric H. Gjerde AIA
Eric H. Gjerde AIA
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Tweak your home to help it sell. Budget-friendly fixes often have the biggest impact, so it makes sense to start there. Quickly clean the exterior and landscape, steam clean the carpeting, replace worn area rugs and fix any scuff marks, nail holes and paint cracks. If your bathroom needs updating, give it a quick makeover with a new showerhead, faucet and fluffy white towels.

More:
10 Low-Cost Tweaks to Help Your Home Sell
10 Ways to Boost Your Home’s Resale Value

Contemporary Family Room by nicole helene designs
nicole helene designs
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Get a fair home appraisal. Avoid being shocked by a home appraisal that comes in below what you think your home is worth by doing some homework in advance. Before your appraisal, make a list of recent improvements to your home, including everything from renovating the kitchen to painting your deck. And ask if your real estate agent can tag along on the appraisal — he or she may be able to offer some insight about the unique benefits of your home.

The Dos and Don’ts of Home Appraisal

Traditional Exterior by Smith & Vansant Architects PC
Smith & Vansant Architects PC
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Stage your home to sell. Before you start buying new throw pillows, stagers agree it’s best to get your house sparkling clean and decluttered. Aim to make as much room as possible on surfaces and inside closets and cupboards to show off your space. Make sure each room has a clearly defined purpose. There’s no shame in having a room that’s a bit of a mishmash, but no one wants to see it like that during an open house. Buy, rent or borrow inexpensive furnishings to make a clearly defined room out of the mess, and enjoy a big payoff.

Tip: Don’t forget to stage the outdoor areas, too. A shined-up stainless steel grill and a hammock in the backyard help potential buyers imagine enjoying summer weekends hosting barbecues and relaxing.

More:
Sell Your Home Fast: 21 Staging Tips
How to Stage Your Kitchen for a Home Sale
10 Tricks to Help Your Bathroom Sell Your House

Modern Hall by Webber + Studio, Architects
Webber + Studio, Architects
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Save money on staging. Showing your home at its best doesn’t have to mean spending a lot of money. Pare back what you already own, and borrow items from a friend or relative if you need to fill in gaps. If you do end up making a few purchases, choose things you would like to use in your new home, too.

More: Save Money on Home Staging and Still Sell Faster

Traditional Family Room by Brian Watford ID
Brian Watford ID
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Get listing photos right. The listing photos of your home will be responsible for drawing most people into that first open house. When the photographer comes to take pictures, make sure every lamp is turned on, all the window coverings are pulled open and the floors are shiny and clean. In the listing, make sure your real estate agent only includes photos of your home’s most attractive rooms, plus written descriptions of the other spaces. Potential buyers will be attracted by your home’s best features — don’t wreck it by including a photo of that dated powder room.

Tip: The more flooring that can be seen, the larger the room will appear, so consider removing area rugs before having photos taken.

More: Attract Home Buyers Easily With Great Photography

Beach Style Exterior by Polhemus Savery DaSilva
Polhemus Savery DaSilva
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Prep your home for an open house. You’ve put in a lot of work to get your home ready for showtime, so don’t drop the ball by skipping important details on the day of the open house. Cleanliness ranks number one in importance, so be sure to sweep up every last breakfast crumb and smear of toothpaste on the bathroom sink, and sneaky dust bunnies in the corners. Also make a quick run through the house, removing any personal items (party invites, mail, school projects) that have migrated onto the fridge and counters.

Tip: For your own security and peace of mind, remember to shut down and password-protect all your computers, and hide small valuables.

More: 7 Must-Dos on the Day You Show Your House

by Becky Dietrich, Interior Designer
Becky Dietrich, Interior Designer
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Downsize without losing your cool. If you’re going to be moving into a smaller space, figuring out what to keep and what to get rid of can be a massive headache. Start by listing your must-have, nonnegotiable items, and commit to bringing these things with you. Measure carefully and bring only the items you know will fit in the new space. Get rid of duplicates and invest in storage solutions for the new place.

More:
Tips for Moving Into a Smaller Space
Downsizing Help: Choosing What Furniture to Leave Behind

Eclectic Kitchen by Corynne Pless
Corynne Pless
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Take time to say goodbye to your old place. Leaving a home, especially one you have lived in for many years, can be an emotional event. Consider taking some photos of your old home before you pack up, when your rooms are not clean and tidy, but just as they are on a normal day. Having a small photo album can be a comfort when you’re waxing nostalgic about your old house, and can be a wonderful keepsake for kids. And if you’re in the mood for some fun, throw one last party in your old place amid the boxes and packing tape.

More: Saying Goodbye to One Home and Hello to Another

Midcentury Living Room by yamamar design
yamamar design
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Be a savvy buyer. When looking for your new place, the home inspection can tell you only so much. Keep your own list of items of personal importance to you, and check them off each time you look at a potential home. For instance, you may want to consider indoor-outdoor flow, layout, size and placement of windows, natural light and closeness to neighbors.

More: Home-Buying Checklist: 20 Things to Consider Beyond the Inspection

Contemporary Exterior by Coates Design Architects Seattle
Coates Design Architects Seattle
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Pack smart for a smoother move. If you remember only one tip to make moving easier, make it this one: Purge before you pack. The more stuff you have to move, the more it will cost, the longer it will take and the more challenging it will be, both to pack and unpack.

Tip: Keep a master packing list. Number each box as you pack it and mark the number on all four sides. Instead of listing the contents on each box, write down what’s in each numbered box on your master list. Make things even clearer by color coding boxes with basic label stickers to indicate which room they should go to in the new place.

More: Relocating? Here’s How to Make the Big Move Better

Traditional Exterior by Sapia Builders Corp.
Sapia Builders Corp.
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Tackle key tasks before you move in. If your timeline allows, it can feel so much more civilized to take care of certain tasks before you move in, instead of hassling with little things right after moving in. Change the locks on all the doors, get mechanical equipment cleaned and serviced, hook up utilities and install window treatments.

Tip: Double check that your pets’ tags have the new address and your cell phone number on them.

More:
7 Things to Do Before You Move Into a New House
Relocating? Here’s How to Make Moving In a Breeze

Traditional Bathroom by Shoshana Gosselin
Shoshana Gosselin
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Put together a moving-day kit. Having essentials on hand — toilet paper, toiletries, an overnight bag of clothes, coffee and a coffeemaker, some trash bags and a Leatherman tool or Swiss Army knife — will make those first few nights a lot saner. Think ahead and include whatever you know you’ll want at your fingertips in a moving-day kit.
Originally Published on HOUZZ, by Laura Gaskill