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Home ownership is a costly proposition, what with mortgage payments (if you decide to finance the purchase, which Watson International does not typically recommend), property taxes, homeowners association dues, and maintenance and upkeep. The costs add up quickly. You may be seeking ways to defray mounting expenses, especially if yours is an older property. The more you can do to minimize costs, the better off you’ll be in the long run and in the foreseeable future as well. Fortunately, there are plenty of small-scale fixes that you can tackle with ease.

Holes and drawer handles

Say you’re in a hurry and you want to find something in that one kitchen drawer that seems to hold everything. You yank a bit too hard on the handle which cracks, bends, or just comes loose. You could get out the Super Glue and attempt the painstaking job of putting it back together. Or, you could choose the route that won’t require another quick fix in a couple weeks when it happens again.

Why not buy a new handle at the corner hardware store? Just pop out the drawer, and with the turn of a couple of screws, you’ve got yourself a nice shiny new drawer handle. Fortunately, it’s not an expense that’s going to put your summer vacation at risk.

Those annoying holes that appear in your drywall, usually in the vicinity of a door and doorknob, are among the most common small maintenance tasks and also one of the easiest to repair. Find yourself a little self-adhesive drywall patch mesh, at least twice the size of the hole you’re repairing, with about an inch extra on each side. Press the piece in place over the hole making sure the edges are in solid contact with the wall all around the hole. Put a layer of joint compound over the mesh with a compound blade, gently pushing on the mesh to ensure the holes are filled with no bubbles.

After about 24 hours, sand the first layer down and apply another one. Repeat the same procedure after another 24 hours. If it still doesn’t look quite right, add more joint compound. Then, install one of those little spring bumpers at the bottom of the wall to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

Cracks in molding are usually caused by fluctuations in humidity. Fortunately, this small home repair is also an easy one. You can try using spackling to create an invisible seam, though you’ll likely have to do it again once the wood expands and contracts again in response to changes in atmospheric conditions. Instead, try a more flexible material, such as siliconized latex caulking, and forget about it.

Filters are your friends

When you hear your HVAC unit switch on at night, do you sometimes wonder how many more years of service it’ll provide? If you make liberal use of air filters, you can delay the inevitable by a few years and keep breathing healthy air. You can find the right size at most big retailers or have them shipped directly to you.

Disposal duty

Does that mysterious little mechanism in your kitchen sink concern you? If yours is in need of a little cleaning, put some lemon and vinegar in an ice cube tray, and when it freezes, simply dump the vinegar “rocks” down the disposal and flick the switch. Vinegar’s potent cleaning properties will freshen things up down there, the lemon will make it smell nice, and the hardness of the cubes will help sharpen the blades a bit.

When to call the pros

Some home projects just aren’t meant to be completed without a professional. For instance, if an appliance isn’t functioning properly anymore, you’ll want to hire an expert. This way, the job can be done safely and efficiently, and you’ll avoid the need to spend more money on a replacement. Searching for an appliance repair company in NYC can seem daunting, but thanks to websites like Angi, it can actually be quite simple. They provide lists of highly-rated companies to help you narrow your search more quickly. The listings also indicate any awards the companies have earned. Focusing on these key points will guide you toward making a wise decision.

Some home repairs are more so meant to be “DIY jobs.” DIY means you’re saving money both now and later, and it offers the satisfaction of making you feel like a bona fide handyperson. However, it is important to know when to call in a pro — after all, when it comes to maintenance and repairs, safety should be the highest priority.

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Author: Linda Chase of Ablehire

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If you’re thinking of putting your home on the market but aren’t sure what additions are needed to make it competitive, it’s time to consider home security — especially if you live in a townhouse or a building that does not offer a full time doorman. A safe and secure property is more than alarms and deadbolts. There are plenty of ways to increase the safety of your domicile beyond traditional monitored services.

Available Smart Tech

One of the ways you can ensure your home’s security is through smart technology. No matter how far from home you are, there are devices and apps you can use to monitor your property. Best of all, these extra security measures may give you a higher sale price and a quicker sale overall. It is no surprise that Full Time Doorman buildings generally trade for higher values and in less time than their unstaffed counterparts. Some studies suggest that up to 81 percent of buyers would choose homes with smart tech over houses without it. The options available are numerous, and you can discuss with your broker what most buyers are looking for in your area.

Monitored Security

A staple for single family townhouse safety has always been a monitored security system. The same system is a wise addition for any of your multi-family investment properties, as they can help to protect all of your tenants living on site. Like other safety additions, a monitored system may help to add value to your listing. It’s an extra that can attract potential buyers, particularly when they are comparing similar properties. And, fortunately, you have many options to choose from when it comes to monitored systems. Of course, different companies offer various features, so research what your property needs. That might mean one that has several automated features, such as a remote light control or one that dispatches a dedicated security team when you need it.

Lighting Your Property

One of the best ways to keep your property feeling safe is with motion-detecting flood lights. This way, if your family is coming home late, you know light will be instantly available along your walkway, preventing a surprise burglary. The same is true for the tenants in your investment property, especially if the property is located in an area like the “city that never sleeps.” You should wisely consider where you decide to place flood lights. You want to install them in frequently used areas such as the front door, but also at the rear and perimeter of your property. So, if someone tries to sneak in through a back door, the bright light will hopefully scare them into leaving the premises. These are good additions, even if you choose other security measures as well.

Fencing and Gates

Adding a tangible perimeter to your property can add a layer of physical security, allowing you and your family — or potential buyers — to feel more secure. The goal isn’t to make your house invisible, but to make it physically more difficult to get to. You likely will to choose a tall structure, preferably over eight feet, that has no horizontal bars or panels to provide a foothold. Fences come in endless styles and can even be used to accent your design theme. You may also wish to also hire a contractor to install a driveway security gate in the event you have a property with a driveway. It may be an investment, but the additional protection is priceless, especially to someone thinking of purchasing your property.

Landscaping

Lastly, use your front and rear gardens to your advantage if you have them. If you wish to install an artistic structure, you can opt to use tall beautifully manicured shrubs that look outwardly inviting but will still keep outsiders from having accessibility to the property. These are common accoutrements in locations like the Hamptons or Palm Beach. Keeping trees far from windows may be a wise option to consider. If you feel that an area of your property might be overly vulnerable, such as a blind spot or along the edge of the fence, you can opt to plant some thorny flowers in the region. This security tactic may seem trivial, but every step you take toward securing your property protects whoever may be residing there.

We all want to feel like our properties are safe. Install lighting where appropriate, invest in protective landscaping, and consider what other safeguards are necessary.

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Author: Linda Chase, Ablehire.com

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After over one year of spending more time at home than ever before, people are now looking ahead to life post-pandemic. During the course of this past year, you may have decided that one or more rooms in your home could use a refresh. Imperfections, incomplete projects, and outdated decor likely became even more obvious while staying at home for extended periods of time.

If you are now getting serious about refreshing your home’s design, the team at Watson aInternational has expert tips for creating a revived space you’ll adore.

Create a vision board

Before ordering new rugs, decorative items, paint, and the like, take a step back to decide how you would like your home to look. Design changes and renovations take a substantial amount of time and money, so you certainly don’t want to have to redo anything due to making hasty decisions.

Start your home redesign project by creating a vision board for each room. You can do this either on a physical board (using magazine clippings, fabrics, and paint swatches) or on Pinterest. Build an aesthetic for each room that captures your unique style and preferences. Having vision boards will also allow you to compare each room to ensure that there is a proper flow throughout your home.

Change the walls in your home

One of the most effective ways to dramatically alter a room is to change the paint or wallpaper. Sprucing up the colors and textures used can help you rapidly create any look and feel you desire.

While most people decide to use paint, there are numerous benefits to opting for wallpaper instead. As one example, wallpaper features stunning and elegant designs that cannot be created with paint. The easiest method for installing wallpaper is using one that you can just stick on. This kind of wallpaper is not only simple to put into place, but it can also be readjusted and removed effortlessly. If your design plans require an extra degree of customization, wallpaper can be designed to fit your specific elements.

Swap pieces of furniture

Another excellent way to reshape the look and feel of a room is to swap out the furniture being used. A new sofa set, an accent chair, a coffee table, or a new entertainment center can totally change the appearance of a room. There are also endless options for finding the right furniture for your space. Not only can you order exceptional new pieces that can be customized, but you can also find breathtaking items at antique stores and consignment stores in your area.

Make small, yet powerful decor changes

When most people think about redesigning rooms in their homes, they often think about making significant changes — including major renovations. While these larger changes can completely reshape your home, small changes can be just as powerful.

Making minor, yet calculated decor changes can do wonders for transforming any space in your house. Adding items such as a big mirror, an intricate clock or even a dining room table centerpiece can deliver maximum results with minimal effort.

Hire an interior designer

If you don’t consider yourself to be a design expert, do not worry. Hiring an experienced interior designer can help you achieve the look and feel that you want without any effort on your part. Watson International offers interior design services that bring life to your home. We can coordinate any kind of service you need to create a design that you love.

From refreshing just one room to your entire house, making design changes is an excellent way to create a space you genuinely love. When you feel more comfortable at home, it is easier to relax and enjoy life to the fullest.

Watson International is a multi-division organization, specializing in real estate brokerage, interior design, property management, general contracting, and consulting. Find the services

you need for your home today.

Author: Derek Goodman, Inbizability

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Author: Kelli Brewer

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When it is time to prepare your home to present to buyers, there are a few key factors to consider. As a conscientious seller, you want to ensure that you present your home in the best light possible. With proper decluttering and depersonalizing, you give potential buyers the space to explore your property, imagining what it would be like living there.

As you navigate this process, it is helpful to consult with an experienced real estate agent, like those on the team of Watson International. An agent is a valuable asset because they provide an objective view of the home. A real estate agent sees your home through the eyes of an outsider, just as potential buyers will during their visits, and those insights will be invaluable in shaping your decisions. In the meantime, these simple tips will help you get started.

Cut Out Clutter

Before you get into the heavy lifting of moving large pieces of furniture, decorations, and other major items in your property, it is important to eliminate clutter. Work your way throughout the entire home, hitting every closet, hallway, and open area. Your kitchen counters should be clear and spacious. The bedrooms, dining room, and living room should be reduced to the bare minimum.

Anything that you can move out of the home should be, whether you sell or donate these belongings or move them to an offsite storage facility. Anything you’ll be keeping in the home should be put into storage bins. You can buy inexpensive decorative bins on discount sites like Overstock (and save even more with digital Overstock coupons and promotions) that add decorative, yet neutral, flair to your living space.

When you rid your property of clutter, you allow buyers to see the property as it truly is. This way, they can imagine how it will look once they move in, and it helps them focus on the house, rather than your belongings. As an added benefit, less clutter makes your moving process that much easier, and you can take the opportunity to get a head start on packing.

Clean as a Whistle

Once you’ve taken care of your clutter, you should do a thorough cleaning and sanitization of the property, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. There is no shortage of affordable cleaning services available to you in today’s market, or you can DIY the job yourself. Make sure you tend to every nook and cranny, working top to bottom throughout every room of the property.

Giving walls, floors, and other surfaces the attention they need is critical. Also be aware of any particular areas that need specialized attention. For example, carpets often harbor unwanted odors, and even if you DIY the rest of your cleaning, you might want to hire a pro to get them clean and fresh when it is time to show your home.

Get Less Personal

When potential buyers walk through your home, they want to see the home itself, not your decorations, personal items, and keepsakes, however charming they may be.

There are a couple different approaches you can take to depersonalizing your home. First, you can simply eliminate strongly personal items. For those things which still have plenty of life left in them, consider donating them to a local charity, thrift store, or organization. In fact, MyMove notes some organizations will even pick items up for you.

Another option is to box your personal belongings up and stow them elsewhere. Storage facilities offer affordable options for homeowners on the move.

Picture This

High-quality real estate photos give you enormous advantages when you are selling your home. With buyers typically beginning their search online, many sellers opt to hire the services of a professional photographer who specializes in real estate photography. A pro knows how to ensure your home looks appealing, dynamic, and attractive in your listing. Some real estate brokers, such as Watson International, actually cover the cost of Professional Photography when you list properties with them to sell, and oversee the Photo Shoot for you, so hiring a real estate broker as a first step is ideal from the Photography perspective.

When it’s time to list your home for sale, take the opportunity to prepare it properly. With the right approach to decluttering, depersonalizing, and staging, you give yourself a much better chance of catching house hunters’ attention. Your efforts will be rewarded, and you’ll be moving into your next abode in no time.

For all of your real estate needs, including brokerage, property management, and general contracting, contact the experts at Watson International.

Image via Pixabay

Author : Jackie Waters of Hyper-Tidy

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None of us understood what this year would look like when it began. The changes that have been brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic have left some home sellers feeling particularly overwhelmed. Other sellers abandoned the concept of selling altogether once the pandemic erupted, which led to the largest inventory shortage in history in cities like New York where housing supply dropped by an unprecedented 90%. This of course caused a rise in property values — which is a fantastic opportunity for sellers who chose to continue or begin sale efforts during this time — but we can leave this topic for another piece. Read on as we explore all you need to know about ensuring a successful and safe experience if you happen to be one of the sellers aiming to capitalize on the inventory shortage.

Begin with the Basics

There are a few things all property owners need to do when they are selling during a pandemic or not, and those things remain the same: clean, declutter, and depersonalize. Since those things are familiar ground, and they lay the foundation for everything else, they are the perfect place to start.

A thorough cleaning is always a must since it implies to buyers that your home is well-maintained. Give your home a deep cleaning, scrubbing everything from top to bottom, inside and out. To ease this part of the process, put together a convenient arsenal of cleaning supplies. Unfortunately, given current shopping situations, this can prove challenging.

While cleansers might be hard to come by at the grocery store, Cleaning Products Reviews explains how to mix some solutions yourself that they claim to be safe and effective against COVID-19. You’ll want to have them handy in the event anyone wants to view your home via a virtual tour, and for others who might come to your property, such as any repairmen, your home inspector or a real estate agent (in jurisdictions where city and state governing bodies permit such professionals to physically enter properties, of course). Keep in mind that in the case of the latter, cleaning afterward is as critical as cleaning prior. Also keep in mind that the CDC offers a list of approved cleansers to mitigate the contagion in properties; be sure to obtain these CDC approved options if at all possible.

Decluttering is next. Reducing the amount of furniture and other belongings in your home allows buyers to focus on the house itself and envision what their own things will look like in the space, which is especially important for an online video presentation. This will make it easier to keep the property clean and it gives you a headstart on packing as well. This also leads naturally to depersonalizing the space.

Depersonalization takes your personal influence away, removing house hunters’ inclination to wonder about who lives in the space and encouraging them to consider it as their own. As Allstate explains, removing strong color schemes, collections, personal photos, sports trophies, and so forth, helps buyers think about living there with their own belongings.

Projects with Punch

In the course of covering your basic preparations, you might decide it’s time to take on a few DIY projects. Now is a perfect time to tackle certain types of projects, keeping in mind safety and health. For instance, arranging a master bedroom so it appears more spacious or replacing kitchen hardware are simple DIYs that efficient, economical, and do not jeopardize your health to complete. On top of all that, these kinds of nuanced changes can make a lasting impression on house hunters.

If you’re unsure about what is working well in your area, take a look at your local housing market. You can learn a lot by studying trends. Contact a broker in your immediate area that can consult with you who what styles and aesthetics appeal most to the target market in your specific location.

Tech Tips

When it comes to the tech side of your presentation, keep in mind that quality counts. This is vital, especially if house hunters intend to skip an in-person tour — or in some locations like NYC, where they aren’t permitted yet by the mayor or governor to even necessarily enter a space physically. Work with your broker to help them create a virtual tour that includes things like still images of highlights and unique features, and schematics that provide the dimensions of various spaces. Your real estate agent will be able to help you with more details regarding what your local buyers are most interested in, but remember that quality is the key.

2020 got off to an unforeseen start, but it has also presented unforeseen opportunity to property sellers. Properties are still selling — for an average of about 8% higher than this time last year due to historically low inventory — and with the right strategies, yours can be one of them. Tackle the standard must-haves, incorporate new strategies, and find ways to stand out. Soon, this phase will just be a memory, and the sellers who capitalized on it will be a very happy group.

Author: Suzie Wilson, Happier Home

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If there’s one perfect moment to update your home, it’s at the start of a new decade.  Whether it’s as simple as adding new art to your wall or as involved as gutting your entire kitchen – we’ve got you covered!  From bold hues and hand-crafted accents to throwback details and classic motifs, here are some fun and inspiring trends to spice up your home for 2020!

Vintage Accents

What goes around comes around, especially in relation to home décor trends.  According to Bria Hammel, CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors, “One thing we’re starting to see is more of a nod to vintage and traditional detailing.”  Bringing this design theme to fruition can be as simple as incorporating some furniture with spooled legs, spindles, and other early 1900’s staples.  Adding vintage accents in moderation is a fun way to add charm to any home.

Non-White Kitchens

If there was one staple design trend in the 2010’s, it was the all-white kitchen.  But in 2020, we’re seeing a shift from the classic all-white to softer tones.  This includes natural wood cabinets, islands, and shelves.  Greyscale themes and sandy neutral tones are trending now.  In addition to this, there has been an uptick into contrast, for instance adding a black countertop to a kitchen with light cabinets.  Adding contract is a unique way that homeowners can achieve a bright and airy atmosphere while still maintaining some anchorage.

Fun Bathroom Design

If you have an urge to use a splash of color or funky design on the walls in your home, try it in one of your bathrooms!  Bathrooms are a great place to experiment and have fun with, since the rooms can themselves be an accent or encompass their own theme.  Redesigning a bathroom or powder room can be a fabulous way to exercise your creative energies without overwhelming yourself or the rest of your property.

Bold Black and White

Combining black and white creates an immediate emotional response while remaining timeless.  Combine with gold to create depth.  If a design element such as a dramatic herringbone black and white foyer or dining room floor would too intimidating for you, you can start small by tiling the bathroom floors or shower tiles for instance.

Real Plants

Go green with some fun plants throughout the house.  As most of us know, it may be hard to create liveliness in a home, especially living in New York City where there may not be a whole lot of surrounding nature.  Live plants help give personality and add another layer to a space.

Furniture with European-Inspired Details

German and Italian influences can be found in the arms of couches, knife-edge welts, metal legs, and more.  These small furnishing features will be both attention-grabbing and interesting.  These details are timeless!

Author: Ava Howard

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Tidying and organizing your home can feel like a major undertaking, especially if things have gotten a bit out of control. If you have accumulated more “stuff” than you know what to do with, take heart. There are some simple strategies for conquering clutter, and once you get a handle on it, chances are you’ll never look back.

Amateur-Friendly Ideas

When your household is really disorganized, you might be tempted to call in reinforcements, such as a professional organizer. However, by finding a decluttering method that works well, you can avoid letting things get out of control all over again. For instance, some people choose the “one” method, where they get rid of one thing daily, whether it’s a full box, a bag, or a single item while others prefer to go room by room. Another idea is to sort things into specific categories, such as items to discard, items to put away, and items to re-home. Keep in mind that you will most likely need several decluttering sessions for your project, but making steady progress can help build momentum.

Capitalize with Cleaning

As you sort piles and sift through items, you’re bound to unearth some dirt and debris. This is the perfect time to give your home a thorough cleaning, wiping away the dust and cobwebs so your cleared spaces shine. You can assemble a handy cleaning caddy and keep it close to where you’re working, giving things a once over when you finish for the day, or taking breaks to scrub as needed. Some people prefer to hire a cleaning company to come by periodically; that way, you can focus all your energy on decluttering.

Do You Love, Love, Love It?

When you have a lot of “stuff” to sift through, it can be challenging deciding what to keep and what to throw. The experts at MarthaStewart.com point out that our belongings can reflect an emotional attachment that actually weighs us down. We often hang onto possessions out of a desire to cling to the past or to prepare for an unknown future event. Letting go of things that don’t bring joy can be freeing, and some studies indicate we lower our stress and anxiety levels when we part ways with clutter. If you hit a stumbling block, one idea is to ask yourself if you love, love, love it. Items that don’t warrant three loves? Those have to go!

Pump Up the Volume

De-cluttering can be a big undertaking, and it’ll feel satisfying to watch your own progress. However, sometimes things can bog us down. On days you don’t feel like dealing with the clutter, consider putting on some music to help keep your work light. Psych Central points out that playing music can be a mood booster. Aim for something upbeat, as our minds and bodies respond naturally to the sounds and rhythms. Whether you opt to slip your phone into your pocket to blast your tunes or use another device, you can select an online playlist that’s perfect for household chores, or you can customize your own.

What to Do with the Castoffs

Once you have piles of things you’re ready to part with, re-homing them can feel like another hurdle. There are actually plenty of good options to consider. For things that are still useful, consider selling them or donating them to charities. Items that are too worn or are broken can often be given away for others to up cycle, or you can recycle them. There is an abundance of opportunities, and you can feel even better knowing your old items are being put to good use.

Are you ready to pare down? When you have more “stuff” than you know what to do with, figuring out a good decluttering method can get you on the right track. Make sure you have fun with it, and in no time, your home will be tidy and organized.

Written by Suzie Wilson

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Parents are often stretched pretty thin these days. When you add selling a property to work, school, and routine obligations, it can feel downright overwhelming. Putting a few well-thought-out strategies in place can save you a lot of stress when you’re planning to put a house on the market, and it can help you score a successful sale.

De-clutter and Deep Clean

When potential buyers come to see your home, having it tidy and shiny from top to bottom will make the best possible impression. Start by de-cluttering, including the kids’ rooms, and putting extraneous items in storage. Psych Central recommends having the conversation with your children about moving early on, and suggests giving youngsters small tasks to help them feel part as if they are a part of the process. Let them make some decisions on what stays and what gets packed. When paring down toys, encourage kids to keep toys that can be picked up quickly, as opposed to things like building block sets and glittery crafts.

Staged for Success

Once your cleaning is complete, the challenge becomes staying ahead of clutter and dirt. With the proper foundation established, Angie’s List points out you canstage your houseeffectively in just 15 minutes. The last thing you want is to turn away a showing, so be ready for showings ahead of schedule. Keep a basket handy for picking up toys, throw open the window coverings to allow in natural light, and have a trash bag for catching loose ends. Leaving a spot in your trunk means the basket and bag can go with you if necessary. Also, keep anair freshenerconvenient and address any odors from food, pets, trash, diapers, and the like. Also, be sure to ask your real estate professional if they feel Professional Staging would benefit your particular property. Watson International, for example, has a sister Staging Company that can help best prepare your space.

Hide in Plain Sight

When people come to view your home, they will look in virtually all nooks and crannies. They will open closets, kitchen cabinets, and even your oven. However, you do have a couple of reasonably safe hidey-holes in the event you are caught completely off-guard. Somelast-minutestorage solutionsinclude your washer and dryer, under beds, and if your sofa is against the wall, you might slip some things back there as well. It’s not a desirable solution, of course, but in a pinch, sometimes it can save the day.

Dealing with Decor

If you let your kids pick their decor, you likely have some redecorating to do before putting your home on the market. Generally speaking, potential buyers prefer depersonalized homes, decorated with age- and gender-neutral decor. One of the least expensive and most effective ways to achieve that look is with paint. According to some studies, certain colors are more appealing to buyers than others. Shades of blue are popular in bedrooms right now, or you can go with traditional logic and aim for neutrals, such as tans or grays. It’s fine for buyers to see that children live in the house, but make things as spacious as possible, and steer clear of themes, family photos, and collections. Painting is usually best in a clean and uncluttered environment, and once completed, you’ll be ready for house photos and listing for sale. Be sure to ask your broker for any color schemes or decor features that he or she recommends. Watson International for example has a General Contracting Company that can handle jobs as large as gut renovations and as small as a simple paint job to prepare homes to go on the market.

Preparing a home to sell can be stressful no matter what, but especially when you have kids. Declutter, deep clean, and depersonalize, then be ready for those last minute showings. Even busy families can not only survive the process, but find themselves to be moving into their new dream home in no time!

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New York City: the concrete jungle where dreams are made, stars are born and numerous Marvel movies and shows take place. Whether you’re a lifelong resident of the city looking to add a layer of physical fitness to your routine or a newcomer who stepped off the bus three months ago and haven’t left your desk yet, we’ve got the fun outdoor and active living activities that you need to get out and stay active in 2019.

Running through the city

Running through NYC, dodging people and tasting the scents of differing neighborhood culinary scenes as you move from block to block—there’s nothing like it. If you’re new to NYC, you might not know that the city has numerous active running groups that meet all across the City’s five boroughs. From Central Park to the gritty streets, you’ll be able to have everything from good long jogs to green space for sprinting. Some of the best places to run in NYC include:

• The Brooklyn Bridge
• Hudson River Greenway
• High Line Park
• Central Park
• Prospect Park
• Morningside Park
• Coney Island’s Boardwalk
• Carl Schurz Park
• Queensboro Bridge
• Roosevelt Island
• Van Cortlandt Park
• The East River Greenway

If you’re running in a high-traffic area or at night, remember to wear reflective gear. And, as with all of these activities, stay hydrated. After you try it out, if you think running’s an activity you’ll spend time on, you should consider signing up to join a local running/jogging group or registering for any one of the city’s marathons, half-marathons, 10Ks or 5Ks.

Bicycling through NYC streets

Another great way to stay active outdoors on a daily basis is cycling. The average person burns between 450 and 750 calories per hour of moderate cycling, making it a great way to lose weight. Over the past few years, NYC’s government has spent time and money investing in a bicycle-friendly infrastructure, and its paid off. Every day, hundreds of New Yorkers cycle to work instead of driving or relying on public transportation.

If you’re going to be biking in the city, be sure to study the bike paths, bike lanes, and greenways available to you as a cyclist. Being aware in advance of any of your cycling travel will cut down on mistakes and help you focus on the road. You should also invest in a high-quality bicycle lock and a reliable helmet.

Recreational Sports

If running and cycling aren’t for you, and you prefer team sports, NYC Social’s perfect for you. With sports spanning from basketball and skeeball, they make it easy to sign up for a team and get started. You can even search for teams according to your neighborhood and the day of the week that you’re able to meet. Social sports teams are a great way to learn a new sport, make some new friends, and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle.

Unlike solitary activities like running and cycling, recreational sports demand you collaboratively interact with others, making them great places to practice your communication skills, learn about leadership, and network with team members after practice.

Kayaking in NYC’s waterways

Surprised to find out you can go kayaking (or canoeing) in the Big Apple? One of the most underrated activities NYC offers is the ability to travel and see the city from its waterways. Some boathouses even offer free kayaking lessons during the summer. If you’re interested in kayaking, check out a place like Manhattan Community Boathouse in Hell’s Kitchen, which offers first-come, first-serve lessons for beginners or the North Brooklyn Boat Club in Greenpoint, where you can volunteer to become a deckhand after you’ve gotten a good amount of training and lessons. There’s also the Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse, the Downtown Boathouse, and the scenic and less urban Kayak Staten Island.

Getting fit through fitness classes

Worried that being in a fitness class will remind you of your years in the back of the class during gym class? Don’t. Everyone has that fear, and fitness classes are a great way of realizing that there are more people just like you than you think. Best of all, New York has plenty of local fitness classes that are tailored to what you’d like to do, including martial arts, boxing, cardio, yoga, dancing, swimming, pilates, and general fitness. This range ensures that you’ll find at least one take to do that you enjoy, but you should also take the opportunity to learn something new and outside of your comfort zone.

Start today

Whichever way you decide to get fit, make sure you’re following through with all the hard work you’re putting your body through by eating healthy and consuming nutritious meals. By transforming your New York lifestyle to be healthier and more active, you’re more likely to enjoy your life in the city and continue your activities for a long time to come.

Written by Jeremy Alderman

Filed under: Blog by AgentImage
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