Page 9 of 16 pages ‹ First < 7 8 9 10 11 > Last ›
Neighborhood Spotlight: Gregg’s Mill
July 30, 2021
Neighborhood Spotlight: Gregg’s Mill
Gregg’s Mill is one of Aiken County’s best neighborhoods, tucked away off of the Aiken-Augusta Highway. Being so close to I-20, it’s easy to live in South Carolina while still working or commuting to the Augusta area. If you have considered a move to Aiken County, here are a few highlights of this amazing community:
There is a beautiful resort-style pool overlooking the neighborhood. With a walk-in entrance, it’s easy to sit and relax with your toes in the water while the kids splash around. The pool is open during warm summer months and into the early fall, which is highly useful for the south!
Langley Pond, the world’s largest pond, is just a mile away from Gregg’s Mill, providing a tranquil break for fishing or a picnic. There is also a swimming area complete with a sanded beach, making for the perfect “staycation”.
Gregg’s Mill is also close to downtown Aiken where you can enjoy a variety of small shops and restaurants with southern charm. Local colleges, University of South Carolina Aiken and Aiken Technical College are close by as well.
Along with the peaceful location and outdoor amenities at Gregg’s Mill, each home has features to make life more convenient as a homeowner. There are security systems available, fireplaces in select floor plans for warmth during the cold months, and gourmet kitchens with optional granite countertops. Hardwood floors are another great option, or you can upgrade to a special Evacore Click flooring that is waterproof and scratch-proof.
2020 is the perfect year to buy or build a new home in this charming neighborhood. There are a variety of floor plans ready starting at $197,000 and some still have customization options available. However, you can also meet with our builders to make all of your choices on a floor plan as well! Contact us today to make your new home dreams become a reality.
Things to Buy After Moving into a New Home
July 30, 2021
Things to Buy After Moving into a New Home
When you’re getting ready to move into a new home, additional things that are needed may come as a surprise. For most first time home buyers, you may find yourself in and out of the store quite often while you’re moving. Certain things can easily slip your mind during the process, so here is a list of a few necessities to get after your big move.
Drapes/BlindsBlinds are an item that aren’t typically included in new homes unless they are written into the contract or a previous owner decided to leave them. If your new home doesn’t have blinds and/or curtains, you’ll want to grab those immediately to prevent others from peeking into your windows as you unpack.
Cleaning SuppliesBasic supplies such as brooms, mops and sponges may have been looked over during the move. If these didn’t make it to the moving truck, head to your local grocery or home improvement store to stock up. Even though the home is new, there will be loads of dirt and debris from unpacking.
FlashlightIt’s smart to have a couple of flashlights handy throughout the house in the event of any potential issues. Keep one under the kitchen sink, in the garage, and in a hall closet where they can be easily accessed if the power goes out for any reason or if you need to look in a small, dark space.
Trash Cans and BagsUnpacking will produce a decent amount of trash. Be sure to have a trash can available and large bags for all of your moving scraps.
LightbulbsEven though your new home likely has light bulbs installed already, it’s a good idea to keep some in stock as a backup. Some leftover bulbs may be older or some rooms could have none at all. Consider investing in LED lighting for more energy efficiency.
Tool KitKeep some basic tools handy during your move. Whether it be picture hanging materials or a screwdriver, you’ll need something along the way and a small toolbox will come in handy.
Don’t be caught off guard and unprepared during your move-in. If you’re planning on moving soon, go ahead and stock up on these basics to be one step ahead.
Home Projects to Complete While Social Distancing
July 30, 2021
Home Projects to Complete While Social DistancingNow that the national guidelines for social distancing have been extended through at least April 30, you’re probably looking for new ideas to keep busy. If you have a list of tasks or projects to be completed around the house, now is the time to get started. Here are a few things you could look into doing to stay busy: Plant a GardenWhether you are wanting to plant into the ground or build a new garden box, spring is the perfect season to start. With all of this extra time at home, you can adequately water your plants and see exceptional growth. Paint Kitchen CabinetsLooking for a refresh every time you grab a snack? Now is the best time to paint a new color on your kitchen cabinets. Look up recent trends or interior design blogs for color inspiration and order a can from your local home improvement store. If you decide you don’t love it, you have plenty of time to go back before guests can come over for gatherings again! Switch Bathroom TileAll of the time-consuming projects can be checked off of your list during social distancing. If you have seen new patterned tile or just need to freshen up what you have, spend a weekend laying new tile in your bathrooms. You may be so surprised with the change that you keep it going in the kitchen and laundry room as well. Pressure WashingIf you know a local small business that offers pressure washing and have the means to support them, do it. Keep the local economy thriving by giving business to contractors who will clean the outside of your home and enhance your curb appeal. You can always pressure wash on your own as well if hiring someone isn’t in the budget. Since everyone is taking walks more often these days, make sure the outside of your home looks beautiful. Remember that this time of social distancing is new to all of us. Give yourself grace and don’t try to stick to a task list every single day. If you complete any of these, you’ve done awesome! If not, you’re still awesome.
Read more
Creating a Guest Suite Oasis
July 30, 2021
Creating a Guest Suite OasisDo you remember the last time you visited a great hotel? The room can make or break your stay. A comfortable bed, all necessities handy, and a clean environment are all big factors in a good room. Think about creating this experience in your guest bedroom. Does it feel luxurious for friends or family who may be staying over? If not, follow these steps to help your guest bedroom experience to get a 5 star rating. Comfortable BedIf you have an outdated and well-used bed frame or mattress, it may be time for an upgrade. Think about what you have in your own bedroom or what your guests may desire. A comfortable place to lay your head is the most important aspect of any bedroom. Even if a brand new set is out of the budget, you can get a great deal sometimes at discount stores or websites. Choose bedding with a crisp, refreshing color. You can never go wrong with neutral whites or greys for a hotel-like feel. Proper Places Don’t expect your guests to live out of their bag or suitcase. Make them feel at home with adequate dresser space and empty hangers in the closet. If you use the storage areas in the room when guests aren’t staying over, be sure to clear them out when you have company coming. This will help them feel like they have a personal space without having to work around your belongings. Accent TouchesA few accent pieces can quickly pull a drab space together. A patterned rug is a great way to add color and texture, especially if the room has wood flooring. Add some nightstands to either side of the bed and install lamps that have a natural light-colored bulb to add to the relaxing atmosphere. Gone are the days of letting guests crash on the couch. Do these things to give them an unforgettable experience while staying with you and for them to truly feel welcome in your home.
Read more
Creating Zones with Different Flooring
July 30, 2021
Creating Zones with Different FlooringOpen-style floor plans are increasing in popularity and for good reason. The free flow of natural light, the open atmosphere and ease of daily routine are all benefits of having an open floor plan. Families especially love the open styles as it’s easier to keep watch of little ones throughout the home. One of the assumed downsides of an open floor plan in a home is the feeling of no designated “rooms”, such as the living room being separated from the dining room. This can easily be approached by breaking up each area with different flooring. Designate ZonesZones are designated spaces for specific functions. Each zone should be created based on a family’s particular need for that space. Some ideas for zones within an open floor plan may be:
Read more
- Dining area
- Entryway
- Kitchen
- Office
- Living room
- Study space
Earth Day Feature: Environmentally Friendly Habits
July 30, 2021
Earth Day Feature: Environmentally Friendly HabitsIf you’ve always wanted to practice better habits to conserve our planet and energy, take a look at this list of simple changes you can make. RecycleIt’s never too late to begin recycling your trash. Invest in a few extra trash bins to sort your paper, plastic and glass items each week. Find a local recycling center or add it into your existing trash pick-up service. Reusable BagsIt’s time to end your dependence on plastic bags. Grab a few reusable tote bags for your shopping trips. Not only will you reduce waste, but you’ll also keep your pantry and cabinets free of plastic bag piles. Print on Both SidesSave paper by utilizing double-sided printing. By adjusting a simple printer setting, you will automatically save 50% of paper usage. Switch Light BulbsBy making the change from old fashioned bulbs to energy-efficient LEDs, you’ll conserve energy and also save on utility costs. Unplug ElectronicsCords use up electricity even if the devices are turned off. Unplug chargers, small appliances and other items when not in use to save energy. A power strip is a great alternative for areas with multiple electrical cords. Use Cloth NapkinsThis is a small change that helps the environment in a major way. By switching from paper towels and napkins to cloth, you are significantly reducing the cutting of trees. Turn on Ceiling FansTry to utilize your ceiling fans instead of the air conditioner when it starts to get warm. When the hot summer months come along, be sure windows are shut and sealed before turning on the AC to make sure the unit isn’t working overtime. Opt for Reusable DrinkwareCarry your own portable water bottle or coffee mug everywhere you go. Many coffee shops even offer discounts for bringing a reusable mug. This is a quick and easy way to cut down on the excessive use of paper and plastic.
Read more
Moving in Without Damaging Your New Home
July 30, 2021
Moving in Without Damaging Your New HomeCausing damage to a new home is one of the biggest concerns when moving in. Furniture could scuff up the walls, scratch floors and more. If you are looking for ways to take extra precautions, take a look at these tips and reduce the chances of damaging your beautiful new home. Carrying Large FurnitureThe most expensive pieces of furniture have the potential to cause the most damage if handled improperly during a move. Couches, dining tables and beds need to be carried through doorways carefully, even if it takes a little extra time. Enlist help if needed as opposed to trying to do it all by yourself. If possible, use a trolley or specialized equipment to assist in the moving of these heavy items. Dismantle objects when applicable as well so that smaller pieces can be carried in one at a time. Advance PreparationOne of the biggest mistakes you can make when moving is rushing it. Moving day will run much more smoothly if you take time to prepare things in advance. Clean and dry kitchen appliances before moving them into the home. If they are wet, they will be more slippery which could cause damage to flooring. Pack smaller, more fragile items ahead of time. This includes mirrors, fine china and anything else that is easily breakable. Clear away mats, rugs and general debris before moving so it doesn’t get shuffled around. Protecting Walls and FloorsWalls and flooring can be expensive to repair and it’s a cost you don’t want to accumulate as soon as you move in. Consider using an adhesive plastic covering over the carpet in your home to prevent spills and tears. You can also put a cover over hardwoods to prevent scratches and dents. Hang drop cloths on walls, especially in the more narrow hallways of your home. Wooden boards or bubble wrap could do the trick as well. Avoid costly repairs by taking the necessary precautions on moving day. You can also look into hiring a moving company to assist you if desired.
Read more
Things to Get Rid Of When Downsizing
July 30, 2021
Things to Get Rid Of When DownsizingAre you at a point in your life where it’s time to downsize? Many people are foregoing the larger, more elaborate houses for cozy cottages or ranch-style floor plans. When you have an excess of items, it’s hard to think about downsizing for storage reasons. Here are a few things you should consider getting rid of before moving to a smaller home: ClothesOne of the most common things to think about when decluttering is clothing. This is especially important if you will be moving to a home with smaller closets. Maybe you have a few items that don’t fit anymore and know of a local shelter or charity that could use the donation. Be honest with yourself and admit when it’s time to say goodbye to a piece of clothing and hello to more room in your closet. BooksIt’s easy to collect books quickly, especially if you’re an avid reader. However, the books that have been read one time and are now collecting dust on the shelf may be able to go to a new home. Donate to your local library or a shelter. CDs and DVDsIn this digital age, it’s likely that you haven’t touched a CD or DVD in quite some time. Why let them take up space in your new home? BagsOld purses and totes don’t need to take up more space in your new home. If there’s a bag that isn’t your style anymore or you know someone else that could use it, get it out of your closet and free up that space. Kitchen ItemsDid you grab a new kitchen gadget just because it was on sale, only to use it one time and let it take up precious counter or cabinet space? It’s going to be necessary to utilize that space as much as possible when you end up with a smaller kitchen, so put those unused items out for a yard sale or donation. Same with excessive utensils as well. Knick-knacksSeasonal decor should be stored neatly in the attic, garage or spare room/closet. If you found a little trinket in a “dollar spot” somewhere and it’s just sitting somewhere, maybe you should say goodbye to it. Think about keeping the meaningful and useful decor items that will stand the test of time. Cut your belongings down to a manageable amount before downsizing your home. Not only will you save space on the moving truck, but you’ll have a fresh and clutter-free start in your new home!
Read more
Should My Parents Move In With Me
July 30, 2021
Should My Parents Move In With Me? Are one or both of your parents needing a little bit of extra help these days? Maybe they are adamant about not wanting to go into an assisted living home, or maybe you’d rather keep them out of one yourself. If you are considering becoming a permanent caregiver for a loved one, ask yourself these questions first: RelationshipsIf you live with a significant other and/or have children, have you discussed the potential situation with them? Take into account all of the different ways your lives will change if you allow a parent to move in. How is your relationship with your parent(s)? If it isn’t the healthiest, you should give this extra thought as it could affect the mental health of everyone in the home. What are your needs for privacy? Is your home suitable for a parent to have their own private space where you won’t feel like they are intruding? The HomeWhere will your parent(s) sleep? Will someone have to give up a bedroom and combine with a sibling? Have you considered building additional space onto the home? Will you need to purchase assistive items such as grab bars or ramps? Personal CareAre you comfortable helping a parent with daily activities that they would possibly need in an assisted living facility? Do you have an idea of what to expect long-term as a parent gets older or potential sickness/other conditions increase? FinancialsCount the costs of having your parents live with you. Will there be additional expenses if more help is needed inside the home, such as a home nurse? What will the financial arrangement be as far as “rent” or contribution to food and meals? Time ManagementWill your parents need care during the day while you are at work? Will you have time for yourself? These are just a few of the many factors to consider when evaluating whether or not your parents should move in. Don’t rush into a decision one way or the other, but truly take the time to be sure it is the right choice for all family members involved.
Read more