As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, the Manitoba real estate market takes on a cozy charm of its own. Fall is actually a fantastic time to sell your home — buyers are serious, the lighting is flattering, and homes just feel more inviting. But to truly make your listing stand out this season, a few thoughtful steps can go a long way.

Here are some unexpected but effective ways to prep your home for fall showings — straight from our Coldwell Banker Preferred Real Estate experts.

1. Turn Up the Hygge (Without Overdoing It)

Buyers want to feel at home, and fall is the perfect season to make that emotional connection. A few strategically placed touches like a chunky knit throw, a lit (unscented or lightly scented) candle, or a cozy reading nook can do wonders.

Pro Tip: Set a mood — not a theme. Avoid going overboard with pumpkins and scarecrows. Aim for warmth, not Halloween.

2. Showcase That Entryway

With Manitoba's fall weather comes boots, coats, and sometimes a bit of mud. Make sure your front entry is both functional and attractive:

• Add a bench or boot tray

• Include hooks for jackets

• Lay down a seasonal (but neutral) doormat

• Use soft lighting or a fall wreath to enhance curb appeal

This reminds buyers that your home handles the seasons gracefully — and that matters in a province like ours.

3. Embrace Manitoba's Natural Beauty

Fall is short in Manitoba, but it’s gorgeous. If you’ve got mature trees, a view of the fields, or even just a backyard with some colour, make sure buyers see it.

• Clean up leaves but leave some colour for charm

• Take your listing photos early while the trees are still vibrant

• Set up outdoor seating with plaid throws or lanterns

This time of year sells the lifestyle, not just the structure.

4. Let There Be (More) Light

As our daylight hours get shorter, you’ll want to maximize light indoors:

• Wash windows (inside and out — it makes a HUGE difference)

• Replace dim bulbs with warm LEDs

• Add accent lighting like lamps or sconces in darker corners

Bonus: a well-lit home also feels cleaner and more spacious.

5. Handle the Senses (Subtly!)

The smell of apple pie might sound appealing, but artificial scents can be overpowering. Instead:

• Simmer apple slices and cinnamon sticks before a showing

• Use fresh-baked cookies or muffins (bonus: offer them!)

• Keep pet odours, mustiness, and cooking smells in check with open windows and neutral cleaners

You want buyers to remember your home, not a mystery smell.

6. Highlight Cold-Weather Features

Is your home well insulated? Do you have new windows, a high-efficiency furnace, or heated floors? Don’t assume buyers will notice — show them!

🔹 Leave utility bills out to demonstrate energy efficiency
🔹 Set the thermostat to a cozy but comfortable temperature
🔹 Highlight fireplaces, attached garages, or mudrooms

These are real perks during a chilly Manitoba winter.

7. Tidy the Yard (But Keep It Inviting)

By September, many yards start to look a little tired. Spruce things up with:

• A fall planter (mums, ornamental cabbage, grasses)

• Clean and store garden tools, hoses, and toys

• Rake regularly — it shows pride of ownership

• Turn off and drain outdoor taps (bonus points for safety!)

If the backyard feels forgotten, buyers may assume the house is too.

8. Think Like a Buyer, Not a Seller

Before each showing, do a quick walkthrough from the front door — as if you’ve never been there before.

• How does it smell?

• Is there clutter?

• Is the lighting warm and welcoming?

• Would you want to sit down and stay awhile?

Ask a friend to do the same — fresh eyes catch things you might miss.

Whether it's September or January, buyers are buying a feeling as much as they are buying a property. A welcoming, thoughtfully staged home in fall can feel like the ultimate warm hug — and that emotional connection can make all the difference.

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Thinking of listing your home this fall?
We're here to guide you every step of the way — from staging tips to negotiating offers. Let’s make sure buyers fall in love with your home at first sight. 🍂

📞 Contact us today to book a free home evaluation or staging consultation.

There’s a quiet kind of magic that settles over Winnipeg in the fall. The leaves turn gold, the air gets crisp, and suddenly we’re reaching for sweaters, slow mornings, and local traditions that feel just right. September invites us to pause, soak up the season, and reconnect with the people and places we love most.

While we’re getting cozy, it’s also worth noting that the local real estate market is expected to stay steady heading into fall 2025. Nationally, prices may cool slightly and inventory is expected to remain tight, but in Manitoba, activity remains healthy thanks to balanced supply, solid demand, and continued confidence in the market. So whether you're in your forever home or just enjoying the season, fall is still a great time to feel rooted where you are.

Here are 10 upcoming events that bring out the best of Winnipeg this September — each one authentic, memorable, and made for this time of year.

When: September 12 - 14

Enjoy live entertainment on our Fall Fair mainstage, the outdoor Pop-up Pub, a weekend-long Farmer's Market, food trucks, hay rides through the forest, carnival games, photo ops & more!

Bring the kids and enjoy the Kid's Activity Tent, children's entertainers on The Main Stage, barrel train, petting farm, bouncers, crafts and so much more!

Tickets are required for entry to Pineridge Hollow & The Village grounds Friday, September 12 -Sunday September 14. Tickets are $14 + tax for ages 2+, children under 2 years old are free. Weekend passes and bulk ticket pricing (5+ tickets) are available!

For more information and to purchase tickets, check them out here https://pineridgehollow.com/pages/fall-fair

When: Saturday, September 6th, 3 p.m.

Notable: The Blue Bombers are 8-1 in the last nine Banjo Bowl games, are on a five-game winning streak in the featured event and lead the overall series since its inception 13-7.

Can’t make it to the stadium? Bring the electrifying Rivalry Week home! Decorate in Blue & Gold, order your favorite stadium snacks, fire up the game broadcast on your screen, and let the cheers fill your living room.

Or maybe you want to watch the Bombers crush the Riders and sink your teeth into a Le Burger Week masterpiece—all from the comfort of your neighbourhood pub!

When: Sunday Sept 7, 12:00-5:00 p.m.

Classic cars glisten at the Red River Exhibition Park. It’s retro charm, engine roars, and community nostalgia rolled into one. With over 1000 vintage cars, food trucks, vendors, and live entertainment, free admission, $5 parking this could be the best way to enjoy your Sunday!

When: check the website daily for updates

https://www.cornmaze.ca/pages/hours-prices

Lose yourself in the corn maze, explore the petting zoo, climb the hay bale pyramid, or snap the perfect pics  in the sunflower expo. It’s simple, seasonal fun just a short drive away.

When: Sept 20 - Oct 1 check website for details

https://thinairwinnipeg.ca/thin-air-festival/

Winnipeg International Writers Festival—THIN AIR (Late September)
For those who find warmth in words and stories, this week-long literary festival brings readings, conversations, and creativity to our community.

The Ultimutt Dog Party!

Raising the Woof! For Animal Rescue Groups

When: Sept 20&21 10:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Join fellow dog lovers and their furry friends for BarkFest; The Ultimutt Dog Party! September 20 & 21 at Exhibition Park, a weekend long festival of fun celebrating everything DOGS! Entertainment & Features include X-Treme Dogs Agility Performances, Doggy’s Got Talent Contest, Dapper Dogs Fashion Show, Zoomies Zone, Downward Dog Spaw, Scratch + Sniff Adventure, K9 Cafe, Eats + Treats Food Trucks, plus Barks + Brews Tent & Whine + Muttini Bar! Fun for the whole family includes Pawcasso Arts + Crafts Centre, Barkery Cookie Decorating, Puparazzi Selfie Wall, Mascot Meet + Greets, plus bouncers & games in the Kids Fun Zone.

BarkFest is proud to support K9 Advocacy Manitoba, Manitoba Mutts Dog Rescue Inc. & Manitoba Underdogs Rescue with our Raising the Woof! fundraising initiative, plus love & support for many other Local Animal Rescue Groups.

When: Sept 20&21 12:00-9:00 pm

Get ready for Live, Love Downtown — a vibrant festival that brings together local food, music, art, and community spirit. This event will shine a spotlight on the amazing people, nonprofits, and small businesses that make our city centre so special.
Live, Love Downtown is a dynamic, family-friendly event designed to revitalize and celebrate our city’s core!
Let’s keep the energy alive — and celebrate downtown like never before!

Location - Memorial Drive

https://www.facebook.com/events/582196568269241/582196574935907/?event_time_id=582196574935907

A damn good excuse to swirl, sip, and show off your "I know my sauvignon from my syrah" swagger.

When: Sept 26&27 RBC Convention Centre

https://somanitoba.akaraisin.com/ui/wwf2025/ticketing

The Public Tastings are the heart of the Winnipeg Wine Festival, featuring a wide selection of wines for you to taste. Your ticket includes admission, a souvenir tasting glass and 3 hours of sampling on the tasting floor.   Whether you're discovering new wines or returning to your favourites, you won't want to miss out on this incredible event. Festival-goers who fall in love with a particular wine can even purchase it on the spot at the onsite Manitoba Liquor Mart.

When: Sat, Sept 6 6:00-9:00 p.m.

The 40th edition of the wildly successful stand-up comedy showcase. Six of Winnipeg’s best comedians perform their A material. No theme, no gimmicks, just top-notch comedy from Winnipeg’s funniest people. Featuring Jordan Welwood, Emmanuel Lomuro, Tyler Kotowski, Jaydin Pommer, Milan Horanski and Brady Holm. Hosted as always by Jared Story.

For tickets, click here https://www.ticketweb.ca/event/winnipeg-comedy-showcase-40-the-park-theatre-tickets/14369693?pl=TPT&REFID=clientsitewp

When: September 20 10:00-1:00 p.m.

register here - https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/artride-cool-gardens-and-public-art-tickets-1458804366129

Join StorefrontMB, the Winnipeg Arts Council, Winnipeg Public Art , and Bike Winnipeg ) for a guided bike tour showcasing public art across the city, featuring stops at all of this year’s Cool Gardens installations!The tour will start at Agassiz Ice in Assiniboine Park, and end at La Maison des Artistes sculpture garden in St. Boniface.

From spirited sports rivalries and canine celebrations to immersive art and indie zines, September’s highlights in Winnipeg remind us what makes our city feel like home. Whether you're out with family or wandering solo, these events are proof that magic happens in everyday community moments.

With summer heat settling in and the cost of utilities climbing, homeowners across Manitoba are rethinking how they care for their lawns and gardens. Between conserving water and managing household budgets, smart outdoor water use has never been more important.

At Coldwell Banker Preferred Real Estate, we know that great landscaping adds curb appeal and value to a home — but it shouldn’t come at the expense of your wallet or the environment. Whether you’re preparing your home for sale or just trying to keep it green without going broke, these practical tips can help you make the most of every drop.

💧 Smart Lawn Watering Tips

1. Water only when your lawn really needs it.
A simple way to check? Step on the grass. If it springs back, it’s fine. If it stays flat, it's time to water.

2. Time it right.
Water early in the morning. It gives the moisture time to soak in and helps prevent fungus — a common issue with evening watering.

3. Soak deep, not often.
Give your lawn a deep soak to encourage strong root growth. Light sprinklings often evaporate too quickly and lead to shallow roots that can't handle dry spells.

4. Watch your aim.
Make sure sprinklers are hitting the lawn or garden—not the sidewalk or driveway.

5. Skip the wind.
Avoid watering on windy days when much of the water can blow away before it even hits the ground.

🌿 Low-Water Landscaping Tips

6. Consider xeriscaping.
Xeriscaping (pronounced ZEER-iss-skape) uses drought-resistant trees and plants that require less water and still look amazing. Manitoba’s climate offers plenty of native options to explore.

7. Mulch it up.
Add a layer of mulch around trees and plants. It helps retain moisture and keeps weeds at bay.

8. Weed regularly.
Weeds compete for water and nutrients. Removing them ensures your healthy plants get the most benefit.

9. Let your grass grow.
Taller grass shades the roots and holds water better than short grass — so don’t mow too low.

10. Know your plants.
Spring and fall watering needs are much lower than in peak summer. Adjust accordingly!

🚿 Everyday Outdoor Water-Saving Habits

11. Sweep, don’t spray.
Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks.

12. Wash smart.
Use a pail of soapy water to clean your car and rinse quickly with a hose instead of leaving it running.

13. Pool owners, take note:

• Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation.

• Lower the water level to avoid splash-out.

• Direct any overflow or splash-out to water nearby landscaping.

14. Fix those drips.
A leaky hose or outdoor faucet may seem minor, but those drips add up fast. Check regularly and replace worn-out washers or fittings.

Small Changes, Big Savings

Taking these small steps can make a big difference — for your water bill, your property’s curb appeal, and the environment. Whether you're staying put or getting ready to sell, an efficient, well-maintained yard shows care and adds value.

Looking for more home tips or thinking about your next move? Reach out to the team at Coldwell Banker Preferred Real Estate — we’re here to help you make smart, sustainable decisions for your home.

After another long Manitoba winter, May feels like a breath of fresh air — and not just because we can finally leave the house without a parka! For many, this season sparks a feeling that it’s time for something new.

Whether it’s the way you notice every “For Sale” sign on your street or you’ve started bookmarking backyard inspiration at 1am, here are five subtle signs it might be time to start house hunting with your favourite Coldwell Banker Preferred Realtor®:

 

 

 

• “Just browsing” homes has become a daily scroll.
  Maybe you’re on Realtor.ca more than Instagram. Or FB Markeplace has taken over your news feed. You keep saying you're not serious, 'just seeing what's out there' — but your search history says otherwise. The curiosity is real, and it's often the first step toward action.

 

 

 

• Your home feels more frustrating than functional.
  A home that once fit “for now” might now feel like it’s holding you back. Whether it's a growing family, a new puppy, or finally starting your dream garden — outgrowing your space is a real thing

 

 

 

• You’ve started mentally decorating homes that aren’t yours.
  If you find yourself saying “If we lived here, I’d paint this wall navy and put a cozy chair right there,” or if you're checking the room dimensions to ensure your furniture fits you’re not just browsing — you’re visualizing. That’s a powerful sign.

 

 

 

• You’re doing more than just spring cleaning — you’re purging.
  Decluttering can be therapeutic, but it can also mean you’re mentally prepping for a move. Clearing out is often the first physical step towards transition.

 

 

 

• You’re craving a lifestyle shift.
  Maybe you want to be closer to walking trails, have a garage (finally), live in a more vibrant community, or move to the country. Your space should reflect your lifestyle — and if it doesn’t, that itch won’t go away.

💬 Have a friend who keeps saying, “I’m just looking…”? Share this with them — they might be more ready than they think.

 

Dignified, sublime "COLOR OF THE YEAR 2025” - Cinnamon Slate 2113-40

 

Picking the color of the year is a delicate process and big challenge. You have to capture the aesthetic moment, translating disparate trends and emerging design movements into a single, resonant color choice.

"Color Trend Hunters" by Benjamin Moore & Co. decided to find a golden mean for these color dilemmas this year. Therefore, the main place in the palette of "COLOR TRENDS" for 2025 was taken by "Cinnamon Slate 2113-40", i.e. "COLOR OF THE YEAR 2025".
A delicate mix of heathered plum and velvety brown, Cinnamon Slate 2113-40 offers enduring style and a modern sensibility. It encapsulates the idea of quietly colorful.

To define this color without undertones would be impossible. The unique undertones add to the versatility and adaptability of this hue. It gives this color a presence without distraction.

When designing a room with "Cinnamon Slate", bringing in warmer accents in golds and ambers can make the violet undertone more distinguishable. Conversely, by using cooler colors and lighting, and plum hues, Cinnamon Slate can take on more of a neutral look.

COLOR OF THE YEAR 2025 is a hue that shows the beauty and nuance that undertones can have and bring to a design. It shows the confidence of these types of in-between hues and all that they can bring to a space.

Brand of the senses – tactility…

Tactility is also an essential part of “Cinnamon Slate’s” color story. 

Andrea Magno, Director of Color Marketing & Design, Benjamin Moore & Co., cites the “velvety” and “softened textile” feel of quietly colorful shades like this, which pair perfectly with soft, rounded-edged furniture and cozy-yet-classy materials.

Of course, its brown-tinted qualities also mean “Cinnamon Slate” feels right at home with wood materials and finishes as well.

Evolution, not revolution…

Now let’s look at the progression of color that brought us to the Color of the Year 2025.

In 2023, we had “New Age 1444”. Understated and ethereal, “New Age” was the softest color in the Color Trends 2023 palette.

It brought ease and restraint to the palette playing the role of quietly colorful among much more saturated hues. It stood out as a delicate, gentler approach to color.

In 2024, we had “Hazy Lilac 2116-40”. Slightly darker, this midtone violet became an unexpected favorite. Subtle notes of gray bring versatility and depth allowing it to work beautifully in many different styles and settings.

This hue tends to lean more violet aligning with trends towards more saturated hues.

This leads Color Hunters to “Cinnamon Slate 2113-40”. With its toasted undertones, Cinnamon Slate leans warmer and more neutral than the previous colors mentioned. Its nuanced undertones highlight the notion of quietly colorful hues and the beauty of undertones in paint colors.

“Cinnamon Slate” can enhance traditional homes with a contemporary touch while also adding warmth and comfort into modern spaces.

It all started with undertones…

Andrea Magno, Director of Color Marketing & Design, Benjamin Moore & Co. explains that the term undertone has gained popularity over the past few years, offering a way to help decipher color and explain why the same paint color looks blue in one room and green in another. 

It has added another word to design vocabulary and tool in kit to help us describe what it is we are looking for (or not looking for) in a paint color.

Although a paint color may look like it is just blue, often multiple pigments blend together to create that exact shade and that is what results in undertones.

As the Color Team met to discuss our research, findings, and insights for the Color Trends 2025 palette, this idea of quietly colorful hues came to the forefront quickly. 

“Color Trends Hunters” knew they wanted to celebrate the beauty of undertones and all that they can bring to a design. They wanted to look at the nuances of color and the intricacies of undertones.

This year Color Team didn’t start with a specific color or even color family, but was gravitating towards colors that had a comfort, a calm, but still a confidence to them. Color Team members kept reaching for in-between hues that blurred the lines and had unique undertones because they found that is what made them adaptable, versatile, and easy to personalize in a space.

For the past couple of years, we’ve seen this reach for more saturated and colorful hues with “Raspberry Blush” and “Blue Nova” leading the way. 

These are colors that get straight to the point, they make a statement and draw your attention.
With this, there has become an appreciation and overall better understanding of color and how to use it in design.

Color Trends Hunters feel it has led them to the next step in their color journey as they discover the beauty of more nuanced color.

Together, these ten hues make up the Color Trends 2025 palette. They can stand alone beautifully or work together harmoniously creating a color palette that transitions gracefully from room-to-room.

These “in-between hues” celebrate a more nuanced approach to color. These are colors that are not oversaturated, you won’t tire of them easily.

They are adaptable and work with the lifelong curation of our homes as we swap in and move around items forever combining new with old.

These hues help us find our color confidence without overwhelming a space. They feel comfortable and have a sense of familiarity but don’t fade into the background.

Andrea Magno concludes - “You can play with these 10 colors and come up with a lot of different ways to use them while still putting your personal stamp on it.”

We hope this palette encourages people to see the beauty of nuanced colors and the power of undertones.

 

SOURCE: BENJAMIN MOORE https://benjaminmoore.pl/en/colors-and-inspirations/color-of-the-year-2025/

If you share your home with a pet or two (or five), you know their well-being is a top priority. Along with making a move less stressful for them, learning how to pet-proof your home should be high on the list for responsible pet owners. Read on to know what to look out for and how to make your home a comfortable and secure place for everyone.

Kitchens

Star your pet-proofing mission in the kitchen, as it has a lot of potentially dangerous and tempting items for your four-legged friends. Ensure cabinets are secure to prevent access to cleaning supplies, cutlery and any unauthorized treats – child-proof cabinet locks are an excellent option here. Some human foods can be life-threatening for dogs and cats, so promptly store items like chocolates, crackers and leftovers away or you could be making an unexpected trip to the emergency vet. Garbage bins should have lids or be kept inside cabinets, as pets can get into trash hunting for a bonus meal.

Living Rooms

You probably spend a lot of quality time with your pets in your living room, which also deserves a careful going-over. Keep small objects, like breakable decorative pieces and children’s toys, out of reach. Electrical cords should be concealed or secured, as they present a chewing temptation for many animals. Certain houseplants can also be toxic for your fur babies, so you’ll want to eliminate any dangerous varieties.

Bedrooms and Bathrooms

In bedrooms, keep your clothes, shoes and personal items stowed away since anything can become a fun chew toy, especially for dogs. Secure medications, razors and other sharp objects away from curious paws and noses. And while a cat lying on the bathroom floor surrounded by a roll of unspooled toilet paper seems like it’d be great photo op, it’ll be a pain to clean up. Consider keeping doors closed when you’re not around.

Yards, Patios and Decks

If your pets spend considerable time outside, you’ll want to provide a shaded area and fresh water to prevent overheating in hot weather. Also, think about installing a pet door if you do have an enclosed outdoor space like a catio or dog run, making it easy for them to get outside safely. Plus, animals can be notorious escape artists, so securely latch all non-pet doors and windows to prevent any unexpected breakouts.

Create Pet-Friendly Spaces

Pet-proofing is not only about forbidden areas and potential harm – it’s also about making cozy and pet-specific areas for your animals. Your pets deserve to love their home as much as you do, so give them their own spots, like napping nooks and comfortable hiding places. Dogs might appreciate a snuggly bed in a quiet corner, while many cats love hanging out in a felted cat cave. Designate an area for pet toys, like a stylish basket or bin. This will make picking up a breeze and your pets will know where to go when it’s time to play.

Creating a safe environment by knowing how to pet-proof your home is vital to being a good pet owner. And with a little effort, you can make your house a haven for the whole family.

 

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Source: How to Pet-Proof Your Home for Furry Family Members by Michelle Abendschan

Now that the snow has melted, the temps are rising and the days getting longer, it’s the perfect time to freshen up your home and prep it for the warmer months ahead. Whether you're planning to sell soon or just want to protect your biggest investment, spring maintenance is a must!

We’ve put together a simple Spring Home Maintenance + Cleaning Checklist (see image) to help you tackle everything inside and out—from replacing furnace filters and testing smoke detectors to cleaning gutters, checking shingles, and refreshing flower beds.

Not only does seasonal upkeep help maintain your home’s value, but it also ensures your space stays safe, comfortable, and looking its best all year round.

✔️ Tip: Tackle one task per day or week to make it manageable—and don’t forget to involve the whole household!

Download or screenshot the checklist and use it as your guide this spring. Happy cleaning!🧽🏡

DOWNLOAD CHECKLIST HERE

Well-planned home renovations can really enhance your home’s appeal and amp up its price when it’s time to sell. But not all improvements bring a hefty return on investment (ROI). Knowing the most promising updates can help strategize your revamping efforts for an attractive sale. Read on for a rundown of the top five home improvements likely to supercharge your property’s resale value.

Kitchen Upgrades

A modern, functional kitchen can impress prospective buyers and significantly boost your resale value. But a complete remodel isn’t always necessary when you’re looking for a sizable ROI. If your kitchen already has a good layout, work with what you have and make strategic changes. Key renovations to consider include new countertops, an updated backsplash, a fresh coat of paint, and high-end appliances. Need some swoon-worthy inspiration to get you in the mood? These kitchen updates will make you want to start taking notes and making plans.

Bathroom Remodels

Bathroom updates are next on the list of top ROI home renovations. Your efforts here can range from replacing dated fixtures to a more comprehensive refresh, including a new soaking tub or a sleek walk-in shower. But before you pencil in a new skylight and heated floor tiles, consider every tweak’s necessity and potential upside, as bathroom work – like kitchen updates – can quickly become expensive. But if you can invest more in this space, you’ll likely see significant returns.

Hardwood Flooring

There’s no question about it – adding or refinishing lackluster hardwood flooring can significantly enhance the value of your home. This type of flooring offers a timeless look that harmoniously blends with various design styles, from boho chic to classic elegance. Besides their aesthetic charm, hardwood floors are sturdy, easy to clean and healthier due to the absence of trapped allergens often found in carpets. Buyers are consistently willing to pay more for a house with hardwood, making this upgrade a wise choice if you can swing it. How much will wood floors cost you? It all depends on the size of your rooms, the style you choose and the tree species.

Eco-Friendly Improvements 

Energy-conscious renovations have been in vogue for a while now. An energy-efficient home attracts a broad range of buyers and contributes to a greener, healthier environment for everyone. Energy-saving windows, LED lighting, Energy Star-certified appliances, higher-rated insulation, an updated HVAC system and solar panels can offer a higher selling price point and significant cost savings for the homeowner.

Adding an extra room or an outdoor living space

Expanding your total livable space can add considerable worth to your home, whether it’s a finished basement, attic or flex space. An additional bedroom or an office are always in demand, especially in this work-from-home era. If expanding indoors isn’t feasible, transform your outdoor area into a relaxing second living room. A deck or patio can be an enticing bonus for buyers looking for more usable square footage at the property. Swanky garage conversions can also provide extra room year-round with unique appeal.

The right home upgrades can substantially increase your property’s value. However, balancing your renovation budget with the prospective benefits is crucial. In addition to this list, research your market and pay attention to what features the top-selling homes in your area offer. Consulting a real estate professional can also help you make informed decisions and optimize your home renovations for the best ROI.

Source: Top 5 Home Renovations with the Best Return on Investment by Michelle Abendschan

When making a lasting impact, your home’s curb appeal is the first thing that catches the eye. Whether you’re looking to sell or want to enjoy a welcoming entrance this spring, these tips will help you spruce up the exterior charm of your home.

A Splash of Color Matters

A simple touch can make a huge impact. One of the quickest ways to freshen up a space is to introduce a bold or complementary color for the exterior palette. You could be trendy and add a splash of Upward, Sherwin Williams 2024, color of the year to your front door or include accents to infuse pops of pizazz.

Lush Greenery for the Win

Don’t underestimate the power of greenery and well-maintained landscaping. Plant colorful flowers, trim overgrown bushes and add potted plants to create a vibrant, inviting atmosphere. Additionally, placing hanging window box planters is a great way to create a visual separation for more intimate outdoor areas.

Lighting Sets the Mood

Illuminate your entryway with stylish outdoor lighting fixtures to add sophistication and create a warm nighttime ambiance. From the garden and pathways to water features and strategically placed motion wall lights, there are so many ways you could spark a mesmerizing allure after the sun goes down.

Upgrade Your Mailbox Game

Your mailbox can express your home’s personality, and replacing it with a stylish one that complements your home’s architecture can make a big difference. From revamping the materials of the post to granite, brick masonry or tree-branch wood to surrounding it with planters or lighting, the mailbox opportunities are endless.

Statement House Numbers

Prominent, easy-to-read house numbers in a style that aligns with your home’s aesthetic can add a touch of personality. Consider different materials, placements and surrounding finishes when deciding what will work with your home’s unique architectural style.

Clean and Tidy Walkways

Pressure-wash your entry paths, repair cracks or add decorative stones for an extra expression of inviting elegance. It may seem daunting, so prioritize must-fix and mostly seen spaces. Also, you should consider walking through your property to make a list of the areas that need a little TLC.

Charming Furniture and Décor

Create a cozy outdoor space with a bench or welcoming lounge chair to make your home stand out. Whether it is on your porch or backyard patio, you’ll want to consider its durability against weather and comfort. You can extend your living space to a beautiful nature-centered oasis.

Front Porch Appeal

A great way to weave in a creative flair that sets the tone for the interior is to extend décor to the front porch. Add cushions, throws, a decorative wreath or monograms to establish an inviting ambiance.

The little details make the difference – let your home’s outdoor space shine.

Source: Elevate Your Home’s First Impression by Kimberly Quevedo