5 Surprising Facts About Credit You May Not Have Known

On By vmfhomesblogIn Financial

Learning how credit scores work can be a little challenging sometimes, especially if you are new to credit or building it for the first time. Building your credit should have some strategy as there are some rules on how to do it well. If you’re hoping to fine tune your credit, but haven’t seen growth in a while, you may be missing some lesser-known surprising facts. We’ll help you uncover some below!

1.Paying off or canceling a credit card can drop your score.

Canceling a card or paying off the balance completely can be a great way to reduce debt, however it may not reflect positively for your credit. Canceling your card can reduce your credit utilization which acts as the available credit you can use as a percentage. While keeping your utilization low can be good for your score – zeroing out is not. Additionally, the age (length of credit history) and types (credit mix) of your credit accounts are reduced when you pay off debt, so those are other factors that play into a dip in your score.

2. Having no credit is like starting at zero and it takes some time to build.

It may be difficult to finance the purchase of a car or home without a credit score, unless you have a cosigner. It’s not like having a low score where you have some possibility of approval. When you apply for a loan without any credit history, your lender has very little to base your financial repayment ability off of. That’s okay though! We have to start somewhere. Keep in mind, you can be great with money and have no credit.

It takes about six months of credit activity to generate a score, so keep that in mind when starting. It will take longer to get it to a higher score level, so just keep at it!

3. Having a high credit balance likely hurts your score.

This one shows us the flip side of #1, where if your credit utilization is above 30 percent, it can impact your score negatively. Essentially, a high balance could appear to lenders as you not having the funds you need so you have to charge your card. While this often isn’t the case, it’s how the numbers can be interpreted. This affects your amounts owed, which also makes up 30 percent of your credit score.

person looking at credit card info on their cell phone

4. Our current credit scoring system began in 1989.

Credit started commercially in around 1841 with the first reporting agency, the Mercantile Agency. This model of credit was “used by merchants to see the creditworthiness of potential business customers” In the 1960s, financial institutions began using computerized credit scoring, marking a shift toward the more individual creditworthiness system used today. In 1989, the model we know today was built in which consumers could be scored more equally.

5. Credit Cards Offer Safety When Purchasing Online.

Credit cards can be a secure way to purchase something online. Plus, if someone does illegally obtain your credit card number, unauthorized payments can be relatively easy to stop and do not usually end up compromising as much as a stolen check or debit card. Now there are even ways for your card to be further encrypted to ensure even more safety. So next time you shop online, charge it, then pay it off!

We hope you’ve learned at least one new thing from reading this. Your credit score is a measurement used to assess your financial tendencies. However, it isn’t the only marker of your financial success, don’t get discouraged it takes time to learn the ins and outs.  Sometimes it can get a little confusing, but if you’re willing to blend your financially savvy and learn the dos and don’ts of credit, you can find a winning combination.

Keep Your Eye on Your Credit Report

Home appliances

Choosing Appliances: Kitchen (Part 2)

On By Maggie S.In Financial, Homebuyer Education

Welcome to the second installment of our Choosing Appliances mini-series! In this series, we’ll be doing our best to help you through the sometimes-stressful research process for purchasing a new appliance. While appliances are not quite the sticker shock of a home or a car, they still are big financial investment. This mini-series will hopefully help you cut time and worry on your choice.

…..

In part two, we’re covering ranges and microwaves. If you missed our previous installment, check it out for this same experience on refrigerators and dishwashers.

Let’s get into it!

Appliance Logistics:

Before you go to the store or start to search online there are some things we can narrow down and think through:

  • Measure the area the appliance will fit in (height, width, and depth)
  • Note unique factors (for ranges: be sure you can open your oven door fully without hitting anything in your kitchen. It’s also important to note the space needed between your kitchen hood or ventilation system. Also note what kind of prong your oven has.)
  • Make a purchase plan
    • What’s your budget range?
    • Are you going to purchase during a sale?  (most big box stores have Memorial Day and Labor Day sales)
  • Will you need delivery? If so, consider cost. Or do you have a truck/trailer?
  • Will the appliance fit in your doorways? Will you have to take it up stairs?
  • What will you do with your old appliance? You can haul it away, have a company take it or sell it.

An important note is to check availability. More recently what’s in stock is more prevalent to your purchase. If you’re casually looking you may not mind a three-month backorder. However, if you needed it yesterday, going into a store and asking about what they’ve got in store is a good place to start. That way you don’t get attached to something that isn’t available or won’t be for a while.

a range in a manufactured home kitchen

Range Specifics:

Ranges really are the heart of the kitchen. Even ancient cooking spaces had a cold underground place for refrigeration and a hot fire, maybe with stones or iron ore to cook on. Ranges are fundamental to cooking throughout humanity, and nowadays we’re spoiled as to all the ways we can cook our food.

We use oven and range pretty interchangeably in the south, so I actually have to keep myself in line to say range which includes both oven and stovetop. Today, it’s less likely that they’d be separate, but it’s not unheard of. If you have an older home or are interested in a retro feel you might have an eye level or wall oven with either no stovetop or just a separate stovetop. You may also live in a small space and have a portable, single burner. But for our purposes, we’ll zero in on ranges including both parts!

Most ranges fall between $550 – 2,000, but you can definitely spend above that. Now it’s time to look around and get an idea of what’s available.

There are 3 main types of ranges:

  • Electric
  • Induction (runs on electricity)
  • Gas

Seemingly the more common is the electric range. Which usually has burners/ heating elements that are coils on top of the stove top or underneath a glass or ceramic top. These work by heating the metal coil, which heats the surface, then heats your pan. These tend to be the most affordable.

Induction stovetops are traditionally more expensive. They are electric but use heat and energy through a magnetic current. Induction stovetops heat copper coils and that directly heats your pan. So, this option kind has no middleman because it doesn’t have the extra step of heating your stovetop surface. These tend to offer a quicker heat than electric ovens and are typically more energy efficient.

Gas stoves run off your natural gas or propane hookup instead of electricity. This option has long been loved for its efficiency and quicker cooking. However, some are uneasy about the safety of it. For people that want to cook over an open flame and don’t mind spending a little extra, this is the perfect fit.

Within these choices there are conventional ovens and convention ovens. Essentially, conventional ovens have a heating element at the top and bottom of the oven, versus a convection oven has both heating elements plus a fan to distribute the hot air. Convection ovens are known to have more of an advantage with allover heat and higher heat. A conventional oven may be easier to navigate in your everyday as it will follow most recipes’ cook times and temps where a convection oven will require some adjustment.

Now, you’re ready to start looking for yourself. Don’t forget to decide on the color you want and to keep an eye out for any small, unique details you like that you see available for ranges. Be sure if you choose an electric option that you have the proper prongs to fit in your outlet. Happy shopping!

microwave

Microwave Specifics:

Microwaves are sort of like dishwashers in that not everyone views them as a necessity. Some people would prefer to heat things up in a toaster oven or stove top. However, if you eat a lot of leftovers then it may be a good fit. They also can be rather inexpensive. $300 is about the average for a good one, but you can find an inexpensive one around $60, depending on your budget.

Now it’s time to look around and get an idea of what’s available.

There are two main types:

  • Countertop
  • Over-the-range

Countertop microwaves are common but the drawback is that they do take up counter space. In a kitchen with limited counterspace, you might want to consider an over-the-range style. These microwaves are a sleek, tucked away option. Other options are built-in and convection microwaves, plus microwave drawers and wall oven combinations. If you’re wanting to spend a little more and need to save space, any of these could be a good fit.

There are tons of features such as ENERGY STAR® Certified and smart technology options for microwaves. They are always a great way to incorporate a pop of color as they tend to have more color and style options than most appliances.

This one is pretty simple so you’re ready to jump in on your microwave search. Need some help picking out the right one? Check out this guide to get you started.

We hope that this has helped you be an informed shopper, but most importantly we hope that it’s reduced the stress of the unknown and prepared you for some of the options you’ll have to decide on. While today we discussed purchasing new appliances, know that there are used options as well. You can go to a local wholesale or resale store. Don’t forget yard sales, too! For online options you can try a local selling site or something similar. Stay tuned to our mini-series! Next time we’ll cover laundry room appliances!

*ENERGY STAR® and the ENERGY STAR® mark are registered trademarks owned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.  

4 Reasons To Buy a Manufactured Home

On By Rachel MersingerIn Homebuyer Education
Manufactured Homes, the Next Big Thing in a Housing Crisis?

Buying a home can be expensive, especially with the current market. Many people are experiencing challenges stemming from the shortage of affordable housing in their community.  An October 2021 Pew Research Center® survey revealed that 49 percent of Americans would describe the lack of affordable housing as a “major problem where they live.”   In the same survey, 70 percent of Americans believed that “young adults have a harder time buying a home than their parents’ generation did.”*

Let’s check out 4 reasons why you might want to consider purchasing a manufactured home:

  1. Affordability (in changing markets, too)

It’s no secret that housing prices have risen over the last few years. The median sales price of new houses sold in January 2023 was $426,500 (with the average sales price even higher at $479,800). The average sales price of a manufactured home in October 2022 was $160,400 for a double wide, and $81,400 (under “average sale price” data piece) for a single wide. That’s a significant difference in prices! Other options, such as renting, are also available, but renting may not be ideal if you are ready to put your roots down.*  

  1. Potential Equity

One of the biggest drawbacks to renting is that you do not have the potential to build equity in the home. A manufactured home, however, can potentially be a good investment, particularly if the home is permanently affixed to land. When renting, the monthly rental payment becomes a permanent monthly expense as long as you rent. A mortgage, however, has an end date. If it is within your budget, you can also make extra principal payments toward paying off your mortgage loan ahead of schedule to eliminate having a monthly mortgage payment even sooner. I don’t know about you, but my mortgage is my biggest expense each month.

woman sitting inside a home with golden retriever
  1. You’ll have a home for your pets

If you are an animal person like I am, remember that your home is your pet’s home, too! Owning a home means you have more freedom with how many pets you can have.  It is not uncommon for rental agreements to either limit the number of pets you may have or exclude them altogether in your rental home. And even if pets are permitted, rental agreements may still limit the breed, size, or weight of certain animals.

When looking to move to Tennessee, it was hard to find a rental property that would permit my cuddly 84-pound Rottweiler-Lab mix, Sadie. We had difficulty finding rental space with a fenced yard or personal outdoor space. We ended up renting a space with a shared yard, so we felt we couldn’t let our dog out without a leash or closely attending her.  While this meant we would get to take fun trips to the dog park, unfortunately it also meant we had to stand in the cold rain for bathroom breaks. We were also perpetually worried the owners would one day decide they didn’t want to rent to pet owners. Now, since purchasing our own home, Sadie has a nice fenced-in yard.

  1. Freedom to make it your own

Rentals can also limit your ability to make your home feel like your own. Rentals may deter you from putting holes in the walls for hanging pictures, updating or remodeling, even painting sometimes. Homeownership offers all those freedoms. The sky is the limit for what weekend project you’ll find yourself getting into, whether it is a bathroom remodel or planting a garden. Plus, what’s the point of watching all those home improvement shows if you can’t utilize your inspiration from them?

All things considered, buying a home can still be expensive, especially if you’re unsure what to look for. So, are you thinking about a manufactured home? They are more popular now than ever, and for a great reason. They provide many of the same features you may be looking for in a site-built home, but they are available at a more attainable price point! Just imagine, sitting on your front porch sipping your sweet tea or coffee as you relax in your rocking chair, enjoying your own home for less than you even expected.

*Updated by Kayla Perez

Tips for Buying Pre-owned

Home appliances

Choosing Appliances: Kitchen (Part 1)

On By Maggie S.In Financial, Homebuyer Education

Welcome to our Choosing Appliances mini-series! In this series, we’ll be doing our best to help you through the sometimes-stressful research process for purchasing a new appliance. While appliances are not quite the sticker shock of a home or a car, they still are big financial investment. This mini-series will hopefully help you cut time and worry on your choice.

….

We’re starting in the kitchen where the bulk of our appliances live. We’re breaking it into two sections. In part 1, we’re covering refrigerators and dishwashers, so let’s jump in!

Most people don’t have to buy appliances when moving into a home. So, it’s likely that you could go a while without having to purchase any. When looking at refrigerators and dishwashers you’re looking at something that starts at about $500 each. So, you’re probably going to want to make an informed decision spending that amount. That’s why we’re here to help!

Appliance Logistics:

Before you go to the store or start to search online there are some things we can narrow down and think through.

  • Measure the area the appliance will fit in (height, width, and depth)
  • Note unique factors (for refrigerators: if your fridge will be put into a wall pocket, you’ll want to make sure it sticks out enough (depth) for you to open your doors easily/fully.)
  • Make a purchase plan
    • What’s your budget range?
    • Are you going to purchase during a sale?  (most big box stores have Memorial Day and Labor Day sales)
  • Will you need delivery? If so, consider cost. Or do you have a truck/trailer?
  • Will the appliance fit in your doorways? Will you have to take it up stairs?
  • What will you do with your old appliance?

An important note is to check availability. More recently what’s in stock is more prevalent to your purchase. If you’re casually looking you may not mind a three-month backorder. However, if you needed it yesterday going into a store and asking about what they’ve got in store is a good place to start. That way you don’t get attached to something that isn’t available or won’t be for a while.

Couple looking at appliances, specifically a fridge

Refrigerator Specifics:

See what’s available – now it’s time to look around and get an idea of what’s available.

There are many types of refrigerators, keep in mind different styles will cost more than others. 

Types:

  • Top Freezer (more affordable option, usually ranges $600 – 1,000)
  • Bottom Freezer
  • French Door (can be more expensive)
  • Side by Side
  • Quad Door (most expensive)
  • Undercounter (more specific uses, less popular traditionally)

Think of style/ color. Most options are black, white, or stainless steel. You may be able to get another color or a custom color, but it will probably cost a little more.

Now you’re ready to start shopping! You’ve got all the particulars thought through so you can shop in confidence. There are tons of in-depth guides for the best refrigerators of the year. So, search for a few of those and compare with your preferences and budget to find the best option for you.

person reaching into dishwasher

Dishwasher Specifics:

Not everyone places necessity on dishwashers. Many people live without them for some time or their whole life. Likely, if you already have a spot and hook up for one, you’ll continue to use one, but if you don’t you won’t – so you decide what fits best for you. 

See what’s available – now it’s time to look around and get an idea of what’s available.

ENERGY STAR® Certified. Nowadays there are tons of dishwashers that use less water or conserve it in some way. If this is something you’re interested in for your home keep a look out for certified dishwashers that can save you some energy.

Think of style/ color. Most options are black, white, or stainless steel. You may be able to get another color or a custom color, but it will probably cost a little more.

Number of racks. Some people want two rows while others want three. This is really the biggest variant for dishwashers. They don’t have all the type options like refrigerators.

Are you ready to start shopping and figuring out if you want more tech and less noise on your new dishwasher? Check out some of these dishwasher options to help you get started in your informed search!

We hope that this has helped you be an informed shopper, but most importantly that it’s reduced the unknown and prepared you for some of the options you’ll have to decide on. We hope that you’re entering this purchase a little less stressed.

We went through options that were new, but there are used options as well. You can go to a local wholesale or resale store. For online options you can try a local selling site or something similar. Stay tuned to our miniseries! Next time we’re covering ranges and microwaves!

Check Out Part 2!

*ENERGY STAR® and the ENERGY STAR® mark are registered trademarks owned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.  

woman sitting looking at a computer and talking on her phone.

6 Questions to Ask of a Mortgage Lender

On By vmfhomesblogIn Financial, Learn

Searching for a new home can be a fun challenge. Finding a way to finance your home shouldn’t add to the stress, however it can because sometimes homebuyers aren’t sure what questions to ask. As a first-time homebuyer, you’ll really want to focus on asking the right questions to your real estate agent (if you have one), potential financing companies offering loans, and the seller of the home you’re purchasing. As a repeat buyer you may know the ropes, but these questions could still benefit you greatly.

When looking for a mortgage company or potential lender, you will want to make sure they are a good fit for you! Below are some suggestions for questions to ask when shopping around for your mortgage:

  • How long are your loan terms and what terms do you offer?

The lifetime of a mortgage is important to know when you begin. Often homebuyers may expect a 30-year loan term. However, depending on the lender there can be a handful of options. The length of your loan will likely impact your monthly payment, interest, etc. You’ll also want to know this to see if there’s any penalty for early pay off in case that’s something you want to do. Some people choose shorter mortgage terms or early pay off to cut interest.

  • What are your current rates?

While interest rates are mostly determined by the Federal Reserve and the demand for notes and bonds (depending on the rate in your loan), banks also play a role in what they offer based on what’s best for business and the current market.  When it comes to individual lenders, they will offer you their specific rates (which are based off your credit score). There are many sites now that will let you compare ballpark rates to help you get a general idea. For exact rates, you do have to apply. Depending on the lender, they may also share a rate range with you without applying.

  • Would the rate be a fixed rate or an adjustable rate?

This will depend on what’s offered. You may come across lenders who don’t offer both. Your fixed rate is what it sounds like, fixed for the lifetime of your loan (unless you refinance). Adjustable rates can go up and down based on amortization. You’ll weigh what option fits you best. Whether locking in a low-rate works, or if purchasing at a higher rate for the possibility of movement is better – the choice is yours.

Someone is counting out cash and has a budget sheet and calculator out.
  • What are the down payment requirements?

This question is pivotal for many homebuyers. Often what you must put down makes or breaks you being able to purchase at a certain time. Lenders will usually be able to tell you what percentage of the down payment they require after you apply. This also depends on your credit score and the specific mortgage option you’re selecting. In some cases, the type of loan will require a specific down payment amount.

  • Do you finance for mobile or manufactured homes? (Not all lenders will so it is important to ask ahead if you are planning on purchasing one)

If you are hoping to finance a manufactured home, it will depend on the lender. While manufactured home loans can be set up similarly to site-built homes loans, they do differ depending on if land is involved. Because there are specifics that relate to a manufactured home, you’ll have to find a lender who specifically does loans for them.

  • What is your turn around time for closing?

If you need to be in or out of a home quickly then the closing timeline may be quite important to you. It really ranges as there are so many variables. However, lenders should be able to give you a ballpark once they know your specifics. If the timing doesn’t impact you that much, it will still be a great planning tool for you.

This list may not be all inclusive to every question a homebuyer may have, but it is a good start for those not knowing where to begin! We hope this helps to get you thinking in the right direction.

Additionally, keep in mind credit bureaus allow you to shop around for mortgages. This means 14 to 30 days after your first application for a mortgage, the bureaus allow you to apply to multiple entities (provided they code this as a “mortgage” with the bureaus). The first time you apply will show as a hard inquiry and drop your credit score, but up to 4 more within that timeframe will only show as a soft inquiry which means it won’t lower your credit score. Be sure to verify this when you are applying.

Happy shopping!

Couple is standing together in their kitchen with cups of coffee.

Downsizing in a Mobile Home: Upsize Your Life

On By Kayla PerezIn Budget-Friendly Ideas, Homebuyer Education

Does the idea of downsizing come across your mind often? There are many great reasons to downsize in a mobile home. You could be in season where your expenses may be difficult to manage, and you’re seeking a financial breakthrough with this affordable housing option. Or you may want a smaller, better organized layout in your home to inspire less clutter. Perhaps you are wanting a one level home for safety or mobility reasons- a manufactured home could be a perfect fit. So for whatever your reasoning may be downsizing doesn’t just mean less space – it often means less stuff/clutter and more living.  

Why Downsize in a Mobile Home?

  • Affordable housing can benefit new homeowners. For those ready to retire to anyone prepared to have extra funds in the bank – everyone wins!  
  • Lower your daily expenses to save money for more options to be applied elsewhere.
  • You can have the freedom to move your home where it best suits you, whether in a community or on private land.
  • Customization! Mobile homes come in a variety of sizes and many have more square footage for less than their site-built counterpart. But part of their versatility means you have a 5 bedroom or a small 2 bedroom, sometimes even 1 bedroom home.
  • Open layouts – most mobile homes are super open which inspires a tidier space, and less clutter.

Transitioning into a mobile home will can mean square footage (if you’re downsizing) but will help you keep the house clean and will be easier to maintain. If this is your first time moving into a mobile home, check out more helpful tips here!

Gray mobile home in a park.

Interested in a Mobile Home Park?

If you decide to move to a mobile home park community, the atmosphere and amenities can fit your needs. It could help lower your bills and help you to become a stress-free homeowner. 

Benefits

  • Safe communities include background checks and safety protocols in their community.
  • Community Perks and Amenities include a pool, fitness center, and community events.
  • Minimal Maintenance, whereas parks tend to hire professionals to keep the property maintainable. 

Lot rent may vary depending on what community you select and with other common homeowner fees.

Let this help outline your journey in downsizing. There is plenty of consideration to do and discover if downsizing in a mobile home applies to you. If you are tired of living in the city, this is your sign! If you are still trying to decide, see more information about owning a mobile home here!

blue backsplash in a manufactured home kitchen

Using Your Tax Refund as a Home Investment

On By vmfhomesblogIn Featured, Financial, Homeowner Maintenance

If it’s a tax season where you are getting a refund instead of having to pay or breaking even: congrats! If not, be patient, your season could be soon. Don’t get discouraged. The best option is usually to save instead of spend. However, tax refunds can be an exception because most people don’t budget them in. If you can, consider setting aside part of your refund to a savings account, outstanding bill, or high interest payment. Those are typically the best places to start.

Another great option if you’re in the market for a home is to consider using your tax refund towards your down payment. Down payments can deter some buyers from purchasing a home. However, using your tax refund could get you into your home quicker and may alleviate the need to pull from your savings. That’s a win-win!

After that, if you’ve got a little left over, you might consider showing your home some love with some of these upgrades listed below! Making an investment in where you live can pay off in the future. Skip the instant gratification and invest where it counts. Based on what amount you have left over we’ve outlined a few home improvement ideas by cost. Ideas are just estimates and will vary due to several factors, such as home size and the supplies used.

Most of the estimated project costs below are considering the cost of labor (for the ones that need that). If you plan to do the work or install – you could spend less!

Less than $300

Update light fixtures

Painting kitchen cabinets with a kit

Replace door knobs

Pressure wash

Programmable thermostat

$300 – 600

New dishwasher

Add kitchen backsplash

Add a new screen door

$600- 1,000

Entire home storage/organization

Adding updating landscaping/curb appeal

Replace garden tub or standing tub/shower

$1,000 – 1,500

Replace carpet in entire home

Build a shed

We hope this inspires you to try some updates in your home that add to your investment. We’ve tried to highlight upgrades that we think will make your home valuable and/or look better in the future.

Try a Project For Your Home!

Organization bins on shelves in a mobile home

How to Organize Your Home

On By Kayla PerezIn Homeowner Maintenance, Lifestyle

The year-end is an excellent opportunity for a fresh start for you and your home. If you’re unsure where to start, it’s best to begin with one room at a time to initiate the declutter process. Once your items are sorted, it is easier to organize them with containers and labels to help support your new lifestyle.

Organization can be applied to about any room in the home. Adding containers and organization  bins does not have to be expensive and they can be found in-store and online at a low price. Let’s discover what items we can use to help organize.

Kitchen

I believe many would agree the kitchen is the best room in home for the late night snacker! Why not make it easier to locate and grab your favorite food when entering the kitchen?

Countertop: Store the toaster, dish rack, and air fryer away and remove what is not in use. Start with clearing off the counter. This will help maximize counterspace.

  • Try canisters with labels to store sugar and flour. This helps create easier access to staple food items.
  • Spice up your spice rack with a plastic shelf that helps you visibly see your kitchen ingredients.

The Pantry:  This plays an important role in being organized, it can provide an easier way to view the food items in your household.

  • Crates can be used to group same food items in one area to add more space in your pantry.
  • Plastic clear containers work for multiple food items such as, cereal, snacks, and pasta.

Refrigerator: Get quicker access to food and spend less time holding the fridge door open.

  • Clear containers can hold you your fruits, vegetables, or larger items like juices or canned foods. This will help you avoid throwing away food that’s gone bad. Help your fruits and veggies stay fresh longer!
  • Egg holders provide more room to store items and less damage to your eggs.
Woman in kitchen with dog standing next to organization shelving

Bedroom

Let’s face it, does your room bring you peace after a long day? Or stress you out from the clutter flooding your room? Going through your room you might find the need for more space and realize you don’t have it. Here’s how to find that space that you have been missing…

woman organizing her closet with bins and shelving.

Closet: While going through your wardrobe, you may find clothing that you no longer need. That’s normal! Feel free to have an organization bin for donations as you sort through your closet. In the meantime, this is how we can clean up what you still have.

  • Storage bins can be utilized to store shoes or large clothing items to avoid and prevent a bulky closet.
  • Baskets help store jeans and seasonal clothing items. Baskets can vary from fabric, wicker, or plastic. Find the style that best suits you!

Drawers: It’s okay, we are all guilty of the junk drawer in our room. You know the one where we throw random things in because we don’t know where else it would fit. Well, here’s your sign to straighten it up!

  • Small bins to store t-shirts or undergarments will help open more space and avoid overflowing.
  • Dividers to help group smaller items like jewelry or makeup to keep the area clean.
  • Tray placements on top of the dresser for easy access instead of opening your drawers. These  are ideal when you are on the go.

Did a lightbulb go off while reading this? Are you inspired about how you can get your home into a system of organization and enjoy a cleaner, more efficient space? Happy sorting! 

Now that you have seen new ways on how to organize your space check out more tips here!

Christmas decoration. Candles safely placed on votives on a log with slots for votives.

Quick Holiday Safety Tips

On By Maggie S.In Homeowner Maintenance

It’s time to decorate for those that celebrate! Holiday decorating adds a lot to our homes and brightens the dark nights. Between travel and all these new elements in our home we want to be sure we are taking precautions to keep everyone safe. This will help to avoid fires, injury, or further damage. Below we’ve included tips to help keep you safe!

Décor Tips:

The National Safety Council has a lot of great ideas on how to stay safe this season. Check out some of their tips!

Electrical Tips:

  • Check lights before using. This will ensure there’s no broken bulbs or frayed wires, while also letting you know if they still work before you wrap them around your tree.
  • Use smart plugs or timers to make for easy automated shut off or have the ability to turn off lights you left on accidentally.
  • Keep outlets and plugs far and away from your tree base if you have a real tree to keep away from water.

Natural Décor Tips:

  • Be wary of poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly as they are poisonous to dogs, cats, and/or harmful to babies. Avoid them in your home or keep them secured out of reach or in an unvisited part of your homes’ exterior.
  • Keep your tree watered and away from fireplaces and radiators.
Candlesticks being blown out.

Candle Tips:

  • Make sure candles are secure and fit will in their containers.
  • Don’t mix loose candles with flammable décor. Use tea lights or votives in holders that are larger than the candle to protect your home from fire.
  • Try flameless candles!
Man taking pie out of the oven with two rags.

Kitchen Safety:

  • Keep timers running. maybe even two! Entertaining can distract from the oven and things you have cooking. Be sure not to get distracted.
  • Be mindful of pressure cookers and air fryers in holiday prep. Be careful not to multi-task cooking with these items unless you have an additional adult to help.
  • Keep an eye on mulling spices / potpourri that you boil for the scent. Lower the heat to low after you get a simmer going and keep ample water in the pot to avoid burning.

We hope this can serve as a quick checklist for your home and helps you make adjustments as needed for your and your families’ safety. Protecting your home and the people in it is the most important. Check out our post for holiday décor ideas that are simple and safe!