Issuu

Compliments of Kelli Grant Group

issue 11

Bathroom Lighting Bright ideas for improved illumination PAGE 24

home upgrades | 01 2023 real estate market trends | 40

Kelli Grant Group, CLHMS, RSPS REALTORS® Office: (480) 779-9656

ISSUE 11 COVER PRICE $6.99

Keller Williams Arizona Realty 5355 E High St Ste 129 Phoenix, AZ 85050

53939 38570

Front of Tear Out Card 1

Kelli Grant Group, CLHMS, RSPS REALTORS®

Office: (480) 779-9656 Email: YourTeam@KelliGrantGroup.com www.KelliGrantGroup.com Keller Williams Arizona Realty 5355 E High St Ste 129 Phoenix, AZ 85050

Back of Tear Out Card 1

written by: LAUREN KIM

HOME UPGRADES to simplify your life

Dear Bill and Judy,

When winter arrives, you might want to rest and relax. These

simple upgrades can make your home more comfortable. What exciting opportunities come to mind when you think of the new year? For many, another trip around the sun means a chance to try something different. This issue of Good to Be Home offers ideas for effortlessly organizing your kitchen's pantry space, expectations for the CREATE A MORE LET TECHNOLOGY real estate market, home-improvement resolutions, and ways to make WELCOMING ENTRY WORK FOR YOU the most of your extra spaces. The kitchen is the heart of the home, but as a space used for cooking, eating, and hanging out, it can easily fall into disorder. The pantry is a great place to begin to get your kitchen organized, and the guide in this issue can help you to do so with ease.

These items can make your

There are many ways to get

entryway a more functional

things done at home while

and pleasant space.

barely moving a muscle.

Keyless lock Free your hands The real estate market has had its ups and downs over the last few years, most of which have benefited sellers. So what's in store for 2023? With a keyless-entry lock, you can A simple tap can start the Inside you'll find insights into the changes the year might bring. quickly punch in a code to open water running with a touchYou may have New Year's resolutions planned for yourself, but you might not have them for your home. Check out the enclosed home-resolutions guide for inspiration to improve the safety and organization of your living spaces.

Kelli Grant Group, CLHMS, RSPS REALTORS® SA562433000

the door. Some models can be

enabled kitchen faucet, and

controlled through an app on your

motion-sensor lights can

Office: (480) 779-9656 phone and can be paired with a automatically light up dark Email: YourTeam@KelliGrantGroup.com smart-home system, like Amazon hallways for you. Instead of Speaking of living spaces, are you making the most of the infrequently www.KelliGrantGroup.com Alexa or Google Nest, that you can getting up to turn on the lights used areas of your home? If not, the tips in this issue can help you Facebook: @KelliGrantRealty transform these rooms into places you'll actually want to spend time activate through voice command. or close the blinds, you can Instagram: @KelliJGrant in.

May the new year bring ample opportunities to embrace positive changes for you and your home. As always, it's a pleasure to send you this magazine.

Kelli Grant Group

Keller Williams Arizona Realty 5355 E High St Ste 129 Phoenix, AZ 85050

Some keyless locks will even lock

use apps and a smart-home

the door for you once you’re inside.

hub to do it instead.

A place to remove your shoes

Automate tasks

Winter shoes often get wet, so you’ll

You can use your smart-home

want to take them off promptly. You

hub to create a schedule

could add a bench with shoe storage

so that in the morning, for

below by your front door and a

example, your blinds will

plug-in shoe dryer so your footwear

open, your coffee maker

will be dry when you need it. You

will start, and your washing

might also want to add a place to

machine will wash the clothes

hang coats, hats, and scarves.

you put in the night before. GOOD goodtobehome.com TO BE HOME

| 1

24 PUBLISHER

table of

CONTENTS 04

Chief Executive Officer Steven Acree publisher@remindermedia.com EXECUTIVE

President Luke Acree Chief Marketing Officer Joshua Stike Chief Operating Officer Michael Graziola

household management

01 Simple Home Upgrades 08 Tips for Hiring a Home Contractor 12 Create a Perfectly Organized Pantry

decor

MARKETING

Director of Marketing Dan Acree Director of Creative Services Kristin Sweeney Brand Content Manager Jessica Fitzpatrick marketing@remindermedia.com

Better Bathroom Lighting

home improvement

EDITORIAL

Editorial Manager Alexa Bricker Layout Designer Alicia Mastrian Senior Editor Matthew Brady Content Writers Lauren Kim, Rachel Stevens, Bonnie Joffe

30 Choosing a Home Generator 34 Creative Ways to Use a Spare Room

editorial@remindermedia.com SALES AND CLIENT SUCCESS

Vice President of Client Success Ethan Acree Vice President of Operations Nicholas Bianco Vice President of Sales Michael Campanile hello@remindermedia.com OPERATIONS

food

Vice President of IT Thomas Setliff Director of Projects Kelsie Schmall Director of Business Intelligence Daniel Gallaway Director of Manufacturing Shannon Mosser Vice President of Finance Shana Lebofsky Director of HR John Keogh

landscaping

hr@remindermedia.com

Good to Be Home is published by ReminderMedia. For more information about Good to Be Home, please visit us at www.remindermedia.com, email us at info@remindermedia.com, or call us at 866-458-4226. All rights reserved.

This magazine is for information and entertainment purposes only; it is not an attempt to solicit business.

All photos in Good to Be Home are provided by Getty Images unless noted.

Frost-Resistant Plants

seasonal

NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE EXPRESSED WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHER.

The contents of Good to Be Home are for editorial purposes only.

Fast Food Done Right

04 40

2023 Home Resolutions Real Estate Market Predictions

issue 11

CLEAN YOUR DRYER According to a National Fire Protection analysis, over 13,000 dryer fires are reported each year on average, and the leading cause of these fires is a failure to clean out the dryer vent and lint screen. Make sure you clean the lint screen after each use, and

Out with the old, and in

have your dryer vent cleaned at least once

with the new! When you’re

a year, if not twice a year if you have a

thinking through your goals

larger household that uses the dryer a lot.

for the months ahead, make

If you can’t remember the last time you or

your home a priority too.

a professional cleaned the ductwork, then

home resolutions The following ideas can

make sure you clean it as soon as possible.

help you set resolutions to

improve your living space.

2

GOOD TO BE HOME

written by: RACHEL STEVENS

INSPECT AND TEST YOUR DETECTORS Checking your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, radon detectors, and other safety devices is one of the best things you can do to help prepare you and your household for an emergency. Depending on the type of devices you have, you may need to change their batteries as often as every six months.

DEVISE A HOUSEHOLD SAFETY PLAN It's important to prepare your household,

MAKE SAFETY A PRIORITY

especially children, for emergency scenarios,

Everyone is guilty of forgetting to turn off an appliance

such as a power outage, house fire, or

or blow out a candle from time to time, but this year,

robbery. Type and print a list of emergency

take these steps to keep your home's safety top of mind.

phone numbers and procedures for everyone to keep in their bedrooms and the central

POST AND SET REMINDERS

locations in your home. Don’t forget little

You’ll be less likely to forget important safety measures

details, too, such as making sure you prep

if you post sticky notes throughout your home, like Clean

the second floor of your home (or rooms with

the lint screen near the dryer and Lock the door by the

a high elevation) for an emergency exit with

front door. You can also set reminders on your phone for

collapsible ladders. No one likes to think

tasks that you might not do every day, such as changing

about worst-case scenarios, but you’ll be glad

batteries in your smoke detectors.

you did in the event of an emergency. goodtobehomemag.com

| 5

You don’t have to clear all your clutter in one day. It takes time to part with items and find homes for what you’re keeping, but there are a few ways to help spread out the decluttering process.

DOWNSIZE CLUTTER

FOCUS ON ONE ROOM AT A TIME

Clutter can make your home feel chaotic

Make a list of the rooms in your house, and

and suffocating. However, getting

order them from most to least cluttered. Start

rid of it can be challenging. Try these

from the top of your list, and tackle each room

strategies to control your clutter once

using your preferred method. By the time

and for all this year.

you get to the bottom of the list, the tasks will become easier and less time-consuming.

PACE YOURSELF You don’t have to clear all your clutter in one day. It takes time to part with items and find homes for what you’re keeping, but there are a few ways to help spread out the decluttering process. For example, the one-a-day method requires you to let go of only one item per day. You can also try the KonMari Method, which breaks down your household items into categories and asks you to reflect on whether each item sparks joy for you. By using these strategies, you can control the number of items you must

PLAN FOR THE EMPTY SPACES

sort through over time.

Once you find better places for your items, you should be left with uncluttered places in your home. While you’ll breathe a sigh of relief at first, it might be tempting to let clutter overtake those areas again. To combat this, fill your empty spaces with useful pieces. For example, if you have a corner of the living room that piles up with junk, put a plant in that corner instead. Avoid adding new furniture with flat surfaces, as it can be tempting to start filling them with objects again.

By using these strategies, you can feel confident in your ability to keep your home safer and less cluttered this year.

GOOD TO BE HOME

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7 tips for hiring a professional

Home Contractor

written by: BONNIE JOFFE If you are a new homeowner and want to do a home face-lift, hiring the right professional home contractor can make the experience much more pleasant and stress-free. As a homeowner, you’re likely to have a lot on your to-do list. It could be any number of projects, ranging from adding a new coat of paint to refinishing floors to replacing the carpet to even doing a major renovation. No matter the project, doing your due diligence when hiring a contractor is well worth your time and effort. If you have just moved from another area and are not sure who to call, conduct a thorough online search. Websites such as Angi, HomeAdvisor (now owned by Angi), Thumbtack, Houzz, and Consumers' Checkbook can all provide great recommendations.

GOOD TO BE HOME

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There are also several items to consider

Warranties: Does the contractor offer

before signing on the dotted line. Use these

warranties? If so, read the terms and make

tips to help find the right person for the job:

sure you get everything in writing.

License and insurance: Check the

Permits: If permits are required (usually

contractor’s license and insurance, and

for electrical, plumbing, additions, or other

verify that they are valid and up to date.

structural changes), the contractor should

This also goes for subcontractors working

obtain them from the local government. When

on the job.

the work is completed, the permits should be closed out. Note that when you sell your home,

Recommendations/testimonials: Don’t be

proof of permits will be required. You may have

shy! Ask for at least two recommendations

to pay a hefty fine if this has not been done.

from previous clients, and read testimonials about the contractor’s work cleanliness,

Estimates: All estimates should be in writing

quality, and timeliness posted on sites such

and include the cost of materials and labor, an

as Yelp and HomeAdvisor. You can also go to

estimated date of completion, and a detailed

the Better Business Bureau’s website to read

list of jobs being performed.

complaints and search the internet for any lawsuits filed against the contractor.

Deposits/payments: It’s customary to pay an initial deposit—10 percent for smaller jobs and

Proof of work: When meeting the

up to 50 percent for larger projects. Only make

contractor, request to see a portfolio of

the final payment when you have inspected and

their completed jobs.

approved all aspects of the job.

Choosing a trusted professional home contractor can be a daunting task, but doing your homework can help you avoid major headaches later on. Also be sure to rely on referrals from others, such as your real estate agent or online customer reviews.

GOOD TO BE HOME

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create a

PERFECTLY

organized pantry written by: LAUREN KIM You might want a kitchen pantry filled with neatly arranged and labeled glass containers to contain all your dry goods, but if your storage space is tiny or features musty bottles of expired spices and various boxes crammed together, all hope is not lost. Follow this guide to create an orderly, functional, and, yes, beautiful pantry space.

GOOD TO BE HOME

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Evaluate your space You may need storage containers to effectively organize your space. Wire or clear plastic bins hold a lot and can clearly reveal what’s inside, while natural woven baskets are an eco-friendly option. Store flour away from direct light in an airtight container such as a Mason jar. Lazy Susans can hold spices and sauces and make them easier to reach. You can make use of the pantry floor with rolling bins or crates, while shelves and hooks can help you utilize wall space. You can add bamboo or plastic risers to shelves to better see everything and maximize an entire shelf. If your kitchen lacks a pantry closet, you can create the storage you need with a small cabinet or bookcase.

Clear it out It’s helpful to start with a clean slate, so empty everything from your pantry. Have boxes on hand to store your goods, and remove only a few items at a time to make this task less overwhelming. Check expiration dates, toss expired items, and take inventory of everything you are keeping. Once a shelf is cleared,

Organize

wipe it with a cloth and an all-purpose cleaner. If you

When organizing your pantry, group similar items,

have wire shelves, line them before returning food to

such as canned goods, and supplies that are used

them to keep items from falling to the floor.

together, such as baking ingredients, in one place. Snacks for kids or heavier items are best kept on low shelves. When restocking your pantry, put newer items in the back and push older ones to the front so you will use them first. If need be, label your bins to easily identify what is stored in each.

GOOD TO BE HOME

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Move items It may make sense to store some items in your pantry elsewhere, which may help you to create more pantry space and better organize what’s stored there. For example, you could put coffee pods underneath your coffee maker in a K-Cup organizer on your coffee cart and place your tea bags in a special container by your stove. Your bread could go in a countertop breadbox, while your mixer and other heavy appliances could be stored underneath your kitchen counter.

WITH A PLAN OF ACTION AND A LITTLE WORK, AN EFFICIENT

Keep it neat

and attractive-looking pantry can be in your future!

Once your pantry is newly organized, you’ll want to keep it that way. Regularly take stock of your pantry so you don’t forget what you already have. You can keep notes of your inventory on an app like Pantry Check or write a tally on a whiteboard or in a notebook; just be sure to update your list regularly.

With a plan of action and a little work, an efficient and attractive-looking pantry can be in your future!

GOOD TO BE HOME

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written by: ALEXA BRICKER

Fast Food done right

Fast food is synonymous with the words unhealthy, deep-fried, and convenient. And, while there are benefits to getting your food quickly, you don’t have to sacrifice nutrition or flavor to do it. These recipes from the Good Food Fast cookbook are packed with delicious and wholesome ingredients, and they come together in no time—giving whole new meaning to the idea of fast food.

Noodle Salad

recipes and images by: EMILY JONZEN

with Garlic Peanut Dressing This bright and crunchy noodle salad is perfect for a hot summer’s day. It requires minimal effort but delivers on flavor and texture. Peanut butters tend to vary in consistency, so you may need to water the dressing down a little, until pourable.

SERVES 4 • VEGAN • PREP TIME: 30 MINS • COOKING TIME: 6 MINS Ingredients:

Instructions:

4 ounces fine rice noodles

1. Soak the noodles in a bowl of boiling hot water for 5-6 minutes,

2 medium carrots

until just tender. Drain into a sieve, rinse with cold water and

2 medium courgettes

set aside.

4 spring onions 1 garlic clove

2. Peel the carrots and coarsely grate, along with the

A small bunch of coriander

courgettes. Trim and finely slice the spring onions. Peel and

4 sprigs of mint

crush the garlic. Roughly chop the coriander and finely shred

2 tablespoons peanuts

the mint leaves. Roughly chop the peanuts.

1 lime 2 tablespoons soy sauce

3. To make the dressing, juice the lime and mix with the garlic,

3 tablespoons peanut butter

soy sauce, peanut butter and sweet chili sauce. Toss with the

2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

noodles, vegetables and herbs. Top with the peanuts and serve.

GOOD TO BE HOME

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Roasted Togarashi Salmon with Citrus Sesame Dressing

Japanese shichimi togarashi is a mix of seven spices comprising chilies, aromatics, nori and seeds. It lends heat and umami to a variety of dishes and is a great way of adding flavor in a dash. You’ll find it in most supermarkets; it varies in heat so adjust the amount used according to your spice preference.

SERVES 4 • PREP TIME: 10 MINS • COOKING TIME: 30 MINS Ingredients:

Instructions:

9 ounces brown rice (I like basmati)

1. Preheat the oven to 395°F.

7 ounces frozen edamame beans 1 head of broccoli

2. Rinse the rice in a sieve and add to a pan with 17 fluid ounces

1 tablespoon sunflower oil

of water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 25 minutes, adding the

¾-inch piece of ginger

edamame beans for the final 5 minutes. Cover and leave to stand.

4 spring onions 4 salmon fillets

3. Cut the broccoli into small florets and the stalk into slices 3/8-inch

1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

thick. Tip into a large roasting tin, toss with the sunflower oil and

3 tablespoons light soy or tamari

roast for 5 minutes.

2 teaspoons shichimi togarashi 4 tablespoons tahini

4. Peel and finely grate the ginger. Finely slice the spring onions. Fold

Juice of 1 lime

the ginger and half of the spring onions through the broccoli and

1½ teaspoons mirin

make four spaces for the salmon fillets. Sprinkle over the sesame oil,

A pinch of sugar

2 tablespoons of the soy and the togarashi and return to the oven for 10-12 minutes, until the salmon is just cooked through (it will flake easily to the touch when ready).

5. To make the dressing, combine the tahini, lime juice, mirin and sugar.

6. Drain the rice, if necessary, and top with the salmon and vegetables. Drizzle over the dressing and sprinkle over the remaining spring onions before serving.

GOOD TO BE HOME

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Leek and Butter Bean Stew with Butter and Thyme Crumbs

A simple yet indulgent stew that can be adapted to suit any season. Cavolo nero is used in this wintry version but can be swapped for any seasonal green. Instead of being baked, the stew is topped with breadcrumbs and grilled until crisp and golden. Keep an eye on the breadcrumbs to avoid them catching.

SERVES 4 • VEGETARIAN • PREP TIME: 10 MINS • COOKING TIME: 30 MINS Ingredients:

Instructions:

1½ ounces butter

1. Melt the butter in a large sauté pan with a lid. Spoon

1¼ ounces fresh breadcrumbs

off half and stir through the breadcrumbs and thyme.

4 sprigs of thyme, leaves stripped

Season and set aside.

2 teaspoons olive oil 1 shallot, peeled and finely sliced

2. Add the oil to the pan and cook the shallots and celery

1 rib of celery, trimmed and finely chopped

for 4-5 minutes, until just softened. Peel and crush the

2 cloves of garlic

garlic. Trim and cut the leeks into 3/8-inch thick rounds.

1 pound 2 ounces leeks

Drain and rinse the beans in a sieve. Add the garlic and

2 (14 ounce) cans of butter beans

leeks to the pan, cook for 1 minute, then pour in the

19 fluid ounces vegetable stock

stock, cover and simmer gently for 15 minutes.

7 ounces cavolo nero 1½ tablespoons wholegrain mustard 4 tablespoons double cream

3. Meanwhile, strip the tough stalks from the cavolo nero and finely shred the leaves. Add to the stew with the mustard and cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes, until just wilted.

4. Heat the grill to medium. Transfer the stew to an ovenproof dish and sprinkle over the breadcrumbs. Grill for 2-3 minutes, until crisp and golden.

GOOD TO BE HOME

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better

written by: RACHEL STEVENS

Pick the right light temperature To have great bathroom lighting, you should understand and adjust to the right color temperature. Every light has a color temperature measured in

bathroom lighting

kelvin (K). The lower the temperature rating, the warmer, or redder, the light appears. The higher the temperature, the cooler, or bluer, the light appears. For example, a candle flame has a temperature of 1,800 K, and daylight during a snowfall is around 6,500 K. Most people find lighting between 2,700 K and 3,000 K comfortable and familiar.

SKIN TONE When colors look unnatural, bathroom tasks like applying makeup can be difficult. It’s important to choose light temperatures that complement your

skin tone. Some people have warmer, pink undertones in their skin while

athroom lighting is not often at the

others have cooler, olive undertones,

top of interior design priorities,

for example. Buying an LED light with

but it is one of the most important

changeable color for your vanity can

design elements in your home.

help you balance the light and create

These are the lights that greet you peacefully in

the perfect setting for you.

the morning and help you wind down at night. Great bathroom lighting can make your bathroom

COLOR COMPLEMENTING

feel larger, help you complete important tasks,

In addition to balancing your skin

and highlight your bathroom’s best features.

tone, it’s beneficial to choose a light temperature that complements your bathroom's color scheme. When in doubt, consider warmer light to make your space feel cozy instead of cold.

GOOD TO BE HOME

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DIFFUSERS No one likes feeling as if there’s a spotlight on them in the bathroom; spotlights can look and feel uncomfortable in this space. Harsh and direct lighting can cast shadows on your face that

Diffuse and dim

distort how you really look. To solve this, invest in

If you've ever woken up in the middle of

semiopaque diffusers that can evenly distribute the

the night or early in the morning to go

light. If you have recessed lighting, you can purchase

to the bathroom, you know the feeling of

special covers to achieve the same effect. Vanity and

disorientation that can happen from abruptly

ceiling lights are the most important ones to diffuse.

turning on the light. The trick to creating a better environment for your mornings and

DIMMERS

evenings is to utilize diffusers and dimmers.

Programmable lights have grown in popularity, but you also can go the traditional route of purchasing a light switch with a dimmer. Both options offer the ability for you to adjust the bathroom light depending on how bright you want it. You can set mood lighting for a bubble bath, a dim night light for quick bathroom trips, or a bright light for tasks like shaving.

GOOD TO BE HOME

goodtobehomemag.com GOOD TO BE HOME | 27 | 00

Place them strategically Even if you have the right lighting color, diffusers, and dimmers, you still need to install your bathroom lights in the best locations to reap their full benefits.

PRO TIP: start from the ceiling, and work your way down. CENTRAL LIGHT A flush-mount ceiling light can transform the darkest bathroom into a bright oasis. Place an overhead light in the center of the bathroom for general illumination, and make sure it’s equipped with a diffuser.

SHOWER/TUB Adding recessed lighting above a shower or tub can provide safety and a spa-like ambience. Plus, you’ll have a much easier time cleaning your shower. Just be sure to use wet-location lighting that can withstand direct moisture.

VANITY/TASK LIGHTS Resist the urge to overlight your vanity. To avoid overlighting, make sure the lights are balanced. For example, mount one light on each side of the mirror or three lights spaced evenly above the mirror. Placing lights both next to and above the mirror can create glare and uneven lighting and waste energy.

GOOD TO BE HOME

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CHOOSING CHOOSINGTHE A RIGHT

home generator generator home written by: MATTHEW BRADY

verybody experiences bad weather at some point, which can result in losing power. In fact, 2020 set record highs for power outages according

to the Energy Information Association, with the average American going eight hours without power that year. An outage can be a dicey situation, but it can be exponentially worse if it lasts for days, especially during times of disaster, deep freeze, or sweltering heat. Case in point: Louisiana, which was hit by Hurricane Laura in August 2020, topped the states with sixty powerless hours that year.

An outage can be a dicey situation, but it can be exponentially worse if it lasts for days, especially during 2020 SET RECORD HIGHS FOR POWER OUTAGES according

to the Energy Information Association, with the average American going eight hours without power that year.

times of disaster, deep freeze, or sweltering heat. Because of such realities, a backup generator is a lifesaver for millions of Americans. When the power goes out, these mighty machines can step in to provide power for hours or even days— protecting the food in your fridge and freezer and, more importantly, keeping you and your household safe from outside conditions. Before you purchase one, however, do your homework, as there are several factors to consider when deciding which is right for you and your home.

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Portable/Inverter Generators

PROTECTION. These machines must not get wet, so

Standby Generators

A portable generator, as its name indicates, can be

make sure you have a generator cover or tent at the ready,

This version is the most reliable option

moved to where it’s needed. When the power goes

which you can find at most home-supply stores.

available, but you’ll pay for that reliability.

out, you move it closer to your home—twenty feet

Standby generators cost well into four

away is considered a safe distance—and connect your

CONVENIENCE. Consider having an electrician install

figures, with some over $10,000, and need to

appliances to it, usually via heavy-duty extension

a transfer switch inside your house, which will serve as a

be installed by an expert.

cords. Here are some important considerations for

mini circuit breaker and automatically direct power from

these mobile units.

your generator to appliances of your choice.

However, as a larger, permanent unit near your home, a standby generator boasts

PORTABLE VS. INVERTER. Often lumped together,

clear advantages, the most immediate being

these generator types actually have a few key

it automatically turns on after the power

distinctions. Because of their technology, inverters

goes out. In addition, most are powerful

are smaller, lighter, quieter, and more fuel- and

enough to run your whole house (hence

energy-efficient. However, portable generators are

why they’re also known as whole-house

the most sought-after option because they’re cheaper

generators). Plus, standby generators don't

yet often more powerful than their counterpart.

require refueling, and some models do selfdiagnostic tests, so they are by far the most

SIZE. Smaller inverter units usually weigh less than

hands-off, worry-free choice.

a hundred pounds and are ideal for activities like camping or tailgating, as they can power an appliance

Purchasing a home generator is

or two. In contrast, portable generators can handle

akin to having another form of home

more but can weigh upward of around two hundred

insurance. You’re ensuring that you

pounds or more.

and your household can continue having access to essentials like heat,

SAFETY. Since transportable generators often

air-conditioning, and food while your

use propane, gasoline, or both (in the case of dual-

power is out, making it a serious

gas units), they should never be used inside the

consideration for any homeowner.

home because of carbon monoxide concerns. Some generators have built-in carbon monoxide detectors for this very reason.

POWER. You need to know the maximum wattage and voltage your generator can provide, how much your cords can handle, and how much your home needs so you don’t overpower the unit.

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creative 10

written by: BONNIE JOFFE

WAYS TO USE A

spare room

Home office Life has drastically changed since the pandemic began, and working remotely has become part of this lifestyle change. Turning your spare room into an office can separate your workspace from your personal space, promoting a better work-life balance.

Craft/art room If you're looking for somewhere to channel your artistic side, why not turn your spare room into a place for creativity? Bring in

rying to figure out what to do

your drafting table, art materials,

with that spare room? Maybe you

and craft supplies. Websites like

just want a change. Unused space

Etsy can provide other innovative

does not have to go to waste! If

ideas for setting one up.

you feel it’s time to repurpose your spare room, check out these tips to help get you started.

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Study/reading room There’s nothing like kicking back after a long day and enjoying some peace and quiet. Adding a comfy chair, soft lighting, shelving for your books, and piped-in relaxing music

Music room/recording studio

may be all you need. You could even install

Do you love jamming with your friends or playing

a gas or electric fireplace—perhaps making

your favorite musical instrument? This is the

this your solution for a second living room.

ticket to having your own musical space. If you live in an apartment or townhome, you may need to install some carpeting to absorb the sound, but if you are in a detached home, go for it!

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Home theater Since COVID-19, more

Yoga studio/ meditation room

people are enjoying movies

Create an oasis in your spare

and videos in the comfort of

room—developing good feng

their own homes. Convert

shui is a great start to making

your spare room into a home

a perfect place to practice yoga

theater with a big-screen TV,

or meditation. Add a diffuser

a surround-sound system,

with essential oils, plants, and

and a few lounge chairs or a

soothing music to make the most

Barcalounger sofa, making

of your in-home refuge.

it a true movie experience. Don’t forget the popcorn!

Home gym Here’s a chance to set up a gym

Game room

the way you want it! Couple it with

Who doesn’t love a game

a sound system or large-screen TV

night? You can devote your

to further enhance your workouts.

spare room to fun, whether it’s having friends over to

Walk-in closet

play your favorite board

Think about turning your spare

games or you and your

room into a walk-in closet. Add

family playing your favorite

a makeup vanity, a shoe rack, or

video games.

shelving and hanging space for your out-of-season clothing. It

Playroom

will be a dream come true for

Dedicate a special place

reorganizing your wardrobe.

for the children in your life. Keeping their toys

There are many ways to convert

and art-and-craft supplies

a spare room into a usable

relegated to one room

space rather than a traditional

allows you to control the

guest room—your options are

inevitable clutter when

virtually endless. Explore all

the little ones play. More

your options to decide what’s

importantly, they’ll love

best for you and your home, and

having their own playroom.

have fun doing it!

GOOD TO BE HOME

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market trend

written by: CHRISTY MURDOCK EDGAR

7 real estate

Real estate markets everywhere have seen unprecedented changes in recent years. What’s up next, and how will it affect your plans and finances in the years to come?

Home sharing For those who are footloose and fancy-free thanks to remote work, settling down in one place may not be in the cards. Home-sharing options are becoming more popular, with Pacaso leading the way in shared ownership of second and vacation

PREDICTIONS FOR 2023

homes. It’s an idea that’s been around for a while among digital nomads and renters, and it allows people to move from place to place without giving up the comforts of home or the advantages of homeownership.

Renting to own Renting to own sounds like an oldfashioned notion, but some property technology companies are adding a more modern twist to the concept. Investment

companies like Divvy Homes are making some of their inventory available

he past several years have been

as rent-to-own properties and then

filled with enough change and

helping renters purchase those homes

upheaval for several lifetimes,

by setting aside part of their rent

and the best-laid plans of both

payments as down payment funds.

buyers and sellers have frequently fallen by the wayside. That’s why predicting the future in

With record-high home prices and

this market moment feels particularly fraught

affordability struggles in every major

with peril and pitfalls.

market, innovative solutions can help buyers put together a financial

GOOD TO BE HOME

All of that said, there are some trends on the

strategy that works for them. It’s not

horizon and a few safe bets about the housing

just convenient—it’s good for families

market for 2023. While we’ll no doubt see plenty

who may have had their savings

of continuing challenges, there are always

impacted by the economic challenges

opportunities to be had if you know where to look.

of the pandemic. goodtobehomemag.com

| 41

House-hacking growth Real estate investment is exciting, but not everyone has the means to finance a portfolio of homes. Enter house hacking, a popular shortcut to real estate investment designed for those who are willing to put a little more personal time and effort into achieving their investment goals.

There are a variety of ways to house hack—from purchasing a home and renting it out to roommates or on Airbnb to buying a duplex, triplex, or quad and living in one unit while renting out the others. Some house hackers buy a home with an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), such as a garage apartment or pool house, and rent out the extra space or, on occasion, rent out the larger space and live in the smaller one.

Essentially, house hacking involves using OPM (Other People’s Money) to pay down the mortgage and then using the equity to buy another house and another after that. Houses can be hacked year after year until you’ve built up the portfolio you want to manage long term.

The return of the downsized home Some house hackers buy a home with an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), such as a garage apartment, and rent out the extra space or rent out the larger space and live in the smaller one.

With record-high home prices, some older homeowners may be unable to resist the lure of selling their big family home at a premium and then buying a smaller home or simpler-to-maintain retirement condo. This could be especially tempting for people in preretirement whose careers were disrupted by the pandemic or for those who find themselves with insufficient income in retirement.

In addition, the Great Relocation may mean that many families find themselves with less need for a large space to gather. If the kids and grandkids are now living farther away, many retirees and preretirees may once again be thinking about downsizing.

00 42

GOOD GOOD TO TO BE BE HOME HOME

goodtobehomemag.com

| 43

Multigenerational living

Fixer-uppers and additions

Exceptional outdoor spaces

On the other side of the equation, some extended

During the buyers’ market of the late 2000s and

Outdoor spaces have been at a premium

families may have decided to blend their

early 2010s, buyers came to expect that they

throughout the pandemic, and there’s no sign

households. This offers a way of dealing with the

would be able to demand turnkey homes in their

of this slowing down. Whether you’re looking

challenge of affordability and allows older family

neighborhoods of choice. They got used to having

for a single-family home with a big backyard

members to retire in place.

everything on their wish lists, including laundry lists

or a balcony attached to a city condo,

of repairs following the home inspections. In most

everyone wants a little spot for alfresco

Making a home suitable for multigenerational

cases, those days are over, and buyers may now need

living. Spending more than two years

living may mean making alterations to the home’s

to put in some work to create their dream homes.

indoors seems to have given everyone a new

interior to improve accessibility, adding space on

appreciation for wide-open spaces, wherever

the main level, splitting up an open-concept home

From adding space to doing their own repairs and

they can be found.

into discrete spaces, or adding a dedicated exterior

upgrades, buyers will find more to choose from

entrance. Work together to ensure the changes you

in a low-inventory market if they’re willing to

If you’re thinking ahead to your next move, a

make are agreeable for everyone and that everyone

contribute some elbow grease. If you’re thinking

real estate professional has the guidance and

has input on the transition.

about buying a fixer-upper, talk to a trusted real

insight you need to see what’s coming up on the

estate professional to find a reliable contractor or

road ahead and can help you prepare for it.

reach out for a highly rated and well-reviewed gig worker on platforms like TaskRabbit.

GOOD TO BE HOME

goodtobehomemag.com

| 45

written by: RACHEL STEVENS

FROST-RESISTANT

Plants can bring so much joy to a home, so it can be discouraging when cold weather and a lack of sunlight force you to scale back your indoor and outdoor gardening. However, there are

FOR YOUR

home & garden

many beautiful cool-weather plants that can adorn your home in the winter months.

FLOWERS Having the colors of spring around during winter can help lift your spirits if you’re wishing for a quick return to the colorful outside blooms.

Lilies of the valley – Though they look dainty, lilies of the valley are strong. Be sure to keep them in their own pots and away from children and pets because they are toxic when consumed.

Pansies – If you want color that won’t quit, plant some pansies. These impressive flowers can survive temperature fluctuations into the single digits, making them perfect blooms for unpredictable winters.

Peonies – These gorgeous flowers require a cold period to bloom properly. Plant them in fall, and let them grow through the winter for beautiful blooms in early spring.

GOOD TO BE HOME

goodtobehomemag.com GOOD TO BE HOME

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GREENERY A classic piece of greenery can tie together your decor and add curb appeal to your home's exterior.

Hostas – These shade-loving perennials are the perfect choice for your indoor plant stands. Hostas come in many sizes, textures, and colors, so be sure to find a variety that matches your interior.

Boxwoods – You can’t go wrong with the timeless look of a boxwood. Plant these shrubs at the front of your house for an instant winter curb appeal boost or to add privacy.

Siberian cypress – As its name suggests, the Siberian cypress grows naturally in Russia, so it should be just fine growing its dense and lush spearmint-green branches in your yard.

PRODUCE Yes, you can still grow produce during the winter! You may not be able to grow your summer favorites, but there are a few winter veggies you can harvest and enjoy in soups and stews.

Broccoli – This versatile veggie can withstand extremely cold climates, but it does need sun. Plant the seeds in a sunny area of your yard in early fall to give them time to grow fully through winter.

Kale – Kale not only tastes great but also is pleasing to the eye and easy to grow. The deep-green leaves of kale will also bring some color back to your garden.

Turnips – You can see the green tops of this delicious root vegetable growing even in the cold. Since most of the vegetable is underground, snow won’t ruin it. Additionally, when boiled, turnips can add great flavor to

your dishes! GOOD TO BE HOME

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Kelli Grant Group, CLHMS, RSPS REALTORS®

Office: (480) 779-9656 Email: YourTeam@KelliGrantGroup.com www.KelliGrantGroup.com Keller Williams Arizona Realty 5355 E High St Ste 129 Phoenix, AZ 85050

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Kelli Grant Group Keller Williams Arizona Realty 5355 E High St 129 Phoenix, AZ 85054

***********AUTO**5-DIGIT 19406 Their Name 1100 FIRST AVE STE 200 KING OF PRUSSIA, PA 19406

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Kelli Grant Group Keller Williams Arizona Realty 5355 E High St Suite 129 Phoenix, AZ 85054 Email: Kelli@KelliGrantGroup.com

(602) 799-5420