https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hqVq_UWlzdQ

60-30-10 Rule

https://www.thespruce.com/60-30-10-rule-797859

60-30-10 is a decorating rule that may help you put a color scheme for your home. This simple concept is meant to help you balance the colors used in any area of your home. 

2018 Colors of the Year

https://www.thecreativityexchange.com/2017/08/2018-colors-of-the-year.html?null

Spring cleaning is not always about cleaning, it's that time of year when paint companies have already announced their colors that will be inspiring many of you. So get inspired and start painting, New Year new paint!

What To Consider When Downsizing From Your Current Home

Now that my children are getting older, I have started thinking of how I plan on living once they both move away to college. And the idea of downsizing is becoming more appealing and exciting! What about you?

Article written by Connie Adair: 

For people of a certain age, or those whose kids have flown the coop, downsizing may seem a logical next step. However, there are lots of things to consider before making the big move.

First, what does downsizing mean to you? It doesn't always mean moving to a smaller home.

"Downsizing takes on many looks and feels: some people living in large family homes still want a big home but with a more suitable floor plan," says sales representative Debra Feldman of Forest Hill Signature Real Estate in Toronto.

Downsizing from four bedrooms to three bedrooms (a master bedroom, an office and a guest room to be used for grandchildren sleepovers or a caregiver down the road) may be preferred. However, these buyers may still want the same amount of space for general entertaining, she says.

Some people may want to move from the suburbs to the city to have easier walking access to the local coffee shop, yoga and culture, while others may prefer to downsize in the neighbourhood they are most familiar with, Feldman says.

"People need to wrap their minds around how they live now and how they see themselves living in the future. Will a formal living room get used? Might a more informal layout, such as a great room, suit one's day-to-day lifestyle and visiting children and grandchildren better?"

Feldman says downsizers should think about whether it's necessary to have a dining room when there is a large eat-in kitchen. Would the dining room, which is often in a prime location in the home, be better converted to a room that will see more day-to-day use? Is the configuration of the home suitable for now and the future? Will long flights of stairs cause problems in the future? Is there a main-floor bathroom? Is there an elevator? Is there security if you plan to travel? Will that big lot be too much to maintain? How much will it cost to hire someone to do it for you?

The biggest mistake people make when they decide to downsize their home is moving to too small a space, says Ira Jelinek, a sales representative with Harvey Kalles Real Estate in Toronto. Many times, "I have heard about people buying then realizing it's not going to work. Then they have to rent or sell it."

Jelinek says other common complaints include a lack of storage, and for those moving from a house to a condo, having to take elevators and park underground. "However, underground parking can be overlooked if the building has valet service," he says.

One way to deal with lack of storage is to make the most of every inch of space, whether in a smaller home or condo. Space should be functional for everyday living and entertaining.

Storage space is always a challenge in condos, so finding creative ways to add more is invaluable, says designer Sabrina Bitton.

One of her tricks is sure to be a hit with downsizers. Bitton says to build a bar-height island on wheels to fit over the existing, fixed island. That way it doesn't take up additional floor space, but when entertaining, the top island can be wheeled out to provide separate dining space. Or it can be used as buffet space, a place to enjoy cocktails or additional work space. Downsizers who aren't ready to give up their sit-down eating space find this a particularly welcome idea, she says.

Choosing the right location is key. "Typically speaking, most downsizers move from a suburb of Toronto or a neighbourhood of Toronto to somewhere in the heart of the city," Jelinek says. The trend throughout the area is that "people from all walks of life want to be in the city now."

Wherever you live, health care should be top of mind, says sales representative Leslie Eto of Re/Max Ultimate Realty in Toronto. "Do you need to have access to specialty hospitals? A friend of mine lives in a small town and travels almost two hours by train into Toronto for her doctor appointments and treatments."

Feldman says she finds the location is often dictated by where adult children and grandchildren live. Possible future reliance on public transit is another consideration.

Some people chose to cash out their large urban home and head to a small town.

"This has appeal for some -- less traffic, lower cost of living, easy access to nature and seasonal recreation, anticipating visits from friends and family where quality time can be enjoyed. Some also love the thought of making new friends and starting over, however for others this wouldn't be comfortable," Feldman says.

She recommends making frequent scouting trips to the area in advance, ideally in different seasons, to "try on the experience. Does the community have a strong seasonal influx of tourists? Is that attractive to you?"

Also ensure you speak to regional/municipal local representatives to learn about any significant development initiatives that could positively or negatively affect real estate values in the foreseeable future, Feldman says. "Finally, speak to an experienced Realtor in the area to become educated on the subtleties of the community, for example sewage handling, drinking water, lake quality and possible changes in transportation routes the could enhance or detract from your short and long-term enjoyment of your new home."

Check the associated costs to ensure a smaller space will in fact be less expensive. Budget for the move and any work (renovations, cleaning, painting or other improvements) you want to make before you move in. Plan ahead and decide what you can/want to take with you. Give yourself plenty of time to pack. It's never too early to start downsizing your possessions.

Remember, says Feldman, "Downsizing can be very liberating and an exciting time in one's life."

https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/buyersadvice/item/1008711-20171227-what-to-consider-when-downsizing-from-your-current-home

Five Easy Ways To Remake Your Fireplace

Now this one is a fun article and I hope that you actually get to do some of these tips.

Jaymi Naciri:

It's chilly out there! You've probably got your heat cranked up and the fireplace on. And, chances are you're staring at that fireplace and thinking of all the things you'd like to change.

"A fireplace facelift can take your living space from ‘whatever' to ‘wow,'" said HGTV. 

"Whether you're contemplating a full-on renovation or looking for an easy weekend upgrade," we've got some easy, impactful fixes for your fireplace woes.

1. Paint it

We always say that nothing transforms more quickly and easily than paint, and that goes for fireplaces, too. If you have outdated red brick on your fireplace, a couple of coats of white or black paint can create something that's a showstopper instead of an eyesore.

2. Whitewash it

A lighter touch than paint, whitewashing can lighten up a dark fireplace and give it new style. "Seems like just yesterday that the red brick in your family room looked perfect, but tastes change with time," said Bob Vila. "Now you think it's a little too dark and a little too red for the space. Your gut tells you it's time for a change, but you're intimidated by the thought of demolition and renovation. Rather than reach for the sledgehammer, grab a rag and a brush instead, and give your room a bright new look. While painting over brick with 100 percent latex paint will give the brick a solid, opaque color, whitewashing mutes the brick's natural color with a translucent finish. The technique preserves the bricks' natural, random variations, depending on how much paint is applied and how each individual brick absorbs it."

3. Cover it in stone

Yes, that sounds like a huge undertaking. But, you don't need to be a stone mason to get an incredible look for your fireplace. Airstone is an innovative product that gives you the look of real stone.

"Their product looks just like real stone, but is easy to cut with a saw at home," said Make Life Lovely. "You don't have to have fancy equipment, call in an expert, or pay a ton of money for expensive natural stone." 

4. Faux it

This marble-look adhesive paper covered up what used to be some pretty dated yellow ceramic tile. This application couldn't be easier, but be sure to read the instructions and disclaimers carefully to make sure you're using fire-safe products if you actually use your fireplace and it's not just for show.

5. Start over completely

This typically involves some sort of demolition to create a smooth surface, and then the sky's the limit. The timeframe can vary depending on how extensive the project is, and it might require an expert unless your DIY skills are stellar.

"A standard drywall installation with mantel and surround can be completed in two days," said Forbes. "A custom mantel or more extensive ductwork or electrical installation can take five or six weeks."

Article written by Jaymi Naciri and was recently post on Sunday, 31 December 2017. I hope that you enjoyed these great tips for your Fireplace.

https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/homeownersadvice/item/1013461-20180101-five-easy-ways-to-remake-your-fireplace

How to Tell Whether Your Aging Parents Can Live on Their Own

I found this great article on Realty Times written by Nancy Kupka, PHD that was posted on Tuesday, 09 January 2018 and I wanted to share it with anyone that might be in a similar situation or might know of someone else that might be struggling with aging parents also. 

By: Nancy Kupka:

It is difficult assuming the parental role with your parents and making decisions about "what is right" for the people who raised you. There is also a lot of emotion tied up in switching roles and the loss of independence for everyone involved. Sometimes, however, it becomes necessary for a son, daughter or grandchild to not only be their parents' loved one, but also their advocate. You may need to figure out if it is safe for your aging parents to continue to live on their own.

How do you know when it may be time to talk with your parents about their living arrangements? Here are a few ways to assess the situation.

Drop in unexpectedly to visit.

See with your own eyes if your parents are meeting their daily needs without assistance. Are they clean and groomed? Are they keeping up with the house and laundry? Is there sufficient food in the refrigerator? Take note as to whether their basic living needs are being met.

Check their medication.

Count your parents' pills from time to time to determine if they are taking them correctly. You can also check with their pharmacy or enlist the help of their healthcare provider to learn if your parents are picking up their prescriptions on time.

Ask about their friends and activities.

Assess whether your parents are getting out and socializing with others. Are they keeping up with activities that they have always attended, such as going to their place of worship or clubs or playing cards with their friends? If you are not certain, speak with their friends, neighbors or spiritual leader, or offer to attend activities with them.

Determine if they are safe in their home.

If your parents don't live in a safe neighborhood with adequate transportation, make sure they have proper home security and access to rideshare programs. If they have a lot of stairs or live in a cluttered environment, help make sure they have clear pathways for walking and eliminate trip hazards. You can also install assistive devices, such as lift chairs and grab bars in their tub or shower.

Evaluate how well they are managing their finances.

It may be a sensitive topic, but ask your parents if you can help keep their financial paperwork organized. Take note of unpaid bills or large amounts of money that are unaccounted for. If your parent feels uncomfortable talking about their finances, offer to help them set them up with an advisor. These activities can open the door to frank discussion.

If you decide that your parents shouldn't live on their own anymore, keep in mind that leaving their home and everything familiar may be difficult and even disorienting for them. There are many options to explore, such as moving in with a family member or moving into an assisted living or long-term care facility. But know that there are also other options that would allow them to stay in their own home or community. Help them figure out if they would be safer and happy in a smaller house. Or perhaps they would prefer an apartment or condo with an elevator and other amenities. Consider hiring a home care agency to come in to monitor medications or perform personal care, or have a service clean or run errands. You can even ask a family member or hire an individual to live with your parent.

Finally, arrange to have someone visit your parents from time to time, especially if they change residences. This can help make sure they are adjusting well and having all their basic needs met.

You can find more information on helping your parents age in place from sources like Eldercare Locator, National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Nancy Kupka PhD, RN has first-hand experience caring for seniors as a former home care specialist and caretaker for her mother. She is now Manager of Clinical Programs and Quality for Walgreens, where you can find assistive devices like lift chairs to help your aging parents live independently in their homes longer.

Although it is intended to be accurate, neither Walgreen Co., its subsidiaries or affiliates, nor any other party assumes for loss or damage due to reliance on this material. Walgreens does not recommend or endorse any products, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned in the article. Reliance on any information provided by this article is solely at your own risk.

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