Purchasing a home that needs serious remodeling is no easy decision. Renovations are time consuming, expensive, and require commitment and determination to complete. If a house hunter is seriously considering buying a home to restore, they can follow these five practical guidelines to simplify a potentially overwhelming process.

Image via: Travis Knoop

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Get an Inspection

Finding a home inspector is one of the most important tasks for homebuyers looking to invest in a fixer-upper home. Be sure to read reviews and select an inspector who comes recommended by other homebuyers who have no bias toward the purchase or sale of the home. Another important step is to make sure the inspector has experience in evaluating older homes. If the inspector is only versed in newer construction, he or she may insist on excessive upgrades.

Determine Necessary Repairs

Cosmetic repairs usually require replacement of the drywall, lighting, shutters, windows and doors or refinishing of the floors, kitchens or bathrooms. The more demanding projects, however, involve structural damages in the foundation of the home. Foundation repairs are costly and may eat up a budget before interior updates are addressed. Further, mold is an issue that should not be taken lightly. Aside from the danger of inhaling toxins, surface mold is an indicator of more complicated problems in the home, such as flooding or leaks. If the house smells musty or has indications of water damage, it’s best to stay away.

Finally, if the layout of the home is undesirable, it is going to be difficult to change without completely gutting the home’s interior. Kitchens and bathrooms are problematic to move around due to limited access to pipes and plumbing. Not every wall can be torn down, either. Load bearing walls help to hold up the foundation, while curtain walls are simply room dividers. Keep these limitations in mind when imagining potential remodel layouts. It’s best to find a home that has a convenient and logical floor plan to avoid these pricey renovations.

Image via: Heydt Designs

Overestimate Costs

It’s difficult to determine exactly the type of repairs that a house needs without ripping down some walls and examining the groundwork. However, this is not an option during an inspection. Often times, a new homeowner conducting renovations might find issues during construction that weren’t evident upon inspection or in the seller’s disclosure. Some of these may be minor fixes, but can also be costly and require urgent repairs. It’s best to have extra funds set aside to cover such unforeseen problems.

Consider Living Arrangements

Is there a safe place to stay while the construction is taking place? A homebuyer may want to reconsider buying a fixer-upper if the plan is to move in immediately upon purchase. Not only is it dangerous to be inhaling dust throughout the night, but living in a disheveled house 24/7 can become emotionally draining. Staying in the home can be a constant reminder of the stress, costs and slow-moving processes of large remodels. If the home is going to become the buyer’s primary residence right away, consider remodeling in phases to establish a safe, stress-free living space.

Image via: J. Stephens Interiors

Calculate Profit

Even if the buyer plans to live in the house for a few years rather than just flipping it for a fiscal return, the money and time put into fixing the home should yield a high profit to be worth the hassle of the renovations. The initial cost of the home and the cost of repairs (materials and labor) should be less than the total resale value of the house. Make sure to deduct potential unforeseen costs from the final calculation. While it’s impossible to predict exactly what the house will eventually sell for, homeowners can determine market value by searching comparable properties in the neighborhood. If the market is strong and the home is the right price before renovations, then there is a high probability for substantial returns on the initial investment.

None of these steps should be taken lightly, since a home is likely the most expensive purchase made in an individual’s lifetime. Above all, a lack of experience in home improvement can delay the renovation process. Even with professional assistance, it’s best to clearly understand all of the repairs required, why they are necessary and the reasons behind their costs. The more knowledge of home improvements the new homeowners have, the smoother and more affordable the renovation process should be for them.

Written by:  Tali Wee of Zillow

For more home buying tips on Stagetecture, click here.

Guest Blogger +1K, Entry #2646, July 12, 2013

Home designs are constantly changing. In order to keep up a stylish home both inside and out, it’s important to stay on top of the latest home designing trends. Check out the following popular design ideas for 2013.

1. Brass Decor

Brass decor helps spice up any space, no matter if you’re going for a traditional or a modern look. It delivers a warm feeling to each room, giving homeowners a simple solution for making their home feel a bit more homey. To stick with this year’s trend, search for antique bronze pieces.

Image via: by Mirage Floors

2. Natural Wood Decor

Along with antique furniture and neutral shades, people are bringing natural wood into the home. From hardwood floors to natural wood furniture, this material makes for beautiful decor. Couple wood pieces with neutral colors for a calm-feel in your home.

3. Screened Porches

Screened porches are climbing their way to the top of the home trends’ list. They offer the outdoor feel without having to live with the bugs and wildlife. You can relax in the sun, cook over a fireplace, and dine in your screened porch while enjoying the splendor of the outdoors from the comforts of your porch.

Image via: Flickr by jdn

4. Stripes

Most people don’t want to live in a boring atmosphere, and a dully designed home is just that. Instead, people are looking for more dynamic home decor, and they’re turning to stripes to help get the job done. Whether it’s striped walls, artwork, or furniture, stripes are quickly becoming a favorite design trend.

5. Antique Furniture

People are turning to antique furniture because it’s cheap, stylish, and artistic. Homeowners love the more personalized, homey-feel of this furniture and are picking up antique dressers, tables, and chairs at auctions across the country. Plus, many people enjoy restoring antique furniture, making their home decor more personalized while engaging in a fun hobby.

6. Bright Walls

With HD TVs and high-definition computers, our eyes are constantly being exposed to bright colors. And, our eyes want more of it. This year, countless people will turn to home improvement stores and pick up the brightest colors in the aisle to spice up their home and bring in more bright, happy colors.

Image via Flickr: by Little Greene Paint Company

 

7. Vintage Exterior

Vintage homes have always been a beautiful home decor choice, and they still are. Designers and homeowners alike love the look of a vintage home. Real estate brokers like Nostalgic Homes in Denver can help you find a neighborhood and a home with a vintage exterior.

8. DIY Artwork

Houses are more than just a living space. People want their house to become a home, a place that shows their personality and helps them relax in comfort. With do-it-yourself projects, people are finding that you can easily display your personality with the work you put into your home. Homeowners create artwork for their walls, build their own furniture, repurpose objects, and take on various other projects to make their home their own.

9. Neutral Shades

Didn’t I just tell you that bright colors were the new “in” thing to do? Yes, but neutrals are quickly making their way into the home as well. Both are popular trends now. For a timeless look that you could probably live with forever, neutrals are the way to go this year. Stick with white, brown, black, or gray shades.

Image via: Coco+kelley

 

10. Green Accents

We’re not sure exactly what it is about the color green — perhaps it’s the natural feel of the color found so commonly outdoors — but everyone seems to want green accents this year. Pantone named emerald-green the color of the year, for everything from fashion to home decor, so don’t be afraid to spice up your home with green accent walls, pillows, or artwork.

11. Downsizing

The last top trend that people are starting to love are smaller homes. People are quickly realizing that they don’t need a huge home to stay comfortable, and designers are creating smaller homes for these people. Along with this, people are starting to downsize their furniture and buy items that serve a dual function, such as coffee tables that convert into dining room tables.

Now that you have some excellent home designing ideas, start decorating! What are is your favorite home decor trend?

For more home organization ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

The housing market in the UK is still trying to recover from the ongoing recession that began back in 2008 and as a result, homeowners are trying to figure out ways in which they can increase the value of their property.

Getting a new paint job or installing new carpets is a start, but it’s not really enough to increase your property value. Cosmetic changes will help, but you need something serious and lasting to really add value.

You could have a look through bedroom storage from Betta Living for a start; whether fitter or otherwise, storage can create a huge impact on the look and space available within your home. Afterwards, you should think about converting your loft in order to boost your property value.

Image via: Design42 Architecture, LLC

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Don’t bother with a swimming pool 

You may think that adding things like a swimming pool or a hot tub will increase your property value, but it could well do the opposite. Potential buyers will be scared away because of the maintenance costs involved.

Swimming pools are ultimately a luxury, affordable only for those at the top end of the economic scale. Having a loft conversion, on the other hand, can increase your property value by £16,152 on average, according to the 2012 HSBC Home Improvement Survey.

Loft conversions are relatively easy

A loft conversion can be initially costly. A four square metre loft would cost around £19,200 and you may need planning permission before you begin work. There will be additional costs if you factor in getting professional assistance and advice.

However, if you play your cards right, it shouldn’t cost the earth to convert your loft and having professional help can actually be very beneficial in the long run. On the other hand, you’ll save around half your investment if you decide to convert the loft yourself – it’ll cost around £498 per square metre, as opposed to £998 per square metre with a professional.

Image via: SVOYA studio

How can you afford one?

If you lack the savings to be able to go all in on a loft conversion, you can always get a home improvement loan for conversions. This is probably one of the best ways to secure your loft conversion. You’ll be able to pay the loan back on a monthly basis at a rate that you’re happy with.

You should also have consultations with professionals to get free quotes, giving you an idea of how much your loft conversion will cost if you go with them.

For more home renovation ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

You’ve just purchased a brand new home and are looking for some decorating inspiration to turn your house into your dream home. We have some of the latest decorating tips from the experts as to what’s hot and what’s not in 2013.

The Colours for This Year

Bright and bold seems to be the calling for 2013 when it comes to hot home decorating colours. Vibrant blues and bright greens are what the top decorators are tending towards. Vibrant blue hues work well in any room and go together great with bold and graphic symmetrical patterns, another favourite for 2013. And don’t worry; blue is set to stay as the colour for 2014 as well. But if blue really isn’t for you then try bright shades of green. You can use it on the walls, for window treatments or even for floor coverings.

If you don’t feel as bold as to commit to too much colour, then simply accent your rooms with these great colours. Vases, artwork, cushions or ornaments can introduce the hot colours for 2013 into your new home with ease and elegance.

Image via: Imagine Living

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Bring Back 1920s Art Deco

One of the most loved and classic styles of the 20^th century, art deco is all about beautiful lines, symmetry, simplicity and elegant opulence. Who doesn’t want their new home decorated in this way? Choose one or two simple pieces for each room, such as a large wall mirror, side cabinet, centrepiece light fitting, large lamp or piece of artwork to introduce art deco into your home. Remember that with art deco style, less is more, so be sure not to overdo it. The right pieces carefully selected simply won’t date and will bring elegance and sophistication to any room in your home.

Go for Raw and Natural

A homey, lived-in look is what you want for 2013 — not cluttered or shabby, but raw and natural. Natural stone, wood and slate complement the warm earthy metals that are all the rage for this year. Kitchens and bathrooms are a great place to introduce these natural elements into your new home. And being natural, they aren’t going to date any time soon. You can easily mix the raw, natural look into your personal decorating style, whether that is modern minimalism, country chic, lived-in bohemian or super neutral.

Don’t Be Afraid of Metals

Tying in with the 1920s art-deco theme, metals are all the talk for 2013. But forget silver and chrome; instead, warm, earthy metallic tones such as brass and gold are what you need to consider this year. Shiny brass against a lacquered background is what the top decorators are looking to create. Large brass lamps, gold picture frames and metallic patterned fabrics complement the rest of what is hot in home decor in 2013.

Image via: Tendances Concept

It’s Good to Go Graphic

Vivid graphic patterns can be used on the walls, floors, on furniture, for window treatments, as artwork or as room accents. You can choose to go symmetrical with your patterns or choose something slightly more feminine and graceful. If you don’t want to over-commit yourself on the graphics with walls or floors, then window treatments may be a great option for you. You might find you’re prepared to be a little more adventurous if you choose drapes in a bold and graphic pattern. The benefit of patterned drapes is that, when opened, the patterned softens significantly so not to overpower the room.

Don’t Feel the Need to Buy New

Decorating your new home isn’t about getting rid of what you’ve already got and getting something new. Instead, it’s about reworking what you already have. You can re-frame or re-matt your wall prints, replace the lamp shade on your bedside or living room lamps, and pull out those old vases you had packed into the top shelf of the cupboard.

Image via: J. Grant Design Studio

Try Going Gloss

Glossy, shiny, lacquered surfaces are in for 2013. This can include wall paints, floor coverings, furniture or big ornamental pieces. Whatever you choose to go glossy on, remember that ultra-high shine is was the home decorating experts are aiming for.

This article was written by Sara-Jane Myers, an interior designer and decorator based in central Melbourne. She is often involved in decorating display homes for a number of top class developments, including the MandalayBeveridge.com.au.

For more home decor ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Working a DIY project on weekends is definitely worthwhile. It doesn’t really matter how much efforts you exerted to complete each task. But what matters the most is the joy and fulfillment that it brings after completion. It’s always a different feeling to see something you did than the one you bought.

Any project, big or small, should be something to be proud of. However, DIY projects are not always finished as you desire. There are possibilities of wasted time and money for whatever reason.

Image via: My Luscious Life

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To prevent any undesirable output to happen, here are a few questions to consider before doing a weekend DIY project:

Do you have the right tools?

Needless to say, having the right tools for any project is important for safety and efficiency. There’s a great possibility of having trouble in the assembly. This will result into an unstable project or unwanted result. Also, improper tools can lead to accident and damage to parts or materials.

Do you have buffer funds for unforeseen expenses?

A lot of DIY projects don’t have the complete list of materials. More often than not, small items that are available at home are not in the list such as pins, markers, paper for patterns and the like. But not all homes have these readily available. The unexpected increase in the price of the materials especially when the demand is high can also affect your budget.

Image via: Afflante

Do you think the project is safe?

In anything you do, safety should be on top priority. You have to know your limitations and knowledge in doing each task. It will help if you can assess skills in handling the tools and following the procedure. Don’t hesitate to ask for an expert to assist and guide you, if you’re not sure about a certain task.

These are just some questions to consider before doing a weekend DIY project. Consider these questions seriously to avoid a setback.

For more DIY ideas on Stagetecture, & Stagetecture’s YouTube Channel, click here.

]]> https://stagetecture.com/considering-a-diy-project-answer-these-questions-first/feed/ 0 45856 https://stagetecture.com/guest-blogger-5-low-cost-ways-to-customize-your-kitchen/ https://stagetecture.com/guest-blogger-5-low-cost-ways-to-customize-your-kitchen/#respond Sat, 16 Feb 2013 19:05:09 +0000 https://stagetecture.com/?p=42776 Entry #2113, February 16, 2013

As you are probably aware, kitchen renovations often come with a hefty price tag. This is likely because most of the products in your kitchen are so expensive, from cabinets and counters to appliances. The upside, of course, is that kitchen remodeling tends to show better return on investment than just about any other type of home upgrade. But still, if you don’t have $20K or more to drop on an overhaul you might not think you can get the kitchen you want. The good news is that if your cabinets are sturdy and your tile is intact, you can save some money and still update your kitchen to create the custom space you’re craving. With a few inexpensive DIY projects you can perform a kitchen exorcism that rids you of the awful decor of yesteryear and delivers a modern room that you can really enjoy. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Image via: Kim Duffin for Sublime Architectural Interiors

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1. Paint.

Is there any easier way to spruce up an interior space than by slapping on a fresh coat of paint? It’s not only inexpensive, but anyone can do it. And by choosing a bright, modern color you can totally transform the look and feel of your kitchen, creating a room that not only belongs in this decade, but also making the space appear larger, depending on the hue you choose.

2. Reface cabinets.

Replacing your cabinetry could cost you upwards of $10,000 (and that’s on the low end). Even replacing cabinet doors could run into the low thousands. But refacing your cabinets will only cost you a fraction of what replacing them will, and it can totally change the appearance of your kitchen. Of course, you might also paint or stain them on your own at slightly less expense. But refacing is an affordable option that will save you some work and deliver more dramatic results.

3. Install a new backsplash.

You might be surprised by how easy it is to get rid of your outdated backsplash and replace it with modern stone or tile that better suits your taste. You can start by taking a class at Home Depot, finding an online video tutorial, or simply picking up a home repair guide. Then it’s just a matter of purchasing materials (mortar, trowel, tile sheets, etc.) and getting to work.

Image via: Renaissance Kitchen and Home

4. Update fixtures.

Whether you find yourself bemoaning the scuffed faucet or the ugly, fluorescent fixture overhead, you’ll find that it’s not all that difficult to replace these items with some help from online tutorials, a handful of tools, and of course, the modern fixtures you’ve been eyeing down at the hardware or home goods store.

5. Add storage solutions.

Technically, this won’t make your kitchen more cosmetically appealing. But it will help to make your space more functional. This can improve your life while you’re in the house, but once you start checking out fsbo website reviews in preparation to sell, you’ll no doubt discover that buyers find this extra attractive. And it won’t cost you that much to add drawer organizers and install lazy Susans and pull-out shelves that make it easier to get at the items in the back of your cupboards.

For more kitchen & bath ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Winter time is the best time for home renovations, especially in your kitchen! Your kitchen is the one room that has the most ROI (Return on Investment) when it comes to your home. This means that when you go to sell your home, home buyers will look to your kitchen first for upgrades and recent renovations. Believe it or not you can often hire contractors for less, especially after the holidays and many home improvement stores discount DIY materials, fixtures, and hold remodeling seminars in their stores during the winter. Join me this Wednesday, January 30, 2013 at 12pm EST on Stagetecture Radio – ‘Your Weekly Home at Stagetecture”.

How to Listen In & Call-In!

January 30, 2013 at 12:00pm- 12:30pm EST

On Stagetecture Radio — > Listen here: or go to https://stagetecture.com/episode13

Want to call in and ask me a question? (713) 955-0779

Did you Miss the Show? Listen Here:

Topics for Episode #13

“Saving Money on your Kitchen Renovation “

The kitchen is the most expensive room to remodel in your entire house! Listen in to get tips on saving money on refinishing cabinetry, selecting flooring, and simple decorative touches that will add value on to your home while saving you money on your kitchen renovation.

Want to get these ideas in your home? Go to 111 Simple Tips Ebook: All tips are highlights are for saving time and money are in the book.

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Follow Pinterest Board – Stagetecture Radio Show

Want to see all of the great inspiration for today’s show? Follow my Pinterest board for each episode to lend inspiration you can do at home to complete the look

Pinterest —> See pictures here: or go to https://stagetecture.com/Pinterest

How to Download from iTunes

Did you miss the show, or want to download on iTunes so you can listen to again? You can look for Stagetecture Radio show every Wednesday after the show and download my episode or any of the other shows.

If you love the show – please leave a review in iTunes

iTunes —> Download podcast here: or go to https://stagetecture.com/itunes

All ideas are highlights from 111 Simple Tips Ebook – get your copy here!

Can’t wait to have you join me. See or “talk with you” then!

For more DIY ideas on Stagetecture, & Stagetecture’s YouTube Channel, click here.

For more kitchen & bath ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Being romantic is not only expressed in words and actions but also through home interiors. You will be amazed at how  romantic home interiors can manifest the passionate and loving side of you. One of the best interior designs that you can implement is the use of romantic candles.

Image via: The Designer Pad

There are a lot of ways that you can do to enhance your home interior with romantic candles. These candles come in different styles and colors that make it so flexible and effective. You can also choose from a variety of romantic scents that will fill in your space at home. Here are creative ways to use romantic candles in your interiors:

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Use the same motif as your home interior

Candles are great accessories for your home interior especially in enhancing your motif. You can mix and match the style of the romantic candles and make it as decorative accessories. Your candle of choice can be a great addition to highlight a spot in your interior design.

Place your candles in an attractive vase

This can be a colorful plate or colored glass with emboss designs. The purpose of this idea is not only to enhance the look of your candle design but also for safety. As your candles consume the remaining wax, the ceramic or glass material will prevent it to cause fire or any damage brought about by fire.

Dim your lights and bring emphasis to candles

The best way to put emphasis on your romantic candles is to dim your lights. You have to allow the unique and beautiful dance of lights from your candles to brighten up your interior. Place it in an area where decorative paintings, home decors and accessories can be reached by the candles radiance.

Image via: Pinterest

These are just some of the creative ways to use romantic candles in your interiors. There’s no doubt that your loved ones will definitely fall in love with this romantic setting.

For more interiors ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Luxury homes are not for everyone. In fact, they tend to cater to a fairly small demographic that can afford the best in life (in other words, the 1-percenters). But in order to appeal to this elite target market, luxury homes must meet ridiculously high standards for size, location, and amenities. They have to be exclusive if they want to carry the luxury label. However, they must also include state-of-the-art styling and modern features if they are to attract the type of buyers willing to pay top dollar. So here are just a few must-have features to look for if you happen to be on the prowl for a luxury home in today’s market.

Image via:  Kraft Custom Construction

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Gourmet kitchen.

In truth, this feature has become almost old-hat at this point, but that doesn’t make its inclusion any less necessary in a modern, luxury property. For the wealthy family accustomed to accommodating a kitchen full of caterers when hosting parties or a personal chef for everyday cooking, a large kitchen is a given. But the amenities are what really make the space gourmet, from double ovens, griddle stovetops, and warming drawers to spacious and well-appointed refrigerators, vast islands, cold-storage pantries, and walk-in freezers. There’s practically no end to the money that can be spent decking out a kitchen that’s meant for use by professionals.

Spa master bath.

This is a relatively new addition to luxury homes, and it tends to include a Jacuzzi tub, oversized (separate) shower with multiple shower heads, double sink/counter areas, a water closet, and perhaps even a sauna. Also important in the creation of a spa-like bathroom are the lighting and materials used.

Image via: Gelotte Hommas

Fiber optics.

You might not think much of this feature since the cabling is hidden throughout the home. But it enables the use of high-speed internet, HD quality television, and even a high-end, closed-circuit surveillance setup. In short, it is the height of transfer capability when it comes to digital data, making it a must-have for any modern, luxury home.

Finishing touches.

Whether you’re installing high-end finishing materials like rare, hardwood flooring and cabinets, travertine tile imported from Italy, or granite countertops, the details make all the difference when it comes to setting luxury homes apart from everything else on the market. So those willing to pay the price for these top-of-the-line properties will no doubt expect extras like heated floors, walk-in closets, vaulted ceilings, and smarthome functionality that allows for remote control of lighting, heat, electronics, and more. The home must not only be cosmetically appealing, but the functionality has to be at the forefront of modern technology in order to meet the standards of home buyers in the market for a luxury level purchase.

Image via: Michael Partenio

Security.

This is a biggie since luxury homes, full of luxury goods, are often the target of thieves. For the homeowner looking to protect his family and home, top-notch security is an absolute must. And a good New York, Paris, or Perth luxury home builder will no doubt keep this in mind during the construction process, instituting appropriate preparatory measures so that the new owner can easily install an alarm system, exterior flood lights, security cameras, a remote-control gate, and perhaps even electrical fencing should they so choose.

For more home decor ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

So, what are some things that you can (easily) do to conserve the energy in your house? We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by our recommendations:

Swap out your light bulbs.

Did you know that one of the most inexpensive things that you can to do conserve energy is to replace the light bulbs that you currently have with some compact fluorescent ones? They use about 75 percent less electricity and work just as well as the traditional brands.

Image via: My Plaza Apartment Ideas

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Purchase an electronic thermostat.

We all want the temperature in our homes to be comfortable. The thing is, when you don’t have an electronic thermostat installed in your house, the settings are usually the same whether you are in or out of the house. The problem with that is you’re paying for energy that you’re not even home to enjoy. An electronic thermostat tempers that by allowing you to set the temperature around your schedule, automatically.

Use less water.

You probably already know to do things like turn off the water while brushing your teeth and washing your face, but there are a couple of other handy tips that you can apply. When you’re outside washing your car, make sure to not dump out the water on the pavement when you’re done; your grass could make better use of it. Also, purchasing a low-flow showerhead can save you about 60 percent of the amount of water that a regular showerhead does. They don’t cost a lot and that addition will definitely reflect on your water bill.

Image via: Next Home Ideas

Use more fans.

When it’s really hot outside, there’s a big temptation to turn the air down really low. The thing is, the harder that your central air has to work, the more money (and energy) that it’s costing you. You can remedy that buy either purchasing a couple of oscillating fans or installing (or actually using) some ceiling fans. While we’re on the topic of central air (and heat), another thing that can lower the amount of energy that you use is to have your unit serviced once per year. Whether it’s Louisville air conditioning or a company closer to where you live, having a professional come to make sure that it’s running optimally can definitely spare you a dollar or two.

Use energy-efficient appliances.

One tip that is more expensive than all of the others, but it is an investment that you won’t regret is to buy some energy-efficient appliances. The ones that have the Energy Star label are proven to use a lot less energy. Plus, they come with some modern features that will be worth switching over for; especially since it will increase the value of your home. They are definitely worth looking into.

For more energy efficient ideas on Stagetecture, click here.