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3 Ways to Incorporate Pumpkins into Your Home this Fall
Pumpkin lovers rejoice! October is National Pumpkin Month, and to celebrate, We’ve got a list of ways you can go beyond the pumpkin-spice lattes and incorporate this versatile plant into your home.
Cooking - Pumpkins hit peak ripeness in September and October. Roast the seeds for a delicious snack. For a more substantial dish, roast, boil, steam, bake, sauté, or puree the meat of the pumpkin to use it in a number of delicious recipes.
Gardening - Most people are happy to limit their love of pumpkins to a few weeks a year. True pumpkin enthusiasts can consider growing their own pumpkin patch. Plant your seeds in a sunny area by late May or early June to enjoy home-grown pumpkins in the fall.
Decorating - From pumpkin-themed placemats to hollowed-out pumpkin candle holders and serving bowls, you have almost endless options for decorating with pumpkins. Try placing miniature pumpkins as tabletop decorations or hollowing out a pumpkin to use it as a vase.
5 Ways to Make Your Move Easier on Your Pet
Moving can be a stressful process, especially for pets who don’t understand what’s happening. Luckily, there are steps you can take to help reduce your pet’s stress and anxiety during a move. Keep track of important items. Designate a specific box for your pet's food, medicine, grooming essentials, toys, litter, and anything else they will need before you finish relocating and get the new house unpacked. Vet records. If you’re planning to change veterinarians when you move, be sure to obtain a copy of your pet’s medical records. Minimize their exposure. Packing and moving your belongings can be very stressful for your pet. Keep them in the other room or ask a family member to take your pet for a few days while the move is in full swing. Don’t rush them. It may take your pet a while to adjust to their new home. Make the transition easier by placing their bed, blankets, toys, and food in one room. Let them become accustomed to that room before you gradually introduce them to other rooms in the house. Update your contact information. Update your pet’s tags and microchip with your new address and contact information as soon as possible. That way, should they get lost, you’ll be easy to find again.
The Hidden Costs of Buying a Condo
Condos are a great investment for anyone, but are especially popular among retirees and investors. They’re typically low-maintenance, offer numerous amenities, and are often located in a prime location. However, in addition to the mortgage payment, insurance, and property taxes, you may have to pay for Condo Fees, special assessments, and additional insurance. Condo Fees/Maintenance Dues Most condos will have either a home owner’s association or a property owner’s association that is responsible for replacing broken windows, maintaining the landscaping, and replacing old roofs. However, this service comes at a cost. Condo owners will typically be charged a monthly, quarterly, or annual fee to cover these expenses along with upkeep for any amenities the community offers such as a pool or tennis courts. Special Assessments Special assessments are additional dues that are charged to cover expenses that aren’t considered routine maintenance or that are beyond what the standard dues can cover. These unexpected expenses are divided among the homeowners to cover unplanned expenses such as storm damage, new amenities, or projects to protect the health and safety of residents. Additional Insurance The condo’s Condo Fee should cover insurance for the exterior of the building, but homeowners are responsible for insuring the interior. Depending on the location of the condo, you may need additional insurance to protect your interior from flood or storm damage. Knowing what to expect to pay for your condo is important. So is hiring experienced agents who have your best interests at heart. Contact us if you or someone you know is thinking about making a move!