Friday, February 4, 2022

Residence Style

Residence Style


How Interior Design Increases Your Property Value

Posted: 04 Feb 2022 01:12 AM PST

Preparing your home for sale may be a daunting process, but it doesn’t have to be! An interior design makeover can help you sell it and get top dollar in the process if done right. With simple yet intuitive ideas and high-quality workmanship, it is possible to introduce a great look to your home, one that would make it irresistible to a potential buyer.

You don't have to break the bank to spruce up your home. Simple materials like marble, wood and even glass can help you make a statement. You just need to know what buyers are looking for, and where to source for it. An interior designer can help with this; they don’t just decorate. Check out these amazing buyer-centric interior design ideas.

Upgrade Your Bathrooms and Kitchens

More often than not, the bathroom and kitchen are two rooms in a home that have the biggest effect on sale price. Most realtors and professional home-stagers will tell you that these are the rooms people see first, and remain at the top of their minds. So if you’re keen on selling your home now, pay extra attention to these areas.

Bathroom Updates

You don't have to take on a complete remodeling project. Small improvements such as swapping the tiles or re-grouting your bathroom can change buyers’ perception about your home. You can even consider removing the old wallpaper and replacing it with a new one for a gorgeous new look that compliments the architectural design of your bathroom.

A complete revamp wouldn’t hurt either. Elevating your bathroom to the level of modern hotels has the potential to improve the quality, likability, and even value of your home. Consider a spa-like bathroom with state-of-the-art bath-tubs, shower cubicles and shower heads. Don’t forget to add onto the lighting elements as well.

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Kitchen Updates

You can never go wrong with a kitchen upgrade. Replace kitchen cabinets with drawers, or better yet, install pull-outs inside your cupboard, for the simple reason that cupboards can’t store as many items as pull-outs or drawers can. Whether you decide to go for cabinets, drawers or pull-outs, make sure they are smooth, streamlined and have a modern look. Replace the large handles with slim and sleek ones. These will give your cabinets a minimal and modern look and make the kitchen appear larger.

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Lighting

For better lighting, incorporate shiny and reflective materials. Glass and mirrors help create an illusion of space. A white design can also help with this. Use different shades and textures. Glossy and woody textures, matte, eggshell, off-white and grey are a few options that can help. Any experienced designer will tell you that white reflects light, making your space look larger and more attractive.

Update Your Door Hardware

Make sure your door hardware is updated and matches the architecture of your home. Uniform hardware makes prospective buyers feel that your home is more finished.

Door Knobs and Handles

Door knobs and handles are small things which are often overlooked amid major items such as paint colors and cabinets when decorating a room. However, they can make a huge difference in your space and potentially increase your home’s resale value. Just as a nice necklace can turn a simple outfit into an exquisite piece of fashion, a new set of door knobs on your doors can inject a dose of style into your home with minimal expense. Be sure to match the door knobs to your internal doors.

Front Door Upgrade

Does your front door look a little drab? We’ll share with you a secret to making a good first impression to a potential buyer using your door. Fill holes on your front door using epoxy putty, sand it once it’s dry and cover the door with a complimentary coat of paint. replace the traditional style door knocker with a more modern one with a beautiful look, preferably one that can be monogrammed.

If your entry door is beyond repair, you can install a new one. According to Remodeling Magazine, front door replacement has an average ROI of about 74.9%. That means with a new entry door you can add three quarters of its replacement cost back to the value of your home.

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Work on Lighting

We can’t overemphasize the importance of lighting. What is the importance of making all these upgrades to your piece of real estate when they cannot be properly seen? Proper lighting can enhance the look of your home’s interior and influence its feel.

In real estate, consumers are willing to pay more for space. Since you may not be in a position to reconstruct your home to add more space, what better way exists than to make your space look and feel bigger than using brighter light? The color of your light also determines the mood of your home. For instance, a yellow tone can make your space feel cozier and warmer. This is ideal for the bathroom.

When it comes to lighting, natural light is especially desirable. Adding extra glazing to your windows will allow more light into your spaces. Another increasingly popular interior design style is the installation of sun tubes that funnel natural light into your home through your ceiling. Oh, another more simplistic way of using natural light to brighten rooms is to strategically erect mirrors on your walls.

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In Conclusion

Simple updates to your home have the potential of making it look great and desirable, attracting potential buyers in large numbers. Think of the simple things that would attract you to a home if you were scouting for one—a modern kitchen with enough storage space, beautiful modern hardware such as door knobs, a bathroom with exquisite fittings, and good lighting.

Just to recap, here’s what you need to focus on;

  • Bathroom and kitchen updates. No homebuyer ever overlooks these areas.
  • Door knobs, door handles and the entry door.
  • Invest in lighting.

Do these and watch your bargaining power increase as potential home buyers trickle in with a view to making your home their next home.

The post How Interior Design Increases Your Property Value appeared first on Residence Style.

Which Countries Offer Residency By Investment Programs? Find Out Here

Posted: 03 Feb 2022 11:55 PM PST

Countries that are offering citizenship or residency by investment are seeing an increase in the number of individuals applying for residence under their programs. The opportunity to live and work in another country is seen as extremely valuable by many people, especially those looking to provide educational opportunities to children and/or open up job opportunities.

Whether it is a passport or simply a residency, individuals and families are investing large amounts of money into programs that offer these benefits. While some programs require applicants to be physically present in the country they wish to gain citizenship or residency status for a set number of days each year, other countries require no such commitment. As long as you meet certain criteria, you can become eligible for residency within one of these countries.

Portugal 

Portugal has a Portugal Residency by Investment scheme, which allows you to obtain residency through investment. The Portugal Residency scheme is called “Vistos Gold” and it can be utilized by individuals looking to reside in Portugal. Portugal’s Golden Visa Program gives people from all over the world the opportunity to live in Portugal. The Golden Visa Program is the most popular Portugal residency by investment program. For instance, Portugal real estate for sale for non-EU citizens is one of the Portugal investment programs that work and offers an exceptional option. The Golden Visa program in Portugal has the following requirements Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid travel document (ID card or passport are accepted), have health insurance, have no criminal record, and low risk of money laundering. 

There is no Portuguese language requirement for Portugal’s Golden visa program. However, applicants should be able to speak and write English. Individuals over the age of 16 can apply for Portugal residency through an investment in education at one of Portugal’s private universities. The minimum amount required to invest is 250,000 Euros. Applicants should be able to speak and write English. 

St. Kitts And Nevis

This is one of the most popular countries for offshore asset protection planning. The country offers one of the most cost-effective means for U.S. citizens to secure permanent residency in a safe and stable, English-speaking nation with direct international flights, modern amenities, and exceptional weather year-round. Residency by Investment can provide you with a safe, stable, and productive environment to live your life as you choose. In addition, it can reduce or potentially eliminate your tax liability on the income generated outside of the United States. St. Kitts Residency program offers numerous benefits for those looking to become St. Kitts citizens without renouncing their U.S. citizenship.

To qualify under the St. Kitts Citizenship-by-Investment program, an applicant must either make a qualifying investment into one of several government-approved programs or meet the requirements for Retired Persons by donating only to the Sugar Industry Diversification Fund or by purchasing approved real estate in St. Kitts. The donation route is particularly attractive for investors who aim to retire in St. Kitts, as the donation is not subject to income tax and provides a fixed 10-year return of 2% per year on your initial investment.

In addition, if you have a dependent with a disability, above the age of 65 years or you have a net worth over US$5million, you may be eligible for a non-refundable grant of citizenship after five years. For those with a net worth of over US$10 million, there is the option to upgrade said visa to a St. Kitts and Nevis passport within a year without having to fulfill the standard physical presence requirement.

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Singapore

Singapore has a reputation of being a very business-friendly country with low tax rates and financial secrecy. If you are looking to live in Singapore, one way is by establishing residence in this country via investment. The Singaporean government offers several programs for foreigners who are willing to invest in the country, including two permanent residence schemes. These are the Global Investor Programme (GIP) and the Residential Development Scheme (RDS). With GIP, you can enjoy living in Singapore permanently once you have invested in this country $2 million or more. 

Alternatively, you can live in Singapore under RDS by investing $2 million or more in a property development project or other approved real estate projects. Depending on the type of investment made, an investor may enjoy either permanent residence status or temporary residence visa for up to 10 years with multiple re-entry privileges subject to certain conditions. Foreigners from any country can invest in a range of business sectors in Singapore, including property projects and education.  There is no age requirement to qualify for GIP, but applicants under 18 years of age need the consent of a parent or legal guardian.

For RDS, investors must be at least 21 years old and should not have resided in Singapore for more than one cumulative year over the last 10 years. One can even choose his/her preferred residential property and plan and develop it using a wholly-owned company.

Bulgaria 

Bulgaria was the first nation to offer a Residency by Investment program. The goal was not just to receive investment but also to have the investor reside in Bulgaria for at least 183 days per year. Residency by Investment programs in Bulgaria has been established to create a stable economic structure that will contribute to the development and growth of the country. With this status, you can live, work or retire in Bulgaria. The program is very flexible and designed to meet all individual needs. To qualify under the Residency by Investment Program, applicants must invest in Bulgaria. 

The minimum amount of investment is either €500,000 (BGN 1 million) which must be invested in the capital of a Bulgarian company or €250,000 (BGN 500 000) if the direct investment is made by buying real estate property. In addition to the basic requirements, applicants will have to meet additional criteria depending on the amount of investment made. If the total value of the acquired shares is €500,000 (BGN 1 million), they will have to buy business assets located in Bulgaria. 

Otherwise investment into real estate property worth €250,000 or BGN 500 000 can be made either directly or through a fund that will invest in such property. Bulgarian residency by Investment program is available to Non-EU and EU nationals, who want to live in Bulgaria permanently, but do not have the resources to qualify for Bulgarian Citizenship by Descent or Marriage.

Greece

Greece is one of the few countries in Europe to offer an investment immigration program. Greek citizenship through an investment program is an excellent possibility for wealthy investors to gain a second passport and live in one of the most desirable countries in Europe. The offering from Greece is unique in the European market it’s a citizenship-by-investment program that allows you to buy a piece of real estate, contribute funds into the Greek economy in exchange for citizenship after a year of residence.

Greece offers immediate permanent residency to foreign nationals who make a significant direct investment in property. A minimum of €250,000 is required to obtain this residency permit which will allow you to live and work anywhere in the European Union. After living for five years continuously in Greece, you can apply for Greek citizenship and receive a Greek passport.

This residency-by-investment program has been extremely popular among wealthy Russian, Ukrainian, and other Eastern European nationals who are looking for second citizenship. The stunning Greek islands are perfect for enjoying the sun during the summer months while many of the mainland cities have attracted an influx of people due to their cultural richness or business opportunities. 

All these countries mentioned above offer different types of residency by investment programs, but each has its specific requirements.  The minimum investment requirements are different in each country depending on the type of residence by the investment program you choose. Some offer real estate purchase opportunities, while others offer business investments or both. Choose your preferred residential property and plan and develop it using a wholly-owned company.

The post Which Countries Offer Residency By Investment Programs? Find Out Here appeared first on Residence Style.

10 Reasons Why It’s Time For You To Lease Movies Online

Posted: 03 Feb 2022 11:43 PM PST

There was a time, within the not so distant past, whenever a trip out to your local movie store with the family was obviously a weekly or monthly deal with. If you were fortunate enough to possess a bigger video rental shop that had multiple duplicates of new releases and a large number of DVDs on hand, there was a great chance you could find movies to match everyone. But a few points have happened since those times that have rendered video leasing stores all but obsolete. How to find the Best Philo free trial?

First of all, big box outlets such as Successful have been driven out of the stones and mortar video local rental business to seek salvation on the internet. For most of us, our video shops are nothing more than corner grocery stores with a few hundred movies available at any time. Space is at reduced for these guys so they can just afford to have a few replicates of new releases along with a smattering of older movie hire titles on hand at any time. From the bit frustrating to drive away only to find the movie you needed your heart set on is definitely out.

In addition , next day earnings and the inconvenience that it signifies, usually finds us accumulating late fees that often might have worked out cheaper for us in case we’d bought the DIGITAL VIDEO DISC instead. And what if you’re venturing out on a road trip or to the actual cottage for a weekend — 24 hour rental periods simply don’t cut it for a number of us. And what about the real rental fee? $3 or even more per movie rental? Everybody with a cable or satellite television subscription has access to pay-per-view movie rentals, and the idea is quite sound. The downside is the fact that typical pay-per-view rentals price $5 or more. I’m unsure the convenience is worth that much more.

Perhaps it’s time you lease movies online!

Why? Nicely, rather than run on about on-line movie rental and the reason why it’s the right option for you personally, allow me to state my situation with the following list of 15 Reasons It’s Time For You To Hire Movies Online!

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  1. 1 . Choice. If you rent movies on the web from instant movie loading or DVD by email providers, you will generally get access to anywhere from a few thousand as much as 80, 000+ movie as well as TV titles to choose from. The local video store probably cannot hold a match to that particular kind of selection.
  2. 2 . Accessibility. In all but a few uncommon exceptions, the movie you want is obviously available. Most DVD through mail services have countless copies of individual film titles on hand. Instant video streaming services like Netflix have no limitation on how numerous subscribers watch individual motion picture titles. If you rent films online, your favorites are almost always accessible. Find out the best info about SavingChief.
  3. Savings. When you hire movies online from DVD MOVIE by mail services, these people typically have subscription plans which allow several DVD accommodations, some even unlimited, per month with regard to monthly fees as low as $5. 95. Even if you only book movies online only two times per month, you are already forward. With instant video buffering services, typical plans operate from about $8+ each month or, if you opt for a for each rental provider such as i-tunes or YouTube, you will usually pay $0. 99 : $3. 99 per on the net movie rental. Though the second option may be close in price as to what you are currently paying at your nearby video store, you need to element in both points 1 and also 2 (Selection, Availability) along with, more importantly, point 4 that is “Convenience”.
  4. Convenience. Your neighborhood video outlet or comfort store will never be as easy to suit your needs as when you rent videos online. Bottom line – searching for an online movie rental from the computer, tablet or TELEVISION means you never have to go out for movie night once again. And online movie lease providers are open day to day which means, you can rent motion pictures online anytime you want, time or night, from almost anyplace. Instant video streaming solutions allow you to choose a movie and begin watching right away. DVD simply by mail services will provide movies to your mailbox, free of charge, within 1 – three days.

The post 10 Reasons Why It’s Time For You To Lease Movies Online appeared first on Residence Style.

Where Is the Best Place To Put an Air Purifier?

Posted: 03 Feb 2022 11:34 PM PST

Caring about your health means being mindful about the food you take into your body, your fitness, and how much you rest. However, another essential element you mustn't overlook is the quality of the air you take in.

Did you know that breathing poor-quality air is, in one way or another, linked to over four million deaths around the world annually? And this doesn't just impact congested cities.

Sleek Dwellings recommends getting a premier air purifier and placing it in the right areas in your home so you don't set yourself up to becoming part of this horrible statistic. Today, we'll discuss some ideal locations to place your purifier to maximize its potential.

What Areas in the Home Have the Most Polluted Air?

The answer should vary from one home to another, and you, of all people, should know where these areas are. The basement tends to be one, with its tendency to be conducive to mold and bacterial growth.

The kitchen is another culprit since certain types of food odor can linger for days. If you're a pet owner, any room in your home your pet frequents could be subject to some serious air-quality assessment.

It's simple, really; you place an air purifier where the air obviously stinks to get the best results.

Going straight at the source is what allows the HEPA filter to remove mold, dust, and fur to the best of its ability. That's where the carbon filter can eliminate foul odors and harmful gases.

An air purifier close to its target areas is most effective in keeping the air clean.

Air Purifier1

Important Considerations

Now that the "air is clear" on where to place air purifiers, let's answer some questions that help you know how to position them correctly.

How's the airflow in the area?

Air purifiers pull air in, so they clean faster the more air is present. Thus, a purifier is most effective when placed in an open area. Positioned close to an entryway or near a window, an air purifier does some of its best work.

Exposing an air purifier to areas with heavy airflow adds power to the moving air, making it strong enough to carry mold, dust, and other contaminants. It then distributes these around your home, preventing them from concentrating on a single area and lowering its air quality.

Entryway placement is especially effective when you have furry pets indoors. Focus on the doorways to the rooms your pet is allowed entry. That prevents dander and allergens from spreading to the rest of the house.

While open spaces boost the device's effectiveness, corners make it less impactful. In most models, the air gets pulled in through front-facing vents. Placing a unit in a corner can block its vents, reducing its performance considerably.

Generally, a good rule to follow is to have at least one foot of space on all sides of your purifier so it can clean the air the way it should—the fewer the obstructions on each side, the better the unit's performance.

Will open doors or windows overwhelm the air purifier?

Heavy airflow is only great until it becomes overwhelming. A device on the receiving end of a constant stream of air may backfire slightly and end up "cleaning" indoor air that doesn't need cleaning. That means the unit expends energy it doesn't need to.

Nonetheless, placing an air purifier in a room with open windows is still more effective than putting it in a closed space.

How high off the ground should the purifier be?

Elevation matters, and it has something to do with airflow. Indoor air doesn't just flow sideways; it also flows up and down. That means the space between the floor and ceiling also factors in the equation.

Temperature changes dictate the vertical movement of air. The hotter air is, the more it rises.

An air purifier at least three feet above the ground captures air from all directions, including air moving vertically. You can take advantage of vertical-flowing air using a smaller unit by placing it on top of a desk or counter. A good idea for elevating a larger unit would be to mount it on a wall.

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What do you do about the neighboring appliances?

Like most small electronics, air purifiers operate based on wavelengths. When you place a purifier too close to an appliance, it could interfere with both their functions.

Technology-dependent purifiers are especially prone to these disruptions. So, instead of the one foot of space to leave open on all sides, make it five feet if there are nearby electronics.

Smart Placement Gets the Job Done!

Where you place your air purifier matters since these devices can potentially improve your overall health when used correctly. That means not only placing them close to the source of dirty air but positioning them for optimal performance in these areas.

The post Where Is the Best Place To Put an Air Purifier? appeared first on Residence Style.

How Do I Find a Competent Building Contractor Near Me?

Posted: 03 Feb 2022 11:21 PM PST

There are many ways to find a good building contractor near you. A straightforward way is to ask your friends and relatives for recommendations. This is a simple but effective way to find a reputable and competent building contractor. It is a good idea to get offers from various sources so that you can make an informed decision about which contractor to hire. If a previous client was satisfied with the results, they are more likely to recommend the same contractor in the future.

If you are looking for general builders, be wary of contractors who want money upfront. Generally, a good contractor will require a ten percent deposit upfront, so they are probably not worth hiring if they wish all their money upfront. It is also a good idea to get at least three bids from various contractors and consider how comfortable they are with your needs. It would help if you avoided those with a history of underperforming jobs, which may signify an inexperienced contractor who wants to make money.

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Before hiring a building contractor, it is good to read reviews posted by previous customers. Some contractors are more honest than others, so don’t automatically dismiss them if you encounter criticism. Always ask for references and see how long the company has been in business. Checking reviews does not replace talking to people about the quality of service, so be sure to look for the “trust seal” before letting them work on your property.

While contractors should meet your needs, don’t go with the lowest price. You don’t want to end up with a contractor who has done a lot of work for others before and is desperate for more work. Instead, it would help to choose a contractor who has a proven track record and offers good communication. Beware of door-to-door solicitations – this is a sign of a desperate contractor looking to get your business.

In addition to looking at the contractor’s qualifications and experience, you should also ask for references. You can also ask for license numbers and insurance certificates. Most contractors should have a business license. This is important for two reasons:

It ensures that a contractor is legitimate.

You can check the license by calling the local city hall.

You can find out if the building contractor has a certificate of insurance for their services.

Before hiring a building contractor, ask if they have completed previous work for the same clients. Don’t choose a contractor who’s worked with several companies simultaneously. If a building contractor has a history of multiple jobs, they are likely a good choice. Furthermore, a competent contractor should be willing to communicate with you and the city officials.

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Getting at least three quotes is the best way to find a good building contractor near you. A good contractor will obtain the permits required for the job. They will also speak with the building inspectors and file the necessary paperwork. The contractor should also be willing to communicate with you. If you can’t find a contractor near you, look for those who have completed at least three projects.

Reading reviews is another good way to find a good building contractor near you. The thoughts of a building contractor are the best source of information about the services offered by a particular contractor. However, it is essential to note that reading reviews about a construction contractor is not a substitute for checking references. If a company has a long history of dealing with different clients, that is a red flag.

The next step is to check the contractors’ licenses and insurance. While a building contractor should have a business license, a contractor should also have a certificate of insurance. This will protect you and your property. If the contractor has workers’ compensation insurance, it will cover the costs of an accident. You should also check the insurance coverage of a contractor. It should be valid if it covers the cost of the project.

The post How Do I Find a Competent Building Contractor Near Me? appeared first on Residence Style.

10 Pro Tips For Staining Your Patio

Posted: 03 Feb 2022 02:25 AM PST

Having a patio in your home's exterior adds flair to your property as they elevate your home's aesthetics and livability. However, like any other addition to your home, it'll require maintenance and upkeep to retain its condition. And as it experiences many kinds of weather elements, it'll need to be stained to prolong its quality and protection.

Upon coming to a reasonable conclusion about staining your patio, the activities involved in it might seem more than enough to stress you out. But it won’t have to be that way as long as you learn some tips and tricks about the proper execution of this home improvement project. Whether you’re hiring contractors to do the job or go the DIY route, the outcomes should be successful if done the right way.

Consider the following pro pointers in staining your outdoor patio:

  1. Select The Best Stain

Picking the right stain for your newly stained patio is essential if you want it to last a while. You can protect your home feature by staining it no matter the type. This will extend its lifespan for sure. However, first thing’s first—you need to know how to choose the best stain. Gather your options for the best wood stain to use.

Semi-transparent and transparent stains will always last longer than solid stains. The wood grain and materials will be visible in a transparent stain. However, its downside is it doesn’t stay as long as the solid or semi-transparent stains will do. The best stain finish is a solid stain, lasting the longest. The semi-transparent stain choice is kind of the gray line between the two extreme stains. A semi-transparent stain might show some wood detail, but this will cover a lot better.

Here are some additional tips when choosing stains:

  • A transparent stain is a good choice if your patio has just been recently constructed. This enables the fresh lumber's material to be magnified. All the details will look best with a transparent stain.
  • Try to buy stains by gallons as they're cheaper.
  • There's no need to use a primer with staining to save costs on this.
  • Stain requires maintenance and regular upkeep more than paints.
  1. Consider The Weather During Application

Wet wood doesn’t hold stain well and is susceptible to cracking and peeling. Therefore, before involving in a stain application for your patio, research the weather forecast beforehand. Whenever it hasn’t rained for several days and there's a forecast calling for dry conditions in the coming days, this is the best time to apply stain.

When humidity is low, drying time can be accelerated. On the contrary, staining under the sun’s extreme heat is also not good. Wood won’t absorb the stain because the heat allows it to dry too fast. You should be able to find the best-balanced temperature to have successful stain results.

  1. Prepare The Surface First

The wood must be clean and free of dirt and dust to give the stain a proper bond. Try to sweep the patio and ensure the surfaces are smooth and debris-free. Ensure that the patio surfaces are dry and void of mildew upon cleaning. Having a dirty surface makes it difficult for stains and other finishes to adhere and may cause them to peel.

Next is to apply some surface cleaners to your patio, but it’s best to wear a protective garment while doing this. Work in small sections on a large deck so that the area stays moist. The cleaner should be allowed to sit for at least 10 minutes. This is enough time for unwanted stains and dirt to be removed. To keep the wood wet while the cleaner soaks, mist your work area with a garden hose. Use detergents if there are any greasy stains on your patio.

After soaking, use a stiff synthetic bristle brush to scrub all the dirt and residues away. This time, you can either use a garden hose to wash the patio entirely or go for a power washer that’s intended for the patio. Make sure to use the right level of pressure, though, as you wouldn’t want it to be destroyed when the pressure is too intense. Keep the hose angled at 45° and maintain a few distances while power washing. After this procedure, you can allow the patio to dry for a few days to ensure no moisture is present.

  1. Use The Right Brush

There are several ways to apply your patio stains. You can also use a garden sprayer or a roller. You should always have a paintbrush on hand when applying your wood stain, though. By using a paintbrush, stains can be worked deep into the wood’s pores. This allows a smoother pattern as well. By agitating and rubbing the wood, a paintbrush causes more stain to be absorbed. You'll achieve better penetration into the wood if you brush the stain back while it's wet. Spray or roll the stain, then brush it back while it's still wet.

If you’re unsure what brushes to use, note that synthetic brushes work best to apply a water-based stain to the wood. By contrast, natural bristles are hollow and can lose their stiffness by absorbing water. As for choosing rollers, go for a shorter nap. Use a natural bristle brush when using oil-based stains and synthetic ones for water-based. These are standard brush rules you need to be reminded of.

  1. Read The Stain Instruction Carefully

Never ignore the instruction guide once you’ve chosen the right stain product. It varies from type of stain opaqueness and manufacturer to manufacturer how many coats are recommended for every stain. No matter how well you managed to coat your patio last time, it pays to read the instruction for a while just to be sure. The product you get today may have different application requirements than the product you used before.

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  1. Inspect The Patio Boards First

While it's common to protect your outdoor patio furniture, you shouldn’t overlook the importance of preserving the condition of your patio boards too. Make sure to check the wood for some imperfections before staining. Install new nails or screws if you find loose ones. You can take advantage of this time to properly inspect whether your patio needs some more fixes before staining. This will help you avoid injuries in the long run.

Epoxy putty can be used to fill large cracks if you notice them. Putty knives are ideal for applying the epoxy. Before you sand or paint the epoxy, let it thoroughly dry. You can also hide nails and other imperfections with putty.

  1. Try Applying Thin Coats

Make sure the stain color is consistent by mixing several gallons at once. Then, stain several boards simultaneously with long, smooth strokes. Be mindful of the movement of your brush or rollers as you'd want to have uniform textures. Use thin coats of solid stains and even thinner coats of semi-transparent stains or clear sealers.

Having puddles on the surface of the wood will prevent the stain from soaking into the wood and flaking off when dry. Hence, be wary of tiny bubbles when applying the strokes. To ensure that no spots are missed and achieve a uniform finish, apply two thin coats of stain.

  1. Use Sandpaper On Uneven Surfaces

Another tip to prep your patio is to use sandpaper to even out the surfaces. But you have to know about sandpaper grit before deciding what to buy. To carry out this step correctly, take into account the different sandpaper types. Be sure to clean up any dust afterward. Understanding the sandpaper grit can help you be more efficient when sanding your patio. 

For instance, you'll need to use coarse sandpaper if you’re working on getting rid of old paint or varnish on your patio surfaces. Medium coarse sandpaper with 60 to 100 grits should be enough if you want to smoothen out the rough wood surface. However, fine sandpaper should be ideal enough if you only want to remove minor stains and imperfections on the floor.

  1. Prioritize Quality Over Anything

Whether you choose to buy the materials for your patio project or look to hire contractors, it's a general rule to prioritize quality. You always get what you pay for when choosing which stain to buy or what services to go for. If you want anything to have great results, you can expect to pay more.

However, considering how this will last longer, spending more on them would seem more practical. A premium product will deliver premium results. If you want something to last, you should stay away from inexpensive products or services.

  1. Don't Rush The Process

Finally, don’t rush the process. When you've finished your project, take some time before finally using your patio. Give it enough time to dry and absorb the stain completely. The stain must have been cured before patio furniture and foot traffic can be used on it. Take at least one day to leave it before finally inviting your family to spend some time out on the patio.

Conclusion

Staining your patio sure isn't an easy feat. You need to prepare some materials, tools, and the necessary steps mentioned above. However, when everything is done and followed through, you’ll expect to see excellent results, making you feel that all your efforts have paid off.

The post 10 Pro Tips For Staining Your Patio appeared first on Residence Style.

7 Creative Ways To Enjoy Lockdown

Posted: 03 Feb 2022 01:40 AM PST

Lockdowns are boring when you are done with your responsibilities and you aren't left with anything to do instead of getting bored. 

But if you do any one of the 7 things to do in lockdown, that are mentioned below, you can make your ideal time in lockdown all the more interesting, fun, and creative.

7 Creative Ways To Enjoy Lockdown

  • Try a Fitness Schedule/Challenge:

Let’s be honest, nobody had the time to look after their health properly in the pre-lockdown world. From, exercise, to diet and sleep, everything counts for good health.

And when you finally have time to look after your health, don't make any delays in it. Just start with any fitness challenge for yourself and make a difference in your life by following it regularly.

Lockdown 1

  • Read a Book:

People don't read either because they don't have time or they don't get their type of stuff to get into reading. But when things are at a standstill, you can use this opportunity to look through various books and find your ideal genre to finally get your hands at reading.

Not to forget all the benefits of reading apart from a time pass hobby. You gain knowledge, change perspective, improve your language, and travel through time using books that also make your mind calm amidst chaos and tensions.

  • Solving a puzzle 

It is a good way to keep yourself busy with a creative task. They not only test your patience, intelligence and eye for detail but also help you in learning the art of being present in the moment.

To double the fun, always start with easy puzzle solving, especially, if you are new to this hobby. And then, gradually level up. Put your brain to its best use and polish your thinking and solving skills. With that being mentioned, JSPUZZLES is the best one to explore!

  • Karaoke Time with Family

What's better than spending some quality time with your family when you are under a lockdown situation?

A fun karaoke session over the dinner table with your family every day until the lockdown eases is a good solution to escape boredom and to also strengthen your relationship with your family by spending a fun time with them.

lockdown 2

  • Learn Something New

Always wanted to try your hands at painting/singing/dancing/writing/playing an instrument that excites you? Now is the time to finally start learning them. Are you tense about your plant’s health? Then learn new planting ideas online.

You can also utilize the lockdown time to learn a new language, get into an online course or upgrade yourself to be better in your current job. Just look for what you need to learn and focus on it as this is the time to make yourself proud. 

  • Declutter and Deep Clean Your Home

Let's admit that we all have spaces in your home that need deep cleaning but we don't get time to do this in our hustle-filled life. And that’s why you must look at the lockdown as a blessing and start deep cleaning your house one corner at a time.

Throw away all the unnecessary stuff, donate the ones that you can, and re-arrange those that are still useful to you. Feel light, free, and content with your hard work of reshaping and reorganizing your house.

  • Cooking

We all like some delicious and fresh home cook food made with love, care, and utmost cleanliness. So, this is the time to make yourself happy, to pamper your loved ones, to drop the junk food for the sake of your health, and to make the food you always wanted to make by yourself.

To Sum Up:

Many people want to be creative and active during their free time in lockdown but don’t have enough suggestions to understand where to start from and now that you have the list of 7 things to do in lockdown, you know exactly how to be useful and productive. 

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Why is My Water Dispenser Leaking?

Posted: 02 Feb 2022 09:42 PM PST

If you own a water dispenser, you know how convenient it is. It provides fresher water, is better for hydration, and will also help you reduce soft drinks intake.

But then, what would happen if your water dispenser started to leak? It can spell trouble for your floor, not to mention slip and falls possibility on a wet floor.

If you have a water dispenser leak, you need to find the source of the leak first. All it takes is you to do a thorough inspection of the dispenser.

So, what causes a water dispenser to leak? A water dispenser leak can result from a loose spout or spigot, a faulty water valve, overflowing catch pan, trapped air, blockage in the waterline, or incorrect installation.

In this guide, we look deeper into the causes of water dispenser leaks and how to fix them. Keep reading.

Why Your Water Dispenser is Leaking

Water dispensers are not the same. Some use replaceable water bottles, while others are connected to the main water line.

This means that fixing a leak will depend on where the model is leaking from.

Discussed below are the reasons why your water dispenser might be leaking and how you can fix it.

1. Leaking from the Bottom

Your water dispenser might be leaking from the bottom because of incorrect installation, air or sediment blockage or drip tray overflow.

  • Incorrect installation

To install a water dispenser correctly, you need to follow the manufacturer's instructions from the model's manual. You can also get a professional to install it for you.

If the dispenser is poorly installed, it can start leaking with time.

To prevent leaks from improper installation, ensure all the parts of your water dispenser are correctly aligned.

If the components are misaligned, attach them correctly and ensure that threaded connections are screwed on straight. 

  • Air or sediment blockage

Irrespective of the brand, your water dispenser can get blocked by dirt or air bubbles. It is easy to identify air blockage as the water leakage is usually continuous.

To deal with air blockage, you have to remove the trapped air in the waterline. To do so,

  1. Place an empty container below the dispenser, press, and then release the lever for 5 seconds to release the trapped air.
  2. Wait until the water starts a solid continuous flow. The water will drain if you press the unit's paddle and release it.

With dirt blockage, gently remove the blockage with a cleaning tool. Check all the tubes and lines to ensure that all dirt is removed.

  • Drip tray overflow

A drip tray catches excess water from the dispenser to prevent it from dripping on the floor. If it overflows, a leak can occur and mess up your floor.

To avoid leaks from a drip tray, check it regularly and remove excess water.

Water Dispenser Leaking2

2. Leaking from the Top

If your water dispenser is leaking from the top, it's most likely because of;

  • A crack in the water bottle

A crack in your dispenser's water bottle can cause pressure to change within the unit. This pressure draws water into the tank and causes an overflow.

If this is the case, you just need to replace the cracked water bottle with a new one.

3. Leaking from the Spout

The dispenser might be leaking from the spout because of poorly set taps or a loose nozzle seal.

  • Improperly set taps

If your water dispenser leaks from the spout, check the setting of the taps. Although it appears as the problem lies in the spout, the leak could be from the taps.

  1. Start by turning off the switch and unplugging the dispenser
  2. Then, place an empty container beneath each spout after opening the top cover. Check the control brackets as well.
  3. Remove each tap lever, gently lift and extend them. Then, depress every lever fully.
  4. Observe whether the spout drips after repeating the process 2 to 3 times.
  5. If the taps continue to leak, replace them.
  • Loose nozzle seal

The dispenser can also leak from the spout if it has a loose nozzle seal. If you can already see moisture on the seal, replace it to solve the problem.

Note that nozzle seals aren’t easy to purchase online. Take the old seal to a local hardware and compare the sizes to get the right fit.

4. Leaking from the Tap

Your water dispenser can leak from the tap in case of mineral buildup or if the taps are loose.

  • Mineral buildup

Most water dispense taps leak from the tap because of the mineral build up. If living in an area where hard water is predominant, you need to be on the lookout.

To get rid of the mineral deposits:

  1. Mix 1/3 liters of vinegar with a liter of water.
  2. Add the solution to your dispenser's tank and let it sit in for 15 minutes. The mixture will break down the limescale buildup.
  3. Scrub the taps clean with an old toothbrush after dipping it in vinegar.

Repeat the process until all the buildup is gone.

After cleaning the dispenser, flush the reservoir with a gallon of fresh water to remove the taste of vinegar.

  • Loose taps

Your water dispenser's taps can become loose over time. You just need to tighten them to stop the leak.

Water Dispenser Leaking1

5. Leaking from the Back

A water dispenser can leak from the back if it has a faulty valve or if the air is trapped in the waterline.

  • Faulty valve

If your own a top-loading water dispenser, chances are that it'll leak because of a faulty valve. This happens if the water pressure in the dispenser is too high.

If this is the case, you just need to replace the faulty valve.

  • Trapped air

If air is trapped in your water line, it can cause changes in pressure in the dispenser. The changes in pressure cause water to leak from cracks in the dispenser or water line.

To solve the problem, flush about 3 gallons of water through the dispenser in 5-second intervals to get rid of the trapped air.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is my water dispenser leaking after a filter change?

If your water dispenser leaks after a filter change, it means that water has entered into the water line and needs to be cleared.

Place an empty container under the taps and turn them on for 3 minutes to remove the air. This is enough time to remove all the trapped air.

2. Do I need to get a professional to fix my leaking water dispenser?

While some leakage issues like incorrect installation and improperly set taps might require professional help, others don't.

For instance, if all that is required to stop the leakage is tightening a loose tap or replacing cracked water bottles, you can do it yourself.

3. What causes a water dispenser to leak?

A water dispenser can leak because of faulty valves, loose taps, cracked water bottles, mineral buildup, air, and dirt blockage, drip tray overflow, or incorrect installation.

4. Is it easy to repair a water dispenser?

Yes, it's easy to repair a water dispenser since most have replacement parts. If you can’t fix it yourself, you can always seek professional help.

5. Should I unplug my water dispenser if not in use?

And why not? You can unplug the water dispenser if it’s empty, and you won’t be using it for some time (if traveling for a trip, vacation, and will be away for days).

Conclusion

Since a water dispenser is quite essential in your home, you need to ensure that it's in good condition at all times. Should you notice a leak, try to rectify it as fast as possible if you don't want to destroy your floor.

Also, every drop of water is equally important, and leakage leads to wastage. If you can avoid it, the better.

We hope that the guide helps you identify and fix any leakage in your water dispenser. Cheers!

Resources:

https://www.samsung.com/za/support/home-appliances/how-to-resolve-water-leaking-dripping-from-the-dispenser/

https://aquajudge.com/fixing-a-leaking-water-dispenser/

The post Why is My Water Dispenser Leaking? appeared first on Residence Style.

Tips for Investing in Properties to Put on Airbnb

Posted: 02 Feb 2022 09:12 PM PST

Real estate investing offers some of the best returns in the entire marketplace. Airbnb has revolutionized the way that real estate investing works by bringing owners closer to those who are willing to pay top dollar for the privilege of using a property that meets all of their vacation or work travel needs.

Homeowners can take advantage of the unique opportunities that the Airbnb service offers by renting out rooms in their permanent residence or even using the basement as a converted studio apartment. With this platform, many new and exciting investment opportunities are possible.

Some investors are buying new properties to use exclusively on the site. Instead of seeking out a permanent tenant who will pay monthly rent checks to their landlord, it has become more lucrative in certain areas and with specific properties to list the room or home solely as a vacation or work-related rental property in short bursts. Continue reading to discover how you can use properties in this manner in order to gain valuable cash assets that will pay down the mortgage loan and provide you with stable cash flow over the long term.

Investing in Properties1

Browse current listings to see what renters are looking for in properties.

One great way to use the service here is by combing through current listings. Searching for great-looking properties that are often taken by those traveling to your local area is the perfect way to start researching new properties to invest in.

Likewise, if you already own a rental property that you are thinking of converting, taking note of the types of amenities and fixtures that are included in the hottest listings can help you make the necessary renovations in your own space. With the help of a contractor that specializes in bathroom remodeling in Milwaukee, gaining a new and luxurious bathroom is easy and can transform the listing that you'll place on the site. Bathrooms offer the ultimate luxury experience, and many people using Airbnb will select a property based on intangible elements such as this. A new bathroom can make all the difference in your approach to the daily rental space, and it's actually far more important than bathroom remodeling in the flipping or traditional long-term rental arrangements that many property investors often look to for profits.

Lean on professional real estate investors for inspiration on location, property type, and more.

Investing in Properties2

Real estate investing is all about building and leveraging knowledge. Learning from the pros is a great way to bring this approach into your investment strategy. The property market is constantly evolving, and investors must adapt in order to meet the challenges and demands of the investment class as a result.

With the help of content written by professional investors like David Lindahl, gaining the knowledge edge that you require is simple. David Lindahl has been investing in multifamily real estate deals for many years. He specializes in these multifamily properties and in commercial properties, leveraging his holdings in an effort to maintain consistent momentum toward greater profits. With investments like these, the daily rental space can be made far more advantageous as you work toward hitting huge turnover numbers in each of your units within the residential space. David Lindahl has written a number of books (and created corresponding audiobooks to complement the written texts), organizes seminars and boot camps, and often appears on podcasts. Using David Lindahl's experiences and advice as a foundation for your next endeavor is a great way to produce more lucrative results over the long term.

The real estate space is one of the best places to generate wealth, and this has remained true for many decades. With the help of new platforms that can bring renters and owners closer together for faster-moving transactions, the sky is the limit in the real estate market.

Consider these tips to get started within this new and exciting segment of the real estate market.

The post Tips for Investing in Properties to Put on Airbnb appeared first on Residence Style.

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