1. Set up a comfortable sleeping area

The essential element of a guest bedroom is a comfortable bed that will ensure your guests have a good night’s sleep. Even if the room does not have an actual bed but a sofa or air mattress, it can be cozy and inviting. Invest a bit more and add a few good-quality pillows, too. Some people prefer to sleep on multiple pillows.

Moreover, make sure the bedding you use is clean and fresh, and that there are no stains. To ensure your guests feel welcome, make the bed before they have arrived. Also, a few throw pillows and decorative curtains will make the room feel cozy and welcoming.

Finally, make sure to put out some extra linens and comforters in case your guests spill something or get cold. You wouldn’t want them wandering around in the dark looking for these.

Another great addition would be a guest bathroom that can be accessed from the bedroom. If this is the case, make sure to clean it thoroughly and put out some soft towels. If you don’t have this option but only one bathroom, set up a small space for all of their toiletries. You can also add some plants and scented candles to make it cozier.

2. Make sure there is enough light

Nothing beats huge windows and an abundance of natural light. However, even if the room you have dedicated for your guests lacks such a feature, you can compensate with artificial lighting.

Strategically placed wall lamps and a ceiling medallion will ensure enough light. Also, bedside lamps will allow your guest to enjoy some bedtime reading. These lighting fixtures and lamps can also do wonders for your decorating efforts. For example, a chandelier is an excellent statement piece that is both practical and decorative. 

A comfortable bed, a lot of light, a small workspace, and enough storage are all qualities of a well-decorated guest bedroom.

Alt: A bright and tastefully decorated guest bedroom.

If you want to go the extra mile, a makeup mirror with a light is a great choice. You can place it on the nightstand or desk. Alternatively, you can add small accent mirrors to both provide decoration and practical use.

3. Decorate to your guests’ taste

Since you are setting up a guest bedroom, decorating it in your own style may not be the best way to go. Thus, try to stick with a more neutral style and then add some decorative pieces to suit each guest’s taste.

You can easily personalize the guest bedroom with some flowers, for example, if you know what your guests like. You can also have the bedding in several colors and choose the one your guests will like.

4. Set up a small workspace

It would be wrong to assume that your guests will only sleep in the room. Due to the global pandemic, many people have resorted to remote working. Therefore, setting up a small workspace is an excellent idea.

A small desk, a comfortable chair, and a desk lamp, close to a power outlet, are all you need. If space and your skills allow, you can build a window seat with a bookcase and provide them with a quiet and pleasant area for work.

5. Little extras go a long way

Adding a few extra features will go a long way in making your guests feel welcome. So, an inviting guest bedroom should include some luxuries they can only enjoy at home.

Enough soft and fresh towels and a bathrobe will make your guest feel like they are in a hotel. Also, dark curtains might be just what your guests need for a good night’s sleep. If they have flown out to see you, they will surely appreciate the gesture.

It would also be good to make a list of all the local attractions you think your guests might enjoy. Short descriptions and directions to these spots will let your guests make the most of their trip to your city.

Finally, if your guests are staying for an extended period, be sure to provide them with their own set of keys. That way, they can let themselves in and out if you are not at home.

6. Provide enough storage space

Storage is another necessity in a guest bedroom. You need to ensure that your guests have enough space to put their clothes. Keeping all their clothes in a suitcase will only lead to them constantly borrowing an iron.

Thus, clear out the closet in your guest bedroom and let your guests unpack. If you don’t know what to do with the items you have to take out, put them in a portable storage container. This is a great way to save some space and allow your guests to have all the room they need.

Also, a floating shelf will be a great storage solution and a decorative piece.

7. Don’t forget about their pets

People often travel with their pets, so you have to consider this when setting up a guest bedroom. A dog bed and food and water bowls are more than enough to show that your guest’s dog or cat is also welcome. Finally, leaving a few treats will help the furry guest feel at home as well. If you are worried about allergies or pet hair, you can always hire professional cleaning services after your guests have left. Professional cleaners can also help you prepare your home for guests, so if you don’t have the time to clean the room yourself, leave this task to experts.

Meta description: Here are some valuable tips for setting up a guest bedroom where your guests can have a pleasant time and relax.

The post 7 Tips for Setting Up a Guest Bedroom appeared first on Alternative Mindset.

Before making this huge decision, it’s advisable to weigh your options carefully. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of the most popular roof types and designs available for a wide range of building styles.

Gable Roof

This is a classic and popular roof type in many homes in the US. It’s also known as a peaked or pitched roof and features a triangle shape that’s created by two sloping faces of the roof that meet at the top ridge. These roofs are an excellent choice for homes with separate wings and can be covered by almost any material, like shingles, metal, concrete tiles, clay, and terra cotta. There are different types of gable roofs like side gable, crossed gable, Dutch gable, and front gable as well.

Pros

• Easily shed water and snow
• Added space for the attic or vaulted ceilings
• Allow more ventilation
• Simple design and classic styling for homes
• Easy to build and cheaper that other complex roof types

Cons

• Can be a liability in high wind areas
• Potential roof collapse if roofing frames are not properly constructed

Hip Roof

This roof type has slopes on all four sides and can be easily customized to add a personal touch to the overall style. They can also be made with almost any material, like tiles, shingles, and metal. Hip roofs come in two main types: simple hip and cross hipped.

Pros

• Stronger and more stable than gable roofs
• Excellent choice for snowy and high wind areas
• Additional attic space or living space for vaulted ceilings

Cons

• Complex design makes it more expensive to build
• Construction errors or lack of maintenance can lead to major problems like leaks

Mansard Roof

More complex than the hip and gable roof types, mansard roofs (also called French or curb roofs) feature two separate slopes on all four faces that meet to form a pitched roof. The lower slope is usually designed to be much steeper than the upper. Sides can either be curved or flat, depending on the building style. This types of roof can take different designs including convex, concave, and straight-angle.

Pros

• Roof design provides usable space on upper level of home
• Style can allow open or closed dormers for a more aesthetic appeal
• Allows flexibility for future home extension or additions as needs change

Cons

• Not ideal for areas that experience heavy snowfall
• A complex design means it’s more costly and labor-intensive than typical roofs

Gambrel Roof

Also called a barn roof, the gambrel roof is much like the mansard roof, only that it features two sides instead of four. They’re mostly used in Georgian and Dutch colonial style homes as well as barns, log cabins, and farm houses. The materials used depend on the style of the house, such as slate shingles, metal, asphalt, and wood.

Pros

• Ample space beneath the roof provides potential expansion space
• Great option for outdoor storage buildings and sheds
• Lower material demands and less expensive than mansard roofs

Cons

• Not ideal for high wind and heavy snowfall areas
• The open design can cause roof collapse under immense pressure

Note: If installing a gambrel roof in an extreme weather area, use reinforced trusses on the upper pitch. This can help avoid hidden dangers behind the walls.

Flat Roof

This roof type is completely flat with no pitch. However, a slight pitch is allowed for drainage and water run-off. These roofs are popular options for commercial and industrial buildings, but can also be used in residential homes in high and low rainfall areas. Common materials used include roll roofing, PVC, metal sheets, tar and gravel, TPO membrane, and rubber membrane.

Pros

• Provides additional living space on the roof for a garden, patio, or a partial enclose
• The design is a great option for installing solar panels for “green energy-efficient” homes
• Easier to construct due to reduced building materials
• More affordable due to the simple design and installation requirements

Cons

• Low pitch makes the roof more susceptible to water leakage
• Can be more costly to maintain in the long run

Skillion Roof

This roof type is also known as a shed or lean-to roof, and is a single sloping roof that’s attached to a taller wall, creating an offset appearance. It’s ideal for modern home architecture and house additions and porches. Best roofing materials include standing seam panels, asphalt shingles, tiles, and metal.

Pros

• Easy to assemble and install
• Uses way fewer materials than other roof types
• Steep pitch allows easy snow and water runoff – perfect for high rain and snow areas
• Great option for architectural and aesthetic appeal

Cons

• High pitch mostly results in low ceilings
• Homes that only use this roof type in high wind areas can face roof problems

Curved Roof

This roof type is almost similar to the shed or skillion roof, but the planes are usually curved. This roof style is modern and offers homeowners various creative and unique options. The curve can vary from an arch shape to slightly-curved. It’s becoming more popular for modern architectural building styles. Metal is the best materials since it can be bent to any shape.

Pros

• Aesthetically pleasing
• Highly customizable to fit various requirements like weather conditions in an area
• Can be built in different styles

Cons

• The more complex the design is, the more costly the roof is

Saltbox Roof

This is an asymmetrical roof that comes with one slight slope and one dramatic angle with gables at each end. A popular variation of early colonial and Cape Cod home architectural styles that arose due to the need for more space. Most roofing materials can be used to build this roof.

Pros

• Easy water and snow runoff due to high roof pitch – good for heavy rain areas
• Potential for additional living space

Cons

• Roof design can be complex driving costs higher
• Although extra space can be provided, rooms may have slanted ceilings

Sawtooth Roof

These are two or more roofs that are placed parallel to one another, with vertical surfaces facing the same direction. It resembles a side view of an actual saw blade when viewing from the ground. Originally used in industrial and commercial buildings, it’s now being used in modern home design. Common materials used include wood, reinforced concrete, and metal.

Pros

• Windows on either of the vertical spaces of the roof allow more natural light indoors
• Higher peaks allow additional space for loft living or vaulted ceilings
• Perfect choice for eco-friendly homes – solar panel installation

Cons

• Building materials needed and the complexity of the design makes it more expensive
• High maintenance roof due to additional windows, varying slopes, and valleys
• Not ideal for heavy rain and snowfall areas due to potential leaks

Bonnet Roof

This is a modified version of the hip roof and features two slopes on all sides. It’s sometimes called kicked eaves. The upper slope is set at a higher angle, with a low angle slope on the bottom. Although not common in modern houses, they were mainly used in French vernacular style and can be seen in areas like Mississippi Delta area and Massachusetts. Any material like metal, natural stone or shingles can be used for construction.

Pros

• Upper slope can provide extra space for a small attic or vaulted ceilings
• Easy to integrate dormers
• Overhang eaves provide water damage protection
• Easy runoff and more durable

Cons

• More complicated and expensive to construct
• More attention is needed on seams where the two slopes meet to avoid leaks

Dome Roof

Down roofs take the shape of an inverted bowl and are a popular option for adding a dramatic appeal to a home. Mainly used for cupolas and gazebo structures and a popular housing architectural style based on Italian and Russian Renaissance styles. Metal shingles are the most preferred building material.

Pros

• Highly durable and appealing in look

Cons

• Complex design and expensive to construct – prefabricated options are available

Pyramid Roof

Like a hip roof, all four sides meet at the same point at the top of the roof, with no vertical gables or sides. They are a great option for smaller buildings such as cabins, bungalows and other structures like garages, pool houses, and storage buildings. Suited well for almost any roofing material, especially metal, tiles and shingles.

Pros

• Ideal in areas prone to hurricanes and high winds
• Additional space for attics, ventilation, storage space, and high ceilings under the roof

Cons

• Higher cost due to the complex design

Combination Roof

This roof type incorporates two or more roof types in the overall design. The most widely used combination today is hip and gable roofs. It’s a great option to complement different house styles, both ultra modern and traditional. Materials used can vary depending on specific design elements.

Pros

• Limitless customization opportunities
• Adds architectural uniqueness

Cons

• Costs rise with the complexity of the roof design
• Additional roof ridges and valleys come with potential roof weaknesses like leaks

Conclusion

When choosing a roof type, it’s important to know what type is most suitable for your area. For instance, if you live in a snowy region, you’ll want to consider a high pitch roof for easy runoff. Discuss the different roof types and options available with experienced roofing contractors in your area before making any decisions.

updated: May 2022

The post Understanding the Pros and Cons of Different Roof Types appeared first on Alternative Mindset.

If you’re in the market for a humidity solution, you might be weighing portable humidifiers against whole-house furnace humidifiers. It’s possible you might not have even considered a whole-house humidifier. Since furnaces and central air systems are expensive, it sounds like a furnace-attached humidifier would probably be an expensive appliance, too. Whole-house humidifiers can actually be similar in price to high-end portable humidifiers, and the functionality they offer can often overshadow any cost concerns.

Both whole-house humidifiers and portable humidifiers have their own unique trade-offs when it comes to factors like convenience, cost, maintenance, and effectiveness. Each depends on why you’re looking for a humidifier, but this guide will break down how each type of humidifier compares on each scale.

Factors to Consider

Convenience

Convenience or ease-of-use is one of most important items on this list. If your humidifier is not easy to use on a day-to-day basis, you’re less likely to use it at all. In that case, you’re going to end up with a household appliance that’ll sit around collecting dust. Since the whole point of buying a humidifier is to use it, you want to make sure you can see yourself using it over the long term. Maintenance is also going to be a part of this.

Maintenance

Not only do should you consider how easy it is to use your humidifier, you need to keep in mind that any kind of humidifier will require ongoing maintenance and cleaning. Each type has its own needs, and you might personally be suited for one maintenance schedule over the other.

Cost

It’s very likely that cost is going to be a deciding factor. This isn’t something that you can just take at face value because it weighs against the other three factors: convenience, maintenance, and effectiveness. Something that costs more might be a better fit for what you need overall, but it’s also possible that a small tabletop humidifier is all you need.

Effectiveness

How well does the humidifier do what you want it to do? What area of your home are you trying to humidify? What sort of health issues or discomfort are you trying to address with your purchase? Each type of humidifier has a range of products and prices that go from cheap to much pricier. You might need a humidifier with bigger coverage or automation features. Or you might just need something to run in your room overnight. Make sure you ask yourself these questions before you commit to a humidifier based on price alone.

Portable Humidifiers

Portable humidifiers come in two main flavors: tabletop and console humidifiers. Tabletop humidifiers are much smaller and can easily be carried from room to room. Console humidifiers sit on the floor and are much bulkier. They can be moved between rooms, but it’ll be a little more trouble than a tabletop unit.

Note that some console humidifiers are marketed as whole-house humidifiers. However, how well they actually do this depends on the unit and the layout of your home. A console humidifier isn’t going to be great at humidifying an open floorplan with a living room ceiling that opens to the second floor. For the purpose of this guide, whole-house humidifiers will refer to furnace-mounted humidifiers.

Convenience

Believe it or not, portable humidifiers overall rank the worst in terms of convenience. They seem simple enough to use at first. You fill them with water, place them somewhere you need the humidity, and turn it on. However, you need to continually fill them with water. Most tabletop or small console humidifiers can only go a couple of days before you need to refill them.

Maintenance

Maintenance for portable humidifiers happens on a very frequent schedule. The amount of work each time is much less than the once-a-season whole-house humidifier maintenance, but it’s recommended to tabletop humidifiers on at least a weekly basis. Some organizations recommend cleaning small humidifiers as often as every 3 days. And this doesn’t include the need to rinse and dry out your tank when it’s not in use to keep it fresh.

Console humidifiers are in the same boat as tabletop units. Since they’re not connected to a water supply, they rely on a tank to supply humidity. They can be cleaned a little less frequently, but it still needs to be done a few times a month.

Cost

Portable humidifiers are generally going to be cheaper than whole-house humidifiers. A top-of-the-line tabletop humidifier will probably be cheaper than a smaller low-end whole-house humidifier.

Console humidifiers, on the other hand, can have a much wider price range. They go from being tiny to being much more hefty appliances. And along the different range of styles, the price range generally falls between tabletop humidifiers and whole-house humidifiers.

Effectiveness

Tabletop humidifiers shine when it comes to humidifying an enclosed room. Since they come in a variety of sizes and abilities, you can pick a humidifier that’s right for the room you want to humidify. If you need to humidify more than just one room, buying a humidifier for each room is going to get expensive and be very difficult to maintain. You’ll want to opt for a whole-house humidifier if you need more than just one room humidified.

Console humidifiers can do a much better job at humidifying larger rooms and larger portions of your home. A disadvantage, though, is that since humidity only comes from the console unit, you can have an uneven distribution of humidity starting from where you place your humidifier. This can be advantageous if you’re only looking to humidify certain portions of your home.

Whole-House Humidifiers

Whole-house humidifiers are mounted to your furnace and they humidify the air before it’s sent all throughout your house. They usually require professional installation, but they’re a great option for someone looking to raise the humidity in their entire home. You’ll see them come in a few different styles including drum humidifiers, drip-style humidifiers, and steam humidifier. They can also use passive air flow or be powered. Each style gives you slightly different advantages, but they’re largely the same when compared against portable humidifiers.

Convenience

Once installation is done and out of the way, using a whole-house humidifier is as easy as turning it on for the winter season and forgetting about it. It’ll run automatically based on a humidistat, and you don’t need to refill it with water to continue operating the humidifier.

Maintenance

Whole-house humidifier are easy-to-use throughout the season because they don’t need to be cleaned on a regular basis. This doesn’t mean they don’t need maintenance at all though. When you’re done using the humidifier after the season, you need to meticulously take apart the humidifier and water lines to give them an inspection. The pieces should be cleaned and dried out thoroughly and replaced if any of them are at risk for breaking down. The filter pad should also be replaced every year.

Cost

Whole-house humidifiers are definitely going to be more expensive to purchase. They cost more, and you can also expect to pay for installation costs from a professional. You can cut the cost of installation by doing it yourself, but you’ll still pay for materials and likely void any manufacturer warranties. Depending on the style of humidifier, you can also pay more for utilities since drip-style humidifiers are not as efficient as your typical portable humidifier.

Effectiveness

Nothing will beat a whole-house humidifier at humidifying the entire home during the winter. But it’s very well likely that you might not need your entire home to be humidified. You can’t selectively humidify certain rooms using a whole-house humidifier since it’s connected to your furnace. So if you don’t want certain rooms humidified, this wouldn’t be a good fit for you.

One catch of using a whole-house humidifier though is that whole-house humidifiers are not effective in the summer. They’re designed to be used with a furnace, and even if you tried to have it set up to use in the summer, the water will not evaporate well from cool air blowing over the hydration unit.

Conclusion

The decision you come to depends on your personal needs for your health and comfort.

If you’re looking to raise the humidity in your entire home, you’ll probably need to go with a whole-house humidifier. If you need to humidify any less than your entire home, you should consider how other factors like convenience and maintenance fit into how much work you’re willing to put in to keep a humidifier running.

Many people also only look to use a humidifier overnight in their rooms as they sleep. If this fits your description and you need something like this all year round, a portable humidifier is going to be a better fit, especially since whole-house humidifiers can’t be used during the summer.

The post Whole-House vs. Portable Humidifiers: What’s Best for You? appeared first on Alternative Mindset.

1. Monochrome designs

Monochrome kitchens continue to surge in popularity, with homeowners choosing to pair various shades of one color to create a kitchen masterpiece. The walls, tiles, counters, cabinets, tables, chairs and floors all coordinate, showcasing the wonderful extremes of a hue. With everything one color, it’s the materials, textures, and design of the kitchen that stand out and become the star. So, avoid a blah kitchen by choosing a few items with distinctive shapes, patterns or textures, such as a rustic door or a raised wall covering that will draw the eye and not fade into the sea of color.

Popular colors for monochrome renovations range from the conservative charcoal, white and taupe to eye-catching risque colors, such as green or purple, which were popular in the 1970s but are making a strong return. Some decorators are opting for a soft blue hue or a delicate mauve. It’s all about reflecting the personality of the homeowner. Of course, the classic black and white monochrome kitchen is also a style option.

Monochrome does not have to mean monotony. Once you commit to a color for your monochrome renovation, be sure by play with contrast by juxtaposing dark and light versions of your chosen pigment. You can play with contrast via floor tiles and backsplash or rugs and vases.

2. Two-tone color scheme

For those who want more pizzazz than the one-note monochrome style, the two-tone kitchen is also trending this year in a playful way, with decorators pairing muted colors with vivid ones. Think navy and orange kitchens or bisque and crimson. The goal is to use the brighter or bolder color to define a space or call attention to a special feature.

This scheme can be executed in a number of ways. You can choose one color for walls and cabinets. Then, contrast with the stronger color to spotlight furnishings, the kitchen island or decorative pieces. Alternately, you could feature dueling colors in the same element or space: two-tone cabinets where the doors or drawers are a different color than the base or two-tone walls where a wall of one color faces a wall of a different color.

Combine the two colors to create an element of surprise. Place something bold in color in the midst of a conservative color scape to make a focal point pop.

3. Natural finishes and materials

Nature never goes out of style. Be on-trend this year by renovating your kitchen with natural materials, such as marble, granite, limestone and real hardwood. This will not only increase the value of your home and make it more attractive, but you will feel more connected to the earth. That means pulling up those vinyl floor planks and getting rid of that laminated kitchen counter. You might even consider wood ceilings with exposed beams, a copper sink, nickel hardware for the cabinets or a stone wall.

However, don’t stop there with just the foundational items. Even the accents can be natural if you include plants, an herb garden on the window sill, woven baskets, bamboo rugs, cotton table runners and more. Not only will you be surrounding yourself with natural beauty, but you can also feel good about utilizing sustainable materials.

4. Eclectic fixtures

Conventional is a bad word in many kitchens this year, with many opting to be non-traditional when it comes to basics like basins, tables and drawer handles. Instead, decorators are being creative by turning novel items into kitchen structures. For example, barrels might be used for bar seating or a large river rock might be cut into a sink. A barn door might be used to make a kitchen tabletop. This trend is about creativity, custom design and repurposing in order to create things with irregular and unique shapes.

If finding odd materials is not your thing, you can still be eclectic by using classic materials in a new form. A chrome kitchen faucet can be thin and wide to create a waterfall effect or it can be lit up with LED lights to create a colorful water flow. Just one or two objects that defy the ordinary can add personality to your kitchen.

5. Flexible or adjustable kitchen

In today’s world, different generations and types of people find themselves living together for convenience or to save money. Decorators are designing flexible kitchens to appeal to the blended needs, tastes, abilities, and even heights. This mixed accommodation design calls for creating elements that can be adjusted for different purposes and people or for creating certain areas for one type of dweller and other areas for a completely different type.

While in the past mixed accommodation might have meant adding a children’s table in the corner or a new leaf to the dining table, today it means creating customized furniture of different widths and heights for baby, a preteen or grandma. It might even mean having different handles and knobs for people with disabilities. The adjustable kitchen might have varied counters, chairs or tables all integrated together in the same space for unique seating or utility. This is all about authenticity, increased comfort and reflecting the real nature of your family.

6. The zoned kitchen

Zoning is the practice of defining different spaces for different activities. Since today’s kitchen is used for cooking, eating, entertaining, chatting, doing homework and even just relaxing, builders are using decorative elements to divide the kitchen into different zones. Screens, different flooring or different types of furnishings might be used to create a distinct breakfast area, a cozy chat corner, an office or a place for daily tea time.

If you have a particular passion, you can even zone space for that, such as a pizza area with a brick oven and prep space, a wine-tasting area, or a baking area. Each separate space can have its own signature tools and fixtures to make each task efficient.

Even if you have a small kitchen without room for different areas, you can still zone by dedicating an end of a counter or island for something as simple as food prep, accentuating it with a set of cookbooks, a docked tablet for watching cooking videos and an oversized wood cutting board. Zoning is all about organizing kitchen life so you can enjoy it to the max.

7. Built-in utilities and furniture

Built-in elements are becoming chic, recalling the habit of architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who was known for creating furniture that seamlessly blended into the structure of a home, creating visual oneness. Not your 1950s built-in bookcases, today’s modern built-ins include benches, desks or foldaway dining tables than can flip up into the wall.

Rather than free-standing appliances that jut out into kitchen space, elegant built-in wall ovens, wine coolers, cooktops, refrigerators and dishwaters encased in wood or chrome are de rigueur. While replacing or repairing built-in items can be expensive and cumbersome, the ergonomic design is worth it.

8. Hidden appliances and storage

Some are moving away from show kitchens to efficient kitchens. That means building in appliances isn’t the only trend. Concealing them completely is in, too! Rather than showing off the stainless steel of fridges, dishwashers and stoves, one sees wall panels or doors with appliances hidden in cubbies. Even small appliances are disappearing from countertops and being tucked away on shelves for clean and simple counters and islands.

Storage areas like slide-out pantries and spice shelves are also nicely hidden behind decorative facades. Some are even using sliding doors to hide preparation stations and washing stations, which might be nestled in their own adjacent rooms.
Hiding all work areas of the kitchen leaves only the dining and entertaining spaces. So, you can invite guests into the kitchen after cooking a meal, and it will still look tidy.

9. Aesthetic storage

If you don’t like hunting for where you stored your concealed kitchen items, don’t worry. Aesthetic storage is trending, with decorators creating extensive storage systems that are functional as well as pretty. Think built-in shelves with no covers that can showcase rows and rows of beautiful jars or bottles in the same style with decorative tops or ribbons. These might have nuts or raisins, flour or sugar.
Coordinated baskets or acrylic boxes might store supplies. Photo albums or notebooks might hold menus and recipes. The organizers might sit on custom shelves made of metal, wood or a material of your choice. It’s up to you as long as the visible storage looks organized and artistic in its design.

10. More technology

From digital assistants and automated lights to appliances with Wi-fi, technology is highly coveted for the kitchen this year. If you haven’t gone high-tech yet, it’s about time.

Stream music into your kitchen to keep you company while you slice and dice or to give your guests a lift. Have a digital catalog of your recipes and favorite cooking shows at a computer station in the corner. Otherwise, just get an Amazon Echo Show and use voice activation to order it to play whatever songs you want, look up the cooking videos you seek or tell you when the time is up for the pot roast. With a display screen, the Echo Show is very versatile, even able to let you video conference with a pal or relative while you cook.

Automation can allow you to raise the height of a kitchen island, open a cabinet or turn on all the lighting with a voice command or the push of a button. Robots can clean the floor for you. There are even trash cans with sensors that will open with a voice command or when a human approaches. This means you can throw away raw chicken skin or meat packages without transferring germs to the trash cover.
Smart appliances abound, like stoves with knobs that will seek their own burner levels or Wi-fi refrigerators with cameras that show you what’s inside while you’re at the store observing on your smartphone. Never again do you have to wonder if you need eggs or milk. Just get the appliance to show you.

11. Decorative lighting

The kitchen is a space where lighting is important for reading instructions, package labels or lists of ingredients. You also want to see appliance panels clearly and look into the illuminated faces of those you love while you dine. Lighting creates ambiance, too. So, the trend this year is to pepper the kitchen with various decorative lights, even mixing various styles like single or island pendant lights with sky panels, track lighting, chandeliers or recessed lights. Ensure all the zones or areas in your kitchen have their own unique lighting option.

12. Concrete elements

The rugged and textured effect of concrete can make your island, countertop, shelves, floors or sink stand out. Concrete backsplashes and walls are also options. None of the features has to be dull and gray like a basement floor. Today`s concrete kitchen additions are being finished and glossed in an array of colors from cream to beige to pink. However, if you like gray, kitchen concrete elements look good in that hue, too.

Concrete looks wonderful when paired with chrome, stainless steel, copper, brass or wood. It is especially great for the homeowner looking to add a modern or industrial look to their kitchen. Concrete gives a pleasing contrast to the gloss of shinier materials in the kitchen. Its hard feel can also emphasize the softness of nearby cushions, drapes or cloth placemats. It can take on different shapes to give a sculptural effect. With the right color, concrete can look cozy, not cold. Another benefit is that it gives you a seamless look with no grout lines to scrub.

13. Ladders

Whether A-line or traditional, ladders in today`s kitchen are not just functional but attractive, made in materials from steel to wood. Stylish ladders can help you reach high shelves, hanging pots or cabinets, yet do not have to be hidden when not in use.
Rolling wall ladders that hang on rails attached high around the circumference of the kitchen can be easily moved and painted to blend in with the room.

However, ladders are not just for climbing. They can also be kitchen decor if repurposed to create art, vertical gardens, shelving or even seating. They can be adorned with lights and other decorative effects to give a weathered or sophisticated look. Hang ladders horizontally at the top of a wall or even on the ceiling; then add hooks to hang plants, lanterns, pans, potholders or something else to your liking.

Affix glass or wood to the top of a short ladder to make a side table or display block. Decorators are using an array of tricks to make ladders the next hot furniture item.

14. Modern Shaker-style cabinets

Not just for Quakers, the classic look of Shaker cabinets, with their large, plain, recessed square panels, are being used extensively in kitchen remodeling to create a timeless, simple impression. Made of hardwood ranging from cherry to pine, Shaker style is about the appreciation of craftsmanship. The wood cabinets can be stained and oiled in any color, although black, green, white and gray are popular. They can be inset with glass panels if the wood is not preferred. They can also be adorned with hardware in simple black, brass or chrome, but keep in mind that simple accents, like wood knobs, are best for true Shaker design.

Pair your Shaker cabinets with other angular or rustic touches, like a square sink, barn door or square granite island. The look can deliver a country-style or utilitarian kitchen.

15. Green and sustainable elements

Caring for the environment is a principle at the center of many renovations now. Eco-friendly materials, organic milk paint, energy-efficient appliances, and sustainable everything are on the minds of many homeowners.

This may mean using recycled materials in your remodeling, adding solar panels or skylights, opting for electrical appliances over gas, and even using shorter pipes to deliver more modest amounts of water. Garbage disposals to reduce waste or composting stations to get rid of food scraps are being used to reduce landfill contributions.

Instant hot water taps for soups, tea or coffee are being employed to reduce the amount of energy used for boiling. Water filtration systems are being added to kitchens to avoid having to buy plastic bottles with purified water. Reusable storage bags and dish covers are helping people avoid excess plastic. Some homes are even forgoing paper towels to create shelves with scores of washable small cotton towels to be used for wiping hands, dabbing mouths and cleaning up.

Whether your kitchen renovation is high-end or low-end, expensive or frugal, choose a few of the above trends to give you an updated look and lifestyle. Think beyond just changing a countertop or cabinet doors because the small details can really elevate your space.

The post Kitchen Remodeling Ideas: 15 Design Trends to Consider appeared first on Alternative Mindset.

What is Grout Sealer & Does It Really Work?

As the name suggests, grout sealer is used to seal grout once it has dried. This creates a barrier that protects your grout from moisture and stains for improved aesthetic and functional results. It is recommended to use grout sealer on grout in any areas with tiles, including bathrooms and kitchens. Alternatively, you can purchase a multi-purpose sealer, which can be used for both tiles and grouts. Some are even specifically designed for certain tiles and grouts.

It is important to note, however, that grout sealer is only needed for cement-based grout. Epoxy and other synthetic grouts are naturally resistant to penetration from water. Additionally, if your grout has been dyed or coloured, a seal layer may already have been applied. However, these can be very expensive grouting options, even when factoring in the sealing needs of cement-based grout.

How the 2 Types of Grout Sealer Work

How the sealer creates a barrier between moisture and the grout depends on the type of grout sealer you choose. It is important to understand the difference between these sealers as some are better for use in certain spaces.

Penetrating Grout Sealer

These kinds of sealers have a water-base. This allows the formula to penetrate the naturally porous grout, so that it can keep moisture out. As a result, this kind of sealer is best used in particularly damp areas, like bathrooms, as there is less of a risk of water getting trapped under the grout or tiles.

You can also purchase versions of penetrating grout sealer that can help maintain or change the colour of your grout. This can be highly effective for creating a dramatic contrast with or to complement your tiles.

Non-Penetrating Grout Sealer

Unlike penetrating grout sealers, non-penetrating grout sealers create a coating or barrier on the surface of the grout to resist water penetration. Therefore, they are also called membrane-forming sealers.

These are an excellent choice for kitchens and other tiled areas that are less damp or moist than bathrooms. This is because if the seal is not fully intact or properly applied, water can become trapped underneath the tile and not evaporate. Then, mildew and mould can form.

The Awesome Benefits of Grout Sealer

Properly applied grout sealer is an efficient and effective way to make your grout water resistant and repel moisture. This stops the grout from absorbing water, bacteria and stains. There are many reasons why this is an excellent thing.

You Stop Mould & Mildew

Mould and mildew are something every homeowner fears. It can quietly grow and spread and then become a serious health risk, not to mention make your home cold and look dirty. However, with sealed grout, there is less opportunity for water to get trapped under your tiles to develop into mould and mildew.

You Keep Your Grout Looking Great for Longer

Because your grout has not been compromised by water, mildew and more, it will stay looking great for longer. The texture and consistency will remain the same so your aesthetic vision for your bathroom lasts.

Additionally, sealer can help to reduce the effects of everyday wear and tear, and the natural deterioration of your grout. This means it can last longer before it needs to be replaced.

You Save Money on Replacing Tiles & Grout

Because your tiles stay mildew and mould free, along with strong grout, you will not find yourself needing to replace the grout or relay tiles to get rid of mould and mildew. This can be an expensive and time consuming process, so applying a sealer now is certainly a much better option!

You Save Time Cleaning

Similarly, grout that has been sealed is easier to clean as you are not having to scrub out grime and mildew. For those who take pride in a sparkling bathroom, you can get the results you are after without having to scrub away your weekend.

You Can DIY It & It is Inexpensive

Unlike some home projects, sealing grout is something everyone can do, even if you are not much of a handyperson. The results are well worth it – it can just take a weekend or less – and it is very inexpensive to purchase, including the tools to apply it.

You Can Pre-Treat Some Tiles & Stones

Some sealers can also be used to pre-treat some types of tiles and stones before grouting. This can help with pigment staining, grout haze and bleached joints. Therefore, you get a better result and are less likely to need to redo any sections after the tiles have been installed because of flaws.

Choosing Your Grout Sealer

No doubt you are excited to try out grout sealer for yourself, but first you need to know which is right for you.

Consider the Area

Is the grout you are looking to seal in a high-moisture or water area? Then you will need a penetrating sealer, rather than a non-penetrating sealer.

Think About What You Want to Seal

Will you just be sealing the grout? Or do you want to look at a tile and grout sealer?

Decide If You Want to Colour Your Grout

As mentioned earlier, some grout sealer can also be used to colour your grout to significant effect. It can also be used to maintain certain grout colours. Consider if this is something you want.

A Simple Guide to Applying Grout Sealer

Now you have your grout sealer chosen, it is time to apply it. Of course, this is just a general guide – always make sure to follow the specific instructions on the product you choose.

Let the Grout Dry

If the tiles have just been installed, give your grout time to dry and cure. This takes about 48-72 hours. You want the grout to be clean, dry and not cracked or chipped, as you may seal dirt in otherwise. This can then be extremely frustrating as you have essentially ‘frozen’ the grout in time, warts and all.

If you are resealing your old grout, it is a clever idea to give your grout a thorough clean. Avoid using soap, however, as this can leave a residue and have that same ‘frozen in time’ effect that mars the appearance of your grout and tiles. Try greener, traditional methods, like vinegar or baking soda, to do a deep clean.

Prepare the Area

Just like when you are painting, you want to limit the area of where your sealer can end up. So, use some tape to cover any nearby areas, like the edges of cabinets.

Apply the Sealer

Once you are prepped, you can start applying the sealer to the grout lines. There are three ways that you can do this: with a paint brush, with a roller or using a spray. Each has their own pros and cons. Ultimately, it depends on your working style and preference. Whichever application approach you choose, make sure to work systematically to be sure that you have covered all the grout, so there are no weak areas or unsealed spots.

Clean Up Any Spilt Sealer

No one’s perfect, so expect that some sealer will end up where you did not want it, like your tiles. You will need to clean this up to ensure a sparkling result. It is best to do this quickly to avoid leaving a foggy film. However, if this is a concern, you can always opt for a product that is both a tile and grout sealer. Always check the product details first though.

Wait 15 Minutes

You need to allow time for the sealer to soak into the grout or dry, depending on the sealer you bought. Typically, this will be about 15 minutes. However, it can vary between products, so double-check the directions.

Apply a Second Coat

To ensure a thorough coat and effective seal, apply a second coat of grout sealer. Follow the same steps, including cleaning up any spills or mistakes quickly.

Let the Sealer Cure

It will take a little while for the sealer to be fully effective – typically, 24-48 hours – so you will have to minimise your use of the space, including not showering in that area, to avoid water becoming trapped underneath the seal.

Test the Grout

To see if your sealer job is complete, you need to put your grout to the test. Flick a few droplets of water onto your grout. If the job has been done right, these should puddle on top of the grout rather than soaking in. Try this test in a few areas to be certain you have full coverage in your tiled space.

Reseal As Needed

Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever, so you will need to eventually reseal your grout. But this will help keep mould and mildew at bay and ensure you get all those great benefits we discussed earlier. Check the product packaging for recommendations for resealing. This will also include how regularly you need to reseal.

Get Your Grout Sealer Today

Now you are a grout sealer expert, it is time to grab some grout sealing products and tools to get done to work. You can find everything you need at your nearest hardware or search for an online store.

The post Why Grout Sealer is a Cost-Effective Way to Protect Your Tiles and Grout appeared first on Alternative Mindset.

Keep reading for some helpful tips that will get your garage ready for the winter months ahead.

1. Make a Game Plan

Before you start tackling your stuff, take some time to assess the amount of space you have and come up with a game plan on how you want to arrange your stuff. This will also help you figure out what type of organization products you will need, that way when you are ready to go you have everything on hand.

This is a great time to purge items that are broken or you simply don’t use anymore.

Start by removing everything from the garage and creating piles of items that you are planning on keeping, donating, or throwing away. Once you have gone through all of your items take the ones you plan on donating to the center and contact a junk removal company, to remove the unwanted items.

2. Avoid Storing on the Floor

Now that you have everything pulled outside of the garage, pack the items you plan on keeping into clear plastic totes that are of similar size so they are easier to stack. Clear totes make it easier to see what is inside so you don’t have to dig through everything you own when looking for something in particular.

Make use of what wall space you have by adding shelving or a wall track system to hang your shovels and yard tools in a location near the garage door that is easy to access.

If you have a lot of miscellaneous sports gear or small items you may want to consider adding a dedicated cabinet in your garage for these items. This can be especially convenient if you have kids. This provides them a landing zone for their gear when they get home from practice or a game.

You can also make use of the ceiling space by adding overhead storage shelving. Using the wall and ceiling space helps keep your items off of the garage floor. This will free up space to park your vehicle and keep your things from getting wet when the snow begins to melt off of your car.

If placing items on the floor is unavoidable, make sure to place the heaviest items at the bottom of the pile. This makes it easier for you to look through items when needed and also avoids crushing lighter weight storage boxes.

3. Organize Your Items

Now that you have all the items you are keeping packed into their respective bins, it’s time to start moving them back into your garage.

Label each of your boxes with details of what is inside. This will make things easier in the future when you are searching for a specific item but can’t remember where it is.

You can also label your shelves or wall track so that if you use an item in your garage you can remember where it goes when you are done with it.

Once you have all your things labeled you can then start by separating the items that you don’t use very often and the things that you know you will need frequent access to. With winter on its way, you know that you will be needing any snow shovels or snowblowers, and skis or sleds at the forefront.

Hanging a ski or snowboard rack is a great idea if you have a lot of equipment. This is a great way to keep the clutter on the floor to a minimum while also avoiding the inevitable poles tipping over.

Fall and Christmas decor should also be moved out to an easily accessible area. These things should be arranged on your shelves from your eye level downward.

Summer items such as pool gear, summer sports equipment, and summer holiday decorations should be packed higher up on the shelves since it is not currently needed.

It’s also a good idea to create an inventory of the items that you have stored in your garage so that you can refer to it later if you have trouble locating an item.

4. Be Ready for the Weather

It’s important to be ready for any inclement weather that might be heading your way.

Keep your salt or sand for the driveway in a handy and easy to access place near the garage door. Sliding wire baskets or a tilt-out hamper is perfect for when you need to be able to get to it quickly and effectively. Having the baskets off the floor will also keep your supplies protected all winter long.

Installing battery-powered LED lights in your garage is important for when there might be a power outage and you need to get to your supplies in the garage. Motion-sensor-activated lights make it even easier so that you aren’t fumbling to find the switches to turn them on in the pitch black.

These lights can be easily installed underneath your cabinets to see the tops of your countertops, inside drawers to help find smaller items or along the walls if necessary.

Are You Ready to Organize Your Garage?

Hopefully, this helpful guide on how to organize your garage will be useful in getting you and your stuff ready for winter.

For more home improvement tips and ideas, be sure to visit our website daily!

The post How to Organize Your Garage for Winter appeared first on Alternative Mindset.

The real estate industry is one of the most intricate markets because it isn’t consistent and has a variety of roles. Real estate brokerages are a staple in real estate because they provide agents and brokers to work with consumers.

However, the evolution of technology has changed the role that they have. Today’s agents have more control over how they operate, but they still work through brokerages.

So what exactly is the role of a real estate brokerage? Read on to learn everything you need to know.

What is a Real Estate Brokerage?

Before we can talk about what a real estate brokerage does, we must go over what exactly a brokerage is. A real estate brokerage is essentially the company the real estate agents work for. Without a brokerage, agents are unable to legally work.

A real estate brokerage company can work for themselves and hire agents. They can also build a firm while working with other firms. Because they work in the real estate industry, they have to pass a variety of state requirements and complete a brokerage exam.

Requirements to become a broker vary in each state, so it’s easier to get licensed in one place than it is another. For example, someone that becomes a real estate professional in Colorado is also a broker. If you’re wanting to hire more brokers, you’ll have to get a higher license.

How Brokerages Worked in the Past

Brokerages in the past were important in the real estate industry because they provided a central base for transactions. Brokerages provided offices, secretaries, machines to prepare documents, and would receive walk-in clients.

With these offices, brokers wouldn’t receive extra money when they were on the floor or in meetings. Brokerages also took a piece of the commission that agents earned whenever a transaction took place.

However, traditional brokerages have quickly fallen off because everything can be done electronically now. This means that brokerages have to change the way they operate to conform to today’s evolving market.

Their Role in Today’s Market

Because most modern industries are moving towards technology, brokerages also have to evolve. Rather than providing brokers with a place to operate, they now have to provide them with the technological means to do business.

Today’s brokerages will do things like analyze stats, look at market trends, and provide marketing tools to agents. To reduce as many costs as possible, brokerages cut their overhead, meaning they operate out of smaller offices instead of taking up a large building.

They’ll often include automation within their office so that they can reduce manpower and speed up their work. Aside from that, they provide agents with a mobile office so that they can work from anywhere.

A mobile office allows agents to communicate with clients, fill out paperwork, and get support from coworkers. These offices usually operate from a PBX system that connects agents with the in-house office.

Brokerages also take to marketing by producing sites that look appealing and running social media pages. Because their role isn’t as significant as it was in the past, they’re able to give agents higher percentages of transactions.

Is Starting a Real Estate Brokerage Viable?

Brokerages are still a great way to earn money because the real estate industry is going strong. If you’d like to start a brokerage firm, you should be aware of several things that go into starting one.

Financing

Starting a brokerage requires a lot of money because you need to be able to afford several overhead costs. Aside from getting licensed, you need to buy an office that you can operate out of.

You’ll then need to start hiring in-house employees and agents so that you can make transactions. This can cost you anywhere between hundreds of thousands or millions each year. While it’s best to pay out of pocket for a business, you can opt for business loans if need be.

You should keep in mind that real estate isn’t a completely stable market. Depending on the area that you’re operating out of, you could end up starting the brokerage during a slow period. You’ll have to research which seasons are the best for real estate in your region and start when it’s active.

Advertising

If you’re in an area where there are several brokerages, you’ll have to make a name for yourself. This is where advertising comes in, which is best done on social media. One of the reasons why brokerages advertise on social media is because there are over 3.2 billion daily users.

Using paid ads will get your brokerage off the ground because users will see your ads display on their feeds. If you’re looking to attract a local audience, you can target those in your area on the ads. You can also take the traditional route and use posters or billboards.

Get Involved with a Brokerage Today

If you’re interested in entering the real estate industry, getting involved with a real estate brokerage would be your best bet. Depending on which state you’re in, you can become a broker just by having a real estate license.

Brokerages aren’t as important as they were in the past because of today’s technology. Their role in real estate today is all about promoting their business and providing agents with the proper means to make a sale.

Browse our blog to find more articles about real estate if you’re interested in entering the industry.

The post What is the Role of a Real Estate Brokerage appeared first on Alternative Mindset.

How does floor insulation work?

If you want to know how floor insulation works, first you’ll need to know how insulation works. There are two main categories of insulation; reflective and bulk. Reflective insulation as the name suggests has a reflective surface that acts as a mirror to bounce the heat back. In bulk insulation, the air is trapped in the air pockets between the insulation fibres, this restricts the transfer of heat through the insulation segment. The bulk insulation type is most commonly used in the underfloor area of your home. Floor insulation acts as a barrier and protects against air flow beneath your home and fluctuating temperatures.

Installing underfloor insulation batts can keep your floor the same temperature as the inside of your home. It also prevents air draughts and outside air from entering your home. Wooden floors are especially susceptible to air gaps, and without floor insulation, there may be nothing between you and the outside elements.

What are the different types of floor insulation?

There are several different floor insulation materials and products which can be used to insulate, these include;

Glasswool insulation products which are the most commonly used and are manufactured from up to 80% recycled glass material. Some examples of Glasswool underfloor insulation batts include; Bradford Optimo, Knauf Earthwool Floorshield, and Fletcher Pink Batts.

Polyester insulation is another popular underfloor insulation product, as it is completely itch-free, safe to handle and non-toxic. Many homeowners opt for polyester insulation as it is asthma friendly and low allergen. Greenstuf Polyester Underfloor insulation is available in roll form for easy and smooth installation.

Rigid insulation boards can be used for both residential and commercial applications and are designed to achieve high R-values with a narrow thickness. Kingspan, Kooltherm and Expol underfloor products are examples of insulation boards that can be installed between the joists under your home. These boards are ideal for retrofitting, as they can be cut to fit any area. Foilboard insulation is a product that combines rigid boards with reflective foil for superior thermal insulation results.

Benefits of installing underfloor insulation batts, rolls or boards

• Increases your home’s thermal efficiency
• Reduces heat loss through the floor
• Reduces your energy bills by a noticeable difference
• Can eliminate drafts
• Less reliance on heating and cooling means you will reduce your carbon footprint
• Adds a degree of soundproofing to your home
• Acts as a moisture barrier
• DIY project friendly

So, is under floor insulation worthwhile?

Insulation can keep your home warm like a thermos in summer and cool like an esky in winter. It is certainly worthwhile considering floor insulation this winter! Aside from the immediate benefits of an insulated floor such as floor temperatures that correspond with the room, the long term benefits are phenomenal. It is difficult to estimate in monetary value how much you can save on your energy bills but just say there is an expected 10% to 20% reduction in energy usage by installing underfloor insulation alone! It is estimated that adding insulation to your home can pay itself off in a few years. If you are living in an older home, it may be worth taking a look at your floor insulation and other areas of your home such as the ceiling and wall areas. Look out for damaged insulation such as moisture, mold, missing or broken insulation. It is better to discard any damaged insulation to replace it to ensure optimal product performance is achieved!

The post Why Should You Consider Having Your Floor Insulated? appeared first on Alternative Mindset.

However, while only a small percentage are investing, a larger percentage say that they think it’s a great way to make money.

And they’re not wrong!

Florida is a popular location for second homes and other real estate investments. Learn the benefits of Florida real estate investment now.

1. Great Prices

Florida has great prices for homes to purchase depending on what city you are looking at.

Great prices mean that it’s a good opportunity for investors to buy a property and then sell it later when the house can be worth more.

Many people are concerned about the housing market crash of 2008, but since then, the market has become much more stable.

2. Opportunity Zones

In Florida, The Opportunity Zone promotes long-term investments.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 helped enact this. There are certain parts of Florida that are designated Opportunity Zones, like Palm Beach, Polk, Orange, and Miami-Dade county.

Check to see if your property is in one of these zones before you buy; you could enjoy more benefits.

3. No Distinct Tax on Sole Proprietorships and Partnerships

If you own a business by yourself, you are a sole proprietorship.

That means that in Florida, you won’t have any targeted business or corporate taxes. You won’t have any income tax as well, so that means you can invest in real estate without having to pay the state income tax.

4. No Individual Income Tax

Only seven states in the United States don’t have an income tax in 2019, and thankfully Florida is one of them.

That means the overall income tax is lower as well, and by investing in real estate, you will earn so many benefits from this.

5. High Levels of Inventory

There are so many homes for sale in Florida from people coming and going all the time, which means that homebuyers have a chance to find their dream home.

And it means you have a chance to find the perfect property to invest in.

The high levels of inventory offer so many different options that you’re bound to find one that suits your needs and budgets. Make sure you start doing research now because that dream investment could be gone in an instant.

6. Job Growth

Florida is one of the most popular states for job growth. There are so many jobs opening up in all kinds of different jobs, from construction to education to hospitality to transportation to health services.

With more jobs opening up in Florida, that means more homeowners will be moving there. That means that if you have properties, you will be able to seel them easily without having them sit there while you take a loss.

7. International Buyers

Florida is a tropical paradise that attracts all kinds of potential visitors and home buyers, including a lot of international buyers.

Because of Florida’s geography and having access to both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, foreign investors may want to have a vacation home here.

In addition to that, foreign investors have always enjoyed investing in homes in the United States because of the stable economy and the political system. The housing market in the United States offers unique characteristics that investors love.

Investors flock to Florida from all over the world, including places like Germany, Sweden, Australia, France, China, Italy, and the United Kingdom.

All of these investments and purchases all help to drive Florida’s economy and create more of a demand and a competition.

8. Economic Growth

As we touched on earlier, Florida is a state that has a great economy. And that growth is only growing.

Experts suggest that Florida will continue to prosper and grow. The market looks stable, which means that it should be safe for you to invest in some real estate there.

Tourists love coming from all over the place to visit this state which helps the economy grow as well. This means that you could also invest in a vacation rental property and make money off of that as well.

Florida was affected by the recession in 2008, but a lot of industries in the state have helped to create jobs and provide more stability for the state.

9. Unique

Florida is a very unique and diverse place, which can make investing in real estate there fun and interesting.

People from all around come to live in Florida which, along with the tourists, creates an interesting dynamic.

The state has beautiful beaches, sunny weather, lots of attractions and landmarks, and, again, no income tax.

There are so many things that will attract people to Florida, which means that there will always be people to buy your real estate investment once you decide to sell.

10. Other State Incentives

In addition to the tax breaks, the state also offers other incentives to invest in real estate.

There are local and state programs like the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. This will help increase tax credits if this is the first time someone is purchasing a home. The programs will also connect them with a mortgage broker who can help them navigate this process.

Learn More About Florida Real Estate Investment

Florida real estate investment can be daunting to get into at first, but there are so many benefits to doing it.

On top of all of those benefits, you get to be your own boss and control how you manage your money. Who doesn’t want that?

To help you get started on buying your first property, make sure you check out some of our other tips on our website!

source/credit: goteamwheaton.com

The post 10 Benefits of Florida Real Estate Investment appeared first on Alternative Mindset.

When decorating your home, wouldn’t it be nice to know that you were also positively affecting the environment? If that’s something you’re into, you can do this by practicing sustainable decorating. This new trend in home improvement has been gaining popularity and is a fun way to create both a beautiful and eco-friendly home.

What is sustainable decorating?

Sustainable decorating is the act of decorating your home in a way that keeps the environment in mind. This can be practiced in a variety of ways, from shopping at thrift stores to using indoor plants as decor. By making mindful decisions as you decorate your home, you can help make a positive impact on the environment and keep excess waste out of landfills.

10 ideas for sustainable decorating

Does sustainable decorating sound like it’s for you? If so, check out these 10 ideas for how you can sustainably decorate your home in a beautiful and eco-friendly way.

1. Decorate with indoor plants

Indoor plants are a great way to add a splash of color to your home. On top of that, indoor plants have been proven to improve your mood as well as the air quality in your home.

Examples of safe indoor plants include:

• Christmas cactus
• Boston fern
• Spider plant
• Trailing jade
• Wax plant

To be even more environmentally friendly, consider propagating plants you already own. If done correctly, you can turn a single plant into multiple plants in just a couple of months.

2. Shop at thrift stores

Thrift stores are a great place to find fun and unique items without breaking the bank. Stores such as Goodwill, Salvation Army, and other local vintage shops are also great places for finding artwork to help refresh any plain wall in your home. By shopping at thrift stores, you are also preventing items from reaching the landfill, where they will end up hurting the environment.

3. Upcycle old furniture items

Another great way to liven up your living space is to upcycle old furniture items. By doing so, you can add new decor to your house without having to buy any new items. Examples of upcycling include reusing old blankets to make new pillow covers or transforming an old suitcase into a planter for your plants.

4. Support small businesses

By shopping locally and supporting small businesses, you can help combat the transportation pollution that comes from shopping online and at large department stores. Because many of those items often come from all over the world, large amounts of transportation pollutants are released into the air throughout the shipping process. You can reduce your carbon footprint by shopping at local small businesses instead.

5. Take a month off from shopping

One of the most simple ways to be sustainable is to not buy anything at all. While this may seem tough, try to challenge yourself to 30 days where you don’t buy any new decor. You can spend this time rearranging the furniture and decor you already have. This is a great way to help you get creative and make the most of your current decor.

6. Look for eco-labels

Although it may seem contradictory to buy any new decor, there are ways that you can do so while also being environmentally responsible. To do this, check for eco-labels or green certifications.

Examples of eco-labels include:

• Cradle to Cradle
• Energy Star
• Green Seal
• Recycled Content Certification
• Safer Choice

By purchasing products from companies that support the environment, you can pick up some new items with a clean conscience.

7. Banish plastic items

When purchasing new decor, it is important to avoid plastic materials. Plastic can take upwards of thousands of years to decompose and is horrible for the environment. Decor items made from sustainable materials such as bamboo or glass are much more environmentally friendly and can be composted or recycled once you’re ready for something new.

8. Use rental furniture

Whether you find yourself constantly moving or always in need of a new style, renting furniture is a great eco-friendly option for decorating your home. By opting to rent instead of buy, you can fill your home with high-quality furniture without fear of having to get rid of it when you’re done. To do this, check out rental programs like CORT and Feather.

9. Keep an eye out for greenwashing

While some companies are actively taking steps to adopt eco-friendly practices, not all are living up to their claims. Certain companies even go out of the way to alter their marketing strategies to trick consumers into thinking they’re a green company. This is known as greenwashing.

Examples of greenwashing include:

• Excessive use of environmental images
• Unverified or ridiculous claims
• Secrecy around the lifecycle of their products
• No composting or recycling labels

If you notice any companies with these red flags, be sure to avoid them, as they do not care about the environment as much as they’d like you to believe.

10. Avoid home decor trends

When it comes to home decor, popular trends can change at the drop of a hat. Because of this, it is likely that any furniture or decor that is no longer popular will immediately end up in a landfill. To help lessen your environmental footprint, it is best to avoid these quickly fading trends and focus on a style that most closely matches your likes and interests.

Why does sustainable decorating matter?

In addition to the reasons discussed above, sustainable decorating can make a large positive impact on not only the environment but also your everyday life. After all, sustainability is a lifestyle and one that can be practiced in many areas of your life.

Benefits of practicing sustainability include:

• Cheaper utility bills
• Improved indoor air quality
• Reduced living expenses
• Less clutter in your home
• Improved feelings of self-worth
• Durable and long-lasting furniture and decor

By taking the small step of sustainably decorating your home, you are well on the way to becoming a more sustainable and environmentally friendly person. Want to make an even larger impact? Try challenging your friends to do the same, and help keep the Earth green.

Looking for more inspiration? Take a look at this helpful infographic from Hippo home insurance to learn more about how you can sustainably decorate your home.

The post How to Sustainably Decorate Your Home appeared first on Alternative Mindset.