Real Estate Information Archive

A yard or patio is the perfect spot for enjoying the outdoors, whether that means playtime with your kids or quiet relaxation after a long day. And while you may like your neighbors, you may not want to see and hear them every time you venture into your backyard. If more privacy interests you, consider these options below: 

Fencing -- Probably the most straightforward solution, fences have long been the go-to for homeowners seeking seclusion. Be sure to check city ordinances and HOA policies before installing one.

Hedges -- Shrubs like boxwood and privet are commonly planted along property lines. Choose an evergreen variety for year-long privacy. Make sure it's suited for your climate and matures to your desired height.

Screens -- Stylish and effective, folding wood-panel screens add a nice visual element while blocking unwanted views. Opt for a weather-resistant screen designed for the outdoors.

Trellis -- The lattice configurations on these simple wooden structures offer an element of privacy. They're also a perfect host for climbing vines and plants if you'd like additional coverage. Just be sure to check the sunlight and care requirements for the vegetation you plant.

Pergola -- A pergola helps block views from second-story windows and balconies. It can be as simple or intricate as you'd like and will offer a degree of shade along with privacy.

Drapes -- Budget-friendly and chic, panels help screen off your patio and can be moved as desired. Make sure the fabric is suitable for outdoor use or spray it with a water-resistant coating.

Vertical Garden -- If you're looking to increase privacy and also want to grow your own herbs, consider a living wall. You can buy prefabricated tower planters for easy installation.

If neighborly noise is a problem, a water fountain is a relaxing, sound-muffling solution. Consider your outdoor space and choose the privacy-adding options that work for you.

Whether you're looking for greener ways to clean your home or you just want to save money at the store, there are simple household cleaning products you can make on your own. Use the recipes, tips and precautions below to help you get started.

All-Purpose Cleaner

Create your own inexpensive and effective all-purpose cleaner with liquid castile soap, tea tree oil, vodka, washing soda (not baking soda) and white vinegar. Boil the vinegar in the microwave, mix in the remaining ingredients according to the recipe and put the solution in a spray bottle for easy cleaning.

Laundry Detergent

Avoid questionable foaming agents and heavy fragrance by making your own laundry detergent. Measure the correct amounts of soap flakes or grated bar soap, borax and washing soda, and store in an airtight container.

Tips to Keep in Mind

• Avoid mix-ups by labeling and dating each cleaning product when it's made.
• Add a few drops of essential oils like tea tree, lavender and lemon to scent your homemade cleaning solutions.
• Substitute vodka for vinegar if you want a lighter smell.
• Before using a homemade cleaner on delicate surfaces like hardwood floors or marble, first test it in a small, hidden area.

What to Avoid

• Do not mix bleach with ammonia or vinegar. The dangerous combination can damage your respiratory system.
• Keep hydrogen peroxide and vinegar separate at all times. Together they create peracetic acid, a highly corrosive compound that can lead to chemical burns.
• Don't use vinegar on reactive metal surfaces like aluminum or cast iron.
• Refrain from using large amounts of any cleaning solution, homemade or store-bought, in unventilated areas.

When mixed and used properly, homemade cleaning solutions can work as well as, if not better than, commercial cleaners, plus they're also easier on your wallet. Make sure you know the basics before you make your own cleaning products.

Is it time to replace your window coverings? If they're worn, damaged or dated, it's probably time to start "window" shopping for something new. The good news is that now more than ever there are endless styles and colors to choose from. Find the right window treatment by considering your various options.

Determine Your Style -- Take a look at your decor and decide if a traditional or more modern style of window coverings would suit your home. Nowadays window coverings come in a wide variety of finishes, colors and styles.

Choose Your Material -- Determine what type of material fits your budget and maintenance preferences. Options include fabric, vinyl, aluminum, wood and even faux wood. You could frame your windows with curtain panels, opt for pleated or Roman shades, hang asymmetric swags, or mount horizontal or vertical wooden shutters.

Assess Your Functional Preferences -- Think about your light control and privacy concerns. For example, you may require blackout blinds for a media room or bedrooms but not for the less private areas of your home where sunlight is welcome.

Choose Custom or Off-the-Shelf -- Decide if you want to go with custom window coverings that are manufactured to fit the interior dimensions of your windows, or if an off-the-shelf window treatment will suit your needs.

Consider Energy Efficiency -- Think about your heating and cooling needs. Cellular shades help regulate heat loss or gain in addition to controlling the light. If you're likely to forget shade adjustment as a means of temperature regulation, consider upgrading to motorized shades.

Beautiful garden inspiration can come from all parts of the world. From the neat and pristine gardens of France to the peaceful meditation gardens of Japan, there are many design styles to help you create a pleasing outdoor space that suits you best. Here are some international ideas to help you get inspired this spring:

Traditional English -- "Romantic" and "dreamy" are words often used to describe classic English gardens. They typically feature meandering pathways, sculpted shrubs and abundant sweeping flowers, like climbing roses. Recreate the look with plenty of climbing greenery and bright pops of color.

Formal French -- Indulge your inner neat freak with the clean lines of a formal French garden based on order, symmetry and geometric shapes. Arrange sculpted trees in straight lines, add a small fountain with a round or rectangular pool, or create a mini courtyard with neatly trimmed boxwood hedges for a French-inspired garden.

Japanese Zen -- Serene Japanese gardens often feature water, rocks, sand and gravel, all of which represent spiritual or philosophical ideas. They're characteristically minimalist, asymmetrical and elegant. Plant a symbolic cherry blossom tree as the main focal point, or create your own tranquil setting with a stone pathway, bamboo fence, backyard waterfall or koi pond.

Fragrant Tuscan -- Delight your sense of smell with a Tuscan-style garden. These traditionally include aromatic herbs such as lavender, sage, rosemary or flowering thyme. Ornamental grasses add soft texture while low-maintenance, native plants do just fine in the hot summer sun.

Refresh Your Interior With The Right Paint

Looking for a quick way to rejuvenate your living space? Before you go changing layouts or knocking down walls, try giving your interior a fresh coat of paint. This fairly simple task can dramatically alter the look and feel of your home.

Changing interior paint is an easy do-it-yourself project that most can tackle in a weekend or two. Before you get the rollers out and start painting, here are some basics about the interior paint finishes available:

Flat or Matte -- Hide imperfections with flat paints, which absorb light and make the colors seem darker. The downside? This type of paint is the least stain resistant, so reserve it for low-traffic areas and ceilings. 

Eggshell -- Not as dull as flat paint but less shiny than semi-gloss, this low-sheen option works well in living rooms and bedrooms. Be aware that the shine can accentuate wall imperfections, so it's best on smooth, well-prepared surfaces.

Satin -- This easy-to-clean finish is often used on windows, doors and trim. Its soft sheen sets it apart from walls painted in eggshell or flat finishes. Though it is highly durable, satin paint has less protection than shinier options.

Semi-Gloss -- Designed to stand up to stains, semi-gloss paints are the easiest to clean, making them ideal choices for kitchens and children's rooms. Semi-gloss sheen also stands up to moisture, so consider this selection when repainting a bathroom. 

Low VOC -- The name says it all. This type of paint contains fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which release toxic gases. Opt for low-VOC paint if you want to go green in your home and deal with less paint fumes.