In all the excitement of moving and trying to get settled in the new home, the last thing you want is a honey-do list, right? Some things, however, shouldn’t be put off but need to be taken care of now. So, push the boxes aside for a day or two and let’s get ‘er done! 1. Change the locks Although…

Not all homes are on city services – some have their own systems to deliver water and remove waste from the property. If you’re considering putting in an offer to purchase a home that has a septic system, read on for what you need to know. General septic system anatomy Whatever substances go down the home’s drains ends up in…

Sure, beer is the official beverage of the great American tailgate party. But it’s time to step out of the rut and add a little flair to this year’s festivities. Every tailgate crew has that one person who has a signature tailgate dish. Well, this year it’s your turn to take the spotlight. You’ll have people waiting all year for…

When we think of ticks and the diseases they spread, we typically think of Lyme disease. But, did you know that the nasty little critters also spread ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis? The former is more common in the southeastern and south central United States while the latter is caused by the same tick that spreads Lyme disease, in the country’s Northeast,…

Warning: We’re about to give you the creeps. It’s termite swarming season – that time of year when subterranean termite populations within colonies reach the carrying capacity and they swarm out in search of new digs. Although they may start out underground, a few strategically constructed and placed mud tubes will allow them entry into the home. They can also…

Whether you live in a condo with a water view or a multi-million-dollar beach house, there is an ever-present temptation to overdo nautical or other beach-related décor. Wicker, white and blue ― if this describes any element in any room in your waterfront condo, you’re living a cliché, according to Phoebe Howard, with Mrs. Howard and Max & Company. She…

There is no one answer and many, many things to consider when deciding about whether to sell or rent out a house that no longer suits you. First, I urge you to speak with your accountant or financial planner before doing anything else. He or she will be able to help you determine if keeping the home to rent to…

Did you wonder if grilling season would ever get here? Finally – a chance to get outdoors and polish that pit master image you’ve worked so hard to cultivate. Even the pros seek out tips and tricks, however, so we’ve brought you some of their most brilliant. Grill a better burger Shopping for the right meat is half the battle…

When you list your home for sale or buy a home with the help of a real estate agent, get ready to sign a whole pile of paperwork. In most states, one of the first you’ll be asked to put your pen to is called the Agency Disclosure and we often see our clients sign it without reading and understanding…

Summer is almost here! Grilling, swimming, or just lazing away the day in a hammock with a good book or a snooze — some of the best ways to spend a summer day. Read on if your backyard could use a bit of summer sprucing to make it more conducive to relaxing. Install edging for a tidier look If that…