Smart Homeowners
Daily tips and resources to help you improve, care for and protect your home.
I will give you something every day so you can live smarter. With my team of experts, we’ll cover what matters to you: security, energy efficiency, maintenance, home improvement, finance and insurance.
🌙💡 Light your night
Homeowners looking to brighten outdoor walking paths, landscaping, architectural features or dark areas on the perimeter have lots of options. Why it matters: Outdoor lighting enhances the beauty of our homes and improves safety and security. 🔬 Zoom in: 3 options to consider 👉 If you’re ready to go all in and spend thousands of dollars, it’s […]
💺 Save Grandma’s chair
Older dining chairs, arm chairs or rocking chairs with outdated or damaged upholstery can be reupholstered to give them a new life. Why it matters: We may not know where to use older pieces with sentimental value. 👉 Our friend Jan Revels with Chateau Concepts can help you from start to finish, so you can enjoy […]
💧🧪 What’s in your water?
If you have any concerns about the contents of your tap water, start with an at home testing kit. Why it matters: Pollutants in our water can cause illness and irritation to our bodies. 🧑🔬 Make it fun! This test kit is super easy to use and makes for a fun science project. ✅ For your Smart […]
🪆 Are your collectibles covered?
Property insurance is typically based on the Actual Cash Value of the item(s) you want to insure. Why it matters: When you have a valuable collection, you can protect that with Agreed Value coverage. ⚙️ How it works: Aaron Husman of The Phoenix Insurance explained it like this: We have a client with a collection of […]
🐰🔋🚘 EV from the Easter Bunny?
Easter weekend could see a surge in electric vehicle purchases with people trying to get the full tax credit. Why it matters: Updated criteria for EVs that qualify for the federal tax credit go into effect April 18, 2023 and some current vehicles will no longer be eligible. Go deeper with this article. 🧮 By […]
💧 Why control indoor humidity?
In humid climates controlling indoor humidity levels might be necessary. Why it matters: Relative Humidity (RH) levels above 55% create conditions for mold growth and dust mites. 🖼️ The big picture: Newer air conditioners — variable speed AND higher SEER — use less energy and need to run for less time than older units. 🥊 The bottom […]
🚨 Woodpeckers: Harbingers of death?
Spotting a woodpecker you’re hearing feels like winning a round of “Where’s Waldo?”. Why it matters: Smart tree maintenance is critical to protecting our homes from nature’s pruning instrument —> high winds. 🌳 Arborist Tim Waswick offers some reassurance: 👉 Woodpeckers are looking for boring insects, but spotting them in your tree doesn’t mean the tree is […]
🙉 Protecting your hearing
Hearing is on my mind this morning after attending the 3.5 hour Taylor Swift concert where I gladly used my EARasers Noise Cancelling Earplugs. 🎧 😊 Why it matters: Less than 15 minutes of exposure to sounds over 100dB can lead to hearing loss. 🥊 Reality check: Hearing loss usually occurs gradually but can be […]
🙃 Flip the script
Are you the ultimate DIY’er or do you hire out all your home maintenance and repairs? 🔭 Zoom out: Changing your approach for your next project can help you grow in knowledge, skill and appreciation. 💡 2 ideas for you: 👉 If you usually hire out your lawn service, try de-thatching – removing the dead grass undercoat – […]
🤑 Get paid for your spring cleaning
It’s easier than ever to get rid of stuff cluttering our homes and make some cash while doing it. 🖼️ The big picture: Finding the method that fits your style will help you stay motivated. 🔬 Zoom in: Here are 3 good options to consider: 👉 Easy closet clean out with Thred Up. 👉 Trade-In old electronics using Best […]