Lost in Space

Do you have one area in your house you just can’t figure out? Maybe it’s too small or oddly shaped or just not in the right location in your home. Don’t let it turn into dead space. There are plenty of ways to turn unusual home spaces into comfortable, functioning living areas that appear as if they were built for a purpose.
If large enough, divide the space into individual “rooms,” so that one area can be used for one purpose, leaving the rest of the area open for a different use. The possibilities are endless: a library or reading nook, an office, a crafting room, or a yoga or art studio.
If the room is particularly small, remember to use furnishings that fit the space. For example, an overstuffed couch won’t do well in a room meant for two chairs. Go curvy: Round furnishings in hard corners or plants placed strategically can help. To give the illusion of space in a small area, choose glass tops or chairs. Curtains that run floor toceiling create height and flow in a small space.
Other things to consider: Painting an “odd” wall in a different color, and using it to display art or photos will also lessen its awkward effect on the room; and an area rug in the center of the room will bring the eye to the middle of the space, rather than focusing on its unusual shape or size

This months joke:

Question:How do you catch a squirrel?

FRESH START

Calling all pack rats: Are you ready to conquer clutter once and for all? The National Association of Professional Organizers (www.napo.net) offers these handy tips.
Kid’s Room
• Place bins and boxes on lower shelves so a child can put away the toys.
• Label storage so it’s easy for children to put items where they belong.
• Provide low hooks to hang up sweaters, pajamas, jackets, book bags, etc.
• Take children with you when you go to donate unused items. This helps them learn to part with things.
Closets
• Pull out everything you haven’t worn in the past year.
• Display what you want at your fingertips and store the rest on top shelves or in drawers.
• Make sure you can see what you have in your closet. Consider installing good lighting.
• Hang like items together — shirts, pants, dresses, etc.
Kitchen
• Consolidate things that work together, such as baking pans, electrical appliances, plastic containers (with lids), and pots and pans.
• Use drawer dividers to keep utensils in order.
• Rotate food staples out of your pantry.
• Feel the flow of activity. Place glasses near the sink or refrigerator. Put snacks in a convenient drawer or cupboard.
Garage
• Decide how to use the space. Is it a workshop? Is it a storage center?
• Toss things that don’t work!
• Sort, purge and properly store treasures.
• Consider floor-to-ceiling shelving, racks, stackable drawers, hooks and pegboards.

FREE programs from me to you, including "How To Buy A Home In Orlando" booklet

Question:Why should I make a second visit to perspective homes?

Answer:Your first visit probably wasn’t very systematic. You may have overlooked major problems. Take the time for a second visit to thoroughly inspect the home, paying attention to detail and issues you neglected to watch for your first time through.
* Critique the floor plan – Each room should be accessible through a hallway. The stairs should be near the front door or centrally located. Look for 3-bedroom/2-bath combinations; they have better resale value.
* Try to visualize your things in this home – Take pictures of some of the rooms in your current home and bring them with you.
* Take a tour of the neighborhood – Look for large dumpsters in the street (signs of home improvement), mass transit access and a thriving local business district. Watch out for graffiti, bars on windows and an excess of litter.
* Test drive the commute – Make sure your new home’s location isn’t inconvenient.

September favorite links:

Top Orlando Festivals and Events for September

Use This Moving Truck for FREE      

RE/MAX Town & Country Realty has a moving truck (pictured above) that our clients can use FREE for their local (inside the Metro-Orlando area) moves. When Risa helps you buy or sell a home, just let her know that you would like to use the RE/MAX Moving Truck. Then Ray, the Moving Truck Coordinator, will coordinate your reservation to use the truck for a 24 hour period and outline all of the details for the truck’s use. Tell Risa early on in your transaction that you’d like to use the truck to make sure that you can reserve the best time for your move! We’re glad to be able to offer this additional service to our clients. Risa Saltman wants to help make your moving process as smooth, enjoyable and efficient as possible.

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