The Role of Marketing in Increasing the Value of Your Home Improvement Projects 

Guest Post By Arnold Rogers

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko @ www.pexels.com

The key is to use some simple marketing principles to choose which home improvement projects to undertake, and how to sell these features to prospective buyers.

One great way to do that is with digital marketing, including ads.

This page has everything you need to know, whether you are selling your improved home or selling home improvement products to homeowners.

1. Understand The Market

Owning a home is a personal thing.

When it comes to selling a house, you need to understand what people are looking for.

Although you might love stained glass windows, if they turn off potential buyers, they can lower the value of your home.

To understand the market better, take a look at local real estate listings – especially those in your suburb or neighborhood.

Which listings sell quickly? . . . . Which stays up for years without selling?

What you’ll discover is that some homes fit an average person’s needs better than others.

The more your home suits the needs of the people who are shopping for houses in your area, the quicker it will sell and the higher you can price it.

What kind of home improvement projects are people looking for in your area?

What kind of home improvements or features do you see in listings that sell quickly?

2. Turn Your Home Into a Brand

If you understand what people like most about your home, you can build an identity around it.

For example, a house with a beautiful backyard, swimming pool, and games room is likely to attract a family that loves play and the outdoors.

A minimalistic house in an artsy style might be more attractive to couples without children, or art lovers.

Imagine the kind of person who looks at your house and says “it’s what I’ve always wanted.” This is the person you should try to appeal to.

When deciding on home improvements, ask yourself if it fits with your home’s brand.

Installing a basketball court might be a good decision for a family fun house, but a poor one for a minimalist artsy villa.

Likewise, adding a wine cellar might increase the value of a small upscale home, but might not be a selling point for families.

3. Use Visuals

When it’s time to sell your home, visuals express more than words can.

The improvements you make to your home won’t increase its value unless you can show potential buyers what they look like.

Professional photography and videography can make a big difference.

However, you don’t necessarily need a big budget to use visuals effectively in your listings, especially if you have a good eye for photos.

All you need is a basic camera or even a decent smartphone.

Ensure that all photos are clear and bright, and that video isn’t too shaky or noisy.

Ask other people for feedback on which photos look best in the listing.

4. Fix What’s Broken

Renovating parts of your home that are functional is usually a bad investment.

It might create a better living space, but the cost will outweigh the increase in value.

Instead, focus on renovating or improving the weak points in your home – the areas that turn off potential buyers.

Unfinished areas, exposed insulation or wiring, or stained or damaged areas are prime candidates for renovations.

If you restore these areas, you get a double benefit. You eliminate a drawback and add a benefit.

This can also help you avoid a critical mistake that many home renovators make: pricing themselves out of the market.

If you spend so much on renovating your home that you need to raise the sale price above what most people are willing to pay, you may end up waiting longer to sell or lowering the price and losing money.

5. Use Multiple Marketing Channels

These days, buyers are more discerning than ever and they often need more than a couple of “nudges” to take action on a great deal.

You can reach more potential buyers and give out more “nudges” by being on multiple platforms.

Use every form of marketing at your disposal to sell your home, from social media and word of mouth to real estate listing sites and brokers.

Smart marketers never rely on just one source of traffic.

Tell everyone you know that you’re selling your home, and if some time passes – remind them!

Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone or send an email to someone you think might be interested, especially if you know they are in the market and they appreciate the kind of renovations you have done.

Make Money Improving Your Home

You can undertake home renovations and pass most of the costs along to the next buyer – but only if you know how to market your home effectively.

Following some simple marketing principles can put you ahead of 80% of other sellers on the market.

    • Renovate your home to fit what buyers are looking for
    • Understand your home’s “brand” and selling points
    • Use good photos and videos that illustrate your home’s renovations
    • Renovate your home’s weak points – don’t spend too much improving what already works
    • Use social media, word of mouth, and every platform possible to spread the word

With these tips and the help of digital marketing professionals and realtors, you can leverage home renovations to sell your house faster, and at a higher price.

Energy-Efficient Refrigerators: How to Save Money and Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Guest Post by John Guevara

Photo by Sidekix Media on Unsplash

A fridge is a device that holds the most energy in most homes today, and everyone has a refrigerator that operates for 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

When you have a fridge, you will have to let it work for the whole day to keep your food chilled so that your food doesn’t end up going bad quite fast.

The only drawback that refrigerators typically have is that they consume a lot of electricity, but this should not limit you from going to a fridge since you could reduce the amount of electricity it uses by following specific steps.

When you want to get a refrigerator and are thinking of starting with a small one, you should check on the small refrigerator before you get one for your cottage.

After knowing the price range, the next step is to see how you can preserve energy when you have a refrigerator.

Some of the ways you can use the most limited portion of electricity while having a refrigerator include;

Load the freezer, but give the fridge some air 

Most refrigerators work much better when they are as full as possible.

When your fridge is loaded, it keeps food frozen for an extended period, even if a power outage emerges.

For your fridge to function perfectly, it requires air circulation to retain nourishment at an even temperature.

When you pack your fridge too tightly, it means that some foods will get colder faster compared to other foods, and this may cause food to go bad quicker. 

Substitute food to the appropriate microclimate 

When you have a refrigerator, you must know one rule: hot air soars as cold air sinks.

The following rule is that every fridge has its outstanding weather pattern of frosty breezes.

When stacking your food, ensure it is in the most appropriate territory inside the refrigerator.

For example, a cold spot close to the cold-air inlet is great for foods like meat and poultry but not for lettuce. 

Don’t put hot food in the fridge

Before you leave your food in the refrigerator, make sure it has cooled down first and allow it to cool down naturally.

When you put hot food in the fridge, a lot of electricity will be utilised to cool down your food, but since you want to use less electricity, make sure you place cold food in the fridge. 

Select, grab and close 

When removing food from the fridge don’t leave the door open for too long; when you do this cold air retreats, and more energy is required to lessen the conditions again once you close your door. 

Permit ventilation 

Ensure your fridge-freezer has a lot of space for air to disseminate and keep it away from any external heat sources, including direct sunlight.

If you put too much food on the top and the sides of your fridge, a lot of energy will be used to cool down your food.

Ensure you keep your fridge more apparent, as it uses less electricity when cooling your food. 

Ensure the seals of your fridge are working perfectly 

When you notice condensation outside your refrigerator, it’s time to get new seals.

Leaky door seals cause energy loss in your fridge and freezer.

Doors not fastened well cause the cold air to escape your fridge. 

Conclusion 

The moment you purchase your fridge, whether big or small, make sure you put into consideration the tips listed above so that you can conserve electricity.

If you don’t, you will go over budget on your electricity bill. 

How to Negotiate a Better Price on Carton-Damaged Appliances

Guest Post by John Guevara

Purchasing carton-damaged appliances can be a great way to save money on your household appliances.

These appliances may have suffered minor damage to their boxes during transit or handling, but their functionality remains intact.

However, negotiating a better price for carton-damaged appliances can be challenging, especially if you need to know the right approach.

This blog outlines tips on negotiating a better price on carton-damaged appliances.

Do Your Research

You should look into the original pricing of the appliance you want before visiting a store.

Places such as Appliances Warehouse offers a variety of carton damage appliances Sydney residents frequently go for.

You can see the manufacturer’s website or other online merchants to determine the appliance’s regular pricing.

You can use this information to calculate how much the damage reduces the device’s value.

Understanding the initial cost will also enable you to determine your maximum spending limit and the cost of a carton-damaged device.

Point Out the Damage

It is crucial to draw the seller’s attention to the damage while negotiating the price of an appliance with carton damage.

By doing this, you can demonstrate that you know the damage and that it significantly impacted your decision to buy.

You should request a more significant discount if the damage is modest, such as a ding or scratch.

However, you should think twice before purchasing the appliance if the injury is serious, such as a damaged element or a missing accessory.

Be Polite and Respectful

Good communication skills are necessary to bargain for a lower price on appliances with packaging damage.

Your manners and respect for them can significantly influence the seller’s perception of you and their willingness to deal.

Finding a balance that benefits both parties is crucial since, as you should remember, the seller wants to make a sale, and you want to save money.

Ask for a Discount

Once you have identified the damage and researched, it’s time to ask for a discount.

You can start by asking the seller if they offer discounts for carton-damaged appliances.

If they do not provide a deal, you can point out the damage and ask for a reasonable value.

Be moderate in your request; asking for less may put the seller off and reduce your chances of getting a discount.

Be Flexible

When negotiating the price of a carton-damaged appliance, it’s essential to be flexible.

This means being open to alternative offers, such as free delivery or a warranty extension, instead of a cash discount.

The seller may be more willing to offer you a different incentive, which may be more valuable than a cash discount.

Consider the Long-Term Costs

It’s crucial to consider ownership costs while negotiating the price of a carton-damaged appliance.

For instance, if a component of the appliance is broken, you might have to pay more to fix or replace it.

Therefore, you should factor in the long-term costs when negotiating the price of the appliance.

Check the Return Policy

Finally, before purchasing a carton-damaged appliance, it’s essential to check the return policy.

If the appliance does not meet your expectations or function correctly, you should return it.

Therefore, it’s necessary to know the seller’s return policy and whether they accept carton-damaged appliance returns.

Parting Thoughts

Negotiating a better price on carton-damaged appliances requires preparation, communication skills, and flexibility.

Doing your research, pointing out the damage, being polite and respectful, asking for a discount, being flexible, considering the long-term costs, and checking the return policy can help you get the best deal possible on a carton-damaged appliance.

With these tips, you can save money on household appliances without compromising quality.

Saving Space and Time with The Power of Storage Pods

Guest Post by Michelle Petrie. 

Storage pods are a well-known answer for individuals and businesses who require secure and convenient storage space.

These versatile compartments are intended to hold various things, from furniture and machines to important documents and hardware.

They offer an adaptable storage arrangement that can be adjusted to meet a scope of necessities, from short-term storage during a transition to long long-term storage for occasional items.

Thanks to the weather-resistant design of storage pods and the regular use of sturdy materials, your belongings will remain safe and dry.

Storage pods offer a dependable and useful solution for all your storage needs with the ease of on-site delivery and pickup as well as the choice to store the container in a safe storage facility.

Storage pods in Melbourne, Victoria are convenient and efficient way to store your belongings, especially during a move or renovation.

However, finding the best price for storage pods can be a challenging task.

Here are some tips to help you get the best price for storage pods:

Compare Prices from Different Providers

Don’t settle for the first company you come across.

Take some time to research and compare prices from multiple providers.

This will give you a better idea of the average price range for storage pods and help you identify any potential red flags, such as companies that are significantly more expensive than others.

Research a few companies and get quotes from each one.

Don’t forget to compare the features and services that each company offers as well.

Timing is Key

The storage industry, like many others, experiences peak and off-peak seasons.

It is during the off-peak season when customers can get the best deals.

This is because during the peak season, storage companies tend to have high demand, which means they can charge a premium for their services.

Off-peak season usually occurs during the winter months, when demand for storage is significantly lower than during the warmer months.

If you are flexible with your moving dates and can afford to wait until the off-peak season, you can get storage pods at a much lower cost.

Be Honest about Your Needs

It is essential to determine the size and amount of storage you require to avoid overpaying for a larger storage pod than you need.

This will also help you avoid the additional costs associated with renting a second storage pod.

By being honest about your needs, you can ensure that you are only paying for the space you require.

Negotiate the Best Deal

Many storage pod companies are willing to negotiate on the price if you ask.

Be prepared to discuss your needs and budget with the company representative and explore different options they have available for you.

You may be surprised at how flexible some companies can be.

Consider Long-Term Storage Options

It is important to understand the difference between short-term and long-term storage.

Long-term storage is used for several months or even years, whereas short-term storage is normally utilized for a few weeks or months.

Long-term storage options tend to offer lower rates than short-term options.

This is because storage companies want to incentivize customers to commit to longer periods of storage.

As a result, they may offer discounts or lower rates for customers who sign longer-term contracts.

Designing a Dream Home: How to Transform Your House with Simple Renovations

Guest Post by Shakeel

Have you ever felt like your home is in need of a makeover?

Whether you’re looking to add some warmth and coziness, or give it an entirely new look and feel, there are plenty of ways to transform your house into the dream home you’ve always wanted.

From changing the flooring, installing new windows and doors, adding a fresh coat of paint, or replacing outdated fixtures – simple renovations can go a long way in making your house look and feel like new again.

In this article we will provide renovation ideas that will help get started on transforming your house into the perfect abode for you!

Renovating your home is a great way to upgrade its look and feel. It can be as simple as making small changes to existing features or upgrading certain elements for increased comfort and convenience.

Some of the most popular reasons for renovating a home include:

Reasons for Renovating Your Home

  • Improving aesthetics – from adding an outdoor deck, landscaping, or simply giving the house a fresh coat of paint – renovations can instantly transform the appearance and atmosphere of your abode.
  • Increasing energy efficiency – with modern insulation materials and energy-efficient windows, you can reduce wasted energy while also keeping your home comfortable all year round.
  • Reducing maintenance costs – replacing old fixtures such as toilets, sinks faucets etc., will help save money on repair bills in the future by ensuring everything is functioning optimally.
  • Improving safety features – depending on how old your house is, it may be time to consider installing smoke/fire alarms, security systems or even new handrails along staircases if necessary.
  • Increasing value when selling – adding new amenities such as extra storage space or renovated bathrooms/bedrooms will increase the valuation of your property when you put it up for sale in the future.

Flooring Options to Consider

One of the most important aspects to consider when renovating your home is the flooring. Flooring is often overlooked but can have a significant impact on how your home looks and feels.

There are a variety of flooring options available and it’s important to pick one that best suits your needs and budget.

Examples of flooring include hardwood, laminate, vinyl, tile, carpet and more.

Installing New Windows and Doors / Adding fresh coat of Paint

Installing new windows and doors can also make a huge difference in the look of your home.

It’s important to pick out materials that best suit the existing style of your house as well as ones that are efficient in terms of energy savings.

Additionally, adding a fresh coat of paint can instantly revive a room and is one of the most cost-effective means to update your home.

Nothing beats the feeling of walking into a freshly painted room and seeing the walls come alive with vibrant colours.

Whether you’re looking for something light and airy, or bold and dramatic, there are plenty of options to choose from that will best suit your taste.

Additionally, adding small details such as wallpaper borders and stencils can add an extra layer of personality to any space in your home.

Replacing Outdated Fixtures

Replacing outdated fixtures such as toilets, sinks and faucets with modern ones can add a touch of sophistication while also improving functionality.

Finally, creating the perfect atmosphere in your home doesn’t have to be expensive.

Adding accessories such as pillows, rugs and artwork or simply rearranging existing furniture pieces can go a long way in creating a cozy environment without breaking the bank.

Simple toilet and kitchen renovations can also make a big difference in terms of both aesthetics and comfort, not to mention increase the home’s resale value.

Renovating your home can be a big project, but it doesnt have to be overwhelming or expensive.

Consider visiting a kitchen renovation showroom to get a better understanding of what’s available and what’s possible within your budget.

With the right planning, you can make sure that any upgrades made to your home will pay off in both aesthetics and savings, making it worth the effort.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Renovation Budget

When it comes to renovating your home, it’s important to stay within the given budget. Here are some tips that can help you do just that:

  • Start out with smaller projects first – by completing smaller projects such as painting or replacingfixtures, you can get a good sense of what it’s like to renovate and also  determine if there are any other areas that need improvement
  • Utilize existing furniture – instead of having to buy new furniture, try to make use of existing pieces instead. This will help save money and also allow you to customize your furniture with new fabrics or repainting it.
  • Compare prices – shop around to find the best deals on materials and products before committing.

This will allow you to get the most bang for your buck while ensuring that you don’t go over budget.

Get started today

By following the steps outlined above, you can begin transforming your house into a beautiful, comfortable abode that suits all your needs.

Upgrading your home through renovations is an excellent way to increase its value while also enjoying the fruits of your labor.

So don’t wait any longer – get started on making your house look and feel like new again!

Renovating your home can be a great way to upgrade its look and feel.

With the right planning, you can make sure that any upgrades made will not only improve the overall appearance of your house, but also bring added comfort and value.

We hope these renovation ideas have provided some inspiration for making your house look like new again!

Street Numbering – Win!

You would think that some houses were owned by secret agents as there are no traces of a street number.

I have heard that ambulance drivers sometimes have difficulty finding there patients due to the lack of numbers.

You couldn’t accuse either of the properties featured in this post of being shy about letting people know the house number.

I particularly like the one below with the numbers fabricated out of Corten Steel with the post box built into the number 1 ( Sorry about the picture quality but the sun was very low and behind the number when I saw it)

 

For Fails and Unusual Houses go to What the………………….?

See Letter Box for more information on the standards.

 

The Ultimate Guide to Staying Safe with the Right Workwear

Guest Post by Shakeel

Safety should always be the top priority when it comes to DIY projects.

Whether you are building a deck, painting a room, or replacing an appliance, knowing what workwear to wear can make all the difference in keeping you safe and comfortable while completing your task.

With this guide, we will provide advice on selecting the right clothing and boots for various types of DIY projects as well as tips on choosing proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for maximum safety.

We’ll also discuss how to ensure that your clothing fits properly so you get optimal protection from any potential hazards during your project.

So if you’re ready to start tackling those home improvement tasks with confidence and peace of mind, let’s get started!

Overview of the importance of safety when doing projects

Overview of the importance of safety when doing projects is paramount to avoiding serious injury or even death.

It’s important to take all necessary precautions and be mindful of the potential hazards you could face while completing a project.

From using the right tools and materials, to following instructions properly and wearing the right workwear, safety should be your number one priority.

What materials to look for in clothing and boots

When it comes to selecting the best clothing and boots for tackling DIY projects, there are certain materials you should look for in order to get maximum protection and comfort.

Look for garments made from breathable fabrics such as cotton or nylon that won’t trap moisture against your skin and also provide some flexibility as you move around while working.

It’s also important to choose clothing that’s not too tight, as this can limit your range of motion and make it difficult to complete certain projects.

In terms of boots, it’s best to select ones made from waterproof materials such as rubber or leather with a sturdy sole for extra grip and protection from any sharp objects on the ground.

Different types of personal protective equipment (PPE) needed for different tasks

Different types of personal protective equipment (PPE) are needed for different tasks when doing projects.

For instance, if you’re working with saws or other power tools, it’s important to wear the appropriate eye protection to protect your eyes from dust and debris, and a face mask,

If you’re using any type of chemical cleaner, wearing gloves is essential in order to keep your hands safe from potential irritants or corrosive materials.

Additionally, hearing protection should be worn when using loud power tools to protect your ears from any damaging noise levels.

Tips on how to make sure your workwear fits properly

It’s also important to make sure that your workwear fits properly in order to get the most out of it in terms of safety and comfort.

Make sure to try on garments to ensure they fit snugly but don’t limit your range of motion.

Boots should also be the right size in order to provide enough support and cushioning while you’re working.

How to stay safe while completing a DIY project

Staying safe while completing a project is essential, as there are many potential hazards that can cause injury or illness if not taken seriously.

Make sure to read all instructions carefully and use the proper tools for the job.

Always wear the correct protective clothing, boots, and PPE for each task to keep yourself safe from potential accidents or mishaps.

Benefits of wearing the right workwear during DIY projects

When done correctly, wearing the right workwear can have numerous benefits when it comes to tackling home improvement tasks.

Not only does it make you look more professional, but it also provides comfort and protection from potential hazards.

Wearing the right clothes and boots also gives you the confidence to complete a project quickly and effectively, resulting in better results and less stress overall.

Closing thoughts on staying safe with the right workwear when tackling a task

When it comes to working on projects, staying safe is of utmost importance.

Knowing the right workwear to wear while engaging in these activities is essential in order to ensure you are protected from any potential accidents or mishaps.

From selecting the correct materials for clothing and boots, to choosing the appropriate PPE for each task and making sure your workwear fits properly, there are many steps you can take to keep yourself safe when tackling any home improvement job.

The most important thing is that you’re buying your gear from a reputable workwear shop.

By following these safety tips, you’ll be well on your way to completing each project with confidence!

From The Floor Up: How To Create A Functional But Fashionable Living Space

Guest post by Natalie lge

Your living space not only gives people a view of who you are creatively, but it is also fully connected to your mental health and well-being.

If your living space is one that you don’t enjoy being in, that is going to cause reoccurring issues over time.

This is your home and you need to ensure that it is functional, fashionable and a space where you feel content and comfortable.

Whether you own your home or you are renting, the space you live in should be a space that you love, and one that brings you positivity, productivity, and happiness.

Having a functional, organized, and beautiful living space will enhance your home life and could be a catalyst for even more positive changes in your life.

Continue reading for some useful tips that will help you to create a beautiful and functional living space that you can truly call home.

Budget Is Highly Important

You don’t need to be ultra-wealthy to budget for a truly impressive and functional living space, but it is essential that a budget is reviewed beforehand.

While there are certainly a variety of ways to do interior design and decoration on a limited budget, there is still a price tag that needs to be considered.

For example, top-quality affordable materials such as structural plywood might be cheaper than solid oak but you will still have to budget.

There is no rule on how little or how much you can spend on your design, but you do need to set an official limit and stick to it.

When you have an idea of how much money you can or want to afford towards your living space, don’t forget to add room for incidentals.

There is no project too small, nor too cheap to go over budget.

In fact, it happens more than it doesn’t.

An extra ten to twenty per cent of your original total should be sufficient, and if needed, reduce the original budget accordingly.

Storage Is Essential To Function

Whether you are single and living alone, or have a family of twelve, you are going to be far less happy and productive when your living space is constantly cluttered.

When planning your living space, ensure you put enough attention to convenient and functional storage.

If you are typically a cluttered person, it is a good idea to get into the habit of regularly de-cluttering your living space.

With the right storage in your living space, you won’t feel like there is stuff everywhere, and it will completely open up the area, creating the illusion of more space.

This will lead to better overall functionality in your home, and if you have a family, less risk of being injured by things like kids’ toys strewn about your floors.

Flow And Lighting Add Value

If you have ever lived in an old apartment or home, you will understand the concept of a home having no flow.

Flow really refers to how convenient the living space is designed.

For example, if you have a kitchen on one end of the home, with the dining room on the other end, it creates horrible flow and cold meals.

Along with the way a living space flows, is how you can literally see in the space.

Lighting has come so far in the last few decades that it is absolutely essential to take advantage of newer designs and technologies.

The right lighting is going to allow you to have clear vision throughout the space, and also highlight anything that may be a point of interest.

When you pair your lighting with an overall design, it also makes the entire space look better.

Furniture Must Be Fitting

Your furniture is one of the most important things in your home, and it comes in all different shapes, sizes, and prices.

The main focus here is to ensure that the furniture you use is going to be appropriate for the space.

If you live in a smaller apartment, having an oversized leather sectional is going to cause some problems.

You want your furniture to be sized properly for the room it will be placed in, as it can quickly overtake a room and make it feel tiny.

It is also a good time to think about the type of material your furniture is made from, as functionality is increased when things are easier to clean and maintain.

Do What Makes You Happy With Your Living Space

Ultimately, the only thing that matters when designing your living space is that you are pleased with the finished product.

There are endless options out there to add a unique, fashionable spin to your living space, and it’s important to remember that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Your living space is for you, first and foremost, and your choices here need to reflect that.

Once you have created your own beautiful, fashionable, and functional living space, you will understand how important it truly is.

Live your best life at home, keep things neat and organized, and keep that positive energy flowing with an interior design that you truly love.

Architectural Bridge – Fail

It’s not a new house but it is architecture and my wife or I used it every day for several years.

It’s the footbridge at Footscray Railway Station.

Looks fairly impressive and very modern with its round shape………….So why is it a Fail?

Well you would think that one of the main purposes of this bridge, with a roof, would be to keep you dry as you walk across it on rainy days.

This is where it fails, most of those transparent panels you can see in the roof are in fact steel plates with lots of holes drilled in them.

Consequently when it rains you get as wet walking across the bridge, as if there was no roof!

Not only that but these panels are over the stainless steel handrails on the stairs.

If you stumble on the stairs its no use relying on grabbing the rail as with the water streaming down them they are as slippy as ice!

A triumph of architecture over practicality!       A truly Epic Fail!

For more Fails and Unusual Houses go to What the………………….?

 

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