Kids Ain't Cheap

But They Sure Are Worth It

Convert Your Basement into Your Children’s Bedroom With These Tips

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By now, it’s no secret that finishing unfinished spaces in your home can make them more valuable and functional. This is supported by the fact that a finished basement can increase the value of your property by 70%. It may not add to the overall square footage of a house, but this is beside the point as it can be used as a guest room, home classroom space, office, or informal family room/living room. One of these spaces is the basement, and if you have kids, what better to do with it than to turn it into an additional bedroom for them? Have a look at the tips below that can help you turn your basement into a creative, cozy, and safe bedroom for your kids.

Deal With Water Damage and Leaks

Water damage is a major issue for basements, especially because of their position in the house. The biggest issue with water damage is the fact that it can lead to issues like mildew and mold. According to Angi, the two main reasons why homeowners typically get mold in their basement are as a result of drainage issues or water intrusion, and that the basement has an overall humidity level of over 45%. Mold can cause respiratory issues and so it’s important to make sure that there’s no risk that it might form in the basement, where it will affect your kids. Find a professional to inspect and fix your basement so that water damage is an unlikely scenario and the space isn’t more humid than it needs to be.

Get Proper Lighting

Next, you want to make sure that the basement is well-lit. This involves adding egress windows that can let in light during the day and also be a means of escape in case of an emergency. Have a professional install these so that they do so according to the building codes in your area. You can also add lighting by installing LED light holders at strategic points throughout the house. These will keep the basement well-lit when it gets dark and also save you a considerable amount of money in terms of the energy that you use in your home. The best lighting should be that which isn’t too bright, so pick bulbs that have a considerable wattage.

Remember the Flooring

The floor of your basement needs to be comfortable enough for your kids to walk on in all seasons. This is why you may want to install a carpet, tiles, or even engineered wood. These are all easy to find at local hardware stores in your area, so look for the right one for your home, depending on your budget and the end result that you hope to achieve. Remember that 60% of homes in the United States have wet basements, with 38% of them running the risk of basement mold. You have to make sure that there’s no risk of water getting into the basement as it will leave you with an expensive mess.

Check Insulation and Ventilation

Finally, make sure that the basement is insulated well enough to keep it at a comfortable temperature as the seasons change. You should also be sure that the ventilation is perfect so that the basement stays fresh and any fumes that come from cooking, electrical systems, heaters, and more are all funneled away safely. Have a professional check and install the ventilation to make sure that it’s correct so that you’ll be sure your kids are safe throughout.

Use these tips to convert the basement into a safe and comfortable bedroom for your kids. Work with professionals so that you get the best possible outcome. This will help make your home feel larger than it currently is, so it’s worth the time and money you’ll spend on doing it.

Do Not Believe What You See on Social Media

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Woman Recording herself for social media

When I had three young children, I was a stay-at-home mom who did freelance writing on the side for about 15 to 20 hours a week. In addition, I enjoyed reading blogs, which were popular at the time. Unconsciously, I found myself trying to emanate these women, especially another mother who also had three young children and ran a successful blog. She wrote about pushing herself hard, working long hours at night, and devoting herself to her children during the day, so I tried to do that, too. Only later did I learn an important lesson—do not believe what you see on social media.

Not Modeling a Healthy Lifestyle

I read that blogger even now, over ten years later. She had a shift in how she spends her time and admits that when she worked so hard and slept so little, she was not leading a healthy lifestyle. This blogger openly admits that her workaholic tendencies affected her family and children.

Now she has a much healthier work-life balance, but for years, she was very driven and encouraging other women to do so even though it was unhealthy for her family. Luckily, I gave up that lifestyle about a year after I tried to adopt it because living that way exhausted me.

Do Not Believe What You See on Social Media

Besides not emulating others who may live an unhealthy lifestyle, it’s also important to not believe what you see on social media.

Help Behind the Scenes

Woman with a laptop and two children surrounding her

For instance, one influencer used to give the impression that she ran her business entirely by herself. I used to marvel at all she could do and wondered why I failed so miserably at trying to accomplish what she did.

Only recently has that influencer talked about her team, which consists of two full-time and four part-time employees. If you compare yourself to another and think that person gets way more done than you can, you likely don’t have the full story.

Additional Perks the Influencer Doesn’t Mention

Not only do I, unfortunately, compare myself to how productive some influencers are, but I also compare myself to their budgeting skills. For instance, I used to follow one vlogger who can feed her family of six for only $300 to $400 a month, or so she says.

True, she snags all the clearance deals when she shops. However, I’ve noticed recently, as she has become more popular, she gets more sponsored deals. As part of her sponsorship, she gets free food. For instance, she gets free boxes of Hello Fresh meals from all of her affiliate credits. In addition, she gets free boxes of gourmet food from Thrive Market. Yet, she never acknowledges these items when she shares how much she spends on groceries. Yes, she didn’t spend money on these items, but because she gets them for free, she can spend less on other groceries.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a mom following social media, learn from my mistakes. Do not believe what you see on social media—live your life doing what’s best for your family and your budget because you only see part of an influencer’s life. There may be much more happening behind the scenes that you will never know.

Read More

7 Ways to Save Money on Groceries

Budgeting for Family Expenses

How Parents Can Use Their Social Media Influence

Futuristic Upgrades to Make Your Home More Functional

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In this day and age, having a functional home is more important than ever before. Our homes have become a sanctuary from the outside world, and we want them to be comfortable, efficient, and clutter-free. Futuristic home upgrades can transform your living space and turn it into a functional, efficient paradise for you and your entire family.

One of the biggest problems that homeowners face is clutter, especially when young kids are involved. 54% of Americans feel overwhelmed with clutter filling up their homes. Fortunately, there are many ways to combat this, such as adding more storage space, investing in multi-functional furniture, and creating a system for organizing your belongings. Implementing these changes can make your home more functional and enjoyable.

Efficient Heating and Cooling

Another critical aspect of a functional home is efficient heating and cooling. In warmer climates like Florida, it’s essential to have an HVAC system that can keep up with the demands of the weather. A single mini-split air handler can heat or cool up to 1,000 square feet, depending on the climate and system size. This makes it an excellent option for those who want to save money on their energy bills while keeping their homes comfortable.

Recycled Materials and In-Duct Air Filtration

Recycled materials are an excellent option for futuristic home upgrades. Industrial recycling plants can now recycle a wide range of materials, including Christmas lights, wine corks, and even denim. These materials can then be used to create unique and eco-friendly home decor, such as recycled-paper countertops, recycled-plastic carpets, and denim insulation.

In-duct air filtration is an excellent upgrade for anyone wanting to improve their home’s air quality. You can eliminate allergens, toxins, pathogens, and pollen using a particle-and-carbon-removal system built into your central air conditioning unit. UV sanitizers can also sterilize harmful particles that make it into the air circulating through your home.

Smart Home Gadgets

If you want to incorporate futuristic gadgets into your home, there are many options to make your life easier and more efficient. Some of the most popular devices that can be controlled through your smartphone include smart lightbulbs, which can provide the perfect lighting experience and ambiance through features such as dimmer switches and motion sensors. Additionally, smart video doorbells allow you to answer visitors remotely and speak with them through the door, giving you added convenience and security. Consider controlling smart pet feeders from your phone. These gadgets help schedule meals and dispense food automatically, making life easier for pet owners.

Another device you can control from your phone is a smart thermostat. These devices offer energy-saving capabilities and automatically adjust the home’s temperature. Smart beds can be controlled by an app, giving you the ability to adjust the firmness of each side of the mattress and track your sleeping habits. These beds can ensure a better night’s rest.

Building Codes and Regulations for Your Dream Home

These upgrades might not always be simple, depending on where you live. For example, Florida has some of the toughest building codes in the nation, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to create your dream home. By working with licensed professionals who understand these codes and regulations, you can rest assured that your home will meet the highest quality and durability standards.

Incorporating futuristic upgrades into your home can make a huge difference for you and your family. Whether you’re looking to reduce clutter, lower your energy bill, or create a more relaxing atmosphere, these upgrades can help you transform your home into an oasis that exceeds your expectations.

How to Prepare for a New Roofing Installation if You Have Young Children

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As a homeowner, you may find yourself needing to replace your roof at some point, which can be overwhelming if you have young children. However, with the proper preparation, you can ensure that your roofing installation goes smoothly and your family remains safe and comfortable.

Getting a new roof can be disruptive for kids. The loud noises from constant hammering and footsteps on the roof can be unnerving and may disturb younger children or pets. Also, the potential hazards from falling debris and the risk of injury can cause concern. It is essential to take precautions and prepare ahead of time to minimize the impact of the roof replacement on your family, including your children.

The Benefits of a New Roof for the Whole Family

There are numerous benefits to getting a new roof, including the following.

  • A safer environment for your children to play and live in. An old or damaged roof may have weak spots that can pose a danger to your family.
  • Enhanced protection for your home, ensuring your property and personal belongings are shielded from the elements.
  • Boost your home’s curb appeal and overall value
  • Improve energy efficiency, potentially reducing heating and cooling costs and making your home more comfortable.
  • Peace of mind, allowing you to feel secure in your home and confident your family is protected.

Under normal circumstances, you should inspect your roof once or twice a year, but sometimes, life gets in the way. Maybe you’ve fallen behind on your inspections, or you’ve noticed some damage since your last inspection. Regardless of your personal case, it’s never a bad idea to get an inspection. Look for reputable roofing companies in your area. They should be able to help you out.

Preparing Your Home and Children for a Roof Replacement

Here are some steps to take to make the installation process as smooth as possible. First, prepare the rest of your home for the roof replacement because the installation will impact the whole house. The vibrations caused by the roofers’ work can cause damage to wall decorations and other fragile items such as mirrors, framed photos, and wall hangings. Next, protect your patio furniture and yard during the replacement. Anything in your backyard, such as patio furniture, toys, barbecues, potted plants, lawn ornaments, and inflatable pools, should be moved to the back of your yard or into the garage to avoid damage.

Make sure to also clear your roof of branches. Large trees overhanging your roof can be a hazard for roofers, so it’s best to have any branches trimmed. Cover or move any items stored in your attic to protect them from debris, dust, and vibrations during the roof replacement. If you have a satellite dish, contact your provider before the roof replacement starts. Consider power sources for the roofers. They will need access to power for tools such as saws and nail guns. If your home doesn’t have exterior outlets, they must run their extension cords into the house. Finally, keep your children and pets safe during the roof replacement. The constant noise of hammering and footsteps on the roof can be unsettling for small children and pets.

Remember, if you need a new roof, you are not alone. Each year in the US, more than five million new roofs are installed. This means many roofing professionals have vast experience in handling various types of roofing installations. Therefore, you should take your time to research and find a reputable roofing company that can meet your specific needs.

Why You Should Prioritize a New Roof

The construction industry generated a staggering $2 trillion in revenue in the US in 2019, meaning many homeowners are investing in roof replacements and other home improvement projects. They are a great way for you to add value to your home. Even if you are not selling, you can benefit from an increased home value. You will also save money in the long run for repairs. A new roof means you won’t have to worry about it breaking down any time soon.

While the process of getting a new roof installed can be disruptive, it provides numerous benefits. With proper planning, the process will be smoother, not just for your children but also for the entire family.

Should You Buy a House in a Bad School District?

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Should You Buy a House in a Bad School District?

My husband and I have lived in three different states. When we lived in Chicago, we chose a working-class neighborhood with bad schools. That was the only area where we could afford rent. (Buying a house was out of the question because of the high property taxes and our relatively low income.) When we lived in Arizona, we chose a good neighborhood with a meh school district. Finally, now that we live in New York, we live in a lovely community with a good school district. Sometimes when you’re house shopping, you find a nice house in a lousy school district within a good neighborhood. Should the quality of the school district be a deal breaker? The answer is, it depends.

Should You Buy a House in a Bad School District?

Of course, if the house is in a bad school district and neighborhood, you likely should pass. (Remember, location is everything when buying a home.) However, if the neighborhood is safe and sound, you have options.

Can Your Kids Go to School Out-of-District?

Some areas of the country allow a certain number of children to go to school out-of-district. If this is the case where you are, and there are good schools nearby, consider this option. You will avoid your neighborhood school that is less than desirable. You get a nice house, and your kids attend a good school. The only drawback is that you will likely need to drive them, and their commute to school will be longer than if they went to school locally.

Is Private School an Option?

When we lived in the Chicago suburbs, we had an academically solid private school within walking distance. However, we couldn’t afford the full tuition. Luckily, we applied for financial aid and received a significant tuition cut. Our child attended that school for three years.

Even if you think you can’t afford private school, you may find that with financial aid, it becomes an option.

Could You Homeschool?

Should You Buy a Home in a Bad School District

Another option is to homeschool. If you choose this route, it doesn’t matter what neighborhood you live in. When we moved to Arizona, we had been homeschooling our three children for one year. Because we didn’t have to consider the schools, we could find a fixer-upper in a nice neighborhood with a not-so-great school district. When we moved eight years later, our house sold for over asking to a couple in their 50s who also didn’t care about the school district.

If, instead, we had considered the school district, we would have had to buy a house in a neighborhood that was outside our price range. We would have struggled financially to make a house payment in that neighborhood. Homeschooling offers you incredible freedom.

Final Thoughts

When house hunting, remember location is everything. If you find a good house in a nice neighborhood with a bad school district, don’t automatically rule that house out. You have options for your children’s education that don’t require you to live in the best school district in the area.

Read More

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Is It Child Approved? The Best Home Buying Checklist When You’re House Hunting with Kids

Yaaa, We Sold Our House. . .We Hope

Remodel Your Home Interior Without Breaking The Bank!

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Home renovation projects can be a great way to update your living space and add value to your home, but they can also be quite costly. In 2018, Americans spent around $7,560 on home improvement endeavors. However, there are ways to remodel your home interior without breaking the bank. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you achieve the look you want without spending a fortune.

Use Design-Build Firms

Design-build firms are a great resource for those looking to remodel their home without breaking the bank. These firms have one team of experts that take care of an entire home project from top to bottom. This means you don’t have to hire multiple contractors, which can save you money. Design-build firms can also help you stay within your budget by providing you with a detailed cost estimate upfront.

Consider Concrete Floor Coatings

If you’re looking to update your flooring, consider using concrete floor coatings. The U.S. concrete floor coatings market size is valued at $298.2 million, which means it is a popular choice among homeowners. Concrete floor coatings are a cost-effective way to update your floors, as they are less expensive than traditional flooring options like hardwood or tile. Additionally, concrete floor coatings are durable and long-lasting, which means you won’t have to replace them anytime soon.

Paint Your Walls

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to update your home’s interior is by painting your walls. A fresh coat of paint can make a room feel new and updated. Choose a neutral color that can serve as a blank canvas for any future decorating changes. Painting is a DIY project that can be completed over a weekend, saving you the cost of hiring a professional painter.

Update Your Lighting

Lighting plays a big role in setting the mood and atmosphere of a room. Updating your lighting fixtures can make a big impact on the overall look of your home. Consider switching out old and outdated light fixtures for newer, more modern options. You can also add dimmer switches to create a more ambient atmosphere.

Refresh Your Window Treatments

Another simple and cost-effective way to update your home’s interior is by refreshing your window treatments. This can be as simple as adding new curtains or blinds, or as elaborate as installing a new window seat. This can be a great way to add some color and personality to your living space without spending a lot of money.

Reuse and Repurpose

When remodeling your home, consider reusing and repurposing items you already own. Instead of buying all new furniture, think about how you can update the pieces you already have. For example, you can give an old piece of furniture a new look by painting it or adding new hardware. This can save you money and also add a unique touch to your home.

Shop for Deals and Discounts

When shopping for materials and fixtures for your home remodel, always be on the lookout for deals and discounts. You can find great deals on building materials, furniture, and decor at home improvement stores and online retailers. You can also check for clearance sales and end-of-season deals to save money. Additionally, many stores offer discounts for military personnel, seniors, and students, so be sure to ask if any of these discounts apply to you.

In conclusion, remodeling your home interior doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right planning and a little creativity, you can achieve the look you want without spending a fortune. Consider using design-build firms, concrete floor coatings, painting, updating your lighting, refreshing your window treatments, and reusing and repurposing items you already own. With these tips and tricks, you can create a beautiful and functional living space for your family that you’ll love for years to come.

3 Tips for Saving Money on Home Septic System Maintenance

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Septic tank maintenance is one of the simplest and least obvious ways to save money. Unless there is an offensive odor or you work in the plumbing or septic tank sector, your home’s septic tank condition usually won’t be a major concern.

You should have a second motivation, though, which is the ability of septic maintenance to save money. According to the EPA, a septic service expert should evaluate a household septic system at least every three years. That said, you can spend less on family septic tanks while keeping them in tip-top condition. Here are some tips for saving money on home septic system maintenance.

Keep Your Septic System Clean

Avoid having plants, trees, shrubs, or structures near your septic system. Put differently, your septic tank shouldn’t be built over. Otherwise, the weight may lead to cracks and make it hard for septic specialists to access your tank. Since roots can block the pipes, you should refrain from planting trees or shrubs near or inside your septic system. Remember, roots can cause pipes to burst, allowing sewage and untreated water from your septic tank to leak into the ground. Additionally, growing tree roots can choke pipes by sneaking into cracks in the pipes.

To secure the pipe, use a torque wrench. The tool is used to apply a precise amount of torque to fasteners, such as nuts or bolts. Here’s a fun fact. Conrad Bahr created the torque wrench in 1918 while employed by the New York City Water Department. However, doing the job yourself might appear cheaper and easier, but it will probably cost you more. Saving money on septic services occasionally entails contacting the experts rather than taking care of repairs yourself.

Get It Serviced Regularly

If you choose a letter at random from the alphabet, there is probably at least one disease, starting with each letter, that is associated with sewage contact. Just a handful of the countless illnesses that can be contracted from ingesting sewage-contaminated water, and direct contact with raw sewage, include hepatitis A, and gastroenteritis. If you couple this problem with poor dental hygiene, you risk getting periodontal disease. In fact, periodontal disease affects 47.2% of adults aged 30 and older, according to the CDC.

Now, when you service a septic tank regularly, coming into contact with sewage is not an issue. Only septic systems that have been ignored would cause severe problems. Ideally, toxic sewage can affect normal systems. Before sewage seeps into the water system and causes havoc, a specialist might detect an existing breach during an inspection and repair it accordingly before causing problems to your family.

Be Careful of What You Flush

Consider what you flush down the drain as another approach to avoid a septic problem. The obvious no-nos that can physically clog and backup systems include wipes, paper towels, tissues, balls of hair, and feminine items. Chemicals, grease, and cleaning products are additional things to avoid.

Your septic system is built to leverage naturally existing bacteria to break down sediments and waste. The pH of your septic tank can drastically shift when you abruptly introduce harsh chemicals or oil to that environment, upsetting the balance of ‘good’ microorganisms that maintain your tank operating effectively.

Simply read the label to see whether a product or detergent is safe for septic systems. A septic safe label or icon can be seen on many toilet paper products. Finally, it’s always better to be cautious than sorry.

We hope the above tips will be helpful to you. By adhering to these recommendations, you can save money on repairs and septic system replacements while also safeguarding the health of your family, neighborhood, and environment.

RV Living with Kids

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RV Living Full-Time

When my grandparents retired, they sold their house and began RV living full-time. They would travel year-round, but for about six weeks every summer, they would park their RV in our yard, which I loved. They loved the low cost and the freedom to go anywhere. However, though my grandma never complained, I know that she was sometimes frustrated by the lack of space. I think of the two of them whenever I read about the recent trend of RV living. Of course, this trend is not for everyone, but for certain families, RV living full-time with kids can offer incredible freedom.

How to Make RV Living Full-Time with Kids Successful

If you’re thinking of making the leap to RV living, you need to first lay the groundwork.

What to Do Before You Begin RV Living Full-Time

Before selling your house and buying an RV, ensure you’ll enjoy the lifestyle.

Rent or Borrow an RV

First, rent or borrow an RV and take the kids on an extended trip. You’ll see what it’s like to live in tight quarters as a family. The average American house is 2,200 square feet, but a 26-foot RV has only 230 square feet. So, you and your family need to get used to living in only 10 percent of the space you’re accustomed to. That can be a hard adjustment for many.

Don’t Sell Your House for the First Year

You may be tempted to sell your house to make money to buy the RV and travel, but if possible, try to hold onto your home for the first year you’re living in the RV. Even if you try out RV living for a few weeks, that’s not the same as living in an RV full-time. You may get a few months into RV living and decide it’s not for you. If that’s the case, you can always move back into your home with few repercussions. If you sell your home before moving to RV living full-time, you’ll have to start over if that lifestyle isn’t for you.

Suggestions for Smooth RV Living with Kids

If you try out RV living and decide you like it, there are steps you can take to adjust more quickly to the lifestyle.

Downsize

If you’re going to leave a 2,200 square foot house to move to a 230 square foot RV, you’ll need to downsize. . .a lot! Plan to get rid of 80 to 90 percent of your stuff.

Watch videos on minimalism and capsule wardrobes because that’s what you and the kids will need. If you don’t think you’ll live the RV lifestyle forever, put your things in storage. Otherwise, sell what you can and give the rest away.

Agree on Privacy Rules

There isn’t much room for privacy in an RV, so for your sake and the kids’, agree on rules from the beginning. For instance, if the bathroom door is closed, someone is in there, so don’t go in. (Leave it open the rest of the time.) Consider putting curtains around beds that aren’t in their own rooms. When someone is on their bed with the curtain closed, respect their privacy and leave them alone. This will be more important as your kids head into the tween and teen years.

Choose Child-Friendly Camping Sites

RV Living Full Time

Some campgrounds aren’t child friendly. When choosing campsites, find ones with playgrounds so the kids can play. It would be even better to find campsites near lakes and hiking trails so you can take the kids for a swim or a hike. Kids need time to get out their energy, especially if most of their time is spent in the RV.

Consider Homeschooling

When you begin your new lifestyle, you will need to look at school choices for kids. If your kids are in traditional brick-and-mortar school, you’ll need to make new arrangements. You have two options.

Homeschool

You could homeschool, which offers maximum convenience because you can homeschool while traveling. Even better, you can make your travels part of your homeschool by visiting historic attractions and studying the geography of the areas you travel to.

Online School

Another option is to have your children enroll in an online school. This is an excellent option if you plan to put your children back in traditional school eventually. (If you homeschool your kids and try to put them in conventional school later, you may run into resistance from the school district.)

The only drawback to online schooling while traveling is that you may struggle to get a reliable internet connection.

Have Regular Times to Come Back Home

When you hit the road to begin your new lifestyle, you will likely leave behind extended family and friends. To help your children handle possible homesickness, schedule time to return home regularly so your children can see their friends and maintain friendships.

In between regular visits, utilize Zoom to connect with hometown friends and family when you’re on the road.

Remember the Lessons You’re Teaching Your Kids

RV Travel Full-Time

RV living full-time can be stressful. However, remember that you’re teaching your kids amazing lessons by living this lifestyle. Because you have to downsize to live in an RV, your kids learn to become minimalists. Furthermore, you fill their lives with experiences, not stuff. How many kids can travel around the country as your kids do?

Your kids will see and do things that most Americans don’t get to. You can be in Florida one week and in Missouri the next. The choice is yours. In addition, between all the travel, you teach your children to be flexible and go with the flow.

Final Thoughts

RV living full-time with kids isn’t for the faint of heart. However, the rewards are rich. You give your children a chance to see the United States in ways few others get to. You are also more likely to grow closer as a family.

Read More

How to Travel with a Kid Who Isn’t a Great Traveler

4 Road Trip Tips When Traveling with Tweens

Best Travel Cribs for Twins

Tips for Ensuring a Cost-Effective Home Build for Your Family

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A home is the most important investment you can make for your family, and also the biggest one. However, it’s a good idea to try and save costs if possible so you have some funds left over when all is said and done. Here’s how you can enjoy a cost-effective home build for your family and get amazing results at the same time.

Work With Professionals

While this may sound strange, you can make savings by working with an expert rather than cutting corners and working with cheaper but inexperienced people. This is because when you have your work done by an expert, they will often get it right the first time and in the easiest way possible. When you don’t have to redo work that’s been done already, it’s obvious that you will spend less money. For the best results, work with a team that has a project manager, whose work is to oversee all the phases of a construction project and make sure that the job gets done on-budget and on-time for the very best results.

Go With a Simple Design

A complex floor plan and an overall design that’s complicated can see you spending more money than you would have had to spend on a simpler one. This may be a result of the need for additional materials, more expensive pieces, or unique labor demands that call for specially-trained people. You will find that a simpler design will be faster, easier, and more affordable to complete. If you want to spice it up and give it an edge, you can always add some fun features with a future upgrade or look for topical additions you can make to improve both the function and aesthetics of your new home.

Shop For Deals

Another way in which you can make savings while building your home is by shopping for deals and asking for discounts whenever you buy. For this, you will need a lot of time because, while you can predict seasonal sales, you cannot always predict flash sales and similar ones. Leave ample time to buy the materials you need, therefore, and you will enjoy saving an impressive amount of money on purchasing parts and pieces.

A recent report by the Bank of America Homebuilders said that while the pandemic is expected to have a little impact on buying patterns, just around 18% of the respondents surveyed said that Covid-19 potentially acted as a catalyst for moving. All the same, there was little difference between those living in urban areas when compared to those in the suburbs. So, no matter where you live, look out for deals that help people moving and building their own new homes like yourself!

Set a Budget and Stick to It

This tip may have been repeated so often that it has almost become a cliche, but there’s a lot of help you can get from it. When planning your project, take the time to write a budget and work hard to stick to it. You can do so by avoiding changing things while working, as this is a major reason why construction gets expensive. Also, reuse and recycle, as you can get good use out of something that’s not brand new. As a plus, you will also leave a smaller effect on the environment.

Buy Modern and Energy-Saving Appliances

Finally, when looking for appliances, shop for energy-efficient ones that will give you better service over time. Consider this an investment for the long term, as you will spend less on energy than you would have spent if you used less energy-efficient appliances. Shop for appliances with the Energy Star label, which denotes high energy efficiency. They will use 10-15% less water and energy than standard models will.

Use these tips and you will enjoy saving money while building a home that you and your family will love for a long time to come.

How to Plan a Kid-Friendly Wedding on a Budget

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Kids can make any event fun, especially one that’s as focused on family as a wedding. It’s important to make sure that yours is kid-friendly if you plan on involving kids. Read on to see how you can plan a kid-friendly wedding on a budget.

Set Up a Kid’s Table

With the average wedding hosting 131 guests, according to The Knot, there will possibly be fewer kids than adults at your wedding. Once you have a good idea of how many kids will attend, set a table where they can sit by themselves, without the adults. Doing this will help them enjoy the wedding a bit more as they will be amongst their peers, with whom they can freely interact. While they may get up to mischief, you can minimize the chance of disruptions by giving them some activities to do at their table, based on some tips below.

Get Child-Friendly Entertainment

Find out the average age of the children who will be at your wedding and plan for age-appropriate entertainment for them. This could be something as inexpensive as hiring a magician or caricaturist to keep the kids busy while the more serious parts of the wedding are in progress. You will have the room you need while the kids enjoy their entertainment in a way that keeps both adults and children happy while separate from each other.

Have a Few Lawn Games Ready

With an 11% increase in the number of outdoor weddings in 2020, you could be even more kid-friendly if your wedding is also an outdoor one. Including lawn games is a sure way to make things fun for kids at a wedding, given the high energy levels that most kids have. From giant Jenga and corn hole to lawn golf and even hanging up a piñata, there are endless fun options available for you. Rather than run around between guests, they will stay happily engaged in the games and have an amazing day full of fun.

Organize a Scavenger Hunt

You could come up with a creative scavenger hunt to keep all the kids occupied from the start of the wedding to the end. Having something to focus on will make time go much faster for kids at your wedding, and rather than get bored, they will have an amazing day working on the clues on the sheet. The adults at the wedding will also enjoy the freedom they will get to be fully immersed in the event, so it will be an all-around wholesome and fulfilling day.

Give Personalized Favors

Finally, end the day with personalized favors, some for adults and some specifically for kids. With the average budget for only the reception and wedding ceremony being $28,385, you don’t have to get anything that’s over-the-top. Crayons in a cute package or charms and toys will work well, depending on the age of the children in attendance. If there are vastly different age groups, you could even get different favors for each age group. Doing this will help make your wedding an amazing and memorable event for absolutely everyone who attends.

Follow these tips and you will be able to plan for and execute an amazing kid-friendly wedding on a budget. Everyone will enjoy the thoughtfulness that goes into planning such a wedding and they will likely talk about it for a long time to come. Plan well in advance so you can get the best outcome and have something for everyone!