In this hectic, modern world coming home to a relaxing space has become even more important. Creating a space which allows you and your family to renew their energy in a calm, peaceful environment is easier than you might think. The design colors you choose do more than anything else to create the atmosphere you want, and nothing is easier to change than your paint colors.

Here are 5 paint colors that reduce stress:
1. Blue – Blue is often used in bedrooms and is shown to reduce tension.
2. Violet – Not the vibrant purple, but subtle lavender hues can bring an inner balance and sense of peace.
3. Green – Reflecting the natural environment of the outdoors, green is visually soothing and refreshing.
4. Grey – One of the best new neutrals, a cooling grey shade is easy on the eye and creates the illusion of larger space.
5. Pink – Long hailed by Feng Shui experts as an energy color, pink provides a lovely backdrop for a bright space.

Our homes. ...

Have you ever walked into the model home showroom of a brand new housing development?

There is nothing more exciting than the prospect of building a home from scratch and starting absolutely fresh in a new space. You get to pick the colors of the carpet, choose the countertops and flooring and watch as the home goes up. The nice sales people in the showroom are happy to help you through the process, but did you know that you can bring your own real estate agent to represent you?
Yes you can and here are the top reasons why you should have your own agent.

Choose the Right Development – It’s not enough to find a lovely development; understanding the neighborhood and schools play a big part of home values.
Choose the Right Lot – You might love the corner lot, but your agent can help you consider resale before you buy.
Consider the Cost of Upgrades – Not all upgrades should be handled through the sales office; your agent can help you understand customa. ...

Most areas of the country are experiencing a brisk real estate market. Well priced homes are moving quickly and often sellers have multiple offers from which to choose. How can you make your offer stand out and put you in a better position to get the home? Fortunately there are a few things you can do to make your offer more attractive to sellers.

4 Tips for Making a Competitive Offer

1. Offer a Fair Price – When the market is moving quickly, this is not the time to throw out a low ball offer and hope they negotiate. Write an honest price based on market values.

2. Have a Pre-Approval – It may not be enough to simply offer a pre-qualification letter. When issuing a pre-approval the lender verifies your qualifications and an underwriter gives preliminary approval based on the actual home and a good appraisal.

3. Flexible Timing – Not everything comes down to price. A seller who is relocation might be more interested in an offer which gives them extra ti. ...

You’ve heard the term “curb appeal.” You don’t need to have a green thumb to make some simple changes to your yard which will delight your potential buyers. A weekend project is all you need to make these easy landscaping and yard changes.

• Add color; seasonal flowers in pots by the front door or beds in the front yard add
brightness to the home.

• Native plants; create a lower maintenance environment with native plants who thrive in
your area.

• Outdoor lighting; with so many solar options, it’s easy to add a glow.

• Garden accents; fountains, benches and garden art create interest and a sense of luxury.

• Vegetable and herb gardens; consider a raised bed in a portion of the yard or large pots filled with tasty plants.
• BBQs and furniture sets; while more expensive, adding furniture arranged to showcase the outdoor lifestyle will appeal to buyers and enhance your yard.

As the weather becomes warmer,. ...

It’s never too late to begin investing in real estate.....it’s never too early either. Real estate offers a solid investment opportunity which can provide not only an income stream but long term value appreciation as well. Regardless of the ups and downs of the market, people will always need housing, so real estate will remain a good way to create wealth.

By understanding some of the basics of real estate investing, you can begin to create your own plan. Here are 5 tips for first time real estate investors.

1. Use Leverage - . Learn about options other than your own savings for these costs.

2. Budget for the Unexpected - Have a fund available to draw on for the unexpected. Even the most carefully planned project can have unexpected costs.

3. Invest for the Long Term - Real estate investing should not be viewed as a “get rich quick” scheme.

4. Don’t Over Extend - After evaluating the risk, be honest about your ability to handle the negat. ...