home design | 1st Time Home Buyer ATL

DIY Doesn’t Mean Doing It All Yourself

How handy would you say you are? Can you fix a leaking faucet or install a new backsplash? Do you own all the drills, power saws and sanders used by the pros?

It can be tempting to DIY it all — especially if you’re on a budget. After all, you can have an active role in improving your home, and save cash to put toward other things. Why wouldn’t you want to?

The truth is not all projects are suited for a DIYer — no matter how much of a shiplap expert you might be.

If you’re considering a few renovations, here’s when to put on your toolbelt and when you might want to call a pro:

In the Kitchen: You can probably replace a sink, reface your cabinets or install a new dishwasher.

Want to move the sink or add recessed lighting? You’ll want a pro.

In the Bathroom: Installing new floor tiles, upgrading your toilet seat or changing your showerhead are all tasks you can do.

If you want in-floor radiant heating or to install a tub where there isn’t one, bring in a pro.

On the Exterior: Looking for more curb appeal with a new garden bed and a fresh coat of paint on your front door? Have at it.

Substantial upgrades like installing a skylight, repairing your roof or repaving your driveway are better suited for a professional.

Structural Changes: If you’re super handy, you can probably install drywall or relocate a door.

But if you’re changing an area that’s load-bearing? Definitely call a pro.

Remember, DIY doesn’t mean doing everything yourself. You’ll want to hire a professional for anything that requires specialized knowledge. There’s no shame in asking for help from an expert.

Want to discuss what home renovations might improve your property’s value? Get in touch today.

Update the Outdoors: 8 Options for The Best Budget Patio Furniture Buys

Update the Outdoors - 1st Tine Homebuyer ATL

Now that the weather is warming up, having a functioning patio space should be at the top of the priority list as it can feel like a second living room. Decorating a space can seem daunting when thinking about all the components that go into it. Whether it’s pillows, chairs, or lighting, there are options that won’t break the bank and make for an easy decorating experience.

Option 1: Ikea

If there is one thing millennials love, it’s Netflix. But if there are TWO things, IKEA definitely makes the list. While not every piece here will stand up to the elements forever, it definitely meets the budget and style criteria. Can you really have a list of budget-friendly furniture places without including Ikea?

Option 2: World Market

The world market is the perfect destination for quirky, cute, and fun furniture. Whether your style reflects neutrals tones or bright colors, World Market offers plenty of options.

Option 3: Target

Target is a no-brainer. Their user-friendly website has you wanting to buy way more than what you originally intended. With all their trendy pieces at affordable prices, you’ll end up purchasing way more than you planned on purchasing.

Option 4: West Elm

West Elm has everything from rugs and curtains to pillows and decor and while one may not consider West Elm “budget friendly”, they often times offer coupons for their trendy looking pieces.

Option 5: CB2

If you love Crate and Barrel, you’ll love CB2. While they don’t have a storefront in Georgia, they have a strong online presence. Browse their website for pieces of all sizes that are sure to fit any patio space.

Option 6: Lowe’s

Lowe’s actually has it all. If you’re there to purchase plants, let me convince you into taking a look at their patio furniture. You can’t beat a nice set of foldable chairs.

Option 7: All Modern

It’s all in the name! All Modern offers modern furniture for any space at great prices. Check their site during a sale and you’ll be adding to your cart in no time.

Option 8: Wayfair

Great options for any type of furniture and decor preferences. Did you know they are opening their first brick-and-mortar store? Yep!

2019’s Trendiest Colors for Your Home

Colors have the ability to evoke emotions and change our attitudes. They can inspire and motivate us to try something new and bold. They can alter our moods and appetites, or even make a room feel small and cramped.

If you plan to redecorate a few rooms in the new year, the right color choices can make all the difference in the feeling you’re trying to achieve. Better yet, it’s one of the simplest and most affordable decor changes you can make. Not sure which colors to choose? Here are 2019’s best color palettes for home interiors, according to the Pantone Color Institute:

Meanderings
This palette is a mix of leisurely, rich shades like Island Green, Aurora Red, and Wild Orchid. Pulled from diverse cultures, they tell the story of world travel and are great for spaces where you’ll be entertaining guests.

Proximity
Proximity shows the connection between technology and nature and speaks to the challenges of modern life. These vivid blue-greens, green-blues, and silver-grays are perfect for rooms with abundant natural light.

Cravings
These culinary-inspired hues call to mind delicious tastes and exotic cuisines with colors like Cappuccino, Chili Pepper and Cayenne. This sensory experience is ideal for dining rooms or quiet spaces like reading nooks.

Cherish
These soothing pastels evoke calm and serenity and are the epitome of comfort. The soft, nostalgic floral tones would be great in a powder room or master bedroom.

Are you planning a new look for your home? Think of these palettes as a focused road map for capturing your desired style.

If you’d like some guidance for a more substantial home renovation, or you’re interested in finding a new home this year, please reach out today.

How to Create a Master Bedroom Retreat

Turn Your Bedroom Into a Sanctuary

Since we spend about a third of our lives sleeping, we should place high importance on the look and feel of the master bedroom. Follow these tips to transform one of the most important rooms of your home into a relaxing sanctuary.

What to Bring In

• Neutral Colors — Light, neutral hues like creams, taupes, grays, and blues provide a tranquil atmosphere. Use soft, coordinating colors for your bedding and walls.

• Soft Lighting — Overhead lighting can sometimes be harsh or too concentrated. Create a soothing mood with soft, balanced lighting throughout the room. Add lamps 1o brighten dark corners and illuminate each side of the bed.

• Window Treatments — A sense of privacy is essential to any sanctuary. Window treatments offer coverage from the outside world and can be a beautiful design element If outside lighting disrupts your sleep, consider blackout curtains.

What to Take Out

• Outdated Bedding — A relaxing bedroom begins with a comfortable bed. Most experts recommend replacing your mattress every eight years. Pillows should be replaced every two to three years or every six months if you have asthma or allergies.

• Excess Furniture — Get back to basics by paring down your bedroom to just the essentials. Most people require little more than a bed frame, a couple of matching nightstands and a dresser or chest of drawers. Anything more can quickly become clutter.

• Unnecessary Electronics — From more sleep to better family relationships, there are numerous benefits of having a technology-free bedroom. Reserve your master bedroom for rest and relaxation, and keep electronics out.

Makeover your master bedroom into a serene space you look forward to at the end of a long day. These tips can help you get started.

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DIY Doesn’t Mean Doing It All Yourself

Update the Outdoors: 8 Options for The Best Budget Patio Furniture Buys

2019’s Trendiest Colors for Your Home

How to Create a Master Bedroom Retreat

Turn Your Bedroom Into a Sanctuary

What to Bring In

What to Take Out

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