Summer is a great time to shake up your house’s interior design. And if you’re like a lot of people, you want something fresh; something to revitalize and breathe new life into your residence. But it can be hard to get started and the options may seem overwhelming. From simply buying some new furniture or decorations to completely redesigning a living room, there are thousands of ways to change an interior space. So to help you narrow down your options and get started, let’s take a look at four inspiring design trends taking over this summer

 

Curves and Organic Shapes

Cast aside and largely neglected since the 60s, whimsical, curvy shapes are finally mounting a comeback this year. And they are rocking 2020 interior design in a big way. As curved and organic shapes continue to grow in popularity this summer, rounded furniture and rugs, as well as curved, wavy, and even snaking texture patterns have all come in vogue. Add some flair and touch of character to any space by ditching straight lines for organic, bending and flowing shapes.

 

Warm Tones (and Green!)

It should come as no surprise that warm tones are in for the summer. Soft pastel yellows, tans, pinks, and oranges perfectly compliment the season. Yet less predictably, green has become a popular color this season and is quickly cementing itself as a perfect choice for an adventurous homeowner looking to reinvigorate a space with a unique but tasteful color. Green works particularly well in living and bedrooms.

 

Quartz Countertops

An elegant blend of modern technology and artistic brilliance, the very concept of a quartz countertop is intriguing. In contrast with traditional countertops such as those made from marble or granite, quartz countertops are synthetic, and because of this, often quite affordable. But don’t be fooled by the lower price tag, not only are quartz countertops just as beautiful as their natural stone counterparts, they’re far more durable, stain-resistant, and difficult to scratch or chip. Attractive, high quality, and cost-conscious, it’s no wonder that quartz countertops continue to grow in popularity this summer.

 

Canopy Beds

Traditionally used to trap in heat and maintain privacy, today the canopy bed is beloved for its lavish design. Instantly evoking a sense of sophistication and importance, the canopy bed is a powerful design piece that needs to be matched in tone by its surroundings. However, for an ambitious bedroom interior designer, introducing a canopy bed is a great way to solidify a premium and luxurious atmosphere this summer.

 

Design trends are ever-changing, constantly updating with new ideas in aesthetics and technological advances. This summer the trend is clear. A marriage between modern technology and the nostalgic interior design choices of yesteryear. Minimalist and futuristic design choices languish while older, busier design choices such as curvy patterns reign supreme.

 

You might not think of your living room as the ideal to tone and tighten, but a little creativity can go a long way for turning your home into a fitness studio. Whether you are already active or looking to get in shape for the first time, your home can actually be a great place to keep up with a healthy exercise routine. Let’s explore the many ways you can stay in shape right in the comfort of your own home or neighborhood.

 

Technology is Your Friend

These days, there are endless options on the internet for staying in shape at home. YouTube offers a variety of free workout videos, yoga sessions, training tips, and more. If you have limitations such as injuries or are just starting to get fit, simply search the internet for workout videos that match your needs. For instance, “Home workouts safe for knee injuries” or “Chair exercises for over 60’s.”

 

Tour the Town

Getting in shape can be as simple as walking, running, or biking through your neighborhood. Try new routes, wander other neighborhoods nearby, or explore a new part of town on foot. The fresh air, sunshine, and wind on your face will also boost your mood and lift your spirits.

 

Be Productive

Cleaning, organizing, and rearranging your home can actually be quite the workout. Vacuuming and sweeping activates the arms and core muscles, reorganizing bookshelves can tone the arms, and simple tasks like washing dishes, cleaning the bathroom, and making the bed all keep your body in motion.

 

Stretching and Yoga

Due to its simplicity and the small amount of space you’ll need to practice, yoga can be a great way to stay in shape at home or even in your yard. There are yoga exercises for every level of fitness. Try a Sun Salutation or this Chair Yoga Series.

 

Working out at home may not feel natural, but it only takes a little adjustment to get the hang of it. With exercise available at your doorstep, there’s no reason not to start or stick to your exercise regimen!

 

Buying a new home can be daunting. After you get through the obstacles of getting a home loan, finding your perfect house, you have to navigate the waiting period of making your offer. If you have a dedicated agent behind you, this process will go smoothly, but it’s best to have a good idea of what to expect along the way.

What Happens After Your Offer is Accepted?

You’ve made a strategic offer, and it has been accepted! Now, the next step is a deposit. The deposit seals the deal and makes the transaction official. Your deposit is usually a percentage of the home’s purchase price and applies to the final sale price. Be sure you have this deposit ready when you make your offer, as it can often make or break the sale.

What is Escrow?

After your deposit is secured, you’ll start the Escrow process. In Escrow, a third party holds the funds from your loan to disperse to the sellers until the sale is finalized. However, the escrow process has grown over the years to include many other finalizing factors. This is where all parties will complete the sale. Your home loan will be finalized, the home’s condition will be inspected, and the legal documents will be completed. Titles are exchanged, funds are dispersed, and the closing is completed.

Additional Closing Costs 

Don’t get swept up in the excitement of putting down your deposit and forget about closing costs. Closing costs are additional fees that cover other expenses of the home buying process.

In California, these costs run about 1-3 % of the final home purchase. They include fees to the lender for preparing the loan, credit checks and loan processing fees, escrow fees, appraisal fees, title search and examination fees, and inspection fees.

After closing costs, be sure you have also reserved funds for after-the-sale fees like the pro-rated property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and mortgage insurance.

Preparation is the Best Strategy

Buying a home is exciting, but it’s not without its difficulties. Being prepared with the right funds, savings, and paperwork can save you many headaches – and may even save your sale.

Gardening is a lot of hard, rewarding, and therapeutic work. Just that answer alone is complex. Then, you must mold them all together to grow and maintain life. Add in the increasing drought conditions of Southern California, and it can become pretty easy to neglect your lawn. So, should you hire a gardener to maintain your landscape, or should you try to do it yourself? Let’s figure it out!

Pros to Gardening Yourself 

There are many studies that show spending time in the garden can decrease stress and improve your mood. In turn, you may experience benefits like lower blood pressure and better heart health. 

So, if you can garden yourself, then by all means! You will save a lot more money. Plus, the health rewards are well worth the time invested. 

What to Know About Gardening in Southern California 

California has a long-standing history of low water supplies. Your garden water usage must be in compliance with any local California water laws. 

Before planting, you should also be aware of how much water is needed to keep your garden alive. The Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS) is an excellent resource for this information. Their database lists the water needs of over 3,500 plant species.

Also, keep in mind that many plants won’t survive in drought conditions. So, planting them would essentially be a waste of water and money. Make sure you are up-to-date with the best drought-resistant plants for California.

Should You Hire a Gardener for Your Southern California Garden?

If you need to redo your whole garden or replace old turf, this might be a bigger job than you can handle. After all, we need to work for a living. There are just so many hours in the day! So, it’s best you get a gardener who specializes in water conservation gardens. 

Turf Replacement Program

 

California has a Turf Replacement Program that covers all of your gardening needs.

This innovative program is the brainchild of multiple organizations:

 

• Department of Water Resources
• California Conservation Corps (CCC)
• Habitat Corridor Project (HCP)
• Local Government Commission

 

Their goal is to replace 165,000 square feet of California turf with water-efficient landscaping using native plants, trees, and grass. Specialists will handle turf removal, irrigation, planting, and mulch. Applying is a no-brainer for someone looking to go green with their greenery.

Fruit Tree Planting Program 

Another amazing initiative that California has rolled out is a Fruit Tree Planting Program. City staff will plant one fruit tree in your yard. You can choose between six different plants.

 

Options include:

 

• Lemon
• Lime
• Orange
• Pomegranate
• Peach
• Avocado

This program hopes to improve the environment and the health of California citizens. Plus, with the recent avocado shortage south of the border, the Fruit Tree Planting Program might save brunch!

Water damage is one of the unforeseen problems that pop up for homeowners. To say it’s an inconvenience is an understatement. Untreated water damage can destroy structures, ruin your paint job or rug, and may lead to mold. Here are some tips for preventing water damage that all homeowners should implement.

Become Aware of Water Main 

In the moment you spring a leak, you must cut the water off at the source. Fumbling around in a panic will only set you up for water damage. Be sure you know where your water main is. That way, you can avoid a disaster them moment trouble starts brewing.

Get Gutters Cleaned 

It’s easy for gutters to remain out-of-sight, out-of-mind. They’re so far above us that we remain oblivious to their needs. Unfortunately, this quick fix can end up costly if it’s not addressed.

 

As leaves and other debris builds up in our gutters, the rain on the roof has nowhere to go. So, it will accumulate along the side of the house. Over time, this water can start to permeate your ceiling and walls, creating water damage.

 

Regularly clean your gutters. Make sure they’re connected to downspouts. That way, the rain can be drained away from the property adequately. 

Invest in a Water Detector

Not everyone dwells in their basement regularly. Therefore, water can accumulate, and you might not know for days or weeks. Get eyes and ears in spots you don’t check every day by getting a water detector.

 

Water detectors are small electronic devices that sense moisture. When the device comes into contact with a wet surface, it will let out an alarm. This alarm will warn you that water is accumulating in the area in question.

Check Washing Machine Hoses 

We take for granted the hard work our washing machine does for us. It gets used so often and requires little maintenance. However, the maintenance it does require is essential.

 

Over time, a washing machine hose may rust, get a tear, or disconnect from the machine. Check the hose from time to time. If it looks like it’s in need of replacement, it probably is. Just do it. Otherwise, you’ll end up wishing you did. 

Look at Your Water Bill

Another tell-tale way of figuring out a leak is looking at your water bill. Many people have their utilities on auto-pay. We’re unaware of the extra dollars being charged for water we’re not using each month.

 

Look at your bill and see how much a typical month costs. Pay attention for months on end and see the average. When you continually go over the average, there is a potential problem brewing. Fix it now before water damage becomes a reality. 

 

There’s nothing worse than a raging case of buyer’s remorse. It’s one thing to detest the jacket you just bought. It’s another to regret purchasing your house. While buying a home is an excellent investment that pays a lot of dividends in the long-run, daily life can make it harder to see the big picture. Some of the bumps along the road may cause you to feel moments of regret, but they shouldn’t. 

 

There are moments where you’ll feel blindsided as a homeowner. You feel that if you knew about these problems earlier in life, it could have made these blows easier to deal with. In fact, you can even plan for them, which would severely decrease any feelings of buyer’s regret. Here are five things homeowners wish they knew before they bought or renovated their home. 

Fix the Little Things As They Happen 

A slow leak can cause structural damage, while a clogged gutter can make a hole in the roof. There are little inconveniences that will inevitably pop up in your home. You might feel tempted to deal with these issues “tomorrow.” 

After all, you don’t plan on moving any time soon, so you’re bound to fix this issue. Well, that issue isn’t going anywhere either. Suddenly, it becomes a game of chicken as to what will crack first–the ceiling tiles or your procrastination. 

You Might Not Be Able to Renovate Upon Moving in 

Part of the allure of buying a house is making the place feel like yours. Sure, you can move in and rip up the carpet and paint the walls. However, you might not be allowed to get an addition or upgrade the electrical on day one.

For instance, adding another room onto the side of your house might be a zoning or conservation issue. Plus, installing a new bathroom will require a plumbing permit, just as blowing out the kitchen wall requires its own.

Furthermore, these permits can only be obtained by the homeowners. It doesn’t matter if you’re closing tomorrow. They will make you wait until tomorrow to start the process. Depending on your situation, approval may take months.

Get to Know Your Neighbors

It’s good to have people you trust that live around you. Even the biggest introverts can benefit from a last minute cat-sitter or someone close who can lend you a lawnmower when yours goes kaput. 

Also, bad neighbors can really impede your quality of life. Try getting a gauge of the people in your neighborhood before moving in. Say “hi” and chat if you see them outside. Drive around at different hours of a day to get a feel for the neighborhood’s vibe. Make an educated decision about your location before settling in. 

Look Out for Problem Trees

Trees are essential and are an excellent spot for your children to read a book. However, these big beauties can become even bigger pains. If your potential house is close to a big tree, Google it. See how aggressive their root systems are. 

Aggressive roots are strong and will expand many feet. In turn, they can pull up piping or damage the structure of the house. Think of a tree that destroys a sidewalk. That can be the slab of your future home’s foundation. 

Plan Renovations 

Your house needs to change as your family continues to evolve. These changes are going to be costly. However, their necessity will be inevitable. So, don’t live in denial. Come up with a plan.

Talk to pros about potential renovations. Get a gauge for how much they will be. Choose one big project every year or two. Save up and see it through. Then, start thinking of your next long-term goal. You’ll be surprised at how productive you can be! 

 

Everything you need to know about the Tenant Protection Act.

Click below for the PDF.

AB 1482 Rent Control Info

Another year in the books means another year as a homeowner. When you own a house, there are so many things that you need to go to keep up the property. Many of us don’t even know where to begin. Luckily, we can help you with that! Here’s a checklist for homeowners to kick the new year off right.

 

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Check the Air Quality

While it’s beautiful in southern California all year long, we still tend to spend the majority of our time indoors during the winter months. Heck, even during the summer, we’re guilty of cranking the AC up a bit too much. Suffice to say; we’re breathing in a lot of stagnant air. 

 

Improve your air quality by getting an activated carbon dehumidifier. These devices help capture mold and bacteria in the air that may cause allergies and other illnesses. Also, make sure to check filters in furnaces and central air units.

 

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Create a To-Do List

Every house is unique. So, the needs of the property will differ from person to person. The best way to start 2020 off on the right foot is to know what you’re dealing with.

 

Take inventory of your house. Walk around and see what needs to be repaired or replaced. Write these projects down. Also, be sure to give yourself a deadline. A sense of accountability will push us to be the better homeowners we desire to be.

 

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Get the Yard Ready

While we don’t have to contend with snow, some of our plants can’t sustain the winter months. That doesn’t mean there isn’t grass to mow or leaves to rake. Keep up with the minimal winter upkeep so you can transition into spring much easier. 

 

Speaking of spring, plan out your garden. Research about companion plants to improve your bounty. Also, try to come up with organic ways to keep critters out of your patches. The more thought you put into your garden, the more you will yield in 2020.

 

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Organize Your Storage

2020 is a new decade. New beginnings mean getting rid of the old junk you don’t need anymore. Have a tag sale or donate some of your old treasures. 

 

While you are going through your keepsakes, start organizing the things you went through. Instead of having old toys, clothes, and books mixed in together, try putting like items into totes. These practices will save you headaches in the event you actually need one of these items. Otherwise, this practice will just make it easier for you to donate or set up a table at a tag sale in the future. 

 

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Change that Room into the One You Want

We all have dreams of changing that extra bedroom into an office or the basement into a gym. Yet, we never pull the trigger. What’s the deal?

 

This is your house. You’re going to live here forever. Why not make into the perfect place for you? Transform that room into whatever you want it to be! You won’t regret it.