Is Your House Ready for Santa?

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

You’ve got your stockings hung and you’ve even put out some cookies to tide him over. But is your house really ready for Santa? He passed a message along that he really likes visiting homes that are safe. We’ve made you a list to be ready for St. Nick when he gets here.

• Holiday dinners: Every family reheats and passes the food around the table all the time; however, it is surprising that so many people don’t be come ill. Make sure to reheat your leftovers to at least 165 degrees F to get rid of harmful bacteria. If you’re saving a plate, make sure to wrap it up and stick it in the fridge to keep it safe.
• Winter Essentials: Make sure to grab all the winter essentials you may need such as salt and a shovel. By having these items you can make sure your family and visiting relative can make it to your front door safely.
• Watch out for the pets and kids: Make sure to keep small snacks like nuts and popcorn, decorative plants, and potentially poisonous foods out of reach of the kids and pets. Also, don’t forget that decorations and other things can pose a hazard for infants. Check out our blog, "How to Childproof Your Home for the Holiday Season", for more tips.
• Secure your home and belongings: Don’t forget to secure your garage, lock the doors, and arm your home security systems. This will keep out the people who will want to take advantage of the holidays. Don’t worry about Santa. He has magic to get the gifts inside homes for the good boys and girls.
• Don’t forget to water your Christmas tree. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the holiday season is the worst time of the year for home fires. Make sure you water your tree daily and keep it at least three feet away from any heat source.

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Tips on how to increase your home's curb appeal

When you’re getting ready to sell your home curb appeal is very important. Curb appeal if done right will peak a buyer’s interest and they won’t be able to resist taking a look at your home. Here are some tips you can do to increase your curb appeal. 

•          Wash the outside of your house- I mean really wash it. Power wash your driveway if it’s paved, your walkway, and the siding of your house. Wash your windows inside & out, swipe the cobwebs from the eaves, and clean up your garage door.
•           Freshen the paint on your house- It will do wonders to bring people in. The best thing to do is match the paint you have; so, that way you’re not giving a strange color for the neighborhood. If you don’t know the paint color chip off a small piece of what you have to match it.
•          The condition of your room is one of the first things people see- call a professional to clean it. It will only cost a little and that way it’s done quickly and nicely. If your roof is faded, missing or curled shingles buyers will notice it and appraisers will price it lower.
•          Neaten your lawn- Put down some fresh mulch and prune your shrubs. It will do wonders for curb appeal. If your grass is looking a bit dull green it up with some lawn food and water. Make sure to get rid of the crab grass.
•          Make your home stand out- Upscale your mailbox with some new paint or decorations. Adding new architectural house numbers or address plaques will make it easier for people to see the address from the road. Add interesting colors to your home; such as, if you live in a cozy neighborhood paint the bench on your porch pink if you want.
•          Most of all- Maintain your property. Grab your toolbox and get ready to repair- broken, cracked, and damaged parts of your home will take away its true value while turning potential buyers away immediately. If you have sagging gutters, re-hang them. Those chips in the fence that you keep putting off- don’t! If it’s minor repairs to the fence do them. Having a fence that is good quality and clean will add value to your home. If your asphalt on your driveway has cracked reseal it yourself or hire a contractor that can do it for you. 

If you’re on a budget, that’s okay. Just make sure you grab the most important pieces that are needing help first and get to the rest when you have time. J

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