One of the most popular remodeling projects involves putting together master bedroom bath designs. The master bath is an increasingly important part of your home’s value, so it is generally a good investment of time and money to remodel and make improvements. You should not just jump in and start demolishing the old master bath, though. The first step (and a very important step) is to consider different options and draw up one or more designs of what you would like to do.
Several things are important to consider when putting together master bedroom bath designs. For instance, even a relatively small space can be redesigned so that it is more functional and feels more spacious. All you need to do is carefully plan and position the right components the right way. When planning the layout of your bathroom design think about how you move about the master bath and where each component should be located.
Master Bedroom Bath Designs
Color is also an important factor for your master bedroom bath designs. Different colors can create different effects depending on the rest of your décor, the natural lighting and the electrical lighting in the space. As you are choosing a paint color for your bathroom bring color samples and sample materials into the bathroom space to see how they look in the ambient light.
Durability and cost are important parts of your design as well. Remodeling a master bath is a big job that you probably do not want to do very often, so select materials that are attractive as well as durable over the long term. Your budget is another important consideration. More and more manufacturers are offering extremely high end bath fixtures and components that are innovative but very expensive. Most of the time, if you splurge and spend a lot of money on these fancy items you will not recover those costs as fully in increased value of your home. It is generally better to choose mid range materials and items for master bedroom bath designs to gain the greatest return on your investment.
This article was written by Gregg Hicks of http://www.reliableremodeler.com which provides Internet-based home improvement information and services. Offering homeowners a simple, quick, and free way to access, qualified home improvement remodeling contractors.
Putting Together Master Bedroom Bath Designs
Design Tips For Your Master Bathroom
When you redecorate your master bedroom, don’t leave the master bath out in the cold! You can add some zing to your bathroom too and create a cohesive theme between the two rooms that will give you a real sweet master suite.
One thing you need to do when redecorating your master bath is to be sure to tie in some of the elements from your bedroom. You don’t have to make it an identical match, but using a common color or theme will really unite the two rooms. If your bedroom has a cottage theme, carry this over into the bathroom by putting out some shells in dishes on the vanity. If your bedroom is more shabby chic with big floral wallpaper, then think about carrying the color of the flowers into the master bath.
One of the big design elements in the bathroom is the hardware. Faucets and spigots, in addition to tubs and toilets are made in a variety of shapes and materials which can be the centerpiece of your design. Open showers are currently popular with the younger upwardly- mobile crowd, and claw-foot bathtubs are almost always considered to be classic and attractive. When selecting hardware and figuring out a floor plan, think about privacy issues and don't put the toilet and tub too close together.
Another big element in the bathroom is the tiling. The more expensive tiles should have durability, aesthetic value, and a non-porous surface. Make sure your tiles can be easily cleaned and sanitized, and that it is easy to install and does not require special adhesives which can become costly. When choosing tile, think out of the box. You don’t have to use only porcelain tile, consider marble, clay and anything else you see in the store that catches your eye.
Once you have the design down and selected the major elements, focus on decoration accessories to bring out personality and individualism. The bathroom doesn’t have to just be functional and putting interesting items on the walls or shelves is a great way to give the room some character. Don’t be afraid to use your own ideas and put what you want into the room when redecorating your master bathroom.
Lee Dobbins writes for Bedroom Designs And Decorations where you can find more tips on decorating your bedroom.
Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks
Stainless steel kitchen sinks are very popular in the recent years. Durable, timeless, resilient are three good words to describe stainless steel sinks. This shiny, sleek metal blends very well with contemporary or traditional kitchen designs and various countertops.
If you are one of the many who is looking into buying a stainless steel sink, here are things that you need to know:
1. Stainless steel sinks are popular
Stainless steel sinks are popular due to various reasons, some of which are as follows:
* They are easy to clean and maintain.
* They are attractive and sleek - they add a very nice contrast against granite and other kinds of countertops.
* They are very durable - they last for many, many years.
* They are forgiving, meaning that dropping objects, heavy or light, do no break or damage them.
2. Stainless steel sinks easily blend with everything
This is one of the main reasons why they are so common and popular. They blend very well with the current kitchen trends and styles, as well as traditional, old-fashioned ones. They also easily blend with black and white appliances and create interesting contrasts in texture when paired with certain countertops
3. Stainless steel sinks are affordable
Prices of this type of sink vary anywhere from $50 to $700 or even more, so that it is easy to find one that will fit your budget. The price typically varies depending on the sink design, size and thickness of the material. The lower the gauge, the thicker the steel, and the more expensive it is. For example, 18-gauge sinks are priced $200 and more, while 22-gauge sinks are priced $50-$100.
4. Stainless steel sinks are easiest to clean
They are very easy to wipe and maintain, especially those that come undermounted. You do not have to worry about cleaning it every now and then as it does not stain easily.
5. Scratches in stainless steel
One of the main disadvantages of these sinks is that they tend to develop scratches, so you should expect it to scratch over time. However, if you maintain it well and do measures to minimize scratches, it can stay good as new for a long time.
6. Noise level is an issue for stainless steel sinks
They can be quite noisy, especially those thin ones, but the degree of noise it creates depend on how you do your chores in the sink and how strong your water flow is. There are now designs available wherein sound deadening coatings are attached to reduce noise.
7. The color might not be for everyone
Stainless steel has only one color. So, if you need to spice up your kitchen, this might not be the answer. However, you can choose a compatible countertop and establish your color motif and design through it.
Stainless steel sinks offer a wide variety of advantages that is why it has become popular throughout the years. They do have a few disadvantages, but the benefits they offer outweigh them far more.
Please visit author's websites at
Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks and
Home Improvement Articles.
The Benefits of Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks
Stainless steel has emerged as the most popular choice of materials for new sink installations because of its low cost, light weight, and almost unbreakable construction. Stainless steel sinks are made in many sizes and several thicknesses, measured in gauge.
The gauge of the stainless steel is the thickness of the stainless steel sink. The most common gauges are 18 and 20. The higher the number gauge, the thinner the steel. Eighteen is the most recommended gauge for sinks.
Stainless steel kitchen sinks are easy to clean and will stay looking newer for longer when cared for properly. You won’t have to worry about leaving lemons in the sink overnight or cranberry stains, but it can become dull and scratched. It is best to put a plastic or rubber mat in the sink to protect it from scratches. A mat will protect the shiny surface and keep it looking new longer.
When choosing a kitchen sink, there are many different decisions that need to be made. Even the simplest of sinks are available in different styles and colors. The first consideration is the size. Make sure that your sink fits. Most kitchen cabinets are standard 24"" measurement front to back.
Sinks are made with various qualities of stainless steel. Light-gauge stainless steel is more vulnerable to denting and scratching.
Stainless steel is also available in a mirrored finish, which gives it a shinier appearance. In brushed-stainless finishes, which is the latest trend, scratches are less visible. Also popular are satin bowls with mirrored rims.
Kitchen sinks come in one bowl, two bowl, or three bowl models. The bowls can be deep or shallow. Single bowl sinks are basic, and their depth can vary from 10” to 12”. Two and three bowl sinks allow for multi-tasking. For example, you can rinse or store dishes in the large bowl, and use the small bowl for a garbage disposal or to rinse vegetables.
Stainless steel sinks are available in a variety of price ranges that depend on many factors such as the manufacturer's brand image, the size of the sink, the finish it comes in, and the features it boasts.
Kitchen Sinks Info provides detailed information on stainless steel, copper, vintage, granite, corner, and acrylic kitchen sinks, faucets, and more. Kitchen Sinks Info is the sister site of Granite Counter Tops Web.
Delta Kitchen Sink Faucets Complete Your Kitchen's Style
Whichever room you are updating or remolding you will have to think of replacing your sink faucets. You do not want to have an updated kitchen and have a faucet that has been used for many years. Finding the right faucet can be very easy. They come in a variety of styles and prices. There is something for everyone.
Delta kitchen sink faucets offer many choices for their customers. They have four distinct styles to choose from. These styles include:
* Casual
* Contemporary
* Traditional
* Stately
The Casual line mixes both contemporary with traditional. You can find faucets that look historic and vintage, but have a modernized twist. The Contemporary faucets are simple and clean. These would fit perfect in anyone's contemporary kitchen. When it comes to the Traditional faucets they would match a kitchen that has a comfortable rustic feel to it.
The Stately faucets are for the homeowners that have a Victorian style kitchen. The faucets are beautiful and would fit perfectly in a luxurious kitchen.
You will want to find the right kind of faucet to match the rest of your kitchen. What type of spout are you looking for? One that is tall with one handle, or perhaps a spout that has a lower profile with two handles? The options are endless. Another feature you will have to decide if you want is the sprayer. Not every faucet comes with it. Once you have selected the type of faucet, you will have to choose from their available finishes. The most common are chrome and stainless steel.
Delta also offers kitchen sink accessories that can match the sink faucet you chose. Soap dispensers are popular additions to sinks. Many of them can hold a 13-ounce bottle of soap or lotion. Another accessory that the company offers is air gaps that will match the rest of your faucet. These can be found in different finishes including bronze, brass, and nickel. One other item available is the common disposal and flange stopper.
The accessories do not end there. If you have something in mind, Delta may have it for you. You can visit their website for many options to view.
Delta does not only supply kitchen products. They have a large assortment of items for your bath, bar, and laundry rooms. Once you are done completing your kitchen, you should keep them in mind if you decide to update your other rooms of the house.
When it comes to water, Delta has over 55 years of innovation. They offer an endless supply of products that have to do with your water needs. If you decide your kitchen needs a new faucet, they are worth looking into. It can be a new addition to your beautiful kitchen.
For more information on the benefits of using a kitchen and bath design software to design your dream kitchen try visiting http://www.remodelingkitchenguide.com, a popular website that offers kitchen remodeling tips, resources and kitchen cabinet pantry organization ideas that will finally make all of the pantry space usable.
Home Decor Tips for the Renter or Tenant
Home Decor always starts with some basic design rules that we need to follow in order to achieve the best results. I think most people would agree with me about the backdrop (or background) elements for home design.
1. Paint Color(s)
2. Window Treatments
3. Flooring
4. Furniture
These four elements set the base, or backdrop for your decor needs. Before we get into choosing color schemes, textures, patterns, etc... we must address these four elements of design, and this is where the renter is at a disadvantage to a home owner.
Most landlords already supply two or three of these elements. Paint color(s), Flooring, and often it is the landlord that chooses your Window Coverings. Let us first address paint. Most landlords supply the paint color and they take a dim view of renters using any paint color other than that which they have supplied. Most landlords paint their rentals in off-white colors. This may not be your favorite color and many renters would certainly like to choose their own paint colors, but most renters would also like to get their security deposit back when they move out, so most often you are stuck with the choice that has already been made for you. This does not have to be a horrible thing, as off-white will usually work with most any home decor. Some landlords will let you paint in other colors as long as you re-paint it back to off-white before you move out. Perhaps they will allow you to paint one accent wall which can help greatly. Check with your landlord before you decide to change the paint. If they say no, it is not the end of the world. You simply have to pick your design colors from other sources than the paint.
Most landlords also supply the Window Treatments. Most rentals that I see have been supplied with shades or blinds that are neutral colors. Here also, most landlords do not want you to remove or replace what they have supplied. Although, most landlords will not mind if you use curtains or draperies to add to the existing window treatments, so here is an area worth asking about. Always check with your landlord before you start attaching window coverings to their property. Some landlords will not allow you to nail or screw anything into the walls. Most that I know do not mind, as long as you fill the holes in when the window treatments are removed. Now you can use texture, pattern and color for your windows to compliment your home decor style.
The next consideration will be your furnishings. Most renters already have their furniture, or at least some furniture. Many time the furniture you have may be hand-me-downs. If you do not have your furniture yet and you are on a budget, consider shopping at thrift stores or yard sales. You can usually find some great bargains and if the furniture is not the right color or does not have the right texture, you can always use paint or stain to change the color, and slip-covers can be found for sofas, chairs, etc.. and this will still allow you a good amount of latitude for your home decor.
That leaves us with the Flooring. This is often the most aggravating part, because the flooring is almost always supplied by the landlord, and most landlords don't care how it will tie in with your home decor needs. No matter how ugly the color is, or how old and worn the flooring is, you are pretty much stuck with it. I have had many clients who have tried to get their landlord to change the flooring, and almost always, they will not even consider it. Even when the tenant offers to pay for part of the cost. This can be frustrating, but changing the flooring is not your only solution, so don't give up just yet. This is where area rugs can be a wonderful option. Area Rugs come in all shapes, sizes, and colors and although I usually suggest that a person find their rug first before choosing other decor items, you can easily work the other way around and choose a style and color that matches your decor. Use an area rug to cover that old dirty carpet or add warmth and color over any type of hard-surface flooring. It is best to invest a little bit more for a good quality rug (many wool fiber rugs can be found for the same price or slightly more than the cheap ones you find at the chain-stores). The great thing about a good quality rug is that you can take it with you when you move, and a wool fiber rug can last a lifetime with proper care. Also, most patterns will never go out of style, if you choose a more classic or traditional pattern.
Just because you don't own the home you are living in does not mean you have to give up on style and decor. There are a world of possibilities, even for those who rent or lease, to make your apartment a real home. Check out our web site for an area rug to cover an ugly worn out floor, or just to add the right colors to balance your design needs.
Article By: Charles Beason
Charles is a Flooring Design Consultant in the High Desert of Southern California.
Visit his website at http://www.rugrunnerbiz.com
Have Questions, Ideas, Tips, etc... Submit them to us for inclusion on our web site.
mailto:chazbeason@rugrunnerbiz.com
This article is copyright (c) 2008 by Charles Beason, and may be reprinted in it's entirety as long as this byline and copyright statement is included.
Three Good Reasons To Avoid Bad Credit Home Loans
Once you have been through some sort of financial crisis, the next phase is recovering from the damage that has been done to your credit rating. Some people feel that the ideal way to escalate that recovery is to purchase property. The idea is that having a home loan that you pay faithfully every month will help to create a good reference and enhance your credit rating. However, this may not be the best approach for you. Here are three reasons why you should not go for a home loan if you have bad credit.
First, chances are you will not qualify for a good interest rate. That is not to say that you will be unable to get financing. In fact, there are many loan institutions that will be happy to sign you up for a high risk loan. The terms in these will not be favorable. Along with a higher interest rate, there will be stiffer penalties and often some extra charges built into the contract that would not be present in more competitive loans. Wait until your credit is better and then you will qualify for a loan with more favorable terms.
Second, owing a large amount of money will impact how your credit rating is figured. The ratio between income to debt plays a big role in that calculation. If the total amount of the loan is significant and your income is mediocre, you could actually be setting yourself up for keeping your FICO rating in the basement. Even if you are making the payments like clockwork, your rating will not rise significantly for some time.
Last, you may not be emotionally ready for assuming such a huge debt. Keep in mind that you have just been through a rough time financially. No doubt you stayed up nights worrying about how you would make it through. Give yourself a breather and don't create a bunch of new debt just because the old ones are now settled. Use this time to enjoy yourself and not worry every time the phone rings. See it as an opportunity to begin putting a few dollars away in a savings account and to start getting your finances to a point where they are working for you. There is always time to look into buying a house later.
Bonus Tip: You'll be much better off if you fix your bad credit before pursuing a home loan. You can get free details on how to improve your credit score by over 249 points points right now at: http://www.CreditRepairWarrior.com
VA Home Loans
VA home loans are a unique way of extending support to the US war veterans, who committed their lives in safeguarding the interests of the country. Therefore, understanding these loans is beneficial.
Objective:
VA housing loan program provides financial assistance to veterans so that they can purchase home at a favorable rate of interest and convenient loan terms.
Eligibility:
Armed personnel, who served the country's cause during World War II, Korean Conflict, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War and Afghanistan War, are eligible. Also personnel who have done peacetime service for 181 continuous days are eligible. Even members with 6 years of service in the Reserves or National Guards can apply. Spouses of war personnel, who lost their lives during wartime and those captured as Prisoners of War, are also eligible for this benefit.
Arranging a Veteran's Guaranteed Loan:
The foremost step is to locate a suitable property in a safe locality. Next, the veteran has to go to a lender and apply for a home loan. VA guaranteed loans are provided by private lenders that include banks, mortgage companies and savings and loan associations. While submitting the loan application, the veteran also needs to present papers of discharge from the service and a Certificate of Eligibility. The property is then appraised and the reasonable value of the property is determined. Depending on this, the loan application is approved and the loan amount is provided to the veteran.
Role of VA:
Loans provided by the VA are fixed-interest mortgage loan that do not require any down payment. These loans are provided to all eligible veterans, regardless of their age, color, race, sex, religion, familial status, nationality or handicap. No prepayment penalties and long amortization terms are another advantage of these loans. Houses provided under VA housing loan programs are duly inspected at the time of construction and require a warranty from the builder.
Check Out More Articles:
Buying A Bankruptcy Pre Foreclosure Home, Government Emergency House Loans, Fight 30 Day Landlord Eviction Notice
Benefits Of Country Wide Home Loans
Country Wide home loans offer there customers the best possible service, through communication over the telephone, email and face to face contact. They have become so credible over the years due to there great financial reputation and good way in which they treat there customers. Also offering loans which are not often significantly influenced by the interest rate.
Loans on offer include a combination of both fixed and variable loans. With borrowers demanding high rates of fixed loans, often creditors can not approve of this. Although countrywide home loans often do approve of this and rather quickly. This is what sets them apart from the rest of the creditors out there.
There financial advice is also great, some thing I have not seen from creditors before. They offer honest opinions which are very helpful and often lead to borrowers having success in being able to make monthly repayments to there loans.
Make sure to do some research on countrywide loans and any other creditor your thinking about doing business with. Its a lot safer to be happy at the end of the day after being treated well and being financially stable than having to worry about having a bad creditor treating you poorly. Something Country wide does not do for all of its customers.
As for home equity loans, look for open end. Which allow you to take as much equity out against the home as you need, as often as you want. Which is very helpful for all borrowers.
Visit Home Loan Secrets And Advice. It is a must see site for all creditors and borrowers. With a lot of information on the great and popular Home Equity Loans!
kohler bathroom vanities
Kohler Bathroom Accessories Vanity Shelves Memoirs Stately Chrome
From Kohler
List Price: $250.90
Price: $221.10 
Product Description
Kohler Memoirs Stately Vanity Shelves Bathroom Accessories
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Product Details
Brand: Kohler
Features
Dimensions:26-19/32''W x 5-1/4''D x 1-7/8''H
Discount Bathroom Vanities
KIVGS63 Bathroom Lavatory Glass Vessel Sink Bowl
From KIVGS63
List Price: $250.00
Price: $73.00
Discount bathroom vanities can be found in many places, some more unusual than others. You first must decide what discount means to you and how far your budget will stretch.
Buying used from an individual is often the cheapest way to acquire a discount vanity, but the possibilities are endless. Large sellers of bathroom supplies often have popular clearance sales. These sales can be found in the newspaper, over the Internet or in the pages of home improvement magazines. It’s also worth looking for a less expensive bathroom vanity at larger chain stores that sell home improvement items. There is often a wide selection of complete bathroom vanities. Most of these vanity sets include a simple mirror, often attached to the vanity, a sink/top combination and a basic wood veneer finished cabinet, and some will include plumbing supplies as well. Almost all of these kinds of unites require assembly, so if you are not handy, you may want to pay the extra cost to have it done at the store.
It is also possible to piece together discount bathroom vanities separately. With a clear design concept and a realistic budget, anyone can shop successfully for a bathroom vanity mirror, lights, sink, top and cabinet. The least expensive option can often be to purchase used bathroom vanities from demolition companies, or from a company warehouse that specializes in used fixtures for the home and office. Used sinks, mirrors and cabinets are sometimes sold separately.
Just remember when assembling a bathroom vanity yourself that everything has to match. Bringing a picture of those items you have already purchased and their basic measurements is helpful when shopping for additional pieces. If you live near a manufacturer occasionally, you can go to the factory or warehouse and get a deal on discontinued models, seconds or damaged goods, but these opportunities are usually not advertised and will take more effort on the part of the homeowner. Finding the discount bathroom vanity is easy and can be a lot of fun so let your imagination be your guide and explore.
Bathroom Vanities Info provides detailed information on discount and contemporary bathroom vanity cabinets, sinks, tops, mirrors, lights, and more. Bathroom Vanities Info is the sister site of Shower Curtains Web.
Top 10 Internet Marketing Tips For Your Home Based Business
1. Research, Research, Research.
Before starting any new business, find a market that is going to be profitable. Sit down, identify some of your areas of interest. Use keyword research to get to know the desires of your potential customers. Get to know your market well, and limit your investment until you know it will be a success.
2. Stand out from the crowd.
Don't choose a market that is already saturated if you are just starting out. Chances of failing are higher, and this can be disheartening. Choose a market that you can easily dominate, with competition that is either poor or limited.
3. Information marketing.
If you are able to produce a simple book that fills a need, this is a lucrative method of making money. E-books require no ongoing production expenses and can be an almost 100% profit margin. 4. Persistence and Discipline.
Internet marketing requires commitment of time to sit down and do some work every day. It does not need to be for long, but you do need to do it. Nothing happens with big dreams but no action.
5. Be an Expert
Get to know you niche well. Use forums to gain a better understanding. Write lots of articles and begin to get your name branded as an expert in that field. Submit blogs and articles to directories to start to create traffic back to your site.
6. Try before you buy.
When using pay per click or other forms of advertising write multiple campaigns. Test these for response before committing money to this. Target buyers only. Lots of visitors or clicks do not mean sales conversions.
7. Learn to write good copy.
There are lots of great books and advice out there to write compelling copy for your product. It must be attention grabbing and able to maintain interest.
8. Capture emails
List building is essential. Without this you are unable to continue to contact your target market to advise them of you products, or more importantly what benefits they offer them. Also, providing good quality content emails with information and advice (no sales) builds trust.
9. Joint Venture
There is no better way to develop cross promotion and get other people working for you than to establish joint venture relationships. By offering a fair share of the profits to owners of websites or complimentary products, you can significantly increase your profits with very little additional effort.
10. Knowledge is power.
There are many ways to approach internet marketing, but to be successful you need to have good systems in place. Find an honest and well known mentor, and consider purchasing a good quality education program. If you are new, do your research well as there is lots of misinformation out there as well as fantastic programs.
Clair Christiaan invites business owners to 'Earn More, Work Less, and Enjoy Life Without Compromising Your Values". Receive 4 Free Reports Worth a Total of $109.80... and Find out Why Almost Everyone is DEAD WRONG About Internet Marketing, Building Opt-In Email Lists, Creating a Blog, and Turning a Profit Online...
Organising All Those Darn Receipts!
I bought a pair of sandals some time ago. They looked very cute but the straps on the top of the foot were very uncomfortable.
I decided to return them and within a minute or two, had retrieved the receipt from FOUR months ago.
I could find the receipt easily because I do 5 specific things to keep my receipts organised and in order.
1. Have a specific place in your wallet just for receipts
I have two sections in my wallet so I keep cash separate from paper. I also always keep the credit card slip on top of the receipt and always add new receipts to the back of that section.
2. Dedicate a regular time to clear out your wallet
You need to decide how regularly to clean it out. If you're out shopping a lot, you may have to do it every day or two. I only go to the shops on the weekend so I clean out my wallet once a week. When I'm on holiday, I do it more regularly because I'm spending every day.
3. Sort into categories
I then make piles of credit card slips and piles of cash receipts and sort in date order. It's quick and easy because of the way I store them in my wallet.
If you sort properly now, it's really quick and easy to update your budget.
4. Enter into your computer, notebook, etc.
Take each pile and update your budget.
I don't use my credit cards as credit cards so I like to be really careful with this step so I know exactly how much money I have left to spend for each category every month.
5. Store simply
Staple each pile together every time you follow this process, and then at the end of the month, place in a labelled envelope.
You can store your envelopes in a shoebox, CD holder, magazine holder, project folder, etc.
At the end of the year, take all the envelopes to your accountant to do your taxes - easy!
Marcia Francois is a time management and organising coach who empowers small business owners and other busy people to organise their time, space, business and life. Visit http://takechargesolutions.org for your free Clear the Paper Clutter e-book and the rest of your Organising Success Pack.
Closet Organizing Tips to Use Today
Is it time to organize your closets and get rid of the chaos that is lurking inside them? Start with these easy home organizing tips to turn your closets into a successful makeover.
Hall Closet
An easy organizing tip to begin with is to redistribute any items from the hall closet that would be better used in other rooms in the house. Donate outdated and outgrown coats to charity which will leave room for coats and jackets for you and your guests. Make use of open and closed storage bins to keep smaller items, such as gloves, mittens and hats under control and easily accessible. You are now ready for those quick exits as your family heads out the door.
Linen Closet
Even though they are called linen closets, in many homes they would be more appropriately called a "catch-all". An easy home organizing tip for this closet is to put linens "front and center". Move belongings that are used less often into the sides, top and bottom of the closet. Use clear plastic bins or linen bags to store out-of-season linens and other odds and ends.
Master Bedroom Closet
A basic organizing tip for the master bedroom closet is to designate a section of the closet for each partner where they can pull together a day's outfit fast and easy. Carefully select clothes and shoes that are worn out or outdated. If your closet doesn't have adequate shelves and hanger space, visit an organizing store or big box store for ideas. Use clear plastic bins for organizing accessories and for storing items on higher shelves in the closet.
Organizing Tools
There are wonderful organizing tools on the market today that will make organizing your home much easier. An over-the-door shoe organizer is not just for shoes. This multitasker can hold kitchen spices, gloves and mittens and office supplies as well as shoes. Another organizing tip is to purchase wire shelf dividers for your closets that keep unstable things such as purses upright and tidy. An ottoman which is solid enough to sit on with a lid that lifts off for storage is ideal in a master bedroom closet.
By applying these easy home organizing tips, you will put your closets on the road to recovery and no longer fear opening that closet door!
To help keep your home organized, download a free copy of the ebook "The Essential Guide to Organizing Your Home". This ebook has many practical, easy-to-use tips to make home organization a reality. Click here for your free download.
Lynn Cressy is the owner of Lynn's Home Decor, which was created out of a love for decorating and shopping for home decor. There you will find shabby chic furniture, shabby chic home decor and wrought iron furniture and home decor as well as seasonal decor, ebooks and interior decorating ideas.
Top Ten Tips for Buying a Home
Home buying has always been a tedious process. The home buying journey is fraught with winding turns and crossroads, making buying a home complex and difficult. The complexities of the real estate and mortgage market are not easy to decipher. So, the more prepared you are before you begin home shopping, the easier it will be. Herein, I have assembled a top ten list for home buyers. This list is good preparation for homebuyers who are setting out on their home buying journey.
1. Decide on what you can really afford Before buying the house, do a monthly budget. It is critical that you know your finances in-and-out, only then can you truly know how much home you can afford. The general rule of thumb is that you should purchase a home that is about 2.5 times your annual salary. But use our extensive online mortgage calculators to better understand your affordability. Learn how your income, expenses, and debts can affect what you can afford.
2. Strengthen your credit as needed
Majority of Americans apply for a home loan mortgage to buy a home, you must ensure that your credit history is the best possible. A few months before you start house hunting you might need to check your credit score, get your credit report, and do credit repair or credit counseling to ensure your credit is optimal for your situation. It is important that you stay on top of the facts in your credit report and remedy any problem areas
3. Get pre-approved, before house searching
Now that you know how much your home budget is and have optimized your credit, it is time to get pre-approved for a home loan. A pre-approved mortgage loan will save you time and money by better positioning you to make an earnest offer for the home. Unlike a pre-qualification, which is based on a brief review of your financial situation, pre-approval from a mortgage lender involves an in-depth analysis of your actual income, expenses, debt, and credit history.
4. If you have kids, buy a home in a good school district
Not all school districts are created the same. For most homebuyers with families, buying a home in a good school district is fundamentally important. In addition to providing your children with better schooling, you also enhance your property value when it comes time to selling your home.
5. Work with a good local real estate agent
Real estate agents are there to help you find the best home that meets you needs. Interview some real estate agents; work with the one you like and trust. Your agent will be invaluable in helping you narrow down the choices of homes to the ones that fit your criteria, saving you time. You will not waste time looking at homes that don't meet your requirements in all spheres. Also, the real estate agent is a great asset when it comes to bidding for and negotiating the home price with the home sellers.
6. Choose the right mortgage home loan
Deciding upon the right type of mortgage can be a minefield. There are so many choices: fixed rate mortgages, adjustable rate mortgages, interest-only mortgages, subprime mortgages, and more. How do you know which mortgage home loan is best for your current financial situation and your long-term goals? Here a trusted mortgage broker or mortgage lender can provide you expert advice and personalized service. Moreover, a trusted personal mortgage consultant gives you competitive low rates to meet your needs. To learn more, start by arranging a complementary consultation with an expert mortgage consultant. You can locate a local mortgage consultant in your area by using our mortgage directory.
7. Introduce your team to each other
Make sure once you have your team in place, introduce the real estate agent and the mortgage consultant to each other. Your team should be on the same page with regards to your home buying goals.
8. Making the offer
Now that you have the financing and team in place and have found the home you were looking for, it is time to make an offer. Before making the offer, check out for how much similar homes have sold for in the neighborhood in the last 3 to 6 months. This will give you a good idea on where to roughly start your bid. But consult with your real estate agent before making your bid.
9. Get your own home inspection
Once your offer is accepted by the home seller, it is time for the extensive home inspection. Some of the main inspections to be considered are: insect, radon, building quality, oil tank, asbestos, title, termite, lead paint analysis (if house built earlier than 1980s), and etc.
The home inspection can be performed once or sometimes 2 or 3 times, depending on how extensive the inspections are. A thorough home inspection can possibly save you from incurring costly repairs down the road.
10. Your home insurance and closing
You need to purchase a good home insurance policy to help protect against unexpected costs or home repairs. You are just one more step closer to your new home, only the final closing stands before you. Ensure that you have the proper items for the closing: complete paper work and deposits, title work, homeowners insurance, and other items necessary under local and state laws. Of course, your real estate agent and mortgage broker or mortgage lender will help you during the closing.
It's official; you are now a proud homeowner, time to move in.
Top Ten Tips for Buying a Home
Blog: Gimmie The Scoop
Home Insurance Online - More Tips For Attracting The Cheapest Rates
Home insurance online: Everyone can enjoy high value coverage without paying top price. You only need the right recommendations and the motivation to implement what you'll learn to start enjoying a cheaper rate. Let's look at a few proven ways to get more for a lot less...
1. A house that has shatter-proof windows will make it easier for you to get cheaper premiums. If you live in locations with high winds and hail storms have your windows upgraded to these and you'll get reasonable discounts. And as you do, remember to inform your agent. It may be wiser to discuss this with your agent first to get an idea of what discounts you will be given if you take this step before you commence.
2. Motion-sensitive lighting reduces your home's risk of burglary and, as a result, makes it easier for you to get lower home insurance rates. Burglars understandably do NOT like to operate in any place they could be easily noticed or caught. Because thieves keep off from homes with such lighting, you lower your home's risk of burglary and, by extension, your premiums.
3. A swimming pool is certainly one important feature that makes it a dream home. But as long as your home insurer is concerned it increases a home's risk and therefore brings higher rates.
While I won't tell you to NOT have a swimming pool around your home, make sure you take all necessary safety measures. If you don't your home insurance rates will be substantially higher.
4. If your home's landscaping is done properly it will help reduce your premium. There won't be potholes that could result to injuries and that will reduce your liability claims. Within this context, you'll be saving yourself money while maintaining a more beautiful home. If this was not done properly when you applied, do not forget to inform your agent once you are about to do it.
5. The level to which you strengthen your roof could make you eligible for a discount. Take serious note of this if you are in the East where high winds are more prevalent. You can get recommendations from your agent on how you can strengthen your roof and receive discounts as a result.
6. You can see savings of hundreds of dollars on your home insurance policy by getting insurance quotes from insurance quotes sites. The best method is to visit not less than five sites and making sure that you give the same (correct) details.
I advise that you visit not less than five quotes sites because it will ensure you do not miss out offers not carried by the other sites. This offers you a broader basis for doing more thorough comparisons thus increasing your chances of better quotes.
Here are recommended pages for home insurance quotes...
InsureMe Home Insurance Quotes
Home Insurance Quotes
Chimezirim Odimba writes on insurance.
Basic Home Gardening Tips
Home gardening can be very rewarding and it really isn't that hard! Here's some tips for growing any kind of plant including flowers, herbs and vegetables that are sure to help you develop your green thumb.
There are 3 basic things that you need to know to succeed in home gardening and that is that plants need light, water and soil to survive. If any one of these 3 elements is not adequate, it will result in weak plants. Luckily, it is pretty easy to get enough of all for your plants and the plants themselves usually come with directions on what they need.
Light
In general, most plants need 6 to 8 hours of sunlight. Some more and some less so be sure to read the tags that come with your plants for best results! Study your yard or garden area throughout the day to figure out how much sun it really gets and be sure to place your plants where they will have the best chance of thriving. You can buy plants that like full sun,. partial sun and shade so there are plants that will be happy in every type of yard or garden.
Water
One of the most important home gardening tips has to do with water. Plants need water to survive but too much of it is a bad thing! You want to be sure they get enough water so that the soil is not hard and dry, but you never want to have standing water around your plant. Plants in containers will need to be watered more than those in the ground and more watering is necessary in summer months. When watering try not to splash water on the leaves and petals of your plants as this can promote disease - a garden soaker hose is ideal for this.
Soil
Plants need nutrient which they typically get from the soil. Be sure to use a rich soil that is fortified with fertilizer appropriate for what you are planting. You want your soil to be a bit loose so the roots can easily spread and grow. Nutrients can also be delivered to plants through water which is what hydroponic gardening is based on. With hydropinics you grow plants in a water solution - no soil needed!
So, you see, home gardening is not that difficult - just start off slowly and you'll be growing lush, vibrant plants in not time!
If you want more tips on starting your garden including the key elements you need to know about when gardening, how to grow plants in containers and tips on growing herbs and vegetables sign up for my free gardening tips report at http://gardening-ez.com/gardeningtipsreport.php
Organising All Those Darn Receipts!
I bought a pair of sandals some time ago. They looked very cute but the straps on the top of the foot were very uncomfortable.
I decided to return them and within a minute or two, had retrieved the receipt from FOUR months ago.
I could find the receipt easily because I do 5 specific things to keep my receipts organised and in order.
1. Have a specific place in your wallet just for receipts
I have two sections in my wallet so I keep cash separate from paper. I also always keep the credit card slip on top of the receipt and always add new receipts to the back of that section.
2. Dedicate a regular time to clear out your wallet
You need to decide how regularly to clean it out. If you're out shopping a lot, you may have to do it every day or two. I only go to the shops on the weekend so I clean out my wallet once a week. When I'm on holiday, I do it more regularly because I'm spending every day.
3. Sort into categories
I then make piles of credit card slips and piles of cash receipts and sort in date order. It's quick and easy because of the way I store them in my wallet.
If you sort properly now, it's really quick and easy to update your budget.
4. Enter into your computer, notebook, etc.
Take each pile and update your budget.
I don't use my credit cards as credit cards so I like to be really careful with this step so I know exactly how much money I have left to spend for each category every month.
5. Store simply
Staple each pile together every time you follow this process, and then at the end of the month, place in a labelled envelope.
You can store your envelopes in a shoebox, CD holder, magazine holder, project folder, etc.
At the end of the year, take all the envelopes to your accountant to do your taxes - easy!
Marcia Francois is a personal life coach and professional organiser who teaches small business owners and other professionals how to have more time, less stress and a more organised and fulfilled life. Visit http://organiseyourbusiness.com for your free Organise your Life e-book and other helpful tips.
Home Appraisal Tips
You should know what your home is worth. If you don't then you will want to have it appraised immediately. After all the value of your home is a deciding factor in the amount of money you try to get out of your home when you sell it. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your home appraisal.
1. Do your best to stay out of the way of your appraiser. It might be tempting to tell your appraiser about the other homes for sale in your neighborhood or what you think your home is worth, but try to suppress this urge. It will be uncomfortable enough having a stranger looking through your home and deciding how much it is worth. Don't make it worse by offending the appraiser. An appraiser who is annoyed or uncomfortable might rush the job and could miss things that would have impacted the final number they come up with.
2. Keep your home neat, clean and make sure all of the maintenance work has been taken care of. This doesn't mean that you should be able to see your reflection in your kitchen floor, but a messy or cluttered home makes it easier to overlook the sound structure of the frame or how safe the interior is. Make sure you fix those leaky faucets, loose carpet squares and anything else that could lower the impression your home makes on the appraiser. If you plan on leaving any of your appliances behind, make sure those appliances are in perfect working condition.
3. If you have done remodeling work, or have rebuilt any part of the house, do not be afraid to point that out. This might not necessarily raise the value of the home by the same amount that you have invested, but it is important for the appraiser to know what is new, what major problems have been fixed, etc.
These are just three simple tips to make the appraisal experience a friendlier one and to make your appraiser's job as easy to do as possible.
For more home value comparison tips visit http://www.homeappraisedvalue.com Find articles, information and home value calculators as well as free home appraisal methods.
Home Painting - Painting Tips For Quick And Easy Home Updates
Perhaps it's time to freshen up your home's décor, or add some color to any plain, white walls offering no color or textural interest. Add some personality and style to rooms with some new paint.
Since it generally takes less than one hour to paint one wall in a room, painting tends to be a home improvement project people feel comfortable tackling on their own. Following are some tips to make painting projects quick and simple:
Select a quality paint. With paint, you tend to get what you pay for. Lower quality paint may produce a lower quality look. Find a mid-priced product from a name brand manufacturer for the best result at a reasonable cost.
Prepare your work area. Make sure you properly tape, drape and protect any wood trim, windows, floors, carpet and furniture. Properly preparing your work area will result in a higher quality look and will make your post-project clean up much easier.
Begin with the ceiling. Beginning with the ceiling ensures that any paint drips that hit the walls won't ruin a fresh paint job. Wall color tends to look the best under a bright, freshly painted ceiling.
Use a power roller. Invest in a power roller to get the job done more efficiently. It also makes for easier clean up. With a power roller, the paint is fed directly from the can to the wall, thus eliminating the need for paint trays. It will allow you to paint almost 20 square feet per minute.
Use a criss-cross motion. When first rolling the paint on the wall, it is best to use a criss-cross motion then paint back over the area in an up and down motion. This will ensure even coverage and will minimize paint drips.
Use a paintbrush for corners and edges. If using a power roller, roll as close to the corners and edges as possible without bumping the roller into the ceiling. Use a paintbrush to finish the corners, edges and other small spaces.
Contain the mess. Contain the mess for an easier clean up. If using dustsheets, fold them over, carry them outside, then shake them out. Make sure the paint is dry before removing masking tape from window and carpet edges. Clean all paint brushes immediately.
Painting offers a flexible way to add pizzazz to any room in your home.
Hilary Basile is a writer for MyGuidesUSA.com. At http://www.myguidesusa.com, you will find valuable tips and resources for handling life's major events. Whether you're planning a wedding, buying your first home, anxiously awaiting the birth of a child, contending with a divorce, searching for a new job, or planning for your retirement, you'll find answers to your questions at MyGuidesUSA.com.
Find home improvement tips and resources at http://homeimprovement.myguidesusa.com/
Home Cleaning Tips for the New Mom
Congratulations! You're a new mom. This is a very exciting time. It can also be pretty frustrating when it comes to house cleaning. There is so much to be done, and there seems so little time for you to be able to do it now! The great thing is that there are simple things you can do throughout the day to help you keep your home clean. Here are some great home cleaning tips for the new mom:
• One of the best things you can do as a new mom is take a nap when your baby takes a nap. Don't make the common mistake that most new moms do and clean up while your baby is napping - unless you feel that you simply don't need rest. Instead of doing this, clean up when your baby is awake and satisfied! You can place him or her in the swing, playpen, bouncer, etc., and get some home cleaning accomplished!
• When you're a new mom, things can start to clutter your home quite easily. One way to avoid this is to designate a spot for everything. Invest in some baskets that you can use to keep clutter to a minimum. In the nursery, these come in handy to put the baby's essentials in and keep things off of the counters, dressers, and table tops. A small pail or Diaper Genie works well in the nursery for instantaneous disposal of soiled diapers. As it fills, you can take it out with the rest of the garbage.
• You should try to avoid harsh chemicals in your home cleaning supplies at this time for obvious reasons, but there are some great alternative cleaners you can utilize. Vinegar is a wonderful all-purpose cleaner. Use half vinegar and half water in a spray bottle to wipe down counters, tables, changing tables, and any other surface that needs regular cleaning. It also removes odors quite well. Another great odor remover is citrus fruit. If you find that your surfaces hold odors, cut an orange or lemon in half and rub it all over the entire surface. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it off with a wet cloth to get rid of stickiness.
• As you are going throughout your day, take a few minutes to clean several times can be a lot easier than trying to take a few hours each day to clean. Since you have limited time, this works out well. For example, when you're waiting for a bottle to heat, gather all dirty dishes from the rooms and place them in the dishwasher to start. As you're cooking dinner, throw a load of clothes in the washer and fold any that need to be put away. When you get out of the shower, make sure that all dirty clothes are in the hamper, the clutter in the bathroom is minimal and the surfaces are clean. You can even give the toilet a quick scrub and wipe down and spray the shower with self-cleaning spray.
Being a new mom can bring you some unique time challenges, but using the tips and ideas above can help you overcome them. Perhaps the most important tip you can ever get is to remember that everyone needs help once in a while! Don't underestimate the joy of letting Dad take the baby for a while, or a doting aunt, grandma, or friend! This way, you'll get a bit of a break and be refreshed for when your bundle of joy gets back.
Kristi Patrice Carter is a housecleaning maniac and the proud author of Super Woman Doesn't Live Here Any More: The Ultimate 2 Week Plan for Getting Your Family to Help With Housework." For ordering information and information on Daily Housecleaning Schedule, please visit http://www.dailyhousecleaningschedule.com
Vital Home Security Tips On Purchasing An Alarm System
Many householders and just about all commercial enterprises acquire an alarm system to protect their property and their possessions. But a number of householders still do not see the need to install an alarm system. They think a burglary won't happen to them, it only happens to other people.
But the 2005 FBI crime report showed that nationally in the United States of America a burglary occurs every 15 seconds and on average the dollar loss per burglary in 2005 was $1,725.
Just about any business enterprise will have one, in some form or another. When searching for alarms, you ought to take your time to discover the correct system and the correct prices for you. If you purchase at the right time, your actual system could end up being one hundred percent free.
Many Companies such as ADT frequently run special offers to get you to purchase their alarms and services. In a few cases, they'll give you a free system provided you sign up for one of their monitoring services for an established time. Depending on the offer this could be 1, 2 or 5 years. They might in addition have offers that give you free service if you purchase an alarm from them. Either way, you can save a considerable amount of money from your income.
These businesses will often come to your abode and set up the alarm for you. They will demonstrate how to run the alarm system, and show you the best way on how to deploy the system in the best possible manor, so as not to activate an alarm mistakenly. Whilst it could take a little time to become accustomed to the slight change in your household habits (you'll have to remember to arm and disarm the alarm), you and your folks will very quickly get accustomed to the change in your abode, and you may well notice that you are actually sleeping better at night because you now feel someone is watching out for you.
It's very important to check the companies guarantee. If there's a problem with your alarm, the company should aid you in the resolving of the problem, or should replace whatever parts aren't functioning. Whilst buying your alarm system and especially when contracting a service, make a point of asking a considerable number of questions about any hidden fees. Exactly what service you'll acquire for your money, and the exact period and extent of the guarantee that they can offer. Badly installed alarm systems will not do you any good if they malfunction all the time, or give false alarms as this will just leave you still feeling vulnerable.
Remember according to the FBI report in 2005 there were more than 1.4 million home invasions and 61.4% of residential burglaries happened between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., during the day. And according to Simon Hakim, Temple University a home is 2 to 3 times more likely to be burglarized without a security system.
So what are you waiting for, act now before you become the next victim.
Jayen Woods runs a Home Security Tips section on his website, where you can find out more. Additionally he also runs 2 other sites, a Digital Photography site, latest post: Digital Photography Basics. And a White Water Rafting site, latest post: Virginia White Water Rafting. He hopes you find the information on his sites helpful.
Top Tips To Cheaper Home Insurance
Of course it makes perfect sense to take out home insurance, after all your home is probably the most expensive purchase you will ever make. That does not mean to say you should pay too much for your house insurance.
While it is important to adequately protect your property it is equally important to do so at the right price. So here are our top tips to achieving cheaper home insurance.
1) Fire - fit and maintain quality fire alarms and take steps to reduce the risk of fire damaging your property. Many of these are simple common sense such as not smoking in bed, taking care when cooking and keeping flammable materials away from children.
2) Quit Smoking - many household fires result from smoking to the extent that most home insurance companies will ask if you smoke when compiling your quote. Generally smokers will pay a higher premium as they present a greater risk.
3) Locks - fit quality locks on all windows and doors to ensure the property can be securely protected against unwanted visitors. If moving to a new property consider changing the locks as there's no way to tell who might have a copy.
4) Make Fewer Claims - avoid making claims when the cost is considerably small, overall larger savings can be made by building up a history of no claims that can be used to obtain lower premiums for future years. Following many of the tips in this article can also help reduce the number of claims you make on your policy
5) Neighborhood Watch - participating in an active Neighborhood Watch scheme can typically help reduce the cost of your home insurance policy by around 5%. Of course the other added benefit is the increased security of householders looking out for each other
6) Home Security - An approved alarm system not only increases security and safety but can also help cut the cost of your home insurance. Ask your insurance company with systems they prefer as the savings vary from one provider to another
7) Compare More Quotes - with so many companies now offering home insurance policies the odds are you could find a better deal than you have at present by shopping around. There are many price comparison sites around that can help you achieve this quickly and easily.
8) Holidays - leaving your home unattended for large periods of time massively increases the chances of burglary or vandalism occurring. To combat this ask a trust friend or family member to open and close curtains, collect mail etc. Also remember to cancel and newspaper or milk deliveries.
One key point you are likely to have come to when reading these tips is that many of the savings come from avoiding claims. By building up your no claims history you can significantly reduce the cost of building and contents insurance.
If you can combine that with shopping around the savings can be even larger. Using the internet to compare UK home insurance quotes can unearth many competitive deals to help you save money.
To learn more about saving money on home insurance visit free information website webcomparison.co.uk
