What Is An Adjustable Rate Mortgage?

An adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) is a home loan with an interest rate that changes after a fixed amount of time—usually 5-7 years. Adjustable rate mortgages s typically offer lower interest rates and lower monthly payments than a fixed rate mortgage. After the allotted time passes, the rate may adjust and your monthly mortgage payments will adjust accordingly.

View Today's 5-Year ARM Mortgage Rates

View Today's 7-Year ARM Mortgage Rates

If your top priority is a low monthly payment or you don't plan on staying in your home for more than 5-7 years, an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) could be right for you. If flexibility is your top priority, this loan can be a viable alternative to a 15 or 30-year fixed rate mortgage.

Is an adjustable rate mortgage right for you?

An adjustable rate mortgage can give you low rates and extra security—important considerations when searching for your perfect home. The benefits of an adjustable rate mortgage include:

• ARM rates can be lower than a 30-year fixed rate.

•  ARMs can feature lower monthly payments early on in the loan term, allowing you to maximize cash flow.

•  ARM rates do not change during the initial term (5, 7 and 10-year options available).

•  Adjustment rate caps offer extra protection.

•  ARMs may benefit first-time homebuyers and those looking to refinance. With the lower monthly payments of ARMs, you may be able to buy a larger home you wouldn’t be able to otherwise.

As the borrower, you take advantage of lower initial payments by leveraging the possibility that the mortgage interest rate could increase after the initial term. This means that your adjustable rate mortgage transfers part of your home loan’s interest rate risk from the lender to the borrower, giving you the lowest rate on the market.

An adjustable rate mortgage is also a great way to qualify for a higher loan amount, giving you the means to purchase a more expensive home. Many homebuyers will take out large mortgages to secure a 1-year ARM and later refinance to prevent a rate hike.

However, ARMs are not the ideal mortgage solution for everyone. The following are some particularities of adjustable rate mortgages that may be less than ideal, causing you to rethink a standard fixed mortgage rate. .

•  Over the life of a loan, rates and payments can rise rather dramatically over the life of the loan. Depending on rates, is not uncommon for an ARM to double over just a few short years.

•  ARMs are generally more complex to understand than a typical fixed rate. An adjustable rate mortgage affords lenders the flexibility to determine adjustment indexes, margins, caps and more.

•  Negative amortization loans, a certain type of adjustable rate mortgage, can cause borrowers to wind up owing more money than they did to begin with. The reason is that the payments are set so very low, that even the interest is not being completely paid off. All of this then, naturally, gets rolled over to the balance, which can be formidable when all is said and done.

So, what’s the better choice? An adjustable rate mortgage or a fixed rate mortgage? This is a determination you will, of course, have to make yourself. Each offers something different. Fixed-rate mortgages offer a permanent rate and a sense of security but at rates that can seem daunting. An adjustable rate mortgage costs less initially, which is appealing, but may ultimately lead to uncertainty.

These key differences will be a huge factor in your decision but there are other important questions to answer when deciding which loan is better for you:

1. What is the current interest rate environment?

A major determining factor may be the current interest rate environment. If rates are low, a fixed-rate mortgage makes the most sense – you’re in an ideal financial environment that you won’t want to jeopardize. However, if rates have become high, things change. With an adjustable rate mortgage, you have a lower initial rate to begin with and if (and when) rates eventually fall, you may well wind up with lower payments. In the meantime, you get to enjoy the benefits of owning your own home.

2. Do you plan on staying in the home long?

If not, an adjustable rate mortgage may be the right call. Your initial payment and rate will be low and, if you’re only planning to stay for a few years, you’ll avoid exposure to the huge rate adjustments that can be an ARMs downfall. Meanwhile, you can build up your savings for the more ideal home you may have your eye on.

3. When is the adjustment for the ARM made? How frequently does it adjust?

After an initial fixed period, odds are your adjustable rate mortgage will adjust fairly frequently. Usually, this is on the same date as the initial mortgage making it a yearly anniversary you can count on, but in some cases they adjust much more frequently – sometimes even every month. For some, this can be volatile and overwhelming making a fixed-rate mortgage more appealing.

What Is A 15 Year Fixed Rate Mortgage?

A conventional 15-year fixed rate mortgage is similar to a 30-year fixed rate mortgage in many respects. A conforming 15-year fixed rate loan features a limit of $484,350 ($726,525 in high-cost areas) and a consistent rate throughout its lifetime, giving you secure and predictable monthly mortgage payments. So what does this loan offer that a 30-year fixed rate loan doesn’t?

View Today's 15-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates

The main difference is the length. With a 15-year mortgage, you’ll pay off your mortgage in half the time, putting you on the fast track to full amortization. A 15-year fixed rate mortgage also features lower rates than its 30-year counterpart. A shorter loan term plus lower mortgage rates means less interest on your loan and more money in your bank account! Conventional 15-year fixed rate mortgage features include:

• 3-5% minimum down payment options for qualified homebuyers.

• Regular, qualified income required.

• No private mortgage insurance (PMI) with 20% or more down.

• Seller assistance with up to 3% of closing costs.

• Loan options up to $5 million for non-conforming mortgages.

• Home Style renovation loans with options as little as 5% down.

• 203k renovation loans with a minimum 620 FICO score.

Is a 15-year fixed rate mortgage right for you?

A 15-year fixed rate mortgage is popular with two different demographics. Younger homebuyers with sufficient income often use it to pay off their home before their children start college, while older homebuyers with established careers and higher income use it to pay off their mortgages before retiring. A word to the wise: 15-year fixed rate mortgages feature higher monthly payments than a 30-year loan. You’ll need to factor that into your budget when deciding whether this loan fits your needs.

30 of the Best Bathroom Paint Colors of All Time

This article has been taken from Apartment Therapy and written by Sarah Lyon, our reliable source on all things Home, Design, and Style. If you’d like more information on the best Bathroom Paint Colors of All Time, then please visit the linked website.

Let’s be honest: Selecting the perfect bathroom paint color can be tricky. In a perfect world, you’d find a great paint color that oozes spa-like vibes or turns your small bathroom into a high-impact powder room. The good news is that with so many amazing shades to choose from, no matter your wall size or aesthetic, you’re bound to find something that speaks to you. We’re sharing 30 of our favorite bathroom color schemes below; they’ll have you running to the hardware store to pick up a few new cans of paint ASAP!

 Be Bold With Black

This is the best of both worlds! A black accent wall makes Natalie and Nick’s Melbourne-based bathroom look extra sophisticated, while keeping other walls white ensures this sunny area stays fresh and bright looking. For a similar look, try Night Club by Behr.

Add A Splash of Red

RED-dy or not, here we come! This bathroom, featuring Sherwin Williams’ Ardent Coral, is bright and full of life. If there’s a color you love that you wouldn’t necessarily incorporate in a larger room of your home, consider testing it out in a space like a bathroom as a happy compromise.

Make A Gray Statement

Blogger Ashley Goldman of The Gold Hive also used gray—more specifically, Antique Tin by Behr—in her space. “I chose the shade because I wanted a dark hue that was neutral yet bold,” she explains. “There’s so much white tile on the walls and the floors that I had a good opportunity to go for a deeper hue on the walls. The deep charcoal provides a modern contrast yet keeps with the classic style of the bathroom.”

Turn to Light Gray

Jenna Ratliff of At Home With Jenna used Network Gray by Sherwin Williams in her space. The shade is an excellent neutral color that’ll let the rest of your space shine.

Opt for a Flirty Pink 

The Makerista’s Gwen wasn’t shy when painting this bathroom Sherwin Williams’ Childlike. In a blog post, she shares plenty of tips on how to select the best paint color for a space. “Paint will present itself differently on different planes, so you want to be sure to have the samples upright, not laying on the ground.  I look at them on each wall, in corners, during the day and at night,” she writes.

Bare Your Blue

Behr’s Ocean Tropic packs a punch in this simple Chicago house tour. We could see switching out the brown mirror for a geometric, gold option for an added pop of pizzazz.

Act Natural 

It’s only fitting that this California craftsman bathroom features a some robin’s egg blue paint, like this Valspar shade. While the space is small, the mix of patterns, colors, and textures doesn’t feel too busy.

Put Powder Blue in the Powder Room

Sarah Gibson of Room for Tuesday used a powder blue in her bathroom, noting, “After feeling bored with neutral spaces, I really wanted to implement a punch of color. It isn’t too saturated and I think it will withstand the test of time!” Gibson used Sherwin Williams’ Sleepy Blue on the walls and Languid Blue for the door.

 Think Pink

Light pink pairs beautifully with plants and other green accents, as seen in this Washington, DC house tour. This bathroom just feels oh-so-cheerful and put together with its mix of bright colors and decorative pieces. Recreate the look with Farrow and Ball’s Middleton Pink.

Add a Black Accent

Ariel Garneau of PMQ for Two offset a peach like Behr’s Flamingo Featherwith an oh-so-chic black ceiling. “We were inspired by many simple spaces with a hint of retro,” Ariel says. “Nothing is more retro than a pink bathroom with black border tile. Since we were renting at the time, we found a solution to our design woes by painting some beadboard in this lovely punchy shade of pink.”

Bring in Some Yellow

No longer is light yellow solely a color for beach houses or nurseries. As this modern farmhouse proves, it’s a totally viable bathroom paint option, too! The white cabinetry stands out against this sunny backdrop. Get the look with a light lemon shade like Benjamin Moore’s Light Yellow.

Get Coastal

Blogger Tracey Amadio of Porch Daydreamer repainted her bathroom using Behr’s 2019 color of the year, Blueprint, to create a coastal look. “Since this is a very small room, I chose the deep blue to help create visual impact,” she says. “Dark paint colors create an optical illusion visually pushing the walls back making the space appear larger and more substantial.”

Make It Magenta

It’s not too often that we spot magenta paint, particularly in a bathroom, but we’re feeling the spunk it adds here. Sherwin Williams Juneberry is a close match. A piece of abstract art finishes off the eclectic look. Let this “nerd chic” house tour show you how it’s done.

Colorblock with Green

Dabito of Old Brand New added a splash of Behr’s Forest Edge to his master bathroom. “I wanted a splash of green that brought calmness to the space,” he says. Dabito’s tip for painting their bathrooms is to start with an accent wall first. “Then, you can decide if you want to paint the rest of the bathroom, or you can also just leave it at that, like how I did in my bathroom,” he explains.

Work Wonders With White

In a sea of color, there’s nothing wrong with opting for plain white as blogger Erin Kestenbaum did during her One Room Challenge. Kestenbaum, who selected Benjamin Moore Decorator’s White, says, “Using a crisp, bright white on the walls visually expands the room when combined with lots of light streaming into the space. I also wanted to use white on the walls to create a gallery experience that draws your focus to the abstract art, bold blue vanity, and the luxe marble shower.”

Paint a Simple Section

Go green, get clean. In this Spanish house tour,  a green accent wall spices up an otherwise plain white bathroom without completely overpowering the space, ensuring it still feels zen. To get the look, try Joanna Gaines’s own Magnolia Green.

Play Nice With Navy

Ready to go to the dark side? Douse your bathroom in a moody navy blue. In Lauren and Chad’s Michigan home, a coat of Benjamin Moore’s Polo Blue pop against the white subway tile and abundance of bright green plants.

 Go Green With Envy

Let’s face it: A bright green bathroom—like the one in this colorful Portland house tour—isn’t for design wallflowers. However, if you want to pack a punch to your space, is bound to get the job done in style. Recreate the look in your own home with Benjamin Moore’s Traffic Light Green.

Back to Black

What’s black, white, and chic all over? Nicole and Dan Lucey’s beautiful bathroom, of course. The couple used Benjamin Moore’s Onyx to create a space that’s equal parts dramatic and dreamy.

Decorate With Double Duty Walls 

Just because wallpaper is a go-to option for most bathrooms doesn’t mean you can’t add a fresh coat of paint. In this whimsical London flat, Anouska Tamony did double duty by painting one wall and covering the other in a sweet print. A shade like Sherwin-Williams’ Morning Glory matches the tropical Jane Clayton wallpaper.

Say Hello to Yellow

Go ahead, bring a splash of color to a room where the sun doesn’t shine. In their D.C. abode, Bree and Andy painted their small bathroom a cheery, yellow. Recreate the look in your home with  Sherwin-Williams’ Eye Catching.

Select a Subtle Shade 

Don’t want to make a statement with a bold hue, but not willing to settle for a lackluster white paint? Opt for Valspar’s Morning Lake. As seen in this South Carolina house tour, this shade will warm up your space without overpowering the rest of the room.

Get Ready With Red 

We’ll be the first ones to admit that a bright, reddish coral is by no means subtle. However, if you want to incorporate the color in your small bathroom, pair the hue with crisp white tiles as Ray and Laura Uhlir did in their abode. Try your luck with a punchy pigment like Behr’s Red Coral.

A Slice of Sunshine 

The same bathroom color scheme rule applies to a bright yellow color, like Sherwin-Williams’ Frolic. When paired with white tiles and appliances—as seen in this Los Angeles house tour—the yellow takes on a sweet and slightly retro vibe.

Opt for Orange

If you ask us, orange is one of the most underrated shades on the color wheel. But when you play your cards right—and choose a sunny shade like Sherwin-Williams’ Gusto Gold a la this Chicago house tour—it can be the MVP of your entire design scheme.

Craft a Colorful Ceiling

Working with a bathroom that’s covered in tiles? Don’t worry, there’s still plenty of fun to be had. John and Liz Tavarez flexed their design muscles in their Arizona abode by painting the ceiling a moody black. Give this look a try with Clare’s Blackish.

Pick a Purple 

Give your space the royal treatment with a delicate—and undeniably regal—shade of lavender, as seen in Jewel Marlowe’s Rhode Island house tour. Trust us, a color like Farrow & Ball’s Calluna is just what your bathroom needs.

Jazz it Up With Jewel Tones

Want to take your bathroom color scheme to the next level? Opt for a moody shade that will make your guests green with envy.  In this budget-friendly renovation, for example, Valspar’s Nordic Forest spices up the small space.

Get Pretty With Peach 

Believe it or not, a soft, barely-there peach hue can make a major statement. Since most of this Australian abode is painted a pristine white, a shade like Clare’s Wing It can act as a breath of fresh air.

Work Wonders With White 

This may come as a surprise to you, but white isn’t necessarily off the table for your bathroom. When your walls are covered with towel racks, framed pictures, and plants galore—like this Chicago house tour—a crisp white can offer a blank canvas for all your accouterments. Having a hard time choosing the right white? Opt for a Benjamin Moore’s ridiculously versatile Simply White.

If you’re interested in purchasing your first home, then please contact your nearest Denver Realtor.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

The 5 Most Important Home Maintenance Tasks You’re Forgetting to Do, According to Home Inspectors

This article has been taken from Apartment Therapy and written by Brittany Anas , our reliable source on all things Home, Style and Design. If you’d like more information on Important Home Maintenance Tasks You’re Forgetting to Do, then please visit the linked website.

If you’re not properly maintaining your home, the damage will become clear come inspection time. Leaky roofs, faulty HVAC systems, wood damage hinting at major structural problems. Oh, my!

But what exactly are the most important chores to prevent longterm (and expensive) damage? I went straight to the source—professional home inspectors—to ask them what you should focus on. Here, the half-dozen tasks and missteps homeowners often make when it comes to home maintenance 101.

Cleaning your gutters

Check and clean out your gutters, soffits, and fascia throughout the year to prevent debris from accumulating. If you don’t, it could cause leaks, rotting, and other expensive damage, says Benjamin Martin, a home inspector and president and lead inspector for Florida Certified Home Inspections. 

“Once debris is carefully removed, any dirt or grime should be thoroughly cleaned and cleared; any missing caulk replaced; and holes, cracks, or loose areas repaired,” he says.

Plan to tackle this chore every spring and fall (or hire a professional if ladders make you queasy). Hot tip: Pine needles cause frequent gutter clogging. If you have a tree near your gutters, plan to do this more often.

Checking in on your air conditioning and heating system

Martin says the most ideal scenario is to hire an HVAC professional for semi-annual maintenance, focusing on cooling in the spring and heating in the fall. 

“In the meantime, homeowners, especially those with pets, should change their filters once a month,” he says

If you notice condensation gathering on your outdoor AC unit, don’t panic. Flush the condensate drain with soapy, hot water and vinegar. (If you’re new to this, look for the drain near the air handler. It’s usually made of PVC with an easy-to-access cap). If condensation continues to appear on the unit, if you notice drips, or the AC isn’t cooling, call in a licensed professional, Martin recommends.

Regularly flushing out clogs

Keeping your plumbing systems running smoothly will help you avoid leaks and water damage, Martin says. You should address small clogs as soon as they pop up. Yes, that means regularly removing the hair build-up in your shower (as unpleasant as it may be). 

In terms of your toilet, remove any gunk that accumulates near a toilet valve (the long mechanism in the toilet tank) and replace worn flappers (the rubber seal in the tank), he says.

Also, check underneath your sinks and inside cabinets to see if there are any water spots or puddles. You may have a hidden leaks that need attention.

Hot tip: Pay special attention to what you put down your garbage disposal. You know you can’t put an avocado pit down your drain and expect things to go well. But some lesser-known foods can also damage your garbage disposal, and—gulp—your more pricy plumbing system. Fibrous veggies like asparagus and celery can wrap around the disposal’s blades; coffee grounds can build up in the plumbing pipes; grease and fats can congeal and, over time, clog pipes.

Calling the exterminator in a timely fashion

If you see a couple of bugs crawling, you may get a tad creeped out, but mostly annoyed. However, allowing bug problems to escalate could wreak major havoc on your home, says Kathleen Kuhn, CEO and president of HouseMaster Home Inspections.
Wood-eating termites, for example, notoriously put a home’s structural integrity at risk, causing expensive repairs down the line. Carpenter ants also damage the wood where they nest. Powderpost beetles are wood-boring insects, creating hollowed out spaces in your wood.

Draining your hot water heater

Many homeowners don’t know to partially drain their hot water heater, says John Bodrozic, co-founder of HomeZada, a digital home management site. 

“Minerals in your water will build up over time at the bottom of your tank, which also causes the tank to work harder, which often causes the hot water heater to fail, causing water damage,” he explains.

Keeping your water heater running efficiently can greatly benefit your pocket: Replacing a hot water tank can cost up to $4,500. Bodrozic says to drain your tank from the bottom at least once a year to get the sediment out, then refill it.

Ahh, don’t you wish homeownership came with a user’s manual? To help, we’ve come up with a list of maintenance tasks that every first time home owner should know about.

If you’d like more information about the Denver Real Estate Market, then please contact your nearest Denver Realtor.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

5 Things You Should Avoid Buying for Your New Home, According to Real Estate Agents

This article has been taken from Apartment Therapy and written by Kate Streit, our reliable source on all things Home, Design, and Style. If you’d like more information on Things You Should Avoid Buying for Your New Home, then please visit the linked website.

When you buy a new home, it’s tempting to fill it with brand-new everything. But before you get carried away, realize that some purchases are unnecessary. (Also, if you make these big purchases before you close, it might cost you your home!) You’ll want to make sure you have cash on hand to cover your mortgage payment for at least three months, plus enough savings for any unexpected expenses. If you blow your whole paycheck on appliances or decor, you may come up short when something inevitably breaks or needs to be replaced.

But what, exactly, can you take off of your to-buy list? I spoke with real estate experts to see what purchases first-time homebuyers often regret after move-in day. Here, the five things you should either wait to buy or skip completely.

 New dishes and cooking supplies

Warning: The home-buying process may cause short-term delusions of thinking you’ll suddenly turn into a domestic whiz. A few weeks (and delicious meals) after move-in, it’s likely you’ll end up ordering take-out just as often as you did when you rented. 

“When my wife and I moved into our apartment, we bought so many cooking supplies, but we don’t cook,” says Luke Joyce, an real estate agent with REAL New York. “Part of living in New York City is always being out and about, so it’s hard to find time to cook.”

Be honest—not aspirational—about your lifestyle. Unless you upgraded to a chef’s kitchen to support your time-tested hobby, you probably don’t need a new set of pots and every last high-tech kitchen gadget. Save your cash.

Appliances you don’t have room for

Be realistic about your space. If you live in a small condo, you probably don’t have space for an industrial-sized vacuum or door-length ironing board. Instead, opt for a more compact models and get creative with using your space. 

For example, Nathaniel Neman of REAL New York recommends skipping the ironing board altogether and instead purchasing a portable ironing mat to use on top of a kitchen counter or dresser top.

Power tools

All those hours of HGTV probably have you revving up for some DIY projects, and you might think you’ll need to buy a set of power tools. But save your money, says Gerard Splendor of Warburg Realty in New York City. Power tools are very expensive, and for the frequency most homeowners use them, it’s often not cost-efficient to shell out for them. 

Instead, rent tools from a store like Home Depot or check if your community or local library has a tool lending library. If you just need to mount some shelves and hang picture frames après-move-in, it might make sense to hire an hourly professional on a service like Taskrabbit, Thumbtack, or Handy.

Custom window treatments

Before you invest in pricey custom window coverings, take stock of your new home. Splendore says you’ll want to observe light and heat patterns in your home during different seasons, and then figure out what treatments will work best. 

Also remember: Decorating your home is a marathon, not a race. It’s likely your home decor will go through different iterations as you nest, so waiting on window treatments will allow you choose ones that better fit your home’s long-term style. 

Of course, you will need to cover your windows from nosy neighbors. So just throw up some fun, inexpensive curtains and tension rods until you’re more settled.

Hardwired light fixtures

Builder-grade boob lights are definitely eyesores, but I promise you can make do with them for the first year or so of homeownership. Splendore agrees and recommends waiting to spend money on fixtures and installation. For the meantime, switch out the bulbs or install dimmers.

If you enjoyed this article and would like to learn more about the Denver Real Estate Market, then please contact your nearest Denver Metro Realtor to learn more information.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

The Anatomy of an Instagrammable Living Room

This article has been taken from Apartment Therapy and written by Danielle Blundell, our reliable source on all things Home, Style, and Design. If you’d like more information on the Anatomy of an Instagrammable Living Room, then please visit the linked website.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve basically all but given up on Pinterest searches for decorating inspiration. Because Instagram makes it so easy to browse other people’s feeds, search hashtags for inspiration and capture images for future reference in what basically looks like Pinterest board anyway. When you’re on the ‘gram regularly—a fair amount for work and for fun too over here—you start noticing certain items popping up time and time again. And that’s kind of how trends are born these days, at least in the social media world. So we thought it’d be fun to scroll through Instagram to figure out what makes for a double-tappable design scheme in each room of the house. Let’s start with the living room, since it’s a place that gets a lot of attention, from both you and your houseguests.

That Tan Leather Sofa

But first, the sofa—and right now, it’s hard to find a living room on Insta that doesn’t have a caramel colored leather sofa. Call it the Sarah Sherman Samuel effect, but man, is this neutral staple having a moment. There are a few things at play behind this trend. First off, leather is pretty durable, and it’s comfortable. And you don’t have to worry about every little stain in the same way you do with the off-white linen couch that was uber popular five years ago (been there, done that myself and never going back… I used to worry about people in dark jeans sitting on my sofa!). So I think buttery caramel leather has become the compromise between form and function for a lot of people. Caramel leather has a ’70s vibe that’s very on-trend in the world of style right now. To find one for yourself, we recommend this super discounted pick from West Elm or this budget-friendly find from Urban Outfitters (leather sofas typically go for at least $2,000).

Beni Ourain-Style Rug

If Insta is any indicator, the Beni Ourain rug is still going strong in the living room. But what started as mainly cream rugs with a black, dark gray, or brown linear diamond or zigzag pattern is now moving into lighter, brighter territories. These days, you’re seeing more Benis with cream bases and soft gray designs that are even more intricate and geometric, like this one spotted on AllModern that’s currently on sale.

And color is finding its way into the equation as well, adding a dose of boldness to these relatively subdued styles. If you’re not seeing a Beni Ourain, then there’s likely either one of two things in its place—a vintage Heriz or a super neutral sisal. Rugs just aren’t as crazy graphic as they once were before in the living room, at least when it comes to the Instagram set, but people do seem to be taking more chances within the Beni Ourain category.

Solid Coffee Table

A few years ago it seemed like everyone (including me) had the clear acrylic CB2 Peekaboo Table. And they’re still around a bit. But I think Instagram helped kill this trend off, because ghost tables and chairs simply don’t photograph that well. Most people use these pieces because they want them to recede into space, making a room seem visually lighter. But Instagram is all about the vivid picture—not the actual way a room functions. Clear is complicated so these days, it’s marble topped or light colored coffee tables that are having their moment. They’re still pretty airy, visually speaking, thanks to their largely white tops and often leggy metal or wood bases. But they are substantial enough to pop in a picture, so there you go. Wayfair has a ton of options, like this narrow marble-topped table that’s perfect for small spaces, or this round option that’s only $160.

Plants Galore

With the rise of the Jungalow trend, you’re going to be hard-pressed to find a living room without houseplants these days. People tuck trees and palms into corners, hang ferns from the ceiling, scatter succulents on their windowsill, and usually plop a pretty potted plant on their coffee table.

Plants add lush life and color to a room, and they’re guaranteed to get you those likes. They’ve become indispensable to most living rooms on Instagram, I think, because relative to art, books, and decorative objects (not counting the bigger tree and tropical styles), they offer a lot of decorative bang for the buck. I mean, you could take a white box of a living room, add a sofa with one big piece of art over it and a bunch of plants, and you’d have more than enough color and texture going on for a room to feel complete. Not sure where to begin? Check out our Best List of indoor house plants.

Art on Art

Gallery arrangements are still the choice over the sofa or blank living room wall treatment. Though Insta is now showing us that tapestries and neon signs are also totally fair game to bring into the mix of framed prints, paintings and drawings. Considering this expansion, there’s more of a balance between framed and unframed pieces than ever, and compositions are much looser on the whole. Oh, and white walls are still king for living rooms on Instagram probably because they offer the greatest flexibility for the least amount of work painting, since so many apartments and homes have white walls to begin with.

One Wall Wonder

If you don’t see a gallery wall, then you’re likely to encounter either one huge piece above the couch, still likely on white walls, or an accent wall of wallpaper that’s probably a geometric or a floral pattern.

Why? Papered walls kill it on the ‘gram, and they’re kind of a one-and-done solution, meaning you don’t have to go crazy hanging art over them because they hold their own decoratively. The availability of more affordable temporary wallpaper options has also made it easier to achieve these looks, even in a rental.

So there you have it—these are the keys to an Instagrammable living room. Are you already on your way to social media success? Or are you forging your way into new decorative territory and think your living room might be the best big thing on Insta?

If you’d like to learn more information about the Denver Real Estate Market, then please contact your nearest Denver Realtor.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

7 Prewar Design Elements Making a Comeback in 2020

This article has been taken from Apartment Therapy and written by Caroline Biggs, our reliable source on all things Home, Style and Design. If you’d like more information on Design Elements Making a Comeback in 2020, then please visit the linked website.

Peek inside any restored prewar home, and you’ll instantly see the appeal. “Pre-war apartments have historic details, high ceilings and decorative moldings that provide a beautiful contrast to contemporary interiors,” says Marie Flanigan of Marie Flanigan Interiors. “Construction practices during that time period were elaborate, often using skilled tradesmen for detailing, and floors and walls were built to last generations.”

It’s no surprise, then, that prewar architectural details are starting to resurface, even in present-day spaces. “In today’s age of design consumerism, there seems to be a spotlight on authenticity,” says Angie Socias of Coppel Design. “As many of these older homes switch hands to a younger generation of buyers, today’s design-savvy property owners are taking stock of the prewar details and finding value in preserving a level of architectural craftsmanship that has become almost extinct in newer constructed homes.” 

And if you don’t have that old house charm or can’t see yourself moving to a space with it anytime soon, the good news is you can fake it—at least somewhat. Sure, true period details are always best, but your budget shouldn’t prevent you from getting the prewar look if you love it. We asked our experts which classic prewar elements are making a comeback in 2020, and here’s what they said to consider for your space—whether you’re looking to take on a full renovation or just a weekend project.

Non-Open Floor Plans

Thanks to a renewed interest in uniquely designed spaces, Flanigan says closed floorplans, like the one in Lauren and Breeze’s New Orleans abode, are all the rage in modern homes. “Clients are trending towards more segmented floor plans for the formality and individuality of the spaces,” she says. “They are seeking more privacy and noise control, in addition to a sense of coziness.” With separated spaces, Flanigan thinks you can take bigger design chances, creating a distinct look in each room without worrying about it visually jibing with what’s “next” to it. In addition, separate spaces means more opportunities to sneak storage into corners and along walls. 

Hardwood Floors

The hardwood floors of yesteryear, like the ones in Sam’s Scottish home, are having a moment in contemporary interiors—and it’s not hard to see why. “Well-worn hardwood floors add unmatched warmth and visual depth to any space,” Socias says. “They also provide a neutral backdrop to ground both contemporary and traditional furnishings, rugs, and artwork.” If you have an old home or are about to buy one, always consider refinishing before replacing the floors so you can preserve some of that charm. 

Decorative Moldings

One of the most recognizable elements of a prewar interior is moldings on the walls, like crown molding or box panels like what’s in Brandi’s prewar Brooklyn apartment. “Decorative moldings add charm, history, and character to spaces,” Flanigan says. “I love to paint the details white, which is a beautiful juxtaposition against more modern furnishings.” You can always add molding to a blank box rooms, too. Stock trim from a home center obviously isn’t period authentic, but it can be found in the pre-war style. 

High Ceilings

Nothing makes a room feel grander than tall, soaring ceilings. That’s why they’re popping up more and more in modern interiors like Sarah and Andy Litvinchuk’s California home. “High ceilings create more air volume for light to travel through a room, which gives a space a sense of levity and lightness,” Socias says. There’s not much you can do about your ceiling without renovating, but you can create the optical illusion of height with wallpaper that has a vertically-oriented print. Painting the ceiling a little lighter than your walls can also draw the eye upward somewhat.

Stone Fireplaces

Prewar marble fireplaces, like the one in this Brooklyn brownstone, are brimming with charm and sophistication, so it’s no surprise they’re making major waves in present-day interiors. “We are seeing pre-war stone fireplaces being used in all types of designs, Flanigan says. “The decorative stone details offer a refined contrast to contemporary furnishings.” Marble is also another way to bring in an earthy, natural touch, so you definitely get the best of both worlds with this material.

Plaster Walls 

Sturdy and soundproof, plaster walls, like the ones in Nicole and Dan Lucey’s Brooklyn brownstone, can be embellished with ornamental moldings, making them more durable and more decorative than drywall ones. “Nothing adds more richness to a room than the texture and weight of real plaster walls,” Flanigan says. “They create a depth and glow to an unadorned space.”

Sunken Living Rooms

If you thought sunken living rooms, like the one in Anil and Shannon’s New York City loft, were a thing of the past, then it’s time to think again. “We are once again seeing a trend in changing floor levels,” Flanigan says. Maybe this is the compromise between open and closed floor plans, since you get a sense of separation without the isolation? Adds Socias: “By differentiating the living room from other parts of the home, you create a sense of intimacy and drama in the space.” 

If you’re interested in learning more about the Denver Real Estate Market, then please contact your nearest Denver Metro Realtor.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

10 Cheap, Easy Ideas to Make Your Bedroom Look More Expensive

This article has been taken from Apartment Therapy and written by Marlen Komar, our reliable source on all things Home, Style, and everything in between. If you’d like more information on Easy Ideas to Make Your Bedroom Look More Expensive, then please visit the linked website.

While it would be nice to loaf around the house in a silk robe and slip into 1,000-thread-count bed sheets, a super luxe luxe bedroom is not in the cards for me right now. But luckily, it’s easier and cheaper than you think to “fake it ‘til you make it” when decorating a bedroom. Certain upgrades can make your space instantly feel more expensive, and you don’t need Egyptian cotton and designer furniture. Sometimes all it takes is a really great candle, or one of these other smart and relatively inexpensive design tricks.

Upgrade Your Hardware

Think of hardware like jewelry for your bedroom. The same way a big pair of earrings or a statement necklace can perk up a plain outfit, a new set of knobs or pulls on, say, your nightstands or dresser can refresh the whole room. By switching out standard hardware for something a little more visually exciting—from copper handles to crystal knobs and beyond, you can add an extra touch of luxury to your space. Check places like Zara Home, World Market, and Amazon for inexpensive, stylish options.

Zhush Your Pillows

Plump, over-filled pillows are the gold standard at fancy hotels, so bring that same look home. Overstuff your decorative throw cushions so they appear high end. Stylists do this by buying inserts that are slightly larger than whatever their pillow covers are. So if you have a 18-inch square pillow, for example, buy 20-inch inserts. When you’re ready to replace your sleeping pillows, look for ones that are as thick and lofty as you can find. And don’t skimp on the number of them, either. You don’t have to go crazy piling sleeping pillows on, but hotels usually dress their beds with two pillows per person.

Bring in a Tray

Trays instantly class up a room, especially when they’re filled with special trinkets. If you’re planning to put one on a vanity, you can stock it with pretty perfume bottles, favorite creams, and jewelry. If you want a small tray on your nightstand, all you need is a candle and maybe a carafe-and-water glass combo.

Make a Blanket Statement

If you can’t afford new luxury bedding, don’t worry. Focus on your throw throw blanket instead. A big chunky knit throw placed across the foot of your bed will take the focus off a tired duvet or comforter. You can also use a vintage tapestry or piece of fabric to update a plain upholstered headboard—just drape it over the top of the headboard and tuck it in behind your pillows near the mattress.

Add Some Texture

Textural elements can make a bedroom feel layered and visually rich. Try a faux fur throw on a side chair or a sheepskin rug on the floor by the bed to cozy things up a bit. Bring in rattan baskets and look for a fun woven light fixture if you’re into a boho luxe look. You can also sneak pom poms and tassels into the mix on embellished blanketsand pillows. All of this will make your space more exciting and inviting.

Style Your Nightstand

Don’t let your nightstand devolve into a junk drawer that’s basically on display. Regularly empty your drinking glasses, and clear things like hand creams and dogeared paperbacks off its surface. To make your room feel more glamorous, put in a real effort to style out your nightstand. Choose a cute lamp, add in a plant, and think about hanging something small in the empty wall space behind the tabletop. 

Upgrade Your Mirror

If you still have the plain mirror you got during college, it’s time for a change. Try an antique-inspired brass mirror or something curvy that will open up the room. You can also find a model that has a shelf, so you gain a little vertical storage space out of your purchase, too. Mirrors can be expensive, so start your search on Craigslist, at a flea market, or at a garage sale. You can find something great secondhand. For best results, be as specific as possible with your search terms on online marketplaces. And know that if you find a shape you love but hate the finish, a can of paint is all you need to fix that.

Fake Architectural Features

If you rent and can’t make permanent changes to your space or own and just don’t want to take on a massive project, fool-the-eye paint treatments and decorative finishes can make your room’s architecture look much fancier than it actually is. Make faux wall paneling with washi tape or paint a half wall that looks like wainscoting. These kinds of design tricks are quicker and cheaper to execute than you might expect.

Update Your Lighting

Forget the “boob” light fixture that often comes in a builder-grade bedroom. Replace yours with something a little more swanky like a drum-shaped pendant, sputnik lamp, or small chandelier. IKEA has a bunch of inexpensive but trendy lighting options, so start your search there.

Raise The Curtains

Make your room feel bigger by raising your curtain rod two to three inches below the ceiling line. Your room will feel loftier, and your windows will seem larger, making the space, on the whole, feel much more elegant.

If you’re interested in purchasing your first home or ready to upgrade your current home, then please contact your nearest Denver Flat Fee Realtor to learn more information about the Denver Market.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

9 Wonderful Housewarming Gifts That Aren't Wine

This article has been taken from Better Homes & Gardens and written by Allison Maze, our reliable source on everything Home, Gardens, and everything in between. If you’d like to learn more information about Housewarming Gifts, then please visit the linked website.

Don't get us wrong: Wine is wonderful. But if you want to go beyond the bottle when helping friends, family members, and new neighbors feather their nests, take a cue from these stylish and thoughtful housewarming gifts our editors love to give.

For the decor-savvy nester, spring for a pretty-yet-practical coffee table book. Bursting with wow-worthy vignettes and beautiful interiors, Emily Henderson's Styled will provide the inspiration and advice she craves.

A Happy Houseplant

The houseplant is super hip these days, and even the most humble hints of green can cheer up a room. Opt for a small, easy-care plant or terrariumthat can nestle into a bookshelf or take up residence on a tabletop. A preppy pot doesn't hurt, either.

A Token of Their Neighborhood

Whether it's a vintage postcard featuring their new city or a pillow printed with their ZIP code, a gift with ties to their new locale is both unique and memorable.

A Personalized Address Stamp

Give their address change the ultimate stamp of approval with a handmade design worthy of the snail-mail spotlight.

Stylish Sips

Settling in to a new space calls for a toast. Make at-home happy hour even more enjoyable with a darling set of drinkware. These vintage aqua leaf lowball glasses will leave them swooning.

Tasty Local Treats

Win their hearts through their stomachs with goodies from a local bakery or candy shop. Or, nudge them to get started on their new-city bucket list with a gift certificate to a nearby restaurant.

Luxe Goods

Treat them to something they wouldn't normally purchase for themselves. Little luxuries such as fancy soaps, candles, and lotions will make their new space feel like a serene retreat.

Gift Cards They'll Actually Use

Because you know big-box staples like Target, Lowe's, Walmart, and the Home Depot are bound to be in their future. For creative points, gather cleaning supplies or small home improvement items in a cute little bundle with the gift card. 

Monthly Flower Delivery

Flowers exude a happy, homey vibe -- even among a sea of unpacked boxes. Purchase a flower-of-the-month delivery for a few months so they can look forward to each fresh supply.

If you’re interested in learning more information about the Denver Market and moving into your first home, then please contact your nearest Denver Realtor.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

32 Creative Ideas for Every Blank Wall in Your Home

This article has been taken from Better Homes & Gardens, our reliable source on all things Home, Gardens, and everything in between. If you’d like more information Creative Ideas for Every Blank Wall, then please visit the linked website.

Sick of staring at a stark empty wall? Infuse it with warmth and personality by adding creative artwork, mixed media, and vintage finds.

Stylish Silhouettes

Decorate a dining nook or breakfast banquette with framed family silhouettes. The pieces stand out against the wall with crisp black frames and clean white matting. Arrange the portraits in a neat, balanced composition with even spacing between each piece.

Natural Beauty

Display collected artwork look on a dime. Browse the dollar store for wood frames and customize them with paint. These frames were spruced up with black paint and then distressed with sandpaper to match the look of the vintage botanical prints they display.

Small Space Decor

Don't let a small kitchen space stand in the way of your decor. Hang a pair of floating shelves on a blank wall or in a tight corner and fill them with various frames and ceramics with pretty patterns. To make the display pop, paint or stain the shelves a contrasting color as your walls.

Stick to the Theme

Dress up a bare area with variations on a single decorating theme. The small print hanging directly above this dining table was the inspiration for a beach theme. A collection of artifacts, including seashells and a framed bathing suit, draws attention to the dining area and ties together the whole look.

Wall Letters

Hop on the typography trend and use letters or words to create an artsy arrangement. Use a variety of sizes, colors, and materials in your wall artdisplay. For example, try combining prints of your favorite word or phrase with three-dimensional artifacts in shadow boxes.

Art of Grandeur

A single piece of art can be the solution for an entire blank wall—especially if it's a dramatic size, like this oversize print of the homeowner's state flag. Add emphasis to a single piece of artwork by installing a decorative pendant overhead. To make your own large artwork, stretch fabric around a canvas frame, available at crafts stores.

Gallery Shelf

An expansive floating shelf adds character to a blank wall. Layer framed prints or pictures and favorite accessories along the shelf. If you have a larger wall, hang several shelves and stagger their heights.

Art by Theme

Dress up your walls with variations on a single theme. Pick a subject or motif you love—like this homeowner's interest in birds—and repeat it in a collection of paintings, prints, needlepoints, and more. If you crave a little continuity, frame all your pieces in the same style of frame.

Kids' Gallery

Add a touch of childhood whimsy to any room in your home by framing your children's artwork. Hanging the items in high-traffic areas will make kids feel special, and by choosing traditional gallery-inspired frames, the artwork will blend easily with its surroundings.

Filling the Space

Have you found the perfect piece of artwork but discovered it doesn't fill the wall space the way you'd like it to? Pair it with smaller paintings to make the arrangement feel more robust. By placing smaller paintings on each side of this abstract canvas, the arrangement is in proportion to the wall space surrounding it.

Soothing Solution

Prevent a blank wall from looking stark by filling it with a collection of small prints. Soft landscapes like these ones look soothing placed against a soft white wall. To create a cohesive composition, search for prints of similar sizes and arrange the frames in a grid pattern on the wall.

Headboard Art

Use framed prints to fill up blank space on the wall behind a bed. This arrangement doubles as a headboard. To create the gridlike look, use square black frames and hang them close together, leaving about 2-3 inches between the frame edges.

Reflective Artwork

Looking for a quick but stunning way to fill up a blank wall? Try an oversize mirror. This once-dull corner comes to life with a floor-length mirror in a matte black frame. The mirror adds style to the room and reflects light around the space, making it feel larger.

Just For Kids

Add a gallery installation to your living room, basement, or den using nothing more than chalkboard paint. Section off a wall portion and paint it with chalkboard paint. You may need several coats. Store a bucket of chalk nearby and let the kids unleash their creativity. 

Vintage Posters

For a classic country look, search local flea markets for vintage posters. For a simple framing technique, use poster hangers that allow the piece to simply slide into the frame, and hang the unit up by a ribbon. We made this magnetic poster holder using inexpensive pine boards.

Dress Up an Alcove

It can be easy to overlook small spaces when designing a room, but tucked away spots, such as a niche for a bathtub, are great places to add an ensemble of prints. Group like prints on a blank bathroom wall with frames that match or complement the room's finishes.

Big Business

Colorful graphic art pops off deeply saturated walls. Frame music or movie posters with white frames to make them stand out on colorful walls even more. The look is trendy but sophisticated—a successful vibe for a home office.

Kid's Corner

Enliven a corner of a nursery with whimsical prints both child and parent will appreciate. Finish the look with a pair of picture ledges. Children’s books are known for their colorful illustrations; select your favorite covers and display as art that can easily be changed as the child grows.

Buddy System

Filling a long wall in a living room can be a design challenge. Start by hanging a series of prints with complementary color palettes above the sofa. Partner the wall art with colorful decor elsewhere. Bookshelves create a natural perimeter for the wall art. Display decorative items and small framed artworks on the shelves to complete a pulled-together look for the entire room.

Stackable Style

Collect and paint wooden boxes and crates to fashion your own storage solution and eclectic art display. Use the lower bins to hold photo albums, crafting supplies, or family heirlooms. Hang boxes on the wall so they appear to be floating and fill with decorative items. Finish with a simple frame and your favorite artwork.

Wallpaper That Wows

Framed prints aren’t the only way to make an artistic statement on blank walls. There is a vast array of stunning wallpaper designs that will elevate the look of any room. Bold colors or oversize patterns can especially energize a space.

Custom Furnishings

Flex your DIY muscles and refinish an old piece of furniture to display as a work of art. This dynamically repainted piece sets the tone for the room. Connect stylish furniture to the wall art with one leaning piece that gently rests against the wall.  

Attention Grabber

Draw attention to unique accessories with an oversize piece of artwork. This massive print embraces the contemporary typography trend and draws the eye toward a modern transparent console table. To keep the arrangement looking grounded and intentional, it's flanked by a pair of industrial-style sconces.

DIY Botanical Prints

Update the classic look of botanical prints with this easy DIY project. Silk or plastic greenery is laid on a blank canvas and a coat of spray paint creates the reverse silhouette. A special material called frisket (available in the model-building section of a crafts store) gives the pieces a unique irregular border. Get the step-by-step instructions.

Upper Gallery

Create a gallery of frames above a large window or along the soffit above kitchen cabinets. Use matching frames for your collection and fill with favorite snapshots and fun prints. If you have a colorful space, try a collection of black-and-white images. Or if your space leans more neutral, like this breakfast nook, opt for an assortment of colorful artwork.

Reflective Series

For a lighter alternative to a large mirror, group several smaller mirrors together. The result is a subtle yet stunning wall arrangement. Use mirrors in different shapes such as the ones pictured for a sophisticated cottage look.

Basket Art

For a casual cottage look, hang shallow wicker baskets along a wall as artwork. Here, the woven baskets add texture to the wall, and the natural material pops against cool blue walls. Simple decor in neutral shades keeps the focus on the art arrangement.

Pack It In

Fill blank wall space with a tight arrangement of eclectic artwork above a fireplace or mantel. To keep the wall from looking cluttered or random, make sure the artwork has a similar feel. Here, landscapes with similar colors and neutral frames fit snugly yet stylishly on a small dining room wall.

Laying the Plans

Search antique shops and flea markets for vintage landscape blueprints that double as wall art. This print, with its soft color palette and faded paper, blends easily with a country gardening motif. Hang it over a small console table and accessorize with rustic accents for a cohesive theme.

Bright Spot

Introduce a new color to a space with brightly hued picture mats. These yellow matted prints bring attention to the bed, casting it as the bedroom's focal point. The yellow mats serve as a vivid contrast to the purple-hue bedroom. For a polished look, repeat the mat's hue somewhere else in the room.

Books as Art

Round up a collection of worn or unreadable books with fun covers. Remove the covers and hang them in frames for a literary-theme wall art installation. Or, if you want to keep the books intact, scan the covers and print on photo paper.

A Bit of Nature

Bring the great outdoors inside with nature-inspired artwork. This sunny sitting room includes a large bay window that offers magnificent views of the outside, making these small butterfly prints blend right in on a blank wall. The bright colors on the butterflies' wings add a needed splash of color to the mostly neutral room and coordinate perfectly with other accessories and decor.

If you’re looking to customize your own home, then please contact your nearest Denver Realtor to learn more information about the Denver Market.

https://www.soldfor1995.com