RealtyCast Global BLOG Header #2 Investing in Foreign Property with Stefano Lucatello

RealtyCast Global #2: Investing in Foreign Property with Stefano Lucatello

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Welcome to episode #2 of RealtyCast Global – a global connection to all things real estate, hosted by Hugh Gilliam, president of Global Property Pros.

Are you dreaming of investing in a property abroad but unsure of where to start? Get ready to have your questions answered by the exceptional Stefano Lucattello, Senior Partner at Kobalt Law LLP. He’s not only a legal eagle when it comes to international property law, but he’s also the author of ‘Investing in Foreign Property: The Ultimate Guide to Buying Safely.’ Stefano’s insights will guide you to safely navigate the often complex world of buying properties abroad.

Our conversation with Stefano takes you on an intriguing journey from his roots in Italy to his successful career as a commercial lawyer in England and now, also an international property expert. He unpacks the intricacies of buying properties abroad, emphasizing the importance of understanding the taxation laws of the country you’re buying property in.

Stefano’s wealth of knowledge doesn’t stop there. He delves into the critical factors to consider when setting up a business abroad, guiding you through the process of declaring income tax for rental income and wealth taxes. We wrap up our enlightening conversation with Stefano sharing his excitement for opening an international cookery school and his plans for retirement. This episode is an essential listen for those considering buying property abroad. So sit back, relax, and let Stefano give you a masterclass on turning your foreign property dreams into a reality!

Those interested in purchasing a book can obtain a copy on Amazon. All profits go towards funding cancer research.

For real estate agents looking to expand their business internationally, expose existing listings to a global pool of buyers, and connect with new clients, check out Global Property Pros.

For Property Buyers & Sellers seeking assistance in the international market, check out RealtyHive’s property marketing solutions.

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About the guest – Stefano Lucatello:

Stefano Lucatello is the Senior Partner and Head of Kobalt Law LLP.  He qualified as a Solicitor in 1988. Languages and Law have always been a very important part of his life and practicing career as a Solicitor. Kobalt Law LLP is the culmination of many years of practice both in England and abroad. Stefano combines his knowledge of English and foreign law to advise clients from around the world.

He practiced in Gibraltar as an international partner of a Leeds-based practice, where he developed his skills in offshore tax and trust law, advising High net worth individuals to protect their fortunes.

Stefano is an accomplished author, writing on many different international property topics and platforms, as well as appearing on his own Property TV shows and seminars.  He has written an international property buying guide, entitled, ‘Investing in Foreign Property: The Ultimate Guide To Buying Safely.’

The first edition was published in 2015 and the second in 2018, with an updated chapter on “Brexit”.

The book is a generic guide about what potential foreign property buyers need to know and be aware of when considering buying property abroad. Stefano says “People never learn that buying foreign property is no less difficult than buying in the UK. How can you possibly buy in a foreign country, without specialist legal assistance, like that provided by Kobalt Law LLP, international property lawyers?

It is very hard when potential buyers don’t speak the foreign language or understand the different foreign law that applies to foreign property purchases. 

They believe the agents, who say that they don’t need this kind of assistance, and merrily follow the agent’s advice to go to a foreign lawyer, without checking them out first.”

The book is filled with great tips and advice, which apply to most countries in the world and takes you from the moment you decide to start the property search journey, to completion of the purchase and then onto living your dream in that foreign country.  It has 10 chapters and takes 2 hours to read.  It has been described by certain well-known foreign property commentators, as “incisive and well written”, explaining difficult topics in an “easy-to-read way”. It has a notepad, at the end, so that readers can take the book with them and write notes as they visit agents.

About the host – Hugh Gilliam:

Hugh Gilliam co-owned a national transportation company, created a land development business, and worked as a general contractor in residential and commercial construction for over two decades. Hugh also co-founded an international distribution company and successfully negotiated and contracted with 135 sales representatives in the United States, Canada, France, Brazil, Japan, and the Netherlands.

Today, Mr. Gilliam is affiliated with RealtyHive, LLC where he serves as Director of International Real Estate and President of Global Property Pros. His duties include involvement in commercial and residential transactions, plus promoting marketing systems and lead generation platforms.

He is also co-founder of the luxury digital magazine, DOORWAYS INTERNATIONAL, powered by RealtyHive, which serves as a platform for Brokers and Buyers throughout 70 countries.

Hugh’s Designations Include:

  • Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist
  • Certified Distressed Property Export
  • Certified International Property Specialist
  • Certified International Investment & Immigration Specialist
  • Transnational Referral Certification

Hugh’s Memberships Include:

  • Georgia Association of REALTORS
  • National Association of REALTORS
  • International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI-USA)
  • Asian Real Estate Association of America
RealtyCast Global Episode 1 - Purchasing Property in Portugal with Antonio Barbosa

RealtyCast Global #1: Purchasing Property in Portugal with Antonio Barbosa

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Welcome to the premier of RealtyCast Global – a global connection to all things real estate, hosted by Hugh Gilliam, president of Global Property Pros. During this podcast feature, Hugh discusses the tips, tricks, and benefits of moving to Portugal with industry veteran Antonio Barbosa of Infinite Solutions. Whether you are a real estate agent with a client looking to purchase property in Portugal or a property buyer seeking advice on the steps to take, you don’t want to miss this discussion!

For real estate agents looking to expand their business internationally, expose existing listings to a global pool of buyers, and connect with new clients, check out Global Property Pros

For Property Buyers & Sellers seeking assistance in the international market, check out RealtyHive’s property marketing solutions.

About the guest – Antonio Barbosa:

António Barbosa is a REALTOR® living in Portugal and with more than 20 years of experience in Real Estate. He will tell you that he doesn’t sell homes; He fulfills lifestyle dreams. He’s a charming man with the most disarming smile who makes friends wherever he goes. If you are not his friend, it’s because he hasn’t met you yet!

He prides himself in being part of the decision of more than 500 families making Portugal their new home. In addition, He considers his biggest achievements in life the personal and business relationships he built, which led to long-lasting friendships not only with his esteemed clients but also amongst his distinguished colleagues!!!

He’s happiest helping people to find a home or wealth investment property in Portugal or worldwide. His company name is “Infinite Solutions”, and it’s a perfect name because he’s not problem-oriented, he’s all about solutions.  

He’s also a world traveler and foodie, so if you need a solution of where to go for dinner, on vacation, or where to buy your next lifestyle property, he’s your person! He speaks fluent Portuguese, English, and Spanish.

Antonio is a proud Member of FIABCI-USA as well as NAR® and holds the CRS® / CIPS® and ABR® designations.

About your host – Hugh Gilliam:

Hugh Gilliam co-owned a national transportation company, created a land development business, and worked as a general contractor in residential and commercial construction for over two decades. Hugh also co-founded an international distribution company and successfully negotiated and contracted with 135 sales representatives in the United States, Canada, France, Brazil, Japan, and the Netherlands.

Today, Mr. Gilliam is affiliated with RealtyHive, LLC where he serves as Director of International Real Estate and President of Global Property Pros. His duties include involvement in commercial and residential transactions, plus promoting marketing systems and lead generation platforms.

He is also co-founder of the luxury digital magazine, DOORWAYS INTERNATIONAL, powered by RealtyHive, which serves as a platform for Brokers and Buyers throughout 70 countries.

Hugh’s Designations Include:

  • Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist
  • Certified Distressed Property Export
  • Certified International Property Specialist
  • Certified International Investment & Immigration Specialist
  • Transnational Referral Certification

Hugh’s Memberships Include:

  • Georgia Association of REALTORS
  • National Association of REALTORS
  • International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI-USA)
  • Asian Real Estate Association of America

6 Tips to Create a Kid-Friendly Apartment in 2023

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Never underestimate the amount of space and organizational skills you need to live with children! A kid-friendly apartment will help your family live a safer and more stress-free life.

And one of the best moving tips we can give is to get your new place in perfect shape before you move your stuff from one place to the next. Consider the following tips and you can have it all under control.

Safety

Children need their parents to choose wisely when deciding which apartment is right for them. An adult may love the small balcony off of a 26th floor apartment but if the railing is climb-able, or if there is furniture that children can crawl up for a better view, this is not a kid-friendly apartment. Check to make sure stair railings are secure, that all windows have locks and all exterior doors have safety locks that children cannot maneuver.

Green Space

Ideally, a kid-friendly apartment has a fenced-in play area or yard where you can keep a playhouse or a soccer goal. A central playground in an apartment complex is a great way for kids to meet neighbors their own age. If an apartment has no outdoor features for children, look for a park that has playground equipment or paths for bike riding. Fresh air is important for a child’s health.

Inside a child-friendly apartment

Generally, if you give a kid some food and they wander from room to room eating it you will find a trail of crumbs that Hansel and Gretel would be jealous of. There is no crime in insisting that food be eaten at the table or counter. Often people without children wonder why you need so much space because aren’t kids smaller than adults?

Anyone who lives with kids knows they take up a ton more space per person than an adult. Strollers, high chairs, toy chests and every possible art supply take up lots of space and this list does not include sports equipment.

The key to having all the stuff kids need and not losing your mind due to the potential clutter is to contain as much as possible in stackable bins or baskets that can be stored in shelving units. A rolling cart with drawers is perfect for art supplies or Legos. The cart can be rolled to the table for play time and then rolled back to a corner when not in use.

Quiet time

Most adults will agree that naps are wasted on toddlers, but growing children require more sleep than adults. Providing a spot for your child to read or look at books, do puzzles or any quiet time activity will give the child a place to feel settled and help your child become independent. Eliminate distractions like screen time during quiet time.

Creativity

Gifts for children often arrive in a box that is more fascinating than the present itself. Allow your child a space to be creative and inventive. If a multi-box tunnel appears in your apartment, be patient, it does not have to stay in the middle of the living room forever. A few pieces of cardboard and some masking tape can be a spaceship, a boat at sea or a secret cavern. Imaginative play enhances your child’s spatial, cognitive, and critical thinking skills.

Cleaning Up

From an early age, a child can be taught that when an activity is finished everything gets put away. Make a game of putting blocks away. A small spray bottle of water and some microfiber towels placed where your child can reach is a fun way for them to learn how to clean up.

Bonus tips

Keep your child’s unbreakable bowls, dishes, and cups, in a lower kitchen cabinet. If they have not mastered closing a cabinet door without pinching fingers put a rubber bumper inside the door.

Keep toys and puzzles at a child’s height to foster independence. You may have pieces of puzzles in the wrong frames but a quick once over gets everything ready for the next day of play.

Children love to emulate the adults they love; let them help with chores while they still think it is fun and your apartment will be kid-friendly, and sort of tidy.

4 Vital Factors to Consider for First-Time Homebuyers in 2023

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Think, for a moment, just how much your life has changed from January 1st of this year to today. For some, 2020 brought completely new working conditions as offices closed down and employees relocated to their home offices. Others took the opportunity to move back in with their parents and save some extra cash. Regardless of your particular situation, there’s no question that 2020 has had its fair share of curveballs—and nothing could be closer to the truth for first-time home buyers.

Purchasing your first home is intimidating enough under normal circumstances, and the current state of the world only makes the home buying process that much more complicated. While the underlying process has stayed the same, those shopping for homes must also contend with social distancing measures and fluctuating markets before they can even think about signing on the dotted line.

Whether you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to renting your city apartment or are just ready to settle into a more permanent living situation, here are four of the most important changes in the home buying process that you should keep in mind.

Virtual Tours

House tours have always been one of the most important steps in the process of shopping for a new home. A well-staged house and persuasive realtor can help even the most skeptical viewer envision the space as their new home, and for many, home tours are one of the largest deciding factors alongside a trusted home inspection.

So what happens when you aren’t able to meet in person for a house to tour your potential dream home? To help replicate the in-person experience, many realtors have turned to virtual home tour technology.

3D virtual tours take the online home buying process to another level and provide a much more immersive glimpse into the houses you’re considering—especially when compared to a simple photograph. That’s because virtual tours allow viewers to see every angle of the space, such as how each room flows into the next. Virtual tours also allow first-time home buyers to buy homes on the market that would otherwise be too far away to visit in-person.

That being said, there are a few important factors that first-time homebuyers should consider when touring homes online. Asking your realtor to describe any distinct odors or loud sounds is a great idea, as these senses don’t translate well over a screen. And it’s always a good idea to tour the surrounding area to ensure the home is in a neighborhood suitable for your lifestyle needs.

Home Size

More likely than not, the events of the past year have changed not only how you looked for homes but also what you look for in a home. Thanks to shelter-in-place and social distancing restrictions, many new homeowners are looking for new types of amenities that will help them live comfortably during and after quarantine.

Remote work has made designated home office spaces a must-have in the search for new homes, and houses with ample outdoor living areas—from screened-in decks to lavish patios—are some of the most competitive on the market. In general, homes that feature rooms dedicated to a specific activity, such as a media room or wine cellar, have also become much more popular over the past few months.

This makes it even more important to look for a home that accommodates your needs today and well into the future. Investing in a more sizable home may come with a higher price tag, but it could save you time, money, and energy if you can avoid moving after only a few years of occupancy. To ensure you aren’t overstepping your financial boundaries, you should calculate in advance the amount of house you can afford in your current situation. These resources help you navigate the delicate balance between increasing your square footage and minimizing the hit to your savings.

Competitive Markets

If you’re already shopping for your first home, you might be all too familiar with the dread that comes with losing your first choice home to someone with a better offer. The most competitive housing markets in the country include major metropolitan areas like New York City and San Francisco, but even smaller suburban neighborhoods are facing unprecedented levels of new home buyer interest as people look to escape the high costs and cramped quarters of city life.

An uptick in real estate interest means that you’ll have to prepare for houses to sell more quickly and for a higher number of offers to be on the table. The key to navigating a hot housing market is to approach your search with an open, flexible mind. Looking into opportunities as they present themselves is a good mindset to ensure that you don’t get too discouraged should your search stretch into the foreseeable weeks or months.

In order to jump on new homes in your desired markets, you’ll consequently need to make sure that you have everything in order first. Being prepared is the key to moving through the homebuying process as quickly as possible, and first-time home shoppers who do not have their financial records, paycheck statements, and other personal information readily available are only lessening their chances.

Savings and Stability

Ask any financial advisor and they will tell you that savings are paramount within a personal finance portfolio. But a well-stocked savings account has only become more important when grappling with all of the challenges that 2020 has presented. Depending on the stability of your income, some experts recommend keeping as much as six month’s worth of expenses within grasp to keep you afloat during emergency situations.

Understanding how much you should have set aside in your savings is a critical step in vetting your personal finances before a first-home purchase in 2020. While a lack of established savings doesn’t inherently mean you should avoid shopping for your first house, it will make you much less prepared for any financial hiccups along the way—everything from closing costs to an unexpected HVAC replacement.

The same concept applies to your income, where having a stable, regular paycheck will prove invaluable in balancing the financial constraints of quarantining with the purchase of your first home. Not only will a volatile employment history make it harder to manage your monthly mortgage installments, but it may also impact the size and rate of your mortgage. Keeping your income in check is a key financial indicator that you’re ready for your first home, and it’s a habit you should take with you long after 2020 is over.

20 Trends from the 1920’s to Watch in 2023

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Glamorous. Luxurious. Sophisticated.These are typically the words used to describe interior design in the 1920’s and we’re excited to say that when it comes to home design, what’s old is new again! While the roaring 20’s were fun last time, we’re in for a real treat as we welcome 2020. Here are 20 home interior trends from the 1920’s that we see making return in the coming decade. 

Cats and dolls, ladies and gents, RealtyHive presents

20 Trends from the 1920s to Watch in the 2020s

1) Bold Colors

 The Kardashian-West clan can keep their neutrals. The last few years have been filled with ubiquitous gray-walls-with-white-trim, so expect to see some real punches of color. Think less bright and in-your-face and more rich, luxurious, and deeply toned hues.

2) Metallic Surfaces & Accents

We thought the new millenium would bring chromed-out everything, but thankfully that was just some Hollywood fortune telling. There was a brief love affair with mercury glass and galvanized, especially galvanized corrugated metal came in with the farmhouse aesthetic of the 2010s, but expect more metal in the 2020s. We’re calling classy colors like gold, black and bronze in shiny or matte, but not weathered or worn, finishes. 

3) Freestanding Bathtubs 

Freestanding baths all but disappeared from the 1970s and 2010s in favor of shower/bath combos and jetted tubs, but the clean look and unparalleled luxury of a freestanding soaking tub will make this trend return in the 2020s. Plan on this new iteration having less of a clawfoot style and more of a sleek, minimalistic look. 

4) Large Velvet Furniture

We’ve been seeing velvet on smaller items like headboards and ottomans for years, but, really, what says “roaring 20’s” more than a full velvet couch in a bold midnight blue or luxe emerald green? 

5) Worldly Prints & Touches

The 1920s saw designers and stylemakers looking to far away lands for design inspiration — which led to some ethically questionable behavior in terms of sourcing, acquisition, and more. As globalization becomes more and more the norm, expect to see more of east-meets-west look in homes — but with an eye for ethical, humanely sourced, and sustainable goods. 

6) Earthy Prints & Textures

This one, too, has been going for a while, but don’t expect to toss your banana leaf print or hemp macrame quite yet. Do expect to see these more natural and bohemian items paired with the rich colors and metals listed above for a look that is all it’s own style in 2020. 

7) Form-function-forever

 After decades of consumerism, planned obsolescence and disposable single use products, we’ll see a return to higher cost, but higher quality, long term products. Multifunctional items that are built to last with a beautiful (some may say Instagrammable) aesthetic will dominate this decade — even if they come at a higher price point.  Think companies like Le Creuset (founded in 1925) and Rubbermaid (1920), but this trend isn’t just limited to the kitchen. 

8) Dramatic Design

The 2020’s, like the 1920’s, will be an era for gender-bending style fluidity (remember it was scandalous for ladies to wear pants at that time). This time around we’ll see norm breaking in home design — think lace mixed with leather and metal, rich wood with sparkling crystal combined with marble — a slew of feminine-meets-masculine-with-androgynous touches all done with a heavy flair for the dramatic and no time for minimalism. 

9) Tortoise Shell

While we’re not really sure tortoise shell patterns ever went away, expect it to come back in force in the 2020s. The typical black-and-brown color palette means it coordinates with everything and the unique, yet classic pattern gives it an exotic, yet familiar feel. Look for touches of tortoise shell paired with metallics and matte jewel tones in unexpected, yet charming places. 

10) Rugs, Rugs, Rugs

We’ve long said “ado” to busy, patterned linoleum and “adios” to wall-to-wall shaggy and oddly colored carpets in favor laminate and hardwood flooring, but unlike the sleek minimalist look of the 2010s, we’re calling for the return of rugs. Staircases and hallways will feature striking runners while area rugs will draw the whole room together. These aren’t your mother’s put-your-shoes-by-the-door floormats, instead these are designed to be statements of their own. Feeling extra bold? Try a LARGE circular rug for enhanced drama. 

11) Sunburst designs

The art deco that defined the 1920’s shines in sunburst designs. Often found in mirrors and wall art, this fun and sunny shape will find new life in the home and looks especially fresh being incorporated into a nursery!

12) Wallpaper

Another trend we’ve seen coming back in the last few years is wallpaper, especially the heavily patterned or textured variety. Unlike the cover-all-walls method of the 1920’s, this time around wallpaper will be used as an accent wall. Unsure you’re ready to commit or still waiting to purchase your own place? These days you can get the same luxe look with far less commitment by using peel-and-stick contact paper.

13) Displayed Smoking & Vaping Paraphernalia

The 1920’s was the golden age of cigarettes in America with many women picking up the habit during World War I. Coffee tables often displayed cigarette boxes or urns, match strikes, lighters, and opera length cigarette holders. Nowadays traditional cigarette smoking is in decline, but vaping and increasing marijuana legalization means in the 2020s you’re likely to see a renaissance of sorts of this trend.

14) Art Deco

The combination of modernist styles with fine craftsmanship and rich materials make this style just as relevant today as it was in the 1920s. At its inception, Art Deco was meant to represent luxury, glamour, exuberance and optimism and had an international appeal — all things that make for good design today. Forget the opulence of, well everything, in the 1980s or the over-the-top design of the Tuscan kitchens of the 2000s, Art Deco feels both fresh and vintage, new and classic. 

15) Geometric Furniture

Kneeling to the Art Deco trends that shaped the 1920s, expect to see more clean lines and interesting shapes in furniture in the 2020s. Note that the new version of this look comes in new variations (lights, bookshelves, tables, you name it!) and to get the best impact for your effort you should limit items to having a fun shape or pattern– lest you take on a Peewee’s Playhouse feel.  

16) Grown-up Glitz

No glamourous style is complete without at least a little glitz and glimmer and the 2020s will not disappoint. Taking inspiration from glitzy “flapper” style of the 1920s, you can expect beaded upholstery, mirrored accents and even crystal fireplace glass rocks to turn up the shimmer in the 2020s.

17) Large Scale Items

The bold and patterned nature of design in the 1920s means that every piece in a room is competing with the piece next to it, so embrace it.While the last few years have seen a surge in the popularity of the gallery walls, in the 2020s expect to see bigger, singular pieces of wall art.

18) Horizontal multi-panel doors

After a decade, get ready to say “goodbye” to the barn door look and “hello” to solid wood doors with more interesting panels routed into them. Unlike the traditional 6-panel door look that has two rows of three vertical panels, this version may have different designs or windows added and aren’t just reserved for the front entryway.

19) Built-in Furniture

Built-in furniture all but disappeared in the last few decades as homes and buildings were purposely designed to have the greatest appeal to the largest amount of people. Gone was the character of the 1920s built in designs, but now we’re coming full circle. These days you can achieve the built in look without the built-in hassle by using smartly designed bookshelves.

20) Statement Fireplaces

During the 2010s we saw fireplaces all but disappear, that is to say visually disappear. While the function (usually) remained, the form was often painted over in an effort to blend the fireplace into the wall that held it. This decade, expect another throwback look to emerge with bold fireplaces retaking center stage in rooms. 

RealtyHive Wrap-Up

When designing your home, remember that trends come and go, but style is forever. Choose pieces that fit your style, your life, and your budget and you’re sure to create a beautiful space you’ll love for years to come.

Ready to start creating your perfect space in 2020? Whether you’re looking for a move-in ready Spanish-style home or you’ve got your eye on a vintage commercial building RealtyHive has you covered. Have a property to sell? Check out the great options available for sellers on RealtyHive!

Revamping Your Apartment? Here’s Everything to Keep in Mind

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Apartment living can be a great experience, and for many people, even preferable to homeownership. As an apartment renter, you might find yourself living in the same apartment for many years, and you might be looking for ways to revamp your living space to make it feel as fresh and new as when you first moved in.

However, renovating your apartment can come with challenges that differ from renovating a home. Because of this, you should consider a number of factors before beginning your apartment renovation project.

Determine the scope of your project

When it comes to apartment renovations, there are certain upgrades and changes that you won’t be able to make. As a renter, there are going to be building rules and regulations that will prevent certain upgrades from being made to your apartment.

In general, any renovations that change the structure of your apartment, or change its hardware, are going to be against regulations. A good rule of thumb to remember is that if your upgrade can be removed or reversed by you when you move out, you should be good to move forward.

In order to learn what these are, it may be beneficial to check in with the owner of the building to ensure that any upgrades being made follow building regulations. Building owners might even have a guidebook available to get a full picture of what upgrades can and can’t be made.

Create a flexible financial plan

Apartment renovations can be costly depending on the type of project being worked on. Because of this, it’s important to take finances into account.

The first step in this process should be creating a budget. Having an estimate and a set limit on how much will be spent on a project can prevent overspending and help prioritize the most important upgrades. Ideally, a budget should be somewhat flexible to allow for any unforeseen costs.

Depending on the scope of the project, it might also be beneficial to find financing options. When upgrading an apartment, some people opt to use a credit card for smaller projects. If the project is a bit larger, there are also personal lines of credit, which allow people to withdraw a set amount of money over a period of time while working on a renovation. Because of the different options available for different projects, it’s important to look into the differences between credit cards and personal lines of credit. Having a general idea of the pros and cons of each can help you know which one to use for your project.

Use your space wisely

Just like houses, apartments can range in size and design. No matter the size or architecture of one’s living space, it’s vital to make sure that home upgrades will complement a living space.

One way of doing this could be using color theory in your home. Smaller living spaces work better with bright paint colors, whereas larger spaces can benefit from darker color schemes. Using additional accent colors on top of these base colors can also help make a space pop.

When it comes to using an existing space to fit with interior design choices, furniture can also play a major role. Some apartments are designed with naturally squarer corners and shapes and can be complimented well with round furniture and rugs. Other apartments might have been designed with rounded edges and curves, so more square-structured furniture can help create a nice contrast between the two.

Prioritize comfort

Creating a stylish space is important for many people, but making your apartment comfortable to live in is arguably the most important factor when it comes to an upgrade. This is why you should make sure that you not only look for items that add value to your unit, but ones that provide pragmatic value, security, and comfort.

For pragmatic value, finding items for your home that can increase storage and organization will help you keep your space clean and functional at all times. For security, some apartment owners might benefit from installing security devices, such as a safe to store their valuables, as well as new locks and alarms. Finally, to increase your home’s comfort, try out furniture before you make a purchase so you can be sure that it will be comfortable to sit and sleep on.

With these factors in mind, you’ll be able to make the most out of your apartment revamp and create a living space that is both comfortable and stylish.

4 Essential Upgrades to Include in a Kitchen Remodeling for Big Families

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A big family needs a big kitchen. While cozy kitchens and diminutive dining rooms are increasingly common to make room for master suites and walk-in closets, having many people under the same roof is easier when you maximize common spaces. Whether you have several young children or you’re living in a multi-generational home, these four essential upgrades for a big family should be part of your kitchen remodel.

Counter Seating

A formal dining room can be a pain to clean and set for just minor meals and snacks, so include a roomy bar or island with seating in your kitchen remodel. Counter seating provides a comfortable space for weeknight meals, busy breakfasts or lunches with friends and makes post-meal cleaning a breeze. Seating young children near your kitchen workspace also lets you keep an eye on them while you’re cooking.

Extra Floor Space

Avoid a cramped kitchen by incorporating lots of floor space into your kitchen remodeling plans. Plenty of room to move is not only important for comfort but also for safety. Tight corners and narrow traffic areas can result in injuries, especially with small children or elderly family members. Are you working with a small footprint? Keep cabinets and appliances narrow to maximize floor space.

Lots of Storage

A big family means big grocery hauls, and you need lots of storage solutions to keep all that food organized and accessible. Take your cabinets all the way to the ceiling so that no inch of space is wasted. Build in a pantry with lots of shelves and drawers. Make use of the area above your stovetop or kitchen island with hanging storage for pots and pans to free up more cabinet space for food storage.

Homework Space

Are you tired of the kitchen table being covered in textbooks, papers and pencils? Carve out a dedicated homework space in your kitchen. A kid-sized table tucked into a breakfast nook works perfectly, or use long floating desks if you’re short on extra space. The homework area also makes a great spot for crafting or working from home and can even double as a kid’s table for parties and holidays.

Remember, you don’t need a large house to have a roomy kitchen. Smart design can make even the tiniest of kitchens seem spacious. You can also move walls or rearrange rooms to make your kitchen larger. Expand a small galley kitchen into the dining room or combine the kitchen and living room for a contemporary open floor plan.

5 Things You Should Know About Upgrading From a Mid-Size to a Luxury Home

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Most of us have always dreamed of having a large luxury home that we can call our own. While it may have seemed far away just years ago, it’s finally time for you to upgrade. However, there are a few things you should know before you start your undertaking.

Association Dues Are Common

Most luxury homes are found within specific communities. These communities offer many amenities, like community pools and golf courses. To help fund the construction and upkeep of these amenities, all community members pay an association fee. This fee is a set amount of money that you will be expected to contribute to these private amenities regardless of whether you use them or not.

You May Need Some Hired Help

A luxury home can be a beautiful place to reside that has lots of character. However, the idea of maintaining your new luxury home can have your head aching. From cutting the grass to cleaning all the vaulted ceiling, it can be a full-time job in itself. You should plan to hire out professionals to handle the maintenance tasks so that your home maintains its value.

Annual Costs Are Going To Be More

While you may be extremely excited about constructing a new luxury home, you do need to put the financial demand into perspective. Luxury homes cost more to run than your typical mid-sized home. Taxes are more expensive. Home insurance is more expensive. And, you can expect your maintenance costs to be more expensive. It’s vital to properly plan for these expenses in your budget to ensure you’re living in a state of financial well-being and not a financial deficient.

You Can Include Unusual Features

Most mid-sized homes are constructed with bedrooms, a kitchen, bathrooms, a garage or two, and a porch or deck. When it comes to luxury homes, they tend to have all of these features and many more. In luxury homes, you’ll find home cinemas, gyms, game rooms, bars, and so much more. Your budget is really your limit in regards to designing the luxury home you want.

Plan To Host Holidays And Other Special Events

It won’t take long until you’re suddenly volunteered to host Christmas or Thanksgiving at your new luxury home. It just seems natural to most to have those with the biggest space host these special events. Instead of trying to fight it, embrace it. You can enjoy showing off your luxury home while sharing time with friends and family.

Upgrading from a mid-sized home to a luxury one can be a big change for anyone. The above five facts will help you to adjust to your new standard of living with ease. Remember that your luxury home should be your ultimate dream home.

5 Inexpensive Upgrades to Make to Your Home This Fall

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Whether you’re thinking about putting your house on the market soon or being home for months on end has you thinking about making upgrades to your space, you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on a full renovation project. In fact, you can give your home a facelift for less than a few hundred dollars with some of these easy projects that can be completed in a weekend.

Outdoor Cleanup

Is your home lacking in curb appeal? Are your plants looking tired and faded? If you’re planning to sell your place, a well-maintained landscape signals potential buyers that the home has been cared for, but even if you’re staying put, giving your home’s exterior a boost can increase its value and show the neighbors you care. Spend a weekend cleaning and sprucing up outside; just trimming hedges, cutting back tree branches, weeding, and clearing away any brush or debris can make a big difference. Put down a fresh doormat, and make sure your exterior lights work.

Fall is also the perfect time to get your yard ready for spring. If you aerate, fertilize, and overseed your lawn now, you’ll have lush green grass when the weather warms up. Plant bulbs, or divide your perennials to create more flowering plants in the spring.

Painting

For a cheap home upgrade, it’s hard to beat painting. A fresh coat of color can completely change a room’s appearance and cover-up imperfections like stains and dings. If you’re planning to sell, re-painting rooms in neutral colors will appeal to the majority of buyers. If you aren’t selling, don’t be afraid to be a bit bold and experiment. The worst that can happen is you’ll need to repaint.

Your interior walls aren’t the only places that can benefit from paint, either. Painting your front door can add to curb appeal while repainting your kitchen cabinets can take the room from drab to sunny for a fraction of the cost of new cabinets.

Lighting Upgrades

Old, outdated lighting fixtures can easily make your home look dated and neglected, even when everything else is in good shape. From the dining room chandelier to the bathroom sconces, take a critical look at the lighting in your home and change out old, ugly fixtures for newer ones. If the lights themselves are still in good shape, upgrade the lightswitches or switch plates for a small change with a big impact. Installing a dimmer switch or a Wi-fi enabled bulb that can be controlled using your phone is another simple project that creates a big impact.

A ceiling fan is also a big upgrade for little cost. A fan not only adds interest to the space, but it can help keep energy costs in check by cooling in the summer and circulating heat in the winter. If there’s already a ceiling light, you can use the existing wiring to install a fan with light without too much trouble.

Clean Floors

Even when you have a no-shoes indoors policy, your floors and carpets can get dirty thanks to pets, cooking, and dust. A thorough cleaning can make a huge difference in your home, eliminating odors, allergens, and stains, leaving the place feeling fresh and new.

If you have carpeting, schedule a professional steam cleaning before the winter to remove allergens like mold or pollen that have come in during the fall. If you have wood floors, consider renting a floor buffer for a weekend. A deep clean followed by buffing can leave your floors looking shiny and new. If the floors are in rough shape, refinishing may be an option, but it’s a more involved and expensive project.

Declutter

Decluttering your home is a must if you’re planning to move, but it’s also a good idea to schedule the occasional cleanout so you stay organized — and your house stays clean. Sellers should focus on clearing out storage areas like closets and the garage, basement, or attic since buyers are often looking for extra storage space. Well-organized closets that aren’t overstuffed creates the appearance of plenty of space. Even if you’re not selling, clearing out items that are out of season, or you just don’t want anymore, helps you find everything more easily and helps you stay organized.

A new season is also a great time to clean out and organize your pantry. Get rid of any food that’s expired and take inventory of what you have on hand. Transfer items in bulky packages into sealed containers that keep them organized and fresh. It’s a simple change that can take your kitchen from cluttered to functional in no time.

Upgrading your home doesn’t have to mean spending thousands of dollars on projects. It’s possible to make big changes with just some time and a few hundred dollars, leaving you with a fresh, healthy, and organized home.

Insurance Considerations for First-Time Homebuyers

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With so much excitement, anticipation, and planning that coincides with purchasing your first home, it’s easy to overlook certain details that might not immediately impact you before your move-in date. From coordinating inspections to dealing with financial negotiations, you are probably trying to just get through this process—rather than think about ways to protect yourself and your assets in the future. In order to help you best prepare for what lies ahead, you can review the following considerations to ensure you and your family are financially secure, no matter what life throws your way.

Homeowners Insurance Basics:

Generally speaking, a homeowner’s insurance policy is necessary when you purchase a home as it will protect your residence and personal possessions if during an unfortunate event such as damage or a break-in. Should you need to leave your home temporarily due to damage, your insurance policy will help you afford to do so until your home is safe to live in. Another extremely important aspect of homeowners insurance is that it protects you if someone were ever to fall or get injured on your property. If they try to sue you, your policy will cover the costs, saving you from a detrimental financial situation.

Who should buy a homeowners insurance policy?

To err on the side of caution, it’s recommended that you purchase a homeowner’s policy if you own a home, condo, townhouse, DIY tiny house. Similarly to life insurance or disability insurance, individuals and families are not required by law to have a homeowners policy after you have paid off your mortgage. However, it’s highly advised to have a policy for the entire duration of your homeownership to protect your finances and your possessions. In the unlikely event that purchase your home with cash, you will still want to have a policy in place for your own financial protection, even if not required by law.

What does homeowners insurance cover?

As mentioned, homeowners insurance covers your home, personal property, and offers liability protection, while reimbursing you if you need to move out of your home due to damage (covered by your policy). This would typically include damage from lighting, a house fire, wind, or theft. In addition, your policy will protect your family members, spouse, or blood relatives the same way if they are living under your roof.

What does homeowners insurance NOT cover?

Now that you know what basic coverage does include, it’s important to understand what type of damage a homeowner’s policy doesn’t include to determine if you need additional coverage based on the location of your property and home. If you purchased a home in an area prone to earthquakes, sinkholes, or sewer backup, you might want to consider an additional standalone policy to protect you should you experience any of those problems. Other issues like flooding, termites, bed bugs, and infestations are not something automatically covered.

It’s helpful to know in advance what environment and climate you will be living in so that you can protect your property and possessions. Not only does doing your research on the property help you prepare, but it will help you plan for new circumstances you might have to deal with as a homeowner. Especially as a first-time buyer, you don’t want to be caught off guard when it comes to damage or issues due to the location of your home. Although there is no perfect journey when it comes to purchasing your first home, there are some best-kept secrets to help you feel proactive and stay calm while trying to avoid some potential issues in the future. There is no such thing as being overly prepared as a new homeowner, so doing your due diligence now will serve you well in the months to come.

Life Insurance Basics:

Now, let’s take some time to discuss another important and highly recommended insurance purchase that will benefit you in the case of an unforeseen event. As you have seen over the last year, life can change in the blink of an eye, which is why it’s necessary to prepare for the unexpected. Reviewing your options when it comes to the variety of life insurance policies available is recommended—especially during a major life change such as moving, purchasing a home, or having a baby.

Life insurance is a tax-free amount of money that is used to replace your income if you were to pass away. Offering peace of mind and affordable financial assistance, life insurance can help support your loved ones that rely on you should something happen to you unexpectedly. The money allotted from a life insurance policy can be used to pay things like a mortgage, car loans, grocery bills, utilities, education or tuition costs, funeral arrangements, and more.

How much life insurance do you need?

This question depends on a few things but generally speaking, if anyone in your family relies on your income it’s best to have a life insurance policy in place. Again, this can help support children, a spouse, or family members who require part of your income to pay the bills and cannot afford this entirely in your absence. It’s recommended that you plan to purchase a policy covering around 10-15 times your income, but this is just a general guideline and each person has a unique set of circumstances that will influence the amount of coverage they should buy. It’s worthwhile to shop around and use an online calculator to specifically match your circumstances with what is best for you and your family.

What are some risks of not having a policy or enough coverage?

There are many people who are underinsured or not insured at all. This is unfortunate as many of these individuals might not realize the risk they are taking or the financial burden that will be placed on them in the case of an unforeseen circumstance after the passing of a loved one. In another respect, what some individuals don’t realize is that employer-provided insurance isn’t usually enough or transferrable to a new job—so it’s beneficial to have an additional policy to cover all your basic needs.

If you have not taken the time to evaluate your coverage, a major life event such as making a large investment on a home would be a great time to do so. If you do not have coverage you are putting your family, friends, or loved ones at risk of losing their own long-term financial plan since they might be unable to keep up with daily expenses. If you have a mortgage that is far from being paid off, they will have to take over this costly investment, possibly leading to major financial repercussions in their future if they do not have the funds. During a difficult time, the last thing you want your family to take on is financial stress that could have been prevented in the first place by obtaining an affordable life insurance policy. 

Other insurance considerations:

In order to make sure you have secured all your financial assets and can support the future of your loved ones under any circumstance, there are few other insurance options you might want to evaluate during this time. If applicable, you might consider the following options to help you maintain the most peace of mind.

Auto Insurance:

Moving or purchasing a home is no time to lose sight of your auto insurance needs. Since you will be driving to a different location, possibly moving areas, and communing at different capacities, it’s important to make sure that your automobile is financially protected. It’s recommended that you reevaluate your auto insurance needs as there is a good chance you might be able to save some cash by bundling home and auto or revisiting your coverage needs. In addition, a new home calls for a fresh new start! Take the time to make sure all your financial needs are aligned and properly allocated.

Pet Insurance:

For most people, pets are entirely part of the family, but like most things in life, they come with a cost. With all the time, energy, and attention you put into your pet, it’s likely that you’ll want to keep them happy and healthy for a long time! Pet insurance reimburses you for expenses should anything bad or unexpected happen to your pet (similar to health insurance if something happens to you). Pet insurance can save you from paying the big bucks when it comes to vet bills, so if your pet was injured or become ill, you don’t have to panic over the monetary implications of this event. There are certain instances where pet insurance might be really helpful for your financial situation, in which case you can determine if pet insurance is necessary by talking through your options with a professional representative.

Purchasing your very first home is such an exciting time for you and your family. Although it can feel overwhelming emotionally and financially, there is light at the end of the tunnel and working hard now to prepare for the future will allow you to fully enjoy this investment for all its worth.