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How I Decorated My Dream Bedroom While Renting

If you’d love to turn your bedroom in the property which you’re renting into your dream bedroom, continue reading to discover how to compare landlord insurance and how to turn your bedroom in a rental, into the dream bedroom.

How I decorated my dream bedroom while renting:

1. I purchased an antique writing desk to add a touch of style to my bedroom

If you’re a fan of classic home decor that will never date and will stand the test of time, it’s well worth splurging on purchasing a quality piece of antique furniture. I was lucky enough to find a decently priced antique writing desk, which I use as a makeshift home office.

One of the bonuses of purchasing antique furniture is that it’s highly unlikely that your friends, family members or neighbors will own the same piece of furniture. However, if you were to purchase furniture from a chain furniture store, you may come across the exact same piece of furniture at one of your friends or family members houses.

2. I decorated my bedroom by framing inexpensive prints which I purchased from Etsy

As my bedroom walls felt rather bare, I decided to purchase two inexpensive art prints from Etsy, which I then framed and stuck onto my bedroom walls, using an adhesive based hook. The latter of which can be easily removed when I shift properties in the future and which won’t damage the walls of the property which I’m currently renting.

I decided to frame both of the prints which I picked up in black wood frames so that they would look far more inexpensive than they are.

3. I sewed my own decorative cushion covers

I was also able to add a touch of style to my bedroom by sewing oversized square pillowcases. The reason why I chose to sew my own cushion covers, instead of purchasing pillow covers is that I didn’t like any of the cushion covers that I could find in-store or online and knew that I’d be better off finding the perfect fabric, which I could then use to sew my own one of a kind decorative cushion covers.

4. I splurged on purchase different duvet covers for my bedroom

As I’m the sort of individual who quickly gets bored, I had the wise idea to purchase a couple of different duvet covers for my bedroom. That way I can change my duvet cover on a weekly basis and I’m able to drastically change the look and feel of my bedroom within 5 minutes.

As an example, one week I may use a floral duvet cover, whilst the next week I may opt for a black duvet color. So if you’re renting a property just like me, it’s well worth following my advice and purchasing a couple of different duvet covers to dress up your bed.

5. I placed a shaggy rug at the foot of my bed

In order to make my master bedroom look like a bedroom from a boutique hotel, I placed a shaggy rug from Ikea at the foot of my bed.

So if you’re interested in redecorating your bedroom in the house which you’re currently renting, it’s well worth giving your bedroom a makeover!

6 Ways To Spend Your Time Inside This Winter

If you’re unsure of how to keep yourself entertained this winter, continue reading to discover 6 fun ways to ensure that winter is as tolerable as possible.

6 ways to spend your time inside this winter:

1. Work out indoors

In order to maintain your fitness over winter, its well worth working out indoors. As an example, you may want to invest in purchasing a few pieces of exercise equipment such as weights, an exercyle or a stepper in order to create your own home gym. Or you may want to get into the habit of completing exercise videos in your lounge. By searching Youtube for highly rated free workout videos.

2. Visit your local mall or shopping center

If you want to get out of your house during the cold winter months, it’s well worth driving to your nearest mall or shopping center and try your luck with some lucky lotto winning numbers. As you won’t have to face the wind or rain and will be able to browse shops, grab a bite to eat or catch a movie, without having to brave the elements.

3. Invite your friends over for a tasty pot luck dinner

Instead of arranging to meet your friends at a local restaurant, why not invite your close friends to a pot luck dinner. Pot luck dinners are easy to host as each guest is responsible from bringing along one dish, so you won’t be stuck slaving away in your kitchen for hours in order to serve your guests a scrumptious, hot dinner.

4. Develop a brand new skill

There are plenty of skills which you can hone indoors. As examples, you may want to purchase a guitar and teach yourself how to play a few chords or you may want to download an app which will help teach you a new language.

5. Purchase a new video game

If you enjoy activities that are more interactive than simply watching a TV show, you may want to consider purchasing a new video game which should keep you entertained for a couple of weeks. Alternatively, if your friends are also gamers you may want to find a nenw multiplayer game to play together, that will allow you to socialize with your friends, in the comfort of your own home!

6. Spend time learning how to play your favorite online casino game

If you enjoy playing online casino games such as poker, Blackjack and roulette, it’s well worth spending a significant amount of time learning how to become a more skilled poker, blackjack or roulette player. As once, you’ve got the hang of your favorite game, you’ll be able to test your skills against international players.

If you prefer games of luck over games of skill, you may want to spend cold winter days playing casino games which have a greater degree of luck such as bingo or slots.

So if you’re worried about entertaining yourself this winter, it’s defintely well worth using some of the six ideas listed above to keep yourself entertained indoors this winter! After all winter doesn’t have to be a bore.

4 Sure Signs It’s Time To Downsize

From struggling to cover the bills to finding it tough to keep up with housekeeping chores, there are a number of indications that you’d be better off moving to a smaller property. If you’re wondering if it’s time to downsize, here are four sure signs that could help you consider if it’s worth making the switch.

  1. Your house is eating into your savings

If your income has shrunk, you might be finding it difficult to keep up with your bills and this could mean you’re slowly but surely eating into your savings. Whether you recently retired, you’ve been made redundant or you’ve switched to a new job that doesn’t pay as much, keeping up with your energy bills and other running costs could be causing you sleepless nights. As cash home buying specialists Fast Sale Florida highlight, one way to reduce expenses such as electricity, gas and water is to move into a smaller house or apartment.

  1. You don’t use all your rooms

We’re conditioned to think that bigger usually means better when it comes to properties. In reality though, this isn’t always the case. If there are rooms in your home that you rarely or never use, you could be wasting money. Unused rooms simply gather dust, and larger houses or apartments tend to cost more in property taxes, utility bills and maintenance. So, if you don’t tend to set foot in certain parts of your home, it might make sense to take on a smaller property.

  1. You’re feeling overwhelmed by the upkeep

Let’s face it, indoor cleaning and outdoor housework can be hard. If you’re starting to feel overwhelmed by the upkeep of your property, moving to a smaller place could be a welcome relief. It’ll mean you won’t have to spend as much time cleaning and maintaining your home, freeing you up to focus on other things. You might be able to devote more attention to your hobbies and to enjoying the company of your partner, family or friends.

If you’ve got used to living in and looking after a large property, you might be surprised by how much easier life can be in a more compact home.

  1. The kids have moved out

Lots of space can be great when you’ve got kids around the home, but when they’ve grown up and moved out, you might be left with surplus square footage. It may simply not make sense for you to keep hold of a large property once your children have flown the nest.

As well as being savvy from a practical and financial perspective, moving to a new home can help you to embrace a new chapter in your life. If your kids have moved far away, it might also give you the opportunity to relocate to be closer to them.

If any of these points applies to you, it’s worth considering selling up and moving to a smaller place. You could do this by going through the traditional route of marketing your home through a realtor, or if you want to achieve a speedy, hassle-free sale, you could approach a cash buyer instead. The choice is yours.

How to prevent problems with mice and rats in your home

Mice and rats can cause numerous problems in your home if you do not prevent them taking up residence, or get rid of them if they have already gained entry. They can affect the structural security of your premises by gnawing on wood, and they can chew right through electrical wiring, which is obviously a fire hazard.

Mice can also spread diseases such as salmonella and Lyme disease, whereas rats can transmit hemorrhagic fever and leptospirosis. You do not want to leave your home at risk from wild rodents and you should contact a pest control service if you suspect that you already have a problem with rats and mice in your home.

How to make problems less likely

There is always a chance that rodents will set up home in your property, but there are steps you can take to make this situation a lot less likely. If you do not have a problem at present, it’s a good idea to put this advice to use.

Keep your home clean and tidy

Rats and mice are very resourceful when it comes to finding sources of food and water. This is why you need to ensure that they do not find any sources inside your home.

Clear out your kitchen cupboards and make sure they are kept clean.

Never leave uncovered food unattended on work surfaces, especially overnight.

Empty kitchen bins daily and make sure they are always covered.

Clear debris such as boxes and piles of clothing from around your home, especially hidden away areas such as the attic and basement. This prevents rodents from finding a warm, safe place to live.

You may also want to use some methods of pest control in your home, to make an infestation less likely; click here for more information.

Tidy up your outside space

It’s not just the interior of your home that can attract rats and mice to your property. Your outside space can be the first area that catches their attention.

Cut back bushes and shrubs so that your garden is not an overgrown and inviting space.

Cut back trees to eliminate the existence of shadowed spots for rats to hang out in.

Keep grass neat and tidy to eliminate a possible hiding spot for rodents.

Block up potential entry points

One of the most important actions you can take is to make it as difficult as possible for rats and mice to enter the interior of your home.

Block up holes and gaps where they may be able to get in. Even a small hole may provide sufficient space.

Repair damage around drainpipes and vents.

Fit weatherproofing around doors and windows.

All of these actions can help to make your property more secure against rodents.

If you see, hear or smell signs of the presence of rats or mice in your home, it’s a good idea to seek expert help to get rid of them. These signs can include chewing of wood and wiring, staining caused by urine, droppings, the smell of urine and scurrying noises in crawl spaces and the attic of your home.

6 Top Tips For Spring Cleaning Your Kitchen!

If you’re looking for handy tips on how to thoroughly clean your kitchen for a fresh spring feel, or if you need a good clean before starting any remodelling projects, it’s well worth continue reading in order to discover 6 top tips for spring cleaning your kitchen.

6 Top tips for spring cleaning your kitchen:

  1. Use lemon rinds and water to give your microwave a thorough clean

If you’re looking for a quick and easy method of cleaning a dirty microwave, simply place a bowl with 1/2 a cup of water, lemon juice, and lemon rinds in your microwave for three minutes. After 3 minutes, make sure to wait a further 5 minutes until you open your microwave door.

During this 5 minute period, the steam which has been trapped in your microwave will loosen up any grime which has built up in your microwave and will make it far easier to wipe the inside of your microwave clean.

  1. Use baking soda to clean your kitchen sink

If you’re looking for a natural alternative to using chemical products to wash your kitchen sink, it’s well worth using baking soda to clean a stainless steel kitchen sink. First, wet your kitchen sink and it’s faucet before sprinkling a teaspoon of baking soda onto a wet sponge and using it to wipe down your faucet and kitchen sink.

  1. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down your kitchen’s countertops

If you’re looking for an easy, efficient wash to ensure that your kitchen’s countertops gleam it’s well worth utilizing a microfiber cloth to wipe down your kitchen countertops with a high-quality, kitchen-friendly cleaning spray. If you notice this is not working so well because there are a lot of stains on your counter or, perhaps you feel it may be time to switch things up, www.worktop-express.co.uk has a variety of wooden counters including walnut, iroko, beech, bamboo, and much more.

  1. If you have a stainless steel fridge make sure to use a stainless steel specific cleaner to wipe down your fridge

If you find that the door of your fridge is often covered with unsightly marks, make sure to purchase a stainless steel specific cleaner, to ensure that you’ll quickly and effortlessly be able to get rid of any visible marks such as fingerprints or food marks.

  1. Go through your kitchen cupboards or pantry to throw out any expired food products

If you don’t go through the process of throwing out expired items in your kitchen pantry or cupboards on a regular basis, it’s definitely worth looking at the expiry date on each item in your pantry and kitchen cupboards, so that you can throw out all of the items which are past their use by dates. As a bonus, you should find that you’ll free up plenty of space in your kitchen cupboards and pantry.

  1. Use half a lemon to get rid of any watermarks

If your kitchen sink or faucet is covered in watermarks, slice a lemon in half and rub half a lemon over any marks which you can find. As lemon is highly acidic and can remove tough to remove stains.

So if you plan on giving your kitchen a thorough clean, it’s definitely well worth keeping all the six handy cleaning tips listed above in mind. As each of the tips listed above will ensure that you’ll soon have a clean kitchen, which looks as good as new.

Newest Home Remodeling Trends

Newest Home Remodeling Trends

Are you looking for ways to update your current home? DIY remodeling is the best way to add to the value of your home without spending too much money. You can start with small projects and make them bigger as you see the results.

Here are some of the latest trends that you should try:

Accessibility Remodeling

Increasingly more people are choosing to grow old in their homes instead of relocating. As a result, home remodeling has become more popular. As you grow older, you can remodel for accessibility by removing tripping hazards and opting for open designs that will maximize movement.

Metal

In the past, metal was used as an accent in kitchens and bathrooms but you can use it in any room now. You can add visual interest and texture to any room by using metals in a trend-forward way. You do not even have to use real metal; you can use faux-metal tiles to create a backsplash in the kitchen.

The Connected Home

Smartphones, apps, and tablets have come together to create a connected world and home. Advances in technology are making it easier for homeowners to incorporate convenience, affordability, and flexibility into their homes: for instance, you can use your tablet to turn off the lights when you are away from home.

When it comes to wireless technology, the possibilities are numerous: you can own a fridge that reminds you to buy milk, smoke alarm that lets you know when batteries are low, or lighting that you can control remotely.

Standalone Tubs and Showers

Several years ago, combo shower and bath setups dominated the bathroom scene. Nowadays, separate shower and bath spaces are the key to having a trendy bathroom. Instead of installing a shower with multiple jets and sprays, you should opt for designs that take up less space.

Moreover, multiple sprays will just contribute to the wastage of water. If you want to remodel your bathroom, you need to call a plumbing company unless you have years of experience. Companies such as PlumbingFix employ professionals who know what they are doing.

Energy-efficient and Eco-friendly Materials

Of course, the internet has made it easier for people to communicate but it has also given homeowners substantial power to influence remodeling trends. Slapping a label on materials and saying they are eco friendly is no longer good enough; you need to ask questions about sourcing and operation.

If you are rebuilding your deck, you should hire companies, such as Deck Remodelers, that will use trees with low-impact waste cycles.

If you’re keen on saving energy, why not produce your own? Solar panels are a eco friendly way to not only produce your own energy, but save on your utility bills as well! Visit this website for more info on installing solar panels.

Basement Escape

Gone are the days when basements used to be dark corners where you would throw all your junk. If you want to remodel your basement, you can turn it into an escape for guests or work-at-home parents. You can remodel your attic or basement without adding anything to your home.

Make sure that you find ways to brighten your basement and make it appear less dark by painting the ceilings and walls white.

Attic Getaways

If you want to remodel your attic, you can turn it into a family getaway or guest bedroom. Just like a basement remodel, you should not focus on what is missing; instead, you should focus on aesthetic choices and design tricks that will make the room more comfortable. Moreover, you should try to make the space as personalized, comfortable, and bright as possible.

Remodeling your home has many benefits, which include increasing its value. If you want to sell your home, you need to remodel the kitchen and bathroom first. If you have any left over money, you can remodel other rooms.

 

5 Quick and Easy Family Meals

If you are short on time with a hungry family waiting for food, then what you need are easy-to-prepare and healthy meals that you can ready in a jiffy. The recipes below require few ingredients and take less than an hour to prepare.

Try any of these on a busy day and make sure you get the rest of your chores done on time.

1. Grilled Lemon Chicken and Asparagus

This healthy recipe is delicious which you can quickly put together on the dinner table. The recipe only takes 20 minutes to prepare. (Serves 4)

Ingredients:

  • 1 tsp Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 sliced lemon
  • And as much asparagus as you would like

Directions:

Pre-heat a grilling pan on the stove on medium-high flame and brush it with oil. Season both sides of the chicken breast with salt and pepper and grill for 4-5 minutes per side. Add the sliced lemons wedges during the last 3 minutes of the cooking time and cook until the chicken is done. Serve with hot sauce and a side of steamed asparagus.

2. Grilled Cheese with Spinach

If you have a particularly busy schedule for a day, then a cheesy grilled sandwich with a side of veggies is the perfect meal for your family. It only takes 20 minutes to prepare and you probably already have the ingredients at home. (Serves 4)

Ingredients:

  • 4 ciabatta rolls
  • 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp. marinara sauce
  • 8 oz. Mozzarella cheese
  • Pepperoni and spinach as to your liking

 

Directions:

Spread liberal amount of butter on the outside of the bread rolls. On the insides of the rolls; spread marinara sauce and put as much mozzarella, pepperoni and spinach as you want.

On a low flame, heat a non-stick grilling pan and grill the sandwiches for 4-5 minutes on each side. Grill until the outsides are golden brown and the cheese melts. Serve with different condiments and a side of steamed veggies.

3. Easy Baked Salmon

This recipe is an easy one as you can marinade and freeze the fish the night before, ready to be grilled and served when you are short on time. It takes few ingredients and can be prepared in just 30 minutes. (Serves 4)

Ingredients:

  • ½ tbsp. brown sugar
  • ½ tbsp melted butter
  • ½ tbsp olive or vegetable oil
  • ½ tbsp honey
  • ½ tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped
  • ½ large salmon fillet (cut into 4 pieces)

 

 

Directions:

Mix all the ingredients except the fish in a bowl. Then pour marinade over the salmon fillets. Let the fish marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).

Pre-heat a grill pan on a medium heat and sear the salmon (discard the marinade) for 6-8 minutes on each side or until completely cooked. Squeeze a lemon on top and serve on a bed on steamed spinach.

4. One Pot Chicken Pilaf

This recipe is very easy and makes a very filling and comforting meal. The chicken pilaf takes maximum 30 minutes to prepare and saves you from a pile of dish washing later. (Serves 4)

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp. olive or vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 4 boneless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 tbsp curry paste
  • 2 cups of basmati rice
  • 4 cups of chicken stock
  • 2 cups of frozen veggies

Directions:

Heat oil in a deep skillet and fry the onions until translucent, then add the chicken and cook until white on the outside. Mix in curry paste, add in the rice and cook for 2-5 minutes. Add in the frozen veggies and chicken stock and bring it to a boil. Then cover the lid and let it cook for 10 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the stock is absorbed. Serve with a side of your choice.

5. Quick Pesto Pasta

Pesto pasta is a quick and easy recipe when you have kids who love pasta and adults who are too busy to sit down for a real meal. It takes a maximum of 20 minutes to prepare. (Serves 4)

Ingredients:

  • 400 gms of Linguini
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp. roasted pine nuts
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 2 tbsp. grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Fill deep pot with water, add 2 tbsp. of salt and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to packet directions (until al dente). Drain and keep aside.

In a food processor, add basil, pine nuts, garlic, salt, pepper and parmesan. Add in the oil slowly and blend it until smooth. In a pot, mix the linguini with the pesto and serve with extra parmesan grated on top.

Budgeting Made Easier: 7 Tips to Keep Your Family’s Finances Under Control

It might sound hectic to maintain a budget on a regular basis but it is necessary to keep track of all that money you have.

It isn’t necessary to spend a lot to live a happy life, but you need to make sure that it is spent in the best possible way.

Here are a few tips you can follow to be better at budgeting:

Make a budget

If you area tech savvy mom, use the spreadsheets; if you are a traditional paper pen mom then use that, but make sure to create a budget that best works for you.

List down all your family’s future financial goals, and then make a plan of action accordingly. For instance, aim to save up for your child’s college tuition fees or for a vacation you want to take with your family by the end of this year.

Plan your meals; eat at home more often

Eating out every weekend might sound fascinating but it wouldn’t be if by the end of the month you’re tight on money! Plan your meals a few days before the start of next month and cook meals at home more often than ordering out.

This would help you list down all the groceries you need. Buy everything in bulk at the start of the month to save time and remember to stick with the list to avoid impulse purchases.

Record your sources of income

Figure out how much money is coming in the house every month.  Do not account only for the paychecks of the head of the family, but for everybody who is earning in the family. Also include any investment made that generates timely returns. This would help you understand your current financial standing and devise a more accurate budget.

Record your expenses

Keep track of all the receipts and amount of money flowing out of your hand to help avoid personal bankruptcy. Doing so will help you know that where you are spending less and where you need to control.

Make a habit of recording these expenses on a daily basis because leaving them for the “next day” would only create stress for you.

Search for sales, coupons and discounts

The best way to keep your expenses under budget and save some money is to hunt down for coupons and discounts.

Checkout the circulars and website of the stores you frequently visit for you groceries. These might allow you to save some money from your already allocated amount for that particular expense. To save time, download online apps that alert you of major coupons in grocery stores near your place.

Make a checklist for all bills

Forgot to pay the bills and you are charged to pay an extra amount? The best way to manage this is by preparing a checklist for all the bills, along with their deadlines, that needs to be paid that month.

Save for the rainy day

Budgeting doesn’t mean allocating each penny down to zero. While allocating money under several different heads of expenses allocate a portion for savings. It is essential to save a portion of your income and not spend it on current expenditures.

The future is uncertain. You should always be ready to pay for unexpected events or emergencies. Budgeting requires a lot of self control and dedication. We believe that with these points in mind you are sure to succeed, and if you do then don’t forget to reward yourself!

Financially Savvy Home Upgrade Ideas

When it comes to sprucing up your home, everybody thinks of getting upgrades that change the entire outlook without burning a hole in the pocket.

There are several ways you can improve the way you home looks without spending too much.

1. Bathroom Makeover

It is a good idea to start with giving your bathroom a mini makeover in two simple, cost-savvy steps.

First, buy and place a fresh granite vanity top in it. Depending on the size, a variety of bathroom countertops are available in elegant colors, designs, and textures in reasonable prices.

Second, get a wall or all of them painted and place a new mirror.

With a chic countertop, bright paint, and a beautiful looking bathroom mirror, your bathroom is sure to look pleasantly different.

2. Lounge Makeover

Your lounge sure needs to be upgraded as that’s where the guests sit and judge you for your interiors.

You simply need to have an accent wall in your lounge. Do that by adding a unique textured paint or by applying nice wallpaper on that one wall.

Using wallpaper should be preferred over textured paint because it brings less mess and more durability. Unlike textured paints, wallpapers are water resilient and last a long time. Yes, wallpapers are expensive, but not when you are getting just one wall covered.

Also, having an accent wall gives rooms a look trendier than the tacky looking rooms ballooned with wallpapers.

3. Kitchen Makeover

Your kitchen is the first thing people check when buying a house. Unclaimed corner spaces or walls should be taken advantage of to incorporate unique selling points.

Inclusion of rollouts is an easy and cheap way to make your kitchen look clean, organized, and up to the minute. They make it easier for you to look out for things that remained out of sight before rollout installation.

You can also consider installing dark colored countertops to add a strikingly classy feel.

4. Simple DIY fixes for $1 or less

If you do not want to go for renovation of particular rooms or areas in the house, here are a ways you can make your home look beautiful while costing $1 or less each.

Upgrade

  • Use a whitening pen to whiten and polish tile and window grouts
  • Add decent LED push lights to the roof and walls
  • Polish and coat your wooden structures
  • Install self-adhesive hooks for towels, cooking spoons, etc.
  • Use cable clips to keep cables out of the way and safe
  • Replace washers of leaking faucets
  • Cover ripped paint or polish with pens or nail paints of the same color

 

Embellish

  • Go for add-ons such as small flower vases, frames
  • Install key hooks of nice designs
  • Add tint to existing lamps, lights, and shades
  • Use wall stickers to decorate particular areas such as kids room

Organize

  • Include portable closets
  • Place a laundry basket
  • Install file  and book holders for books and other important files and documents

Clean

  • Clean light fitting and fans often
  • Use glass cleaners on glass and mirrors
  • Get oven and grill spray to keep your oven, grill, and stoves cleans
  • Wash the carpets with shampoo (no need to buy expensive cleaners)

Follow these simple relatively inexpensive tips to help give your home an impressionable upgrade,