Clean

Apache is functioning normally

Guys, I have an unhealthy addiction; with all white bedrooms! Pristine, crisp, beautifully impractical white bedrooms. I love the minimalist feel, the clean simplicity and soothing calm of the monochromatic space. White bedrooms feel spa-like, as if they offer a retreat from the mess of daily life. My Bedrooms Pinterest board runneth over.

The challenge, obviously, is to actually keep life’s messes from destroying your all-white room! I’ve actually always had a love affair with all things white. I still remember my mom trying to talk me out of white Keds circa second grade because she knew I’d want to accomplish the nearly impossible task of keeping them clean! And I’ve never met a white tee or button down that I don’t love.

While all white bedding requires similar amounts of work to keep stains at bay especially with kids – of the two or four-legged variety, there other other ways to accessorize with white! I’d gladly add any of these pieces to our bedroom!

I’m curious- do you dare stick with all white bedding or decorate mostly with white? We have for the past couple years and so I’m now the queen of laundry and am BFFs with Oxy-clean and the Magic Eraser. But I will still argue it’s worth the extra effort!! Collapsing into the fluffy white cloud of goodness each evening just might be the best part of my day! — Erin

Get Your Shop On:

> “White Afternoon” Print by Judith Gigliotti
> Carpe Diem Candle
> Scope Wall Clock
> Kate Spade “Odds & Ends” Tray  
> Ladies & Gentlemen Studio Chime 
> White Acapulco Chair 
> KAS Designs White Beaded Pillow 
> Rope Storage Basket
> Wilshire Table Lamp

image 1 via Duneha // 2 via Design Chaser // 3 via Pinterest  // 4 via Arch Daily // 5 via Varpunen

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Source: apartment34.com

Apache is functioning normally

I love wine but I’m not a wine snob. I don’t speak the lingo, and I don’t want to. All I know is that some wines taste better than others, and that some wines cost more than others. For me, the best bottle of wine is one that tastes great but doesn’t break the bank. With the dinner party season coming up, how can I find good wines at great prices? I turned to Gary Vaynerchuk at Wine Library TV for help.

I discovered Vaynerchuk through his personal website, and his videos about blogging and personal entrepreneurship. (Two of my favorites are: You can have a day job and build your own business and Building personal brands.) But Gary’s real claim to fame is his free daily video blog in which he tastes and reviews wine. Mostly he drinks more expensive stuff, but I wondered — could he offer advice for a frugal guy like me?

Good Wines at Great Prices

I wrote to Gary and asked if he’d be willing to e-mail a few recommendations for GRS readers. He did me one better. He didn’t just write back — he created an entire video featuring his best value-driven wines of the year (subscribers will need to click through to this post to see the video — sorry):

Vaynerchuk starts with some advice that took me a long time to learn: You don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy wine.

The price point of a bottle of wine has no impact on the quality of that wine. That’s very important for people to understand, that price does not equal quality. In wine, that freaks people out. There are enormous amounts of $10-$12 wines that rock and roll…And there’s plenty of wines at $30-$50 that stink up the house.

When I first started drinking wine, I believed that a higher price meant higher quality. I now know that’s not true. My favorite wine I’ve tried this year is the 2007 Alain Brumont gros manseng sauvignon, which costs $10 per bottle at my local wine shop. (I like it so much that I bought a case, which brought the price down to $9 per bottle.)

What does Gary recommend for frugal oenophiles?

  • 2007 Tiefenbrunner pinot bianco Italian white ($12) — “A tremendous alternative to pinot grigio.”
  • 2007 Mastroberardino Mastro white Italian white ($14) — “An amazingly crisp, clean wine.”
  • 2006 Ercavio Roble La Mancha tempranillo roble Spanish red ($10) — “Perfect pizza wine.”
  • 2006 Alto Almanzora Este Spanish red ($10) — “A powerhouse red wine.”
  • 2004 Monteviejo Festivo malbec Argentine red ($13) — “Explodes on the palate.”
  • 2004 Villa Carafa Aglianico Sannio aglianico Italian red ($15) — “Old-school Italian.”
  • 2007 Poesia torrontes Argentine white ($10) — “The white grape explosion…taking over pinot grigio and New Zealand sauvignon blanc fans by storm.”

Learn What You Love

But Vaynerchuk emphasizes that these aren’t the only options. Each person has different preferences. What might taste good to you might taste like swill to me. Or, as Kris and I were recently reminded, the same chardonnay may taste like gasoline with one meal, and then taste refreshing the next night with a different dish.

Because of this, wine recommendations should be treated like movie reviews: they can give you a general idea of what you’re going to get, but your actual reaction will be intensely personal. It’s important to find what you like, and then remember it. Vaynerchuk says:

You need to explore. How do you figure out what you like? By trying them. If you only drank apple juice every single day of your life, how in the heck do you know if you like orange juice? Or pineapple juice? Or plum juice? Or prune juice? How do you know? You don’t! And the same thing with wine. You’ve got to mix it up and try different things.

My Kind of Shopping

Armed with Gary’s advice and the latest recommendations from Consumer Reports, I went wine shopping last Wednesday. I established a budget before I set out, and then spent a couple of hours exploring the wine selection near my home. I visited Costco, Cost Plus World Market, Safeway, and Fred Meyer (a regional all-in-one store).

Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find any of the wines from Vaynerchuk’s list and only two from the Consumer Reports list. Remembering Gary’s advice, however, I decided to be adventurous. He recommends a 2004 Argentine malbec, so I picked up one from the same vintage and region but a different producer. I also bought a tempranillo and a couple of other varietals I’ve never tried. I look forward to sharing these bottles with friends over the coming months.

Some people are serious about wine, and that’s fine. For me, though, wine is fun. Eating a good meal while sharing a bottle of wine is a bonding experience. Wine brings people together. And it does that just as well at $8 a bottle as at $80 a bottle.

What about you? What tips can you offer for finding inexpensive wine that’s still fun to drink? Do you have some favorite wines you can recommend for holiday gatherings?

If you like Vaynerchuk, be sure to check out Wine Library TV every weekday. (I liked yesterday’s episode: What wine goes with candy bars?)

Source: getrichslowly.org

Apache is functioning normally

J.D. and I have been employing an independent housekeeper for about 10 years. The one who’s been working for us for almost five years, Michele, is fantastic and we feel lucky to have her. (We found her through Craigslist). Housecleaning is her full-time job.

It took us some time to get over our self-imposed barrier of hiring some help with the house chores. I’m not lazy, and it struck me as a weak, self-indulgent thing to do. But, as J.D. freely admits, he’s a slob. We’d fight over the mess in the house, and time and time again would try to institute a “system” to keep it clean, only to fail once more and descend into arguments. With both of us working full-time, we wanted to spend our time at home in other ways than cleaning.

Still, I felt guilty for paying someone else to do work I didn’t want to do myself. I admit it: It feels weird to pay someone to clean your toilets! And I felt guilty for even being able to afford considering “outsourcing” the housework. After all, anyone can do housework, right?

The “Housekeeper Dilemma”

Over time, however, I’ve realized that my guilt is misplaced. (Although it still lingers a bit.) Why would I feel any guiltier paying someone for cleaning my house than cooking my food at a restaurant, or growing my food at a farmer’s market, or knitting a hat I buy at a cute store? I can cook; I can grow food; I can knit. But often I choose to pay someone else to do these tasks rather than do them myself. Why does the housekeeper, then, represent such obscene luxury in our debates on the complexities of social economics?

J.D.’s note: Some of Kris’ thoughts here remind me of my own meditations on the guilt of wealth.

Primarily, I believe it’s because we see our housekeeper face-to-face. We invite her into our homes and our lives. We see the struggles in her life (she’s a divorced mom of two teenagers) in a way that is invisible for the many other jobs we outsource. The agricultural worker doesn’t deliver pears to my door, nor the factory worker bring inexpensive mass-produced products to personally stock the shelves in my pantry. I don’t directly pay the garbage-collector, the office custodian, or the guy who sweeps out the theater after J.D. spills all his candy on the floor. For these things, there’s an insulating layer of “a company” between the producer of the goods and the consumer. With housekeeping, no such dividing layer exists.

Professional housecleaning, like agricultural harvesting, child-care, and many service-industry jobs, is a job that is frequently performed by people without much higher education or unique skills. (Or they are choosing not to use that education or skills, or perhaps there is no market for their particular talents.) These jobs are typically low-paying, but that doesn’t mean the people who perform these jobs are unworthy. I’m all for a living wage, but the more specialized and rare your skills, the higher salary you can command if there is a market for those skills. It’s basic supply and demand. And just because a job doesn’t pay well does not mean that job is demeaning.

I won’t pretend my housekeeper has such a “passion for cleaning houses” that it led her to this profession, but she’s a survivor, and has chosen housecleaning for many personal reasons, not the least of which are the flexibility in her schedule, the freedom to choose the clients she serves, and the chance to be her own boss. The trade-offs include a physically-demanding job, inconsistent income, and a relatively low salary (due to not working 40 hours a week, although at $22, her hourly wage is decent).

I think another part of the “housekeeper dilemma” is the historical disregard for the value of work that has been “women’s work”, and the expectation that if there is a woman is in the house, she shouldn’t need to pay another person (usually another woman) to do the tasks she is supposed to be doing herself. If someone is cleaning a house that’s not their own, they must feel degraded, right? But any work can be found degrading, sustaining, fulfilling or mind-numbing. I doubt that those of you who clean your own toilets feel degraded by the process.

What matters is not so much the type of work but the working conditions and the self-respect possible for the worker. Michele knows her work is valued in our home. The days I come home after Michele has been at my house are like a treat to me! And she knows it — because I tell her. I’d gladly give up other expenses before I cut Michele out of my budget. For her part, I’m pretty sure she values having us a steady clients who always have the check ready on the table and share the garden produce in the summer months.

Everyone Outsources

The popular opinion is that anyone can do housework (so you shouldn’t outsource this labor), but does that mean that everyone has to? As GRS readers know, we grow and preserve much of our own food. That’s something I truly enjoy. Housework? Not so much. Someone else might think canning applesauce in a hot kitchen on a 90-degree day sounds like pure drudgery; they’ll outsource the task and get their jar of applesauce at the store. No one gives that a second thought, but there are a lot of outsourced laborers between the apple tree and that jar. Me? I’ll outsource cleaning the kitchen instead.

In my mind, the bottom line is that everyone outsources. Unless you grow, harvest, and process your own food, make your own clothes from fibers you’ve produced and spun, build your own house, create your own power sources, and are completely independent from the long chain of people in the manufacturing economy, you’re paying other people to do that which you do not want to do, don’t want to make time to do, or lack the skills to do. In the modern word, specialization is the norm.

So, do what work works for you — I’ll be in the garden.

Bonus! After Kris wrote this article, I made a point of talking with our housekeeper when she came by on Wednesday. Here’s what she had to say about her work.J.D.: What sorts of people hire a housekeeper?

Michele: All sorts of people. Students, new mothers, women with careers. It’s usually women, although lately a lot of men have been responding to my Craigslist ad. That kind of makes me a little nervous sometimes, but so far it’s been fine. I think they’re just trying to give their wives a break.J.D.: Should people feel guilty about hiring a housekeeper?

Michele: No way! Why should they? I had a housekeeper for a while. I had so much going on that I didn’t have the time to clean like I wanted, and I could afford it then. I’d do it again if I could. But I guess some people do feel guilty — especially women. There’s this stigma: People think women should be able to do it all — raise the kids, go to work, clean the house — but they can’t. A housekeeper helps relieve some of that stress. So I guess women feel guilty because they feel like they’re not doing everything they should. But bachelors that hire me? They don’t have one ounce of guilt! I think once people get past the guilt, they love having a housekeeper. It’s just a matter of where your priorities are and what you can afford.J.D.: How do you feel about cleaning houses? Is this what you see yourself doing the rest of your life?

Michele: Well, my passion is working with animals. I’d love to work in an animal shelter. And I’m a trained doula, but I just haven’t done anything with that. So, I clean. But that’s what I do anyhow. It’s just what I do. It’s in my blood. My dad owned a janitorial service. My sister cleans houses. My mother cleans houses. I clean houses. I like it. I like being my own boss. I like the variety, going from house to house, and I like the flexibility. Last time, you let me adjust my schedule so I could take my son to get a tattoo, for example. I couldn’t do that if I wasn’t my own boss. And it’s pretty good money — if I can fill up my days, which is harder with the economy like it is. But I enjoy it.

Source: getrichslowly.org

Apache is functioning normally

Here’s some Q&A with regard to the home loan approval process: “What do underwriters do?”

Once you actually apply for a home loan, your mortgage application will be organized by a loan processor and then sent along to a loan underwriter, who will determine if you qualify for a mortgage.

The underwriter can be your best friend or your worst enemy, so it’s important to put your best foot forward.

The expression, “you’ve only got one chance to make a first impression” comes to mind here.

Trust me, you’ll want to get it right the first time to avoid going down the bureaucratic rabbit hole.

Underwriter Will Approve, Suspend, or Decline Your Mortgage Application

  • After you formally apply for a home loan your file will be submitted to the underwriting department
  • A human underwriter will then review your loan application and decision it
  • Their job is to approve, suspend, or decline your application based on its contents
  • It’s paramount to submit a clean file to boost your chances of loan approval

Simply put, the loan underwriter’s job is to approve, suspend, or decline your mortgage application.

If the loan is approved, you’ll receive a list of “conditions” which must be met before you receive your loan documents.  So in essence, it’s really a conditional loan approval.

If the loan is suspended, you’ll need to supply additional information or loan documentation to move it to approved conditional status.

If the loan is declined, you’ll more than likely need to apply elsewhere with another bank or mortgage lender, or take steps to fix whatever went wrong.

The Three C’s of Mortgage Underwriting

  • Credit – payment behavior over time (your credit report)
  • Capacity – ability to repay the home loan (your income and assets)
  • Collateral – value of the underlying asset (the property)

Now you may be wondering how underwriters determine the outcome of your mortgage application?

Well, there are the “three C’s of underwriting,” otherwise known as credit reputation, capacity, and collateral.

Credit reputation has to do with your credit history, including past foreclosures, bankruptcies, judgments, and basically measures your willingness to pay your debts.

[What credit score do I need to get a mortgage?]

If you’ve had previous mortgage delinquencies or even non-housing related delinquencies, these will need to be taken into account.

Typically these items will be reflected in your three-digit credit score, which can actually eliminate you without any further underwriting necessary if you fall below a certain threshold.

Your history supporting significant amounts of debt is also important; if the most you’ve ever financed has been a plasma TV, the underwriter may think twice about approving your six-figure loan application.

Capacity deals with a borrower’s actual ability to repay a loan, using things like debt-to-income ratio, salary, cash reserves, loan program and more.

This covers whether the loan is interest-only, an adjustable-rate mortgage or a fixed-rate mortgage, cash-out refinance or simply rate and term.

The underwriter wants to know that you can repay the mortgage you’re applying for before granting approval.

[How much house can I afford?]

Finally, collateral deals with the borrower’s down payment, loan-to-value ratio, property type, and property use, as the lender will be stuck with the home if the borrower fails to make timely mortgage payments.

Mortgage Underwriters Consider Layered Risk

  • They don’t look at one aspect of your borrower profile in a vacuum
  • They consider all factors together to make a sound decision
  • Those with risk in one area who are able to compensate for it may be approved
  • While those with risk in all areas might be denied due to layered risk

Now it’s important to understand that the three C’s are not independent of one another.

All three must be considered simultaneously to understand the level of layered risk that could be present in said loan application.

For example, if the borrower has a less-than-stellar credit score, limited asset reserves, and a minimal down payment, the risk layering could be deemed excessive, leading to denial.

This is the underwriter’s discretion, and can certainly be subjective based on other factors such as occupation, how long the borrower has been in the line of work, why the credit score is less than perfect, and so on.

The underwriter must decide, based on all the criteria, if the borrower is an acceptable risk for the mortgage lender, and if the end product can be resold without difficulty to investors.

Layered risk is a major reason why the mortgage crisis got so out of hand. Scores of borrowers applied for mortgages with stated income and zero down financing, which is certainly very high risk, and were easily approved.

Rising home prices covered up the mess for a while, but it didn’t take long for everything to unravel. This is why sound mortgage underwriting is so critical to a healthy housing market.

Mortgage Underwriter FAQ

Do underwriters work for the bank/lender?

Yes, underwriters are employees of banks, lenders, and mortgage bankers. They work on the operational side of things, making loan decisions after the sales team brings the loan in the door.

How long does underwriting take?

It might only take an underwriter a few hours to comb through a loan file and approve, suspend, or deny it. However, mortgage lenders only have so many underwriters available, and surely the number of loans in the pipeline will exceed the number of staff. As such, much of the time might be waiting in the queue until a pair of eyeballs actually look over your loan.

Why do underwriters take so long?

Hmm…I don’t know, because they’re approving a six-figure loan amount, or seven, to a complete stranger. As noted, the actual underwriting might not take that long, but the amount of available underwriters (humans) might be low. So you could just be in the queue. A clean loan file will get approved faster and with fewer conditions so get it right before the underwriter even sees it.

Do underwriters verify employment?

While employment is generally verified nowadays when you take out a mortgage, it might not be the underwriter verifying it. Instead, the loan processor may obtain the verification of employment (VOE). Many use the “The Work Number,” an independent third-party employment verification company now owned by credit bureau Equifax.

How much do loan underwriters make?

They can make pretty good money. Salaries may be in the high five figures to low six figures if they’re seasoned and skilled in underwriting all types of loans, including FHA, VA, and so on. If you start as a junior underwriter the salary could be less than $50,000. But once you become a senior loan underwriter, the pay can jump up tremendously. It may also be possible to earn overtime.

Do underwriters make commission?

They shouldn’t because that would be a conflict of interest. They should approve/deny loans based on the characteristics of the loan file, not because they need to hit a certain number. Compensating them for loan quality might be a different story, but again could lead to discrimination if they cherrypick only the best loans.

Do underwriters work weekends?

I’ve heard of some that have. I don’t know if they do on a regular basis, but if loan volume picks up in a short period of time it’s possible to come in on a Saturday or Sunday. The mortgage world is all about highs and lows, so sometimes it might be slow and other times it’s impossible to keep up.

Are underwriters warm and friendly?

They can be if you don’t rub them the wrong way. I look at mortgages kind of like the DMV. Show up with the right paperwork and a good attitude and you’ll get in and out before you know it. Do the opposite at your peril!

(photo: Joelk75)

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com

Apache is functioning normally

If the national media is any indication, more people are embracing the notion of buying used clothing from thrift stores and consignment shops. Last week, USA Today ran a story describing how secondhand stores are reaping the benefits of recession:

As Americans look for ways to cut spending, they are scooping up bargain clothes, accessories, toys and furniture once owned by someone else.

“We’re sorry about the economic situation, … but it is a good time for our industry,” says Adele Meyer, executive director of the National Association of Resale & Thrift Shops. Three-fourths of resale stores said they had higher sales in September and October, compared with the same period last year, according to the trade group. The average sales increase was about 35%.

According to the article, 70% of adults surveyed last summer say that buying used is now more socially acceptable than it was a decade ago. Buying used has always been socially acceptable to me. I got in the habit of shopping at thrift stores during high school. It was the only way I could afford to add to my wardrobe. For the past 20 years, buying used has been a natural part of my shopping routine.

Kris and I are fortunate that Portlanders generally embrace the thrift-store ethic, and that we live near a highway lined with used clothing shops. (It’s actually more convenient for us to buy our clothes from thrift stores than any other source!) Here are some of our best tips for buying second-hand clothes:

  1. Set a budget. This is difficult at first — you don’t know how much things cost. But eventually you’ll be able to tell yourself, “I’m going spend $20 today”. It becomes a game to see how much you can buy for $20.
  2. Discard your prejudices. Some people consider thrift stores and used clothing shops nasty dirty places. Some are. Most aren’t. Explore your neighborhood. Find a shop or two that you like, and you’ll be hooked.
  3. Go with a friend. It’s good to have a second opinion. Your friend may have an eye for what looks good on you — and vice versa.
  4. Try things on. Sizes vary widely between manufacturers and even by eras. (Today’s clothes have looser fits.) But go in knowing your general size and measurements. Note that some places don’t have dressing rooms, so it’s smart to wear a modest thin layer in case you need to strip down in the aisle.
  5. Examine each item thoroughly. It sucks to get home to find your new shirt has a hole in the pocket. Or that the slacks you thought were a steal actually have a broken zipper.
  6. Check washing instructions. You don’t want to pay $3 for a silk blouse if you’ll never dry-clean it.
  7. Use the tags as a guide to find quality brands you like, but don’t limit yourself. Sometimes a brand you’ve never heard of can yield a favorite piece of clothing.
  8. Think layers. Maybe that shirt with a stain on the sleeve has a great collar for wearing under a sweater. For $3, you can afford to buy a single-purpose shirt.
  9. Use thrift stores as a way to diversify your wardrobe. Buy colors and styles on which you normally wouldn’t spend much. Wear the new clothes a few times to see how you like them, and to gauge the reaction of others.
  10. Used clothing stores are great for certain accessories. Why pay $30 for a new belt in a department store when you can get a better belt in your size for just $2? I like to shop at second-hand stores for hats. (Nice hats.)
  11. Look for clothes new with tags. Sometimes unsold department store inventory finds its way to used clothing stores and thrift shops. You’ll generally pay more for these items, but not much.
  12. If you won’t wear it, don’t buy it. You don’t save money buying a $3 shirt if it just sits in your closet for two years.
  13. Wash clothes when you get them home.
  14. Watch for sales. Used clothing stores (and thrift stores) run periodic specials. Our favorite local store just ran a half-off sale. The local thrift stores often have specials on certain items.
  15. If you go to the same store often, ask when they rotate stock. Stores get new shipments regularly. Most also have extra stock in storage. If you become familiar with the owners, you might even ask them to keep an eye out for particular items.
  16. Take your time. At normal clothing shops, everything is neatly organized. Not so at most thrift stores. When thrifting, it’s more important to be patient, to browse the racks methodically.
  17. If buying used clothes becomes a habit, institute a “one in-one out policy”. Every time you bring home something new, get rid of something old. (Give it away, take it to a thrift store, or save it for a garage sale.)
  18. Have fun! Buying used clothing can save you money. It’s also a fun way to kill a Saturday afternoon. At $3 an item, you can afford to be adventurous sometimes.

Another great thing about buying used is that you’re free to experiment a little bit more. It doesn’t hurt much to purchase a $5 cardigan sweater and then discover you’re not the sort for cardigans. On a recent shopping trip, for example, Kris picked up this garish pair of pants:

Kris thinks the pants are pretty hilarious. I do, too, but not in the same way. But what’s really surprising is the price tags. Check this out: these pants were originally priced at $288, but she picked them up for $8.99.

For many people, thrift stores offer an easy way to delve into frugal fashion. But most shops carry more than just clothes. If your budget is pinched, they’re an excellent place to find furniture, to pick up kitchenware, and even to find inexpensive entertainment. A large part of my personal finance library has been purchased from the local Goodwill (for about $3 per book).

Source: getrichslowly.org

Apache is functioning normally

Any day during hurricane season, the call could come. A storm approaches. After days of warnings and dissecting cones of uncertainty, you did the right thing by preparing for the storm and evacuating.

Once the storm passes, it’s time to assess how soon you make your way back home. Odds are you want to return as soon as you can. Hopefully, you can get in touch with your landlord or neighbors to get an idea of what the situation is like. And, you decide to pack up and head back.

But, before you go, there are many things to consider, from the safest way to get back, what you need to prep for your return and what to do once you get there. Where to start?

Apartments are different than homes after a hurricane

Living in an apartment is different from living in a house post-hurricane. If there’s damage, your landlord is responsible for much of it, and will hopefully coordinate with you on how to best approach the next few days and weeks. It’s helpful to have that advocate right on site who runs the property.

But, conversely, there’s just one landlord and dozens and possibly hundreds of tenants. Your landlord is also helping scores of other residents, as well.

And, frankly, the safety and operability of the building structure itself, the entranceways, lobbies and hallways, along with the utilities like heating, water and electricity, is their primary focus. Your wet carpets and damaged oven come second. Plus, their own personal home, and those of the building or complex staff, could have suffered damage they need to focus on.

To get you through the first few hours and days, here are a few tips for returning home after a hurricane to your apartment. We’re here to help.

Prepare yourself for your return home

Never forget, heading back home to your apartment after the hurricane has its own dangers. Just because the winds died down doesn’t mean the danger is past. You need to prepare and plan, know what you need to have and what you’re going to have to do.

Preparation and knowledge before you step foot inside will help you get through the next few days. However much you think you’re emotionally prepared to see your damaged home, it will probably hit you harder. If you can plan for the next steps, you can alleviate some of that emotional stress.

What to do before heading home

First thing first: Do not go home until the authorities say it is safe.

Even if it’s nice and sunny out, that doesn’t mean it’s safe. Take guidance from local authorities via television, internet or social media when returning home after a hurricane. When they say it’s safe — and only when they say it’s safe — you can head back.

Leave prepared and travel safely

Start out by packing as much preparation gear as you can. If you’re able, grab tools and supplies, portable phone chargers, flashlights and personal protective gear like gloves, boots and masks. Bring food you don’t need to heat up and plenty of bottled water.

Be careful out on the road. Follow any and all signs or officials directing traffic. Roads will have debris, downed power lines, broken traffic lights and, of course, flooding. If you can, try to return in the daylight in case the power is out. Try to go early to get as much daylight as possible.

When you arrive back at your apartment building

Hopefully, you’ve been able to coordinate with your landlord or property manager. If you have an idea of the procedure for safely getting back into your apartment, follow it. If you haven’t spoken to anyone from the property, try to find someone when you arrive. They’ll be busy but hopefully, they will set up an information center in the parking lot. If signs are directing you on what to do, follow them.

If there’s any flooding, pooled or standing water, avoid it. Don’t park in it, don’t walk in it. It could be contaminated with some very nasty stuff from raw sewage to sharp objects, or electrified.

Remember, all of your neighbors will be arriving, too. It might be very hectic. Be patient. Check in with management if you can. But, if you can’t, just head to your apartment if it seems safe to do so.

First steps in assessing the safety of your apartment

Once you can safely get to and into your apartment, if there’s damage, that’s when the real work begins. Whether there’s just a little damage or a lot, there are a few things to make everything safe and manageable after returning home after a hurricane.

If your apartment closes up for a few days, open up the doors and windows for it to air out. Do this for at least 30 minutes before staying inside. If there’s no power, use only flashlights and battery-operated lanterns. Don’t burn candles or torches. There could be gas leaks anywhere.

Be aware of dangers as you check out your place

Speaking of gas, if you smell any, you will need to turn off the supply gas valve for each of your appliances. Then contact the landlord, or call the gas company or fire department and stay out until cleared.

If the apartment floods, do not wade through water without waterproof boots tall enough to not allow water in. Even without flooding, if the carpets are wet, wear protective shoes. And in either scenario, make sure you don’t plug in or turn on anything touching standing water or wet carpets. Stay away from wet outlets.

And, seriously, be aware of wildlife. You wouldn’t believe where snakes have been found after a storm. Doesn’t matter if you’re on the fifth floor. You have no idea what the wind and water took with it. Same with rodents and tropical bugs. Look out for leeches and roaches.

Lastly, inspect the walls, especially at the corners. If you notice any structural damage or hear unusual shifting, get out and tell the landlord or a first responder. The worst-case scenario is collapse.

Carefully inspect the damage to your stuff

No flooding, gas leaks or crumbling walls? Great. That’s a big step. Next is inspecting your personal property and living areas. As you walk around, consider a damaged apartment as a work zone. There likely are hazards you can’t see. Wear PPE like gloves, boots, safety glasses and dust masks (mold will be a big problem). Put on a hard hat — you’re never too safe. And, if your skin comes in contact with flood water, clean it immediately. We all have plenty of leftover hand sanitizer. Use it.

As you look around and assess damage to your stuff, be careful. This is all overwhelming, but be aware of your surroundings.

How to assess your losses safely

In the kitchen, bathroom or elsewhere, do NOT use any electrical appliance that is or looks wet. And — this is obvious — do not operate appliances or electric tools and items while standing in water or on a soaked carpet or floor.

When you open cabinets, be careful. Items may have shifted. You don’t want a pile of plates to fall on your head. Don’t use sinks or flush toilets until you’ve assessed if there’s sewage or plumbing damage. And, check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors to ensure they are still working properly.

If the power is out and you decide to use a generator, keep it outside. Put it on the porch or outside the window. Same with a grill or camp stove to cook. Don’t have a place outside? Don’t use it.

If a particular room is severely damaged or dangerous, put up a barrier so others know the dangers when walking in.

And — we can’t stress this enough — if you suffer any injuries while cleaning up, particularly cuts and scrapes, seek medical attention. An open wound and dirty water is a recipe for infections like tetanus.

Dealing with water damage

If you were in a house you owned, water damage to walls and carpets would be top of your list to address. In an apartment, it still is. But, that’s the responsibility of your landlord. However, as we’ve said, he’s dealing with every other tenant’s issues, as well. But, water damage doesn’t care. You still need to act quickly.

You can still save carpets that have been wet from flood or rain for under two days.

Cleaning up and drying out

You can start cleaning and drying in order to save as much as you can before the landlord can get to it. If you have power and electricity is safe, start cleaning wet and damp fabric carpets with a wet-vac or shop-vac, or the vacuum function on a steam cleaner. Then, set up fans to dry everything out if you can. This all goes for furniture and anything upholstered, as well. But, you should remove anything waterlogged or items you can’t save from the home immediately.

If there’s still standing water, you can remove it with a water transfer pump or sump pump. But, assume you’ll have mold. And, your carpet padding is probably a goner.

Time to start fixing up

You’ve gotten your bearings and assessed that everything is safe. Whether you have a little damage or a lot, there will be plenty to clean up and fix up after returning home after a hurricane.

Start here. If you have broken windows, tape or board them up. You don’t want additional weather damage, vandals or bugs, birds and bears.

How to approach damage to your personal property

This is important: Before you do anything, document everything!

Take pictures and videos of every room. Take close-ups of severe damage. Get shots of anything that’s damaged, from clothes to electronics to food in the fridge, that you might claim on insurance or warranty.

Then, and only then, begin to separate out your damaged personal property. Make a list of everything that’s damaged and its contents. Write down what it is, including the brand, year purchased, place purchased and condition. After you’ve documented everything, you can start throwing out anything that’s water damaged or beyond repair.

Anything structural in your apartment from windows to carpets to outlets is the responsibility of your landlord. But, if you do need to purchase anything to make minor repairs for livability, save all bills and receipts.

Don’t make any permanent repairs without telling and getting approval from your landlord.

Your renters insurance and your lease

Now is a good time to mention renters insurance. Hopefully, you have it. Depending on your coverage and your insurer, you’re likely covered for storm damage from wind and rain for your personal items. If you’re lucky, you also have coverage for flood damage. Yes, even though it is the same hurricane, items damaged by rain and items damaged by flood waters are different things.

If you live in an area prone to it, hopefully, you were able to obtain flood insurance, as well. It is likely renters insurance doesn’t cover that.

This is why we insisted you document before you clean up. When you’re able, read back over your renters insurance policy and determine what it covers as far as damage and loss and what is not. For the items your policy covers — since you were so diligent in taking pictures and writing down everything — begin the process of filing your claims.

Patience with the process and further steps

Be mindful that literally millions of people will be filing insurance claims. The approval process will be very long and very frustrating. Be prepared to live with what you can for a while. This is another reminder that if you need to fix or buy anything, keep all your receipts.

As well, peruse your lease to make sure your landlord is providing all the care, repair and needs that they agreed to in your lease. Every lease, like every insurance policy, is different.

And, in the terrible situation where your apartment becomes unlivable in the short term, check both your renters insurance and your lease to see if you’re covered for temporary housing and accommodations. Your insurance may also cover living expenses like food or clothing.

But if your apartment is livable, there are ways to start living with it.

Short-term living with the damage

If you have minor damage or are able to clean and repair enough to stay in your apartment, you might be living in a messy apartment for a while until the landlord can get around to fixing everything in every damaged apartment.

The most important item is potable water. Do not use tap water unless you know for sure it is safe. If there is a local boil water advisory, heed it. That goes for drinking, cooking, washing clothes or dishes or hands or brushing your teeth. Use bottled water if necessary.

Do not eat food that has been in contact with flood waters. Do not eat refrigerated food that was without power for over 24 hours. If it smells or looks bad, don’t eat it. If you get delivery, tip that person a lot if you can.

Recovery is a long-term process

Remember, not everything hazardous will be apparent as you gleaned during your initial assessment. There could be hidden dangers from cracked water heaters to unseen mold. Talk to your landlord and have a plan to assure that everything is safe and livable. And, in time, things will get back to normal.

But, if the experience of returning home after a hurricane, physically or emotionally, has you thinking about finding another place, check out all the great availabilities in your area or anywhere around the country (or far away from the coast) on Rent.

For further details, check out the advice from the federal government on the FEMA and ready.gov websites.

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice. Readers are encouraged to seek professional legal or financial advice as they may deem it necessary.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

When the time comes to find a new apartment, searching for the right place at the right price can take up a good deal of your free time. With millions of rental properties across the U.S. to choose from, how do apartment seekers know they’re finding the best options out there from the sheer number available? You may fear missing out on good options just because you don’t know the best places to look for apartments.

But, if you know the right places to search for apartments, you will find the cream of the crop.

Where to look for apartment listings, from rental websites to word of mouth

Thanks to the convenience and accessibility of the internet, you can search for your next apartment anytime, anywhere. But, there are plenty of other excellent places to look for apartments that fit your price range and lifestyle.

Internet search

Nowadays, the internet is our go-to for pretty much everything. That makes it the best place to look for apartments.

Using any internet search engine, do a keyword search for “apartments in [your city].” Add descriptors like the size of the unit or amenities like pet-friendliness or having air conditioning.

Use the search filters to look for the most updated listings, and voila! Scroll through the search results to see what catches your eye and branch out from there.

Apartment rental sites like Rent.

Apart from a straightforward internet search, using apartment search sites like Rent. is one of the best tools in the apartment hunters’ arsenal. These easy-to-use sites show renters tons of rental options within a certain area, with customizable options to hone your search.

Starting with the home page, type in the name of the city or place you’re looking to rent. The site directs you to a listing page full of available apartments and units. As landlords and property managers can post listings directly, you have easy, instant access to hundreds of units all in one place.

The best rental websites also have map views for more precise apartment hunting. The map view feature allows you to zoom in or out to focus on specific areas or expand your search radius.

But, the apartment finder site often has hundreds of units to scroll through. How do you hone your search? On a banner near the top of the page, you’ll find multiple-choice fields. These allow you to customize your search. You can look for apartments by price range, unit size, square footage or amenities. You can also search by disability access or income-restricted housing.

Highlighting the amenities that are the most important to you is one of the best ways to weed out undesirable apartments or focus on luxury properties. For pet owners in search of dog-or-cat-friendly units, there’s an option for that. You can also search by whether or not it includes utilities, if units come with air conditioning or if the complex has parking. Once you update the search filters with your filtered options, you can do price comparisons and compare the best features.

Apartment search mobile apps

If you’re always out and about, many apartment finder websites now have rental apps, allowing you to search for apartments on the go.

Simply download the app, put in your search criteria and let the hunt continue no matter where you are.

Community gathering places

Go analog by checking the notice boards at community spaces. Libraries, gyms, parks, grocery stores and other gathering places often have notice boards for local events, businesses and even available apartments. Smaller landlords in your community sometimes post adverts looking for new tenants. This is also a great way to find short-term rentals.

If you’re in a new city, searching these boards is another way to learn more about your new home and connect with the community.

Real estate websites

Real estate websites aren’t just for buying anymore. Many now have separate sections for rentals, offering similar customizable search features.

Since lots of people don’t realize they can look for apartment rentals on a real estate website, that gives you an edge. You may find that the site offers new listings unavailable elsewhere online, giving you a step up in applying first.

Online neighborhood groups

If you’re seeking rentals within a specific neighborhood, see if the area has an online group you can join. Social media sites like Facebook have neighborhood community groups where residents can interact.

Whether you’re new to the area or a long-term local, add a post asking if there are any available apartment rentals. Just be sure to not give away too much personal information.

Property management companies

Large management companies often have their own website where they share available listings in their buildings. If there’s a particular operator you’re interested in renting from, go to the managing company’s website to see if they have anything posted.

Apartment complex websites

If there’s a particular apartment complex you’re interested in living in, you can look directly at their website, as well. Along with photos and information about the unit size and square footage, the listings will include how much rent is for different-sized apartments.

Newer apartment buildings will often have multiple units available and sometimes, have special deals to celebrate their opening.

Ask your landlord or property manager

If you’re happy with your current landlord and living situation but are looking to upgrade your apartment size, ask the landlord or property manager if they have any other units available.

Sometimes, landlords and property managers own or operate multiple apartment buildings. If you’ve had a good experience renting from them in your current unit, ask if they have similar apartments or other buildings you can look at.

Rental brokers

Like a real estate broker, a rental broker holds your hand and guides you through the apartment search process. Taking your list of requirements, they look through all the available search options to bring you a curated list. They can direct you to listings you may otherwise have missed, narrow down your options and ultimately help you save money.

With them doing all the grunt work, working with a rental broker is also useful if you’re in a time crunch or moving from far away and can only do video tours.

Unlike real estate brokers, though, rental brokers can earn compensation from landlords or management companies for bringing them new tenants in the form of referral fees. If the broker comes well-recommended, you’ll know that they only partner with respectable, top-quality landlords.

Ask friends and family

Who can you trust more to give you honest advice or feedback than your loved ones?

Whether you’re moving cities or moving neighborhoods, ask family and friends in the area if they know of any apartments available for rent. You trust their word and they can direct you to some good finds.

Tour prospective neighborhoods

If you have a specific neighborhood in mind you’d like to live in, scope it out in person to see if you find any “For Rent” signs. Exploring a neighborhood in person also gives you a better sense if you’ll be happy there or not. You can also check if it has all the amenities you need like nearby schools or public transportation.

Reading neighborhood guides in magazines and websites will also give you a good sense of what the area has to offer. These informational guides give you an overview of the area, with practical information, such as its walk score and if public transit is nearby. But, it’ll also list fun benefits of living in the area, like cool restaurants, stores and neighborhood activities.

What to look for in a new apartment

Every renter’s needs are different, so what exactly you need in an apartment varies by person. But there are some things all worthwhile apartments should have in common. You don’t want to pay rent for a unit that’s in bad condition or unsafe to live in.

Here’s what to look for in each apartment you visit during your search:

  • The entire unit is clean and in good condition, with no mold, mildew, water stains, peeling wallpaper or other signs of neglect
  • The appliances function properly (stove, fridge, oven, etc.)
  • Water runs properly in the showers, sinks and toilets, and hot and cold water options work
  • The electrical outlets work
  • All doors and windows properly close and lock
  • Functional heater and AC
  • Check for signs of rodent infestation like chew marks or droppings

How to stay organized during your apartment search

As you look through all the apartment search sites during your apartment hunt, you need to keep track of all the rental listings you like. Otherwise, you could forget where you found that one listing that was just right and miss out on applying in time.

As you find apartments that catch your eye, save listings in your bookmark tab. You can also organize them in a spreadsheet or word document with direct links for easy access.

This can also help you weed out duplicate listings if landlords list properties in multiple places, as well as share your finds with your roommates or live-in partners.

When should you start looking for your next apartment?

It’s a good rule of thumb to start your apartment search one to two months before your expected move-in date.

There are several reasons for this. First, you’ll need to give notice that you’re leaving your current apartment. Some landlords require that you give notice 30 days before vacating, others require 60 days. Check the terms of your lease agreement to know exactly when you need to notify your landlord that you’re leaving.

Secondly, you don’t want to start your apartment search too soon. If you find a unit you like but your move-in date is too far away, the landlord may not hold the apartment for you. A couple of months gives you ample time to search and apply for your new home.

Be prepared when you find the best apartment for you

Good, well-priced apartments go fast in today’s competitive rental market. As you’re searching for your new apartment, it’s a good idea to have all the documents and information you need to apply ready to go. That way, as soon as you find an apartment you like, you can apply instantly and start the process.

Using the best apartment rental sites gives you an edge in the apartment hunt

Giving you the most listings in rental markets all over America, Rent. helps you find the best apartment for you with ease.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

A newly named company called Noah (formerly Patch Homes) lets you access up to $300,000 of your home equity in exchange for future home price appreciation.

The arrangement requires no monthly payments or interest, and all they ask is that you pay them back in 10 years.

They refer to it as a “home equity sharing product,” which actually could make a lot of sense during a crisis such as the coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic currently ravaging the world.

It allows homeowners to access cash without being burdened with payments, something that may come in handy if a borrower were temporarily laid off or experienced a similar loss of income.

How Noah Works

Noah’s home equity sharing product allows homeowners to tap into their equity without having to execute a cash out refinance or apply for a HELOC or home equity loan.

In doing so, no monthly payments or interest are due. However, in exchange for access to that cash, you must part with a percentage of your home price appreciation, which can range between 15% and 40%.

So while you get the money today, you get less in the future when you sell your home, similar to how a reverse mortgage works.

If the property happens to decrease in value during the 10-year term, Noah will also share in the losses, assuming you don’t exit the contract within the first three years.

In the example on their website (pictured above), a property with an adjusted price of $900,000 rises to $1,343,916 after a decade.

Noah would get $233,175 in this scenario, with $100,000 being their initial investment, and $133,175 being their profit via appreciation. It appears to be a 15% share in this example.

If the home falls in value, Noah would only receive $51,227 of its original $100,000 investment back.

Both these scenarios assume the homeowner exits the contract on the expiration date of a 10-year term.

Their business model is similar to EquityKey, Point, and Unison Home, all of which give homeowners access to funds without payments in exchange for future profits.

How You Pay Noah Back

  • You can use proceeds from a cash out refinance
  • You can sell your home
  • You can pay it off with a home equity loan, HELOC, or reverse mortgage
  • Or simply pay them back with your own funds on hand

As noted, Noah makes money by receiving a portion of your home price appreciation.

This is based on either the sales price if you sell, or the appraised value when you choose to buy them out.

They say the majority of their homeowner partners share between 15% to 40% of future appreciation, with no cap or floor amount.

My assumption is the more you borrow, the more appreciation you must share.

You’ll need to pay that percentage plus the original amount borrowed to satisfy your exit.

In order to pay Noah back, you’ve got four main options.

You can refinance your mortgage with a traditional lender and use the proceeds to pay it off.

You can take out a home-equity loan, HELOC, or a reverse mortgage, and use the funds to pay Noah.

You can sell your home, and have Noah paid directly via escrow with the proceeds.

Or, you can simply use your cash savings on hand to pay them back.

It’s also possible to refinance your Noah agreement into a new Noah agreement.

Applying with Noah

  • Get an estimate by entering your home address and some basic details
  • Complete an online application and get your credit pulled
  • Schedule a home appraisal to determine value
  • Sign your documents and receive your funds

First, you request an estimate by entering your property address into their online form.

It will pull your home value automatically and ask you some basic questions, such as what you currently owe, along with your credit score.

Assuming you want to proceed, you enter basic contact information and then submit a full application online.

This process will be similar to applying for a mortgage, requiring a credit check and the uploading of relevant income/asset documentation.

Next, an appraiser will visit your home to provide an independent assessment of its value.

However, Noah only uses that valuation as a baseline – they then adjust for “appraisal variance, lack of liquidity, and market risk.”

In other words, the appraiser may say the home is worth $500,000, but Noah could adjust it down to $450,000 when all is said is done.

They will then make a final funding offer that outlines how much you’ll receive and the percentage of future appreciation you’ll share with Noah.

Once you sign closing documents with a notary, they’ll transfer the funds within a few days. Noah estimates that the process can take as little as 15 days.

Noah Fees

It’s important to note that Noah does charge fees, despite not charging interest or requiring monthly payments.

Their servicing fee, which is basically a loan origination fee, is $2,000 or 3% of the financing amount, whichever is higher. It covers the processing and underwriting of the loan.

Additionally, third-party fees also apply, including the following:

• Title and escrow: ranges between $520 and $750
• Title insurance: $400
• Home appraisal: $299
• Affordable housing fees: between $150 and $225
• Notary fee: $100

Note: For a limited time (now until May 1st, 2020), they are offering all new customers a $1,000 discount on fees at closing.

Who Is Eligible for Noah?

  • Most property types including single-family homes, condos, and townhouses
  • Primary, second homes, and investment properties
  • Must have a minimum 600 FICO score and clean credit history
  • Property must be valued between $300,000 and $3 million in an eligible area
  • Homeowners typically take out 5% to 20% of their property value
  • Financing amount is capped at a maximum of 80% LTV

Not everyone is eligible for Noah, just like not everyone qualifies for a mortgage. There are many different requirements that you must meet, including property and borrower-specific items.

First off, you need a minimum FICO score of 600, which is below subprime. They use the average of the three credit bureaus, just like traditional mortgage lenders do.

Next, you can’t have multiple 60-day or 90-day delinquencies on your credit report, nor can you be in active bankruptcy or foreclosure proceedings.

You’ll also need sufficient income/savings to cover current debt obligations.

They allow a very flexible 60% max DTI, but anything above that will require that you use Noah proceeds to pay down debt.

With regard to the property itself, it must be valued between $300,000 and $3 million, and you must have at least 25% equity at the time of application.

It can be a single-family home or a condo/townhouse. They also consider tenancy in common (TICs) units and co-ops on a case-by-case basis.

Noah is available on primary residences, second homes, and investment properties.

You cannot have more than three liens on the property, but if you do, Noah proceeds can be used to pay them down/off.

Any private mortgages or loans from private money lenders must be paid off if you partner with Noah.

Lastly, your property should not be involved in any sort of major construction beyond minor home repairs or renovations, and it must be located in one of their service areas.

Where Is Noah Available?

At the moment, Noah isn’t available nationwide, but there are plans to expand across the country later this year, including major East Coast cities.

Currently, Noah is available in 20 metro areas across five states, including:

– Boulder
– Colorado Springs
– Denver
– Fort Collins
– Los Angeles
– Ogden
– Portland
– Provo
– Salt Lake City
– San Diego
– San Francisco
– San Luis Obispo
– San Jose
– Santa Barbara
– Santa Cruz
– Santa Rosa
– Seattle
– Tacoma
– Vancouver (WA)
– West Riverside

Noah’s Homeowner Protection Program

As a Noah homeowner partner, you also have access to “protective advances” via their Homeowner Protection Program.

If you run into financial difficulty, they are able to provide additional funds for things like emergency repairs, or simply to make mortgage and/or property tax payments.

They can provide up to $10,000 based on your property profile, and the term matches your Noah contract. It takes 3-5 days to receive your funds.

The difference here is interest does accrue on the amount borrowed (unclear on APR, it may vary), and there is a processing fee of $500.

While you can pay it back at any time to limit interest charges, you must pay it off in full, no partial payments are accepted.

Note: Noah is waiving all administrative/processing fees for the HPP until May 1st, 2020, and all protective advances offered via the program until May 1st will be interest-free for the first 90 days.

Is Noah a Good Option for Homeowners?

  • May be a good alternative to a home equity line/loan or reverse mortgage
  • Or for someone who has trouble qualifying for a traditional mortgage
  • Just be sure to consider the upfront fees and how much appreciation they ask for in exchange
  • Other companies offer similar arrangements so still comparison shop!

Like anything else, it really depends on your unique financial situation and your needs.

Those with limited assets in need of cash, or those who have trouble qualifying for a traditional mortgage or home equity product might be a good fit.

The same goes for those on a fixed income who want to tap into their equity, but don’t want a reverse mortgage.

While you could part with quite a bit of your home price appreciation in the future, you aren’t on the hook for monthly payments. And the cash could come in handy if you’re in a pinch.

The current coronavirus outbreak and related economic disruption is a perfect example of how this type of arrangement could benefit homeowners in need of money when an unexpected emergency strikes.

Noah also shares in some of the downside risk, assuming home prices fall during the 10-year term (and you buy them out after the first 3 years).

Tip: There are now several companies offering these types of partnerships, so if you do go down this road, be sure to compare costs and offers to determine who has the best deal.

(photo: Marco Verch)

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com

Apache is functioning normally

Everyone understands the importance of a good spring cleaning, but why only reserve a fresh start to once a year?? The change in weather already forces you to swap your shorts for sweaters so while you’re knee deep in your closet, might as well keep the momentum goin’, right? I, for one, know that my house needs a serious deep clean and this cute and simple Idea to Steal has me excited to purge and organize!

I love the idea of using a super chic brass towel rack to organize your belts, jewelry and sunnies! These are some of the most awkward accessories to keep tidy. Belts don’t keep shape when you roll them, necklaces get tangled and sunnies just take up so much counter space. This simple fix would SO solve my problem of always hunting for my latest fave pair of sunglasses!

I know I’m not the only on out there with this problem. How do you manage all those random bits and baubles? If you need more Ideas to Steal to help organize your life, check them out here!

via stylizimo

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Source: apartment34.com

Apache is functioning normally

Imagination and kids go hand-in-hand. And when it’s playtime, children should have a room filled with toys that spark their imagination and creativity. Whether it’s a kitchen play set for an aspiring chef or a crafting table for all sorts of creations, the options are endless. If you’re looking for a way to highlight your child’s creative mind in your home, this Redfin article is for you. 

So, whether you live in a house in Duluth, MN, or a Wilmington, NC, apartment, read on for 12 expert-backed kids’ playroom decor ideas to help spruce up your kids’ spaces. 

1. Make sure every item has a dedicated place

First, focus on design and organization. It’s important to design a playroom with purpose so kids can learn valuable skills and make the most out of their space. “A great way to do this is to make sure that there is a place for each of their items,” says Adriano Tori, founder & CEO of RexMont Real Estate. “This not only makes the room less cluttered, but it also teaches kids about organization and respecting their belongings.” 

2. Include an organizing system

No matter the space, make sure to include an organizing system. Bins are a great way to do this. “Bins are perfect for filing, categorizing, and storing different things,” says the team at Biltmore Design Galleria. “Use a variety of sizes filled with similar items to make your organized system work best,” they suggest. “You can also bring this system to many areas of your home, including bathrooms, closets, and even small spaces.”

3. Label storage with pictures and words

When using storage bins, take photos of the contents and label them with both the picture and the words. “Not only does this help keep toys organized, but it also promotes literacy skills as children connect the written words to the image,” comments Stacey Grumet, founder & CEO of Paper Pinecone. “And don’t forget to make books easily accessible.”

4. Choose a fun theme

Consider designing a playroom around a theme that reflects your child’s interests, like travel, outer space, or under the sea. “Incorporate fun wallpapers, murals, stencils, and decals, while adding small on-theme decorative touches throughout,” notes the team at GTC Design. “Once you establish your overall theme, complement them with cozy cushions, accessible bookshelves, art supplies, and anything else your kid desires.”  

Regardless of your theme or decor, prioritize safety by choosing child-friendly furniture, securing heavy items, using non-toxic materials, and adding soft foam mats as necessary. 

5. Use playful colors

One of the first items on your kids’ playroom decor list should be invigorating, playful paint colors for the playroom’s walls. “Options include sky blues, sunshine yellows, or warm greens,” says Heather Sheridan, owner of Decorating Den Interiors. “If you decide to go with a specific theme, such as a jungle theme or princess theme, use wall decals that are easy to peel off the walls,” she suggests. “Regardless, make sure your kid likes the colors and that they will stand the test of time.” 

6. Create an engaging art room

Build a colorful art space that will evoke creativity and help kids be naturally attracted to it. “When you’re designing an art room, first, figure out what your kids like to do, what development stage they’re in, and how you want the room to look,” suggests Ann Cox, owner of Ann Cox Design. “Then, display enough art items that encourage without feeling too cluttered,” she says. “If you have room, try to fit some of your kids’ original artwork in the design as well.”

7. Invest in fun, transitional furniture

Furniture should grow with your kids, so it’s important to choose quality items that are safe and fun for your kids’ playrooms. “Instead of getting cutesy tiny chairs, choose a couple of great armchairs or a sectional that you can use solo or for family time,” notes the team at Mecc Interiors. “If you want them to be cleanable, get some custom washable slipcovers that will allow you to clean and swap out simply and easily.” 

8. Include ways for kids to get their energy out

Kids need to move, so their playrooms should encourage it. “Incorporate items like a toddler trampoline, nugget play couch, and wood climber that take the place of small toys and get all that toddler energy out,” suggest Kyle and Kim Griffiths from State of Play Kids.

9. Create zones for maximum efficiency

Since kids tend to get bored with the same toys each day, use zones to create an area where items can be rotated out every day. “This way, you don’t have to have each and every toy organized and out on display all of the time,” advises Jess Klein, owner of Jess Klein Studio. “For toy storage, consider getting a bunch in one color, since toys can already be visually overwhelming.”

10. Carve out a hideaway underneath the stairs

A fun, space-saving option is to create a secret hideout by adding some fun, festive lights and shelves to the nook area under your stairs. “This is a great area to build towering block castles, do puzzles and experiment with science kits,” says the team at Green Piñata Toys. “Plus, a monthly subscription to a toy or science rental service keeps your hideout freshly stocked and clutter-free.” 

11. Stock the playroom with open-ended, age-appropriate materials

Toys should have multiple uses, especially if they’re going to last for more than a year. “Examples include wooden blocks, art supplies like play dough, and even things from nature like sand, water, rocks or sticks,” notes Lauren Besack, Ducklings Early Learning Franchise Director of Curriculum Development. “These toys encourage creativity, experimentation, trial and error, problem-solving, and critical thinking.”

12. Incorporate custom millwork to maximize space

No matter the room, custom millwork is great for tailoring a space to your kids’ specific needs. “You can add multi-use, custom-crafted built-in furniture to fit a variety of play styles,” says Genevieve Chambliss from Vieve Interiors. “Options include bunk beds with lots of cozy features, a built-in desk, a reading nook, or a custom closet,” she suggests. “These options will maximize space and give your kids more floor space to spread out and play.”

Source: redfin.com