As investments go, real estate is either the smartest place in the world to stash your money or the stupidest thing you can do with it - depending on all kinds of things like location, pricing trends, interest rates, condition of the property, and how long you plan to be in it. But what about second homes? How do you know when buying a home for weekend use, vacations, or as a legacy property is a smart choice? "Buying a vacation home or investment property is a great way to expand your... [read more]

When sellers stage their homes, they're simply trying to make their homes as attractive as possible to buyers. Staging can include cleaning, decluttering, depersonalizing and decorating the home. It can be done by the seller, or by a professional who goes so far as to completely overhaul a home with glamorous rented furniture and accessories. At its best, staging helps buyers see the possibilities so they can easily visualize themselves owning and living in the home. It can also distract... [read more]

You've probably heard how important curb appeal is when you're trying to sell your home. The first thing buyers look at when they pull up to your home is the big picture -- the house, the yard, the trees, the flowers. It's the impression that counts, and all it takes is one thing to ruin the effect -- a cracked walkway, dead branches in the trees, leggy bushes. As you look around at all the things you need to fix or update to sell your home, it can be overwhelming. Many sellers... [read more]

A sushi dinner. A Saturday night movie for four (with popcorn). A new pair of Nikes. They'll all cost you about $100. But wouldn't you rather put that money toward something that'll make you smile whenever you walk in the room? Take that 100 bucks and freshen up something in your home. It'll be money well spent. "Updating your home can be a huge undertaking and cost a lot of money, but it doesn't have to be! For under $100, simple updates like a coat of paint,... [read more]

Drought got your garden feeling lonely? You don't have to go naked this summer. Xeriscaping with drought-tolerant plants can bring in color and texture without sucking down that precious water. Xeriscaping has been practiced in the southwest for years, but with several states now facing drought conditions and mandatory water restrictions—in addition to a growing desire to conserve natural resources—the practice has grown. If you're looking for ways to pack some... [read more]