Lumber prices are falling quickly from record highs, and that may be happening at the right time for the new-home market.

Photo Credit: Nathalie Dupont - Getty Images

By REALTOR Magazine

Home builder sentiment sank to its lowest level since August 2020, with builders blaming increasing material supply challenges for their outlook, according to a newly released report from the National Association of Home Builders. Builders said that declining availability for softwood lumber and other building materials is pushing builder sentiment down in June, at a time when buyer demand is surging.

Lumber prices have been increasing for months, prompting builders to raise their prices and, in some cases, to stop taking new orders due to the difficulty of pricing projects accurately during the course of construction.

But wood prices are coming down—and they’re falling fast. For example, futures for July delivery of lumber were $1,009.90 per thousand board feet, a 41% drop from the record of $1,711.20 reached in early May, The Wall Street Journal reports.

“The rapid decline suggests a bubble that has burst and the question is how low lumber prices will fall,” The Wall Street Journalreports. “Even after tumbling, lumber futures remain nearly three times what is typical for this time of year. Lumber producers and traders expect that prices will remain relatively high due to the strong housing market, but that the supply bottlenecks and frenzied buying that characterized the economy’s reopening and sent prices to multiples of the old all-time highs are winding down.”

During the run-up in lumber prices, some builders began hoarding lumber to shield themselves from any future gains and to ensure they didn’t run out of it during construction. Housing analysts predict the new-home market will see greater “shadow inventory” as businesses begin to sell their own stockpiles.

“I don’t think $1,000 lumber prices are the new normal,” Devin Stockfish, chief executive of Weyerhaeuser Co., a lumber producer, told investors last week at a conference. “But that being said, when you think about the amount of housing that we’re going to have to build in the U.S. over the next three, five, 10 years, that’s just a significant amount of demand for wood products.”

Source: “Lumber Prices Are Falling Fast, Turning Hoarders Into Sellers,” The Wall Street Journal (June 15, 2021) [Log-in required.] and “Rising Material Challenges, Declining Builder Sentiment,” National Association of Home Builders (June 15, 2021)

If you're embarking on renovations on a tight budget, it can be difficult to decide what to do first. In the article below, experts identify the best projects for your wallet and your home.

By Mia Taylor

The vast majority of people who purchase fixer-upper homes do so for financial reasons— because they generally can't afford a turn-key property. A recent report from Buildworld, a UK company that connects buyers with building materials, reveals that 73% of people who buy fixer-uppers do so because of money issues. This financial reality, however, can present a perplexing challenge when moving into a home that's in need of a little (or a lot) of TLC. Which renovation projects should you focus on first if your budget is tight? And why?

According to Buildworld, the average spend on "necessary repairs" is about $13,000, and "practical upgrades" cost about $6,000. We asked experts to help identify the fixer-upper projects that make the most sense right out of the gate as well as those that will give you the most bang for your buck. Here's what the industry insiders had to say, along with a few tips on how to get organized as you embark on your fixer-upper facelift.

PHOTO CREDIT: KIM CORNELISON

Before You Start Remodeling 

First things first: It's essential to understand what work should be done for safety reasons and to prevent costly challenges down the road. The best way to do this is to have a professional assess your newly purchased home and use that insight to develop a game plan.

"Create a priority list and start with what must be fixed," says Robbie Maynard, San Diego-based interior designer and owner of Robbie Interiors. "Hire an inspector to look for potential issues or hazards with electrical, plumbing, and the roof. It's a good idea to start with the structure and take care of items like electrical, which can be a potential fire hazard, as well as plumbing issues so that you don't end up with major problems or damage in the future. You will not see a great transformation, but it brings peace of mind."

Hiring an expert to create a cost estimate for your renovations can give you a realistic assessment of how much money you'll need to accomplish each item on the list and help you decide what you can afford to do first. And remember, while safety repairs are likely to be among the most expensive, they're critical to laying the proper groundwork for subsequent projects.

"Upgrading plumbing and electrical is always expensive," says AmyLynn Schwartzbard, owner of New York City-based Life Designs Group. "A two-bedroom, two-bath home could run $25,000-plus for all new electrical wiring and outlets. Plumbing could run $15,000-plus. But the additional work isn't worth doing if the inner runnings of the home are in disarray."

PHOTO CREDIT: JOHN BESSLER

1. Refresh Rooms with Paint 

Once you've addressed safety matters, you can turn your attention to aesthetic renovation projects and upgrades. Adding a new coat of paint throughout your home can make a big difference without a big investment, says Stephanie Lindsey, principal designer with Texas-based Etch Design Group.

"A fresh coat of paint on walls goes a long way for our mental health," says Lindsey. "We feel rejuvenated and like we have a clean slate to start a new chapter. You can paint walls, cabinets, or even your front door for a fresh new look."

The best part: a paint project can cost as little as $50, depending on the scope. Maynard also notes that paint almost always needs a refresh anyway when a home transitions from one owner to the next. "New paint is the first thing that makes a huge impact," says Maynard. "The great thing is you can paint yourself and save on this one."

For an added style boost, consider painting an accent or focal wall, which is generally the wall you first see when entering a room. It might also be the wall where your sofa or your bed is located.  "Dark gray or smoky green or blue are all popular colors," says Maynard.

PHOTO CREDIT: WERNER STRAUBE

2. Install New Flooring 

Another project that can make a tremendous and immediate difference in a fixer-upper is flooring. Maynard recommends luxury vinyl plank flooring to save money, which runs about $5 a square foot.

"It's the best thing since sliced bread," says Maynard. "It looks like real wood for a fraction of the cost. I love the chevron or herringbone patterns, which I have been specifying in many of my projects. Luxury vinyl plank is also water-resistant and can be used in bathrooms. New flooring and paint will transform your fixer-upper right before your eyes."

Not only will new flooring brighten a fixer-upper visually, but tackling this type of change early on can be much easier logistically. Once you've moved in and your furniture and personal belongings fill every room, redoing flooring can be challenging at best.

"It can be downright unbearable while the work is being done," says Ron Leffler, of Virginia-based Ron Leffler Real Estate. "It usually takes several days from beginning to end. The smell from the fresh polyurethane [if you're refinishing hardwood floors] can also take a day or two to dissipate."

One additional consideration: the color you select for your vinyl flooring or floor stain will also help set the stage for future updates in your home.  

PHOTO CREDIT: KIM CORNELISON

3. Upgrade the Exterior 

Exterior upgrades are also an important consideration for fixer-uppers and can be more affordable than interior changes, which often require plumbing and other system improvements. The 2020 U.S. Houzz & Home Study found that 21% of renovating homeowners tackled roofing, windows and skylights, and exterior paint projects at a median spend of $8,000, $3,900, and $1,000, respectively. Outdoor yard and landscaping projects are also a good idea, says realtor Jennifer Thomson.

"Don't forget about your fixer-upper's curb appeal; the neighbors will thank you and you will be able to enjoy your yard in the summer months," says Thomson, who recommends adding grass for starters. "If you use fast-growing grass seed, you will have a lush lawn surrounding your home in no time. Most homeowners spend between $450 and $900 on lawn seeding a 5,000-square-foot lawn. When it comes time to sell your fixer-upper, the curb appeal will add thousands to the value of your home."

Bermuda grass germinates in as little as seven to 10 days, while Buffalo grass can take two weeks to 30 days, says Thomson. Yet another option is Centipede grass, which has a germination time of 14 to 21 days.

PHOTO CREDIT: EDMUND BARR

4. Remodel Your Kitchen 

It's no secret that kitchens are often among the priciest renovations homeowners embark upon—because who doesn't want a dream kitchen with all of the bells and whistles right? The good news is that a kitchen renovation doesn't have to cost a small fortune. And furthermore, you might want to prioritize your spending on this space given just how big of a role kitchens play in everyday life. (Not to mention the solid return on investment you're likely to get.)

"The kitchen is one of the most used and important spaces in the home," says Maynard, noting that one way to save costs on improvements in this room is by simply painting your cabinets if they're in good shape, or refinishing them. Taking this approach could cost anywhere from $2,500 to $3,500, Maynard estimates.  

If the doors are not in good shape and won't be much improved with paint, refacing (replacing the doors) can be another budget-friendly cabinet upgrade option. Costs range from $5,000 to $7,000, says Maynard. Bottom line: kitchen renovations do not have to cost in excess of $15,000 or $20,000.

"Everyone thinks a kitchen remodel is super expensive, but it doesn't have to be. The Home Depot cabinets can look great. There are discount granite shops that will cut and install your countertop for much less than the high-end showroom places. I flip houses in California and can get an entire kitchen remodel for under $12,000," says Nancy Chillag of 23rd Street Investors.

Chillag's tricks of the trade include sourcing granite at warehouses, not showrooms, where you can purchase more affordable materials for a countertop upgrade. She also suggests searching for kitchen fixtures and other items at Lowe's or similar big-box, high-volume stores as opposed to high-end showrooms.

PHOTO CREDIT: PETER MOLICK

5. Replace Windows 

Installing new windows might not be the cheapest project to tackle initially, depending on who you buy them from (and you should definitely shop around.) But this is an improvement that can pay for itself over the long run by saving you money on utility bills.

"Old windows might have air leaks, which can cause your furnace or HVAC system to work overtime and increase your bills," says Andrew Wilson, a home improvement contractor based in Madison, Wisconsin. "Plus, it also makes living in the home comfier when you don't have to worry about the cold breeze or warm summer heat entering through the windows seasonally."

PHOTO CREDIT: JOHN GRANEN

6. Repair Drywall and Ceilings 

Yet another home improvement project to consider early on for logistical reasons is major drywall or ceiling repairs, including moving walls. Like flooring, this type of work is best tackled before moving in. 

"Removing popcorn ceiling texture? It's a messy job and much easier to do when you don't have to worry about getting furniture or floors wet and dirty," says Robert Taylor, a rehabber based in Sacramento, California, who's been fixing and flipping homes for more than 15 years.

While most homeowners can remove popcorn ceiling on their own, you'll likely need someone to come through to retape and texture the ceiling, says Taylor, owner of The Real Estate Solutions Guy. Expect removal of acoustic ceiling texture and retexturing to cost around $2 to $3 per square foot, says Taylor.

How to Get the Most for Your Money 

Whether you choose to start with new flooring, kitchen renovations, updated ceilings, or drywall, if you're hiring a professional to do the work, it's best to shop around to make sure you're getting a good price. This will also help you develop a more complete picture of the expenses involved.

"Get at least three qualified quotes from contractors to do the work," says John Bodrozic, co-founder of HomeZada, a platform that helps homeowners manage renovations. "This is where you start to see what the total cost of the project is beyond material costs, because the contractor quotes will include their labor costs, their tools costs, insurance costs, and their goals for profit on the project."

One more point about selecting a contractor: the lowest bid is not always the best bid, even when you're on a tight budget. 

"Hire the right contractor, don't hire the cheapest contractor to save money," says Chillag. "It will cost you more money in the long run. Get recommendations for contractors, interview them, and talk to their prior clients. A good contractor will look at your remodel wish list and give you advice on how to save money and what order to do things in so that you're not undoing work later on in the remodel process."

Final Considerations 

Buying a fixer-upper can be a wise way to get into homeownership on a budget. It can also be a monumental undertaking and a labor of love, particularly if you intend to stay in the home for the long haul rather than simply flip it in a few years. No matter which camp you're in, make sure you thoroughly understand the work that needs to be done and why before diving into any projects. After all, mistakes can be costly and if your budget is already tight, it's best to spend your money judiciously as a new homeowner. Doing this requires being educated about your choices.

"One of the biggest tips anyone should know about renovating a fixer-upper is ensure the correct thing is being fixed. A common mistake is people thinking for instance that if floors aren't leveled correctly, they need to replace the flooring. That's a costly mistake since most of the time it's not a flooring issue, but instead a problem with the home foundation," says Wilson, the home improvement contractor. "It's essential to be sure that what's actually causing the issue is what's being fixed."

 

Mia Taylor is an award-winning journalist who's passionate about making personal finance coverage accessible and engaging. News organizations she has worked for as a staff member or contributor include The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the San Diego Union-Tribune, The Boston Globe, TheStreet, Bankrate, MSN, and Cheapism. In 2011, she was a member of a team of KPBS reporters who received a Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism. Follow her coverage on Twitter and Instagram.

• Monday, May 31, 2021

• 10:00 AM  11:00 AM

Join American Legion Harriman-Hale Post #18 at Wolfeboro Town Docks for a ceremonial gun salute, Taps, and Scattering of Flowers.

 

A thank you today on this Memorial Day!  All gave some. Some gave all. 

Melanson Real Estate

 

Memorial Day is widely celebrated as the unofficial start of summer but what the day truly celebrates and acknowledges is something much more meaningful and patriotic. 

 

Established as an official federal holiday in 1971, Memorial Day is a holiday that celebrates and recognizes the soldiers who have given their lives in the line of duty defending the USA. The day takes place on the last Monday each May.

Given the important historical and patriotic significance of Memorial Day, it should come as no surprise that there are specific Memorial Day flag etiquette guidelines and rules that must be followed! Below is the Memorial Day flag protocol so you can be sure you’re flying your flags correctly.

Flag etiquette on Memorial Day is unique.

• At sunrise, flags are to be raised to full staff briskly, then lowered to half staff position where they will remain until noon.

• At noon, flags are to be raised to full-staff and will be displayed there for the remainder of the holiday. 

If you are unable to display the flag at half staff on Memorial Day, proper flag etiquette requires that you display your flag with a black mourning ribbon to show respect and acknowledge the somber meaning of the day.

Memorial Day is a great time to show your pride for your country and now you can do it properly!

 

These large mammals will do anything to get their hands (or hooves) on your flowers and vegetables. I wish I read this article sooner, otherwise, my tulips would still be in tact! Following are some solutions on how to keep them away!

By Andrea Beck, Better Homes & Gardens

Once deer discover your yard as a delectable deli, they'll hop fences, ignore scare tactics, and show up like clockwork to devour plant after plant. They'll trot right up on a porch to chomp off the roses or stretch high to nibble the clematis you thought were safe on an arbor. And hungry deer will eat almost anything, depending on what else is available (deer in different regions have different palates). There are plenty of methods to keep deer away that you can try, but it might take some experimenting to see what works best in your yard. One of the best ways to keep your garden safe is to fill it with deer-resistant plants that they'll avoid on their own.

Deer often go for tender greens such as lettuce, pansy, ivy, hosta, and most young plants. Spring and early-summer plants, including tulips, lilies, and roses, seem especially appealing to deer, even if they're planted in containers. They feast on fruits of all kinds, from strawberries to fruit trees and fallen fruit. Deer will eat bark, twigs, and leaves of most trees and shrubs. They can also damage woody plants, especially during winter when food is scarce.

How To Identify Deer Damage 

Clues of deer visiting your garden include nibbled produce, roughly clipped leaves, buds and blossoms vanished overnight, hoof prints in soil, and small piles of round black droppings. Scrapes on tree trunks and woody shrub branches in the winter are often from deer antlers. Deer can reach leaves as high as six feet, so scoring on trees that high eliminates smaller animals as the culprit.

 

Odor Deterrents 

There are many deer deterrents that rely on odor, and effectiveness varies on how quickly the deer visiting your yard adjust to them. It's typical for many techniques to only work for a few days. Some common deterrents to spread around your plants include:

• Mothballs

• Hair

• Decaying fishheads

• Blood meal

• Garlic

• Fabric softener

• Processed sewage

• Repellent plants

Physical Deer Deterrents 

Certain obstacles and items will keep deer far away from your gardens. Fencing is the most obvious barrier, but reflective surfaces and thorny branches can be just as effective. More physical deterrent options include:

• Thorny branches

• Floodlights

• Hidden fishing lines

• Sprinklers

• Reflective surfaces (aluminum pie pans, streamers)

• Fences

• Netting

 

Deterring Deer by Season 

 

Deterring Deer in Spring

After a winter of searching for accessible food, deer have huge appetites in the spring, and new shoots and buds are especially enticing. If you've had deer problems in the past years, they will probably return in the next spring. The folks at Bobbex, a natural deer repellent brand, recommend spraying repellent every two weeks or when one to two inches of new growth appears.

Buy It: Bobbex Deer Repellent Ready-to-Use Spray

Deterring Deer in Summer

Lower growing plants are in the most danger in the summer, while trees and shrubs are the concern in the cooler seasons. Natural food choices are easier to find. But, when the weather turns hot and dry, natural vegetation in forests and fields can get scorched and die off, forcing deer to look for well-groomed landscaping for green.

Deer (and their less common relatives, moose and elk) usually leave a path of destruction in the landscape and can destroy plants and trees in every season. It's not enough to apply a deer repellent spray once or twice a year. Deer learn from experience, so repetitive applications will give them the message that they are not welcome in your rose garden. Although you should keep using deterrents in every season, there are different methods to use in each that is appropriate for where the damage is worse and how the deer behave.

Deterring Deer in Fall

Mating season starts in the fall for the deer population, which means there will be larger groups of deer in one area (does and bucks are seeking each other out). Most flowers will be winding down from their blooming season, but it's the trees you need to worry most about. Fall is also when bucks start to scrape their antlers against trees to remove the velvety layer grown over the summer. The repetitive scraping can damage, and even kill, trees. Make sure to use deterrents to protect trees of any size.

Deterring Deer in Winter

It seems like winter should be your downtime when it comes to deer, but they can be just as destructive in the dead of winter as they are in other seasons. When the grass and plants are covered in snow, deer look upwards for a food source and start chewing off twigs and leaves. Their eating habits can leave your branchy plants looking misshapen, can kill limbs, or even kill the whole plant.

Deer-Resistant Plants for Your Yard 

Deer steer clear of plants that are poisonous, fuzzy, coarse, spiny, bitter, or very aromatic. But if deer are unclear about liking something, they'll try it, so even things they don't like aren't always safe to plant. Start the design of your garden with known deer-resistant plants.

Deer-Deterring Trees

Deer may not completely avoid these trees, but they're less likely to munch on them than other options. If you've had problems with pests in the past, consider planting some of these trees:

• Black locust

• Cedar

• False cypress

• Ginkgo

• Hackberry

• Hawthorn

• Japanese maple

• Magnolia

• Oak

• Palm trees

• Spruce (usually)

Because deer are so adaptable and resourceful, there's no way to completely guarantee that they'll leave your garden alone. But by choosing plants that deer avoid, putting up a fence, and using deer repellent or other deterrents, you've got a much better chance of keeping them at bay.

 

 

May 14, 2021, REALTOR Magazine

The average for the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage remained below 3% last week, but economists warn that rates in the 2% range likely won’t stick around much longer. Still, mortgage rates will continue to be historically low, and slight increases aren’t likely to spook home buyers, experts said.

 

The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 2.94% last week, down from 2.96% the week prior, Freddie Mac reported.

“Although mortgage rates may rise in the coming months, homebuying activity won’t likely be affected,” Nadia Evangelou, senior economist and director of forecasting for the National Association of REALTORS®, writes on the association’s Economists’ Outlook blog. “Keep in mind that rates are hovering at record lows, and they will remain historically low for a longer period.” NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun predicts that mortgage rates will average 3.2% by the end of the year.

Low mortgage rates have helped with housing affordability at a time when home prices have surged by double-digit percentages over the past year due to increasing buyer demand. The median sales price for an existing single-family home rose to $319,200 in the first quarter of this year, registering an annual increase of 16.2%—a record high, according to NAR, which has been tracking such data since 1989. Also, housing inventory remains squeezed, pressing on demand and prices.

The following chart from NAR shows how many households earning $100,000 can afford to buy now versus two years ago.

 

“The low mortgage rate environment has been a boon to the housing market but may not last long, as consumer inflation has accelerated at its fastest pace in more than twelve years and may lead to higher mortgage rates in the summer,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist.

Freddie Mac reported the following national averages with mortgage rates for the week ending May 13:

• 30-year fixed-rate mortgages: averaged 2.94%, with an average 0.7 point, dropping from the 2.96% average the week prior. Last year at this time, 30-year rates averaged 3.28%.

• 15-year fixed-rate mortgages: averaged 2.26%, with an average 0.6 point, falling from 2.30% average the week before.  A year ago, 15-year rates averaged 2.72%.

• 5-year hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages: averaged 2.59%, with an average 0.3 point, dropping from 2.70% average the week prior. A year ago, 5-year ARMs averaged 3.18%.

Freddie Mac reports average commitment rates along with average points to better reflect the total upfront cost of obtaining the mortgage.

Source: 

“Instant Reaction: Mortgage Rates, May 13, 2021,” National Association of REALTORS® Economists’ Outlook blog (May 13, 2021) and Freddie Mac

Keyless smart locks are showing up on front doors across America. The reasons are clear: They provide easier access without the hassle of a physical key. So, does this mean the electronic lockbox real estate professionals are accustom to using for showings is on the way out? Not anytime soon, says one industry expert. 

By Lisa A. Beach  

Platform convergence is on the horizon!    

SentriLock's new platform is the first and only real estate solution that integrates showing-scheduling functions with property access with a premium on data security.

While home sellers with existing smart lock systems might question the need for another access device, lockbox technology is evolving quickly and offers a range of advantages to real estate pros and consumers beyond enabling entry inside a listing. “Electronic lockboxes provide a great synergy of accessing technology with the smartphone they’re already using,” says Scott Fisher, founder and CEO of SentriLock LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Association of REALTORS® and a REALTOR Benefits® partner.

Dealing with existing smart locks can be frustrating for agents trying to gain entry to a property. At least 25 different vendors, such as Nest and Ring, offer more than 45 different consumer smart locks, each requiring its own app and interface. This means downloading different smart lock apps, then figuring out how to operate them for showings. By contrast, an electronic lockbox used by a local MLS or association ensures product uniformity throughout the area.

From a security standpoint, electronic lockboxes can update the agent’s credentials and authorization status daily, providing controlled access during the marketing of the property. Electronic lockboxes can also provide peace of mind for sellers. “When the lockbox is removed from the property, the digital credentials go away,” says Fisher. “The homeowner can feel confident that no one can get in their home with the electronic credentials.”

SentriLock’s commitment to safeguarding data entered into the system will be just as vigorous in its new home showing scheduling platform SentriKey Showing Service, which is integrated with the lockbox system. Access credentials are provided only after an appointment is made. This ensures property access is restricted to scheduled appointments.

SentriLock is working to form a digital bridge with other smart lock products, which should please sellers with objections to putting lockboxes on their home. SentriLock will be integrating its technology with other platforms, which will allow agent credentials to be sent from the SentriKey Real Estate app to an existing smart lock. Their goal for the real estate space is ultimately to become vendor- and hardware-agnostic. The first integration will launch early this summer.

"Key" Takeaways:

• Sellers with smart locks on their doors may question the need of a separate electronic lockbox for access during showings.

• Electronic lockboxes can update the agent’s credentials and authorization status daily, providing controlled access during the marketing of the property.

• The lockbox tracks access and reports back centrally, with the agent’s authorization and de-authorization handled automatically.

 

Lisa A. Beach is an Orlando, Fla.-based freelance writer whose work has been published in The New York Times, Conde Nast Traveler, Parade, and USA Today.

 

This Sunday, mom's everywhere will be waking up early to a chorus of “Happy Mother’s Day,” and a homemade breakfast feast, complete with homemade cards, inexpensive flowers, and syrupy hands. Perhaps, followed by making Mother’s Day a family fun outing by going somewhere or taking a walk.

Whatever you decide to do, it’s nice to spend the day together. Well, over the past year or so there have been plenty of days together with family. Why not, challenge yourself and mothers everywhere to taking a little "me" time and treat yourself.  Below are some ideas to taking care of you!

    

1. Take Time for Yourself

If you’re craving alone time, ask your partner to take the kids for a nice long walk, and leave you at home. Enjoy the silence. Take a nap. Read. Take a bath. Rock out to Bon Jovi. Do whatever makes you happy. If you’re dreaming of a family outing, set up a backyard game, make an outdoor movie screen, have a lip-sync dance battle, or go for a drive through a local nature preserve.

2. Ask Only for What You Really Want

Make an “Acts of Service” wish list that your significant other and the kids can do instead of gifts. Sure, it’s basically a list of our least favorite chores, but hey, not having to fold the laundry for a whole weekend is like gold to any mama!

3. Buy Yourself Something

Is there a local store you’d like to support? Buy yourself a gift card or shop their online store. Does your athleisure wear collection need some updating? Now is the time! Have your eye on some jewelry? Buy it! Just go for it.

4. Eat Well

If you’re lucky enough to have family members who cook or grill well, take advantage of that. Put in your menu request early and enjoy your favorite grub. If you are the cook, take the day off and support local restaurants. Be sure to pick up your favorite treats and beverages on your next grocery run so you can enjoy the good snacks after the kids are in bed.

5. Create an At-Home Spa

It may not be the same as going to a real spa, but you can pamper yourself with a facial mask and some DIY bath bombs. Throw in a foot soak and a fresh coat of nail polish and you’ll feel like a new woman. If your little helpers are excited about spa day too, make it a mommy-and-me activity with facials for everyone.

Whatever you decide to do, enjoy your day! Happy Mother's Day!

 

Better Homes and Gardens; Source: By Megan Boettcher

Buyers who purchase newly constructed homes are paying more not only because of intense competition in the market but also surging lumber prices. Record-breaking growth for the cost of lumber is pressing on builders’ budgets and prompting them to pass along price increases to buyers.

 

© juniart - AdobeStock

The increase in lumber prices over the past year has added $35,872 to the price of an average new single-family home and $12,966 to the price of an average new multifamily home. The latter translates to an extra $119 per month in rent for apartment dwellers, according to new housing data from the National Association of Home Builders.

Some builders report slowing production due to the rising building costs. Still, single-family housing starts jumped 41% in March compared to a year earlier, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. More than a quarter of single-family homes that were on the market in the first quarter of this year were new construction—the highest share on record, according to Redfin research.

But lumber prices—up a whopping 340% compared to a year ago, according to Random Lengths, a wood products industry tracking firm—threaten that market share. For a new home, lumber is often used for framing as well as for cabinets, doors, windows, flooring, and decks.

Builders are facing rising costs for other building materials, too. For example, year-over-year prices are up nearly 7% for drywall, 27% for copper—the price of which set a record high this month—and 11% for land prices. Prices for single lots especially have jumped this year due to high buyer demand and low supply.

“There’s a literal land grab going on as builders are scooping up lots to better match housing supply with demand,” Ali Wolf, chief economist at Zonda, told CNBC. “The lot supply shortage is real, and it is causing prices to rise and builders to move further into the suburbs.”

 

Realtor Magazine, Source: 

“Soaring Lumber Prices Add $36,000 to the Cost of a New Home, and a Fierce Land Grab Is Only Making It Worse,” CNBC (April 30, 2021) and “Higher Lumber Costs Add More Than $35K to New Home Prices, $119 to Monthly Rent,” National Association of Home Builders’ Eye on Housing blog (April 28, 2021)

Want to Redesign Your Garden? Here's How to Remove Deeply-Rooted Shrubs, Plants, and Small Trees. The good news is that you can tackle this job on your own. Here's what you need to know.

CREDIT: SVPRODUCTION / GETTY IMAGES

By Kelly Manning

Is your landscape looking a little tired and weather-worn? Or maybe you're simply ready for a new look. It's easy to construe lofty goals until you take a closer look at your garden beds, only to discover the deep root systems of the plants, shrubs, and small trees you'd need to remove to change your outdoor space's style. Not only can this task feel overwhelming, but not everyone has the skillset or tools to tackle such a big job. Below, Blythe Yost, a landscape architect and the CEO of Tilly, a startup aiming to bring landscape design to more homeowners, shares her recommendations for removing longstanding varieties to pave the way for new growth.

Make a clear plan—and stick to it. 

"Landscape design is very labor intensive. Don't bite off more than you can chew," cautions Yost, who recommends homeowners map out a plan that outlines their goals. "Draw something out, even if it's on the back of an envelope, or put together a shopping list with the tools you need." Adds Yost, "Know where you're starting and where you're going so that you get somewhere in the end."

Take a strategic approach to removal. 

To remove shrubs, begin with a pair of loppers, to cut away branches and any large roots visible to the eye. As you get down to the soil, use a pick mattock to help you "hack out" the web beneath the surface. Continue to cut the root system as it becomes more accessible; be careful not to simply pull and tug, which can strain your back. For unrelenting roots, Yost recommends utilizing a Come-Along, a tool that allows you to use the support of a tree during the extraction process. Similarly, when removing the roots of small trees, remove branches with loppers—but be sure to leave enough "to give yourself leverage to twist, hack, and pull the roots," notes Yost. As for unearthing simple plants? Use a sharp shovel, such as a spade to dig up the roots, but remember "they are not as deep as the plant is tall." Uprooted trees, shrubs, and plants should be disposed of in the same manner as your regular yard waste.

Use root killer sparingly. 

If you choose to apply root killer, Yost recommends using it "judiciously;" wear protective gear, do not over-spray the area, and be mindful of runoff, she notes. Furthermore, remember that root killer is systemic and needs time to work. "It needs to be taken up by the leaves and then go down to the roots," explains Yost. "If you chop all the leaves off, you can't use it, because there's no leaf surface." Additionally, Yost has found that root killer is best suited for invasive species and works especially well in warm climates, where plants metabolize faster. Otherwise, it will take about two weeks for the root killer to reach the plant's base. If your goal is to kill the system, organic herbicides wont do the trick, she says, since they are not systemic: "Leaves will shrivel, but roots won't die."

Know when to call in a professional. 

"It depends on how much of a workout you want and how much time you have," says Yost of knowing if and when to hire an expert. "Most things can be achieved on your own, but when a tree is larger than an inch and a half in diameter, it will be very difficult to remove." Getting rid of large, overgrown shrubs, which can be especially taxing to remove, often requires a professional, as well. Assessing "size and quantity are two good ways of approaching it," says Yost.

 

National Arbor Day is April 30. Try these tree-hugging suggestions from reforestation activists for getting (and giving) back to nature.

CREDIT: CAVAN IMAGES / GETTY IMAGES

By Erica Sloan

With spring finally here, sunshine, fresh blooms, and outdoor activities are all on the horizon once again—a strong reminder of the planet's sheer beauty and the need to safeguard it for future generations. Earth Day, which is observed annually on April 22, may be the most popular holiday dedicated to just that, but there's another eco-conscious day worth celebrating, too: Arbor Day. Commemorating trees and their many contributions to Earth's ecosystems, the holiday falls on the last Friday in April, and although the pandemic has put the kibosh on many in-person events, there are a number of COVID-safe ways you can show your support for trees and all they do for us, whether outside in a distanced group or entirely virtually. We spoke to conservationists and activists at the Arbor Day Foundation and reforestation nonprofit One Tree Planted to put together this list of ideas.

Take a Hike 

When you visit a national park or national forest, your admissions fee doubles as a donation: A portion of it will bolster crucial ongoing conservation efforts at that park. Looking for somewhere to start? Redwoods, sequoias, and Joshua trees are so iconic, they have national parks on the West Coast named after them, all of which could particularly use the support in the aftermath of last year's devastating wildfires. A few other parks where trees are the standout stars include Congaree National Park, in South Carolina, which boasts a breathtaking floodplain forest, as well as Olympic and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks, in Washington and Tennessee respectively, which are both technically rainforests. And of course, there are the White Mountains and other surrounding hiking trails nearby!

Gift Some Green 

For every dollar you donate to conservation and re-greening nonprofits like One Tree Planted and the Arbor Day Foundation, they'll root a new tree specimen in an at-risk region—a place that's suffered major tree losses in recent years due to fires, damaging industries, or invasive species. Another option: Shop at businesses that share proceeds with the National Park Foundation or other park programs, like Good & Well Supply Co. (where you'll find a collection of soy-based candles in scents reminiscent of popular national parks) and Pendleton (which sells national park-themed beanies, blankets, and more). Thanks to a new partnership this April between bamboo-based toilet paper company No.2—which sports 100 percent recycled-paper packaging—and One Tree Planted, every carton of the brand's TP sold will root a tree in one of California's fire-torn forests. You can also support eco-friendly efforts further afield via the Arbor Day Foundation's Heritage coffee series, which features small-batch beans cultivated by Honduran farmers dedicated to sustainable practices (and who receive quality pricing for their goods in return). 

Grab a Shovel 

Scout volunteer re-greening initiatives in your neck of the woods, and you can get your hands dirty planting new saplings in areas that could really use them. While many big group activities have been postponed due to COVID-19, small and socially distanced outings are still happening in full force nationwide. To find one near you, start by looking through the list of current opportunities posted by One Tree Planted. At these Earth Month events, you'll spend the day learning about local native species and doing a range of hands-on restoration work, as well as planting trees, of course. For Californians, TreePeople is another ideal place to start: In April, volunteer groups will head out to the Angeles National Forest, the Santa Monica Mountains, and the LA River Greenway to help remove invasive species, and care for native plants and trees. And you can find still other programs happening right in city centers through orgs like Trees New York, for instance, which is working to replenish the urban canopy in the Bronx, helping combat the heat-island effect and cut down overall energy usage.   

Bring It Home 

If you're the proud owner of a green thumb, level up from your regular houseplant or garden duties, and add a tree to your yard. To find a species fit for your zone, soil type, and sun exposure, visit the Arbor Day Foundation's tree wizard. This nifty quiz entails plugging in your zip code and specifications, and lets you filter by height, spread, growth rate, and other attributes (like whether you'd like the tree to bring pollinators or provide privacy) to find your ideal specimen. Once you have your seedling in hand, start it off on a happy note giving it all the love it deserves and keep it thriving for years to come.

Happy Earth Day!

Soil is the life force of any landscape. It grounds and nourishes plants, and it fends off pests and disease. Before you plunge seeds or saplings into your soil, you need to consider its health.

The first step? Checking your soil for damage.

CREDIT: ILLUSTRATION BY SARA BOCCACCINI MEADOWS

By Johanna Silver 

It is the life force of any landscape. It grounds and nourishes plants, and fends off pests and disease. To get and keep yours in top condition, we asked Elaine Ingham, Ph.D., a global expert and founder of the Soil Food Web School, for the scoop.

What Is Soil? 

"Most people confuse it with dirt, but they're different things entirely," says Ingham, a soil microbiologist in Corvallis, Oregon. Dirt is basically made of broken-down rocks, while "soil is very much a living thing" an ecosystem of dirt, bacteria, fungi, nematodes (microscopic roundworms), protozoa, and micro arthropods (like earthworms and spiders). Together, these elements decompose organic matter and release nutrients, a process called nutrient cycling.

What Can Damage It? 

Environmental pollution and chemical herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers. When World War II ended in 1945, munitions companies had an excess of TNT, the explosive in many bombs. Scientists noticed that plants thrived where this nitrogen-rich substance was dumped (never mind that they were weeds), and synthetic fertilizer was born. "Nitrogen will grow a plant—but it won't be a healthy one," says Ingham. Synthetic fertilizer also inhibits the wide range of nourishment needed. As a soluble salt, it dehydrates soil and kills the fungi, bacteria, and microarthropods. You may see quick results from its use, but at a long-term cost: degradation of the ecosystem, and proliferation of disease, pests, and weeds. 

How Do I Know If Mine Is Healthy? 

If you use synthetic fertilizer, it isn't. If you don't know (new property, say), look around: Is your garden riddled with pests, weeds, and yellowing, crinkled, or stunted foliage, or is it robust? "When a plant has all the nutrients it requires, it doesn't produce the chemical stress compounds that say, 'Eat me!'" says Ingham. For instance, the cell walls of a rose growing in healthy soil are too thick to be penetrated by the piercing mouth of an aphid hungry for its sap. The good news: You can fix soil with proper composting. To dig deeper into your yard's specific profile, or if you have concerns about toxicity, consider testing a sample (see soilfoodweb.com for a list of consultants).

How Can I Improve It? 

First, avoid synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. Then feed it with compost. Ingham suggests raking a one-to-two-inch-thick topdressing into your beds every spring and fall. The living parts of healthy soil rely on decaying organic matter; make your own from materials like vegetable scraps, dried leaves, and grass clippings. (For a detailed how-to, check out our compost guide.) You can buy it, too, but be sure to ask an independent nursery near you for reputable, locally produced sources. Whether homemade or bought, it should only ever smell earthy. 

Also, create a sound structure. Ingham thinks of soil like a house: Bacteria form the bricks, fungi bind them together, protozoa and nematodes make the hallways, and microarthropods add the windows, aerating the earth. The right makeup increases moisture retention (helpful in droughts), keeps soil full of oxygen (crucial to beneficial micro-organisms), and encourages roots to spread easily and deeply. Also, avoid excessive walking, rototilling, and digging, which can compact the structure, as can rainfall pounding on exposed earth. "Mother Nature never leaves soil bare," says Ingham. Spread mulch (like wood chips) over it  this also stimulates fungal growth, deficient in most gardens or plant cover crops such as creeping phlox, creeping thyme, and Dutch white clover. These low-growing perennials act like living mulch, surrounding other plants, even veggies.

 

According to experts, this isn't the best course of action.

By Jenn Sinrich , Martha Stewart, Health and Wellness

If you have already secured one or both of your COVID-19 vaccinations, you're probably feeling extra grateful for science. You're likely also feeling as if you are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel after a year filled with fear and countless unknowns. Needless to say, your vaccine card—which documents your coronavirus inoculation—is incredibly important, since it marks this moment, proves your vaccinated status, and may be your ticket to traveling internationally or attending large-scale events, like sports games and concerts, down the line. As such, you might be wondering if you should preserve your card to keep it in mint condition, and many people are even asking whether or not it's a good idea to laminate the card.

While Niket Sonpal, M.D., a New York City internist on faculty at the Touro College of Medicine, agrees that keeping the card safe is important, he feels that laminating it is not necessary at this point in time. "The card itself contains valuable information on your two doses, including date, timing, and vaccine name and information; however, the United States has not yet instituted vaccine passports for travel or attendance to gatherings," he tells us. "Additionally, we do not know which way the research will go. Will there be a need for booster shots? They would be placed on that original card." In short, Dr. Sonpal feels that, given data and the current state of the pandemic, permanently sealing your card is premature.

Sharon Nachman, chief of the division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Stony Brook Children's Hospital in Long Island, New York, agrees, suggesting instead that people put their vaccine cards in plastic folders or a sealable vinyl pouch and store them in a safe place at home. "I suspect that we may need to get booster shots in the future and will need to record them on the same document," she affirms. "Over time, we will want to look at any differences between the vaccines, including the timing of when the original was given and when a booster should be given." Having a card that is easily accessible and amendable will ensure that all information is stored in one place, she explains.

In the meantime, Dr. Nachman advises taking a picture of your vaccine card and saving it on your phone, so you have two copies of you what were given and when it was administered. "I like the redundancy and having these copies available to you at any time as a precaution to needing that information at the drop of a hat," she adds. In addition to storing your card in a plastic folder and keeping a digital iteration on your phone, Robert Hess III, a public health expert and the CEO of Hess III Communications, a company that advises health and human service providers, also recommends sending a copy of your card to your primary care physician, so that it is stored in your medical record. "This will also make sure it is fully protected and always accessible," he says. "Additionally, individuals can make a photocopy of their vaccine card—and laminate that one if they so choose."

 

Americans are more upbeat about the idea of selling, particularly as the vaccine rollout continues and latest round of stimulus checks are distributed. That could come as hopeful news as many markets face severe housing shortages and buyers are increasingly being left with few choices of homes for sale.

Fannie Mae’s Home Purchase Sentiment Index rose by 5.2 points in March to a reading of 81.7. The components on the index that increased the most last month related to home selling and buying, household income, and home prices.

“The significant increase in the HPSI in March reflects consumer optimism toward the housing market and larger economy as vaccinations continue to roll out, a third round of stimulus checks was distributed, and this spring home buying season began—perhaps with even more intensity this year, since 2020’s spring homebuying season was limited by virus-related lockdowns,” says Doug Duncan, Fannie Mae’s senior vice president and chief economist.

The measure over home-selling sentiment moved higher across most consumer segments and reached nearly pre-pandemic levels, Duncan notes. That is “generally indicative of a strong seller’s market,” he notes. “Consumers once again cited high home prices and tight inventory as primary reasons why it’s a good time to sell.”

More Americans also reported it’s a “good time to buy” in the March survey compared to February, likely still being drawn to historically low mortgage rates despite recent upticks. However, that measure on home-buying sentiment still lags behind pre-pandemic levels. The home-buying experience is proving difficult due to rapidly rising home prices and a lack of housing supply, Duncan adds.

Here’s a closer look at indicators from March’s Fannie Mae’s Home Purchase Sentiment Index, reflecting responses from nearly 1,000 consumers over the housing market:

• 61% of consumers said it’s a good time to sell, up from 55% in February.

• 53% of consumers said it’s a good time to buy a home, up from 48% in February.

• 50% of Americans surveyed believe home prices will go up over the next 12 months, up from 47% the month prior.

• 54% of consumers expect mortgage rates to increase over the next year, up from 47% a month earlier.

• 82% of Americans say they are not concerned about losing their job over the next 12 months, unchanged from February.

• 25% of respondents said their household income is significantly higher than it was 12 months ago, up from 17% in February.

 

Source: “Home Purchase Sentiment Index,” Fannie Mae (April 7, 2021)

Why it's so popular to refresh your spaces during this season every year.

By Nashia Baker 

When you think about springtime, fresh blooms, seasonal fruit, and pastel colors likely come to mind. Another (arguably less fun) seasonal association? Spring cleaning. But why do we deep clean our spaces at this time? According to the experts, it's simple: The warm weather makes a maximum refresh possible. "With the ability to open windows and shake the rugs, spring is the perfect time for decluttering and deep cleaning," says Andy Telatnik, the director of marketing for retail at Bona. If you feel the same way, you're not alone. According to a Bona and Harris Poll survey last year, half of the adults in the United States say that the start of spring is all about cleaning; decluttering and polishing floors will be the top two tasks for homeowners this particular season.

Don't forget about the pros of disinfecting during this time of year, either. "Spring is a season when everyone starts spending a little more time outdoors—and more dirt and germs are invited in," explains Julie Mckinney, PhD, R&D director of equity, claims and compliance, hygiene, and home at Reckitt Benckiser. "Even though spring signals the end of the cold and flu seasons, people should still be vigilant about the germs and bacteria living on surfaces and collecting in the spaces in their homes—especially as the COVID-19 virus continues to circulate." Ahead, our experts share more about the logic behind spring cleaning and how to make the most of this time.

The benefits are both physical and emotional.

With spring comes longer days, which physically shine a light on the grime that has accumulated during winter. You start "noticing all the dust and smudges that have collected over the past year and feel inspired to get it all cleaned out to bring fresh energy," Kadi Dulude, the owner of  Wizard of Homes, a top-rated home cleaner on Yelp, says. And certain parts of your home really do need that refresh. Take your hardwood floors, "Deep cleaning your floors will extend their life," Telatnik shares. "By  removing dust, debris, and other elements of winter, deep cleaning will prevent scratches and damage to the wood finish, which likely means refinishing the floors less often."

Inevitably,  when your space looks good, you feel good, too. A recent Harris Poll survey, in partnership with Bona, found that people feel safer, productive, relieved, happy, and in control after cleaning and disinfecting their homes. Plus, eight out of 10 Americans felt more relaxed and enjoyed spending time in their spaces that much more.

Take a targeted approach.

"When considering what to prioritize in your spring cleaning and disinfecting routine, remember that any frequently touched surface should be considered high priority," Mckinney says. "Think light switches, doorknobs, handles, and sink faucets—all places where germs can linger for hours, or even days, and then travel from person to person." Once you've got your head wrapped around the most important areas to clean, Dulude says to carve out time and listen to your favorite music to make the process a fun one. Another tip? Round up go-to supplies. "Pick scents and materials that make you want to try them out on different surfaces," she explains. "Get a new mop, microfiber cloths, or organizing bins." She always recommends having other cleaners on hand to give your floors, countertops, and other most-touched surfaces the deepest clean possible.

From here, Dulude says to start on the top floor of your home with hard-to-reach items. "Things that are often overlooked during weekly cleans: tops of picture frames, ceiling fans, tops of high dressers and cabinets, and the insides of lighting fixtures," she explains. "But don't forget to clean under things, too. Take everything out from under the bed, give it all a clean, and put things back neatly (after mopping the floor, of course)." Take this approach in every space, like under your big kitchen appliances. If you'd rather enlist help to master this type of cleaning, you can also turn to an app or use a cleaning business tailored for the task.

Maximize your cleaning efforts.

Next, Dulude recommends these essential steps: deep clean your rugs, donate, toss or recycle any things you don't need, wipe down your knick-knacks, wash your throw pillows, blankets, and toys, and remove scuffs from your walls. Make sure to scrub your floors too. After this step, Telatnik says to let them dry, and then apply a coat of polish to refresh your finish. "A coat of polish can even out a floor's look, filling in any small scratches and adding a new protective layer on top of your floor," he said. "If the surface has larger areas of damage (worn patches, scratches, water spots, etc.), consider contacting a certified flooring contractor to determine the best approach."

"Additional steps that people often neglect, but should definitely tackle as part of their comprehensive spring cleaning and disinfecting routine, include vacuuming the mattress to reduce allergens and dust mites, emptying and disinfecting the shelves and drawers around the house, vacuuming the blower compartments of the A/C to prevent mold and mildew from venturing into your home, and cleaning the inside of the washing machine to help prevent bacteria buildup and laundry contamination adds Mckinney.

 

Homeowners across the country have transformed their kitchens and living rooms into temporary workstations. But have they created an optimal setup for remote work? Kelsey Stuart, CEO of Bloomin’ Blinds, offers the following tips to make a home office more inviting and motivational.

Give the walls a fresh coat of paint. Whether you have a designated home office or plan to repurpose a spare bedroom or basement, try a quick and fresh paint job to transform the room. Lighter tones reflect more light, helping to make a home office feel roomier. Try a light, simple color scheme in order to promote high energy and creativity. This will also provide a professional background for video conference calls. Need inspiration? Try these 2021 paint colors of the year from Benjamin-Moore, Behr, Pantone, or Sherwin-Williams.

Good lighting is key. Lighting is critical to productivity and professionalism in the age of Zoom calls. There are two ways to control the lighting in a room: through natural light via windows and artificial light, using lamps and bulbs.

• If you haven’t already, swap out existing lightbulbs for LED bulbs. Relatively inexpensive, LEDs are energy-efficient and help light up a room better than traditional bulbs. Eliminate shadows by adding lamps where needed.

• Whether you’re trying to focus for an extended period of time or are about to log into a videoconference call, controlling the amount of natural light in the room impacts your productivity. You might find it helpful to rearrange your office based on natural light sources so that your eyes don’t get fatigued. Also, control the amount of light in the space by adding blinds, which give you the ability to direct the light in your office. You could also use shades with motorized units to make easier adjustments. Blinds also can have sun sensors that will lower shades if the window gets too hot, helping you to stay focused on your work.

Bring in the outdoors. A functional and beautiful add-on to your office space, plants have been shown to boost creativity while also creating a calm environment to work—all while filtering the air you breathe. Here are ideas for what plants to add.

Personalize your space. We’re all spending more time in our home office, so don’t forget to add the personal touches that remind you of why you go to work every day. For instance, photos of loved ones or a fun pattern on a floor rug can help you create a space that you’re happy to spend time in.

 

 

Courtesy Realtor Magazine

Source: By Kelsey Stuart, CEO of Bloomin’ Blinds  

Many workers want to continue to work from home, even when the pandemic is over. A new survey from JLL of 2,000 employees globally found that 72% want to be able to work from home more during the workweek, up considerably from 34% before the pandemic. Sixty-six percent are in favor of a hybrid model that mixes in office, home, and a co-working facility.

The idea of a 3-2-2 model is gaining popularity with workers. LinkedIn’s year-end roundup of 2020’s workplace trends called it a one to watch in the new year. The model would allow employees to work three days in the office, two days remotely, and two days off.

While many workers don’t want to return full-time to the office, they are missing the workplace. Fifty-two percent of professionals say they do not feel as productive at home, and 58% miss working at an office, according to a separate JLL survey. The 3-2-2 model could allow workers to balance remote and in-office work.

“The emergence of this new framework for the workweek confirms that people don’t just want to go back to the office—for many, they need to,” writes Kenny Kane, chief operating officer at Firmspace, for Forbes.com. “And commercial real estate agents will see this reflected in their quarterly reports as soon as the pandemic turns around.”

Still, a CBRE analysis cautions that the growth in remote work could cut the overall need for office space by 15% after the pandemic ends. As workplaces consider new leases, they’re demanding more flexible space options, shared meeting spaces, better indoor air quality, connected building apps, and touchless technology, CBRE notes. Also, about 50% of the workers surveyed by JLL consider socialization spaces crucial to their experiences in the office in the future. These spaces could include coffee and tea areas, lounges, terraces that offer more connection with nature, and more.

Peter Miscovich, managing director of strategy and innovation at JLL, told the Commercial Observer that some clients are wanting to decrease their office portfolios, open up satellite spaces in the suburbs, or retool their existing spaces to fit a new hybid workplace model.

Co-working spaces are increasingly being viewed as an alluring option to more workers. The JLL survey finds that 40% of workers would like to be able to work at a co-working space in the future.

Regardless, the office will remain a key role for companies as a collaboration space, Miscovich says. Only 10% of survey respondents said they would want to work from home exclusively. Seventy-four percent said they would be willing to return to the office at least part time; 24% would be willing to return on a full-time basis.

 

Courtesy Realtor Magazine

Source: "72% of Workers Don't Want to Return to Office Full Time. Report Finds," Commercial Observer (March 5, 2021); "Shaping Human Experience," JLL (Feb 22, 2021); and "What the New 3-2-2 Work Week Will Mean for Commercial Real Estate," Forbes.com (March 2, 2021)

Co-working and flexible workspace providers saw business quickly dwindle as the COVID-19 pandemic struck last spring and the shift to remote work began. These businesses sublet space on short-term contracts, which allowed tenants to leave quickly as employees moved to working from home.

However, investors and analysts are turning bullish that co-working and flexible office providers such as WeWork and IWG could soon see a boom in business as workers return to offices.

Still, there’s a lot of catching up to do. WeWork’s occupancy rate globally plunged to 47% at the end of 2020. It lost $3.2 billion last year, The Wall Street Journal reports. Before the pandemic, co-working spaces were the fastest-growing type of office space in commercial real estate, according to JLL. But the pandemic struck the sector particularly hard.

On the other hand, traditional property service providers have been more protected in the pandemic since their tenants sign long-term leases. Even as offices have remained mostly empty, building owners could still collect rent.

But moving forward, property providers may be more drawn to shorter-term leases. As such, investors are seeing signs that co-working spaces could hold a special attraction to offices moving forward.

Flexible leases could grow from less than 5% of the market today to as much as 30% by 2030, the real estate firm JLL forecasts.

Co-working spaces could grow as an option as companies may be reluctant to sign a 10-year lease until they better understand what the future of work will look like and how employees will divide their time between home and office. “Some may turn to looser office arrangements longer term, accelerating a trend already building before the pandemic,” says reporter Carol Ryan for The Wall Street Journal.

Companies that press forward with a remote office likely will still find they need a space to meet in-person at times. Also, some offices may decide on a hybrid workweek approach—splitting time between the office and home—which could also cause companies to look at flexible office space as an option.

“Co-working spaces have the potential to provide vital business services to support the remote workforce closer to where they are, especially as residual anxieties linger over taking public transit,” Brent Capron, design director of interiors at architecture firm Perkins and Will’s New York studio, told CNBC in an article on co-working spaces.

 

Courtesy Realtor Magazine

Source: "Flexible Offices Will Be Crowded After COVID-19," The Wall Street Journal (March 23, 2021) and "How Co-Working Spaces Could Succeed in the Post-Pandemic World," CNBC (Jan 12, 2021)

Choosing bulbs has gotten much more complicated as energy-saving technology becomes more common. Here’s how to make the smartest and most flattering choices for a home.

By Al DeGenova

Selecting a beautiful new light fixture for a home is a great way to visually update a home and add sparkle to a space. But putting the wrong lightbulb in that fixture can have disastrous effects. The wrong lighting makes a room feel too dark or too bright. Light also affects the appearance of upholstery, paint, or artwork.

Comparing lighting options available today can be like comparing a Model T with a Prius because of the vast options—both old-school and new—on the market. With energy consciousness steadily rising, the expansion of federal legislation mandating lightbulb efficiency is now being reconsidered by the Department of Energy, and some states, including California, Nevada, and Washington, already have strict laws in place. The 60-watt tungsten bulb is, indeed, becoming a Model T.

Just as you can still find gas-guzzling cars, however, you can still purchase incandescent bulbs. However, you need to understand the terminology surrounding new light sources.

Lightbulb Types

LED, CFL, and halogen and tungsten incandescent: LED is the most energy-efficient and long-lasting; it’s also the most expensive. Tungsten incandescent bulbs are the least efficient and cheapest; 90% of the energy consumed by an incandescent bulb is lost as heat. CFLs contain mercury and must be disposed of properly.

Bulbs come in any number of shapes and sizes. When shopping, the most common lightbulb shape and size is described as an “A19 Medium Base.”

Brightness: Light output is measured in lumens, not watts as we previously used for brightness. In context, a 60-watt incandescent bulb provides roughly 800 lumens: 40W, 450 lumens; 75W, 1100 lumens; 100W, 1600 lumens; 150W, 2600 lumens.

Energy Used: The amount of electricity that a lightbulb consumes is measured in watts. A 60W tungsten bulb consumes 60W. An 800-lumen LED bulb (equivalent to the 60-watt tungsten) uses approximately 14W of electricity, a 75% reduction in energy consumption. Efficiency is often expressed as lumens per watt; the higher the LPM ratio, the more energy-efficient the bulb.

Light Appearance: We understand lightbulbs described as “warm white” or “bright white,” but these are subjective terms, meaning different things to different manufacturers. Light appearance refers to the “color” of the white light. Light color is represented in Kelvin, a temperature measurement. 2700K is roughly the equivalent of a tungsten bulb; 3000K roughly the equivalent of a halogen bulb; 4500K considered equivalent to daylight, and appears blueish.

2700K lighting is warm and cozy, great for living rooms and bedrooms. 3000K lighting is crisper and best used where functional light is important, as in a kitchen or bathroom. 4000K is great for the garage or laundry room. Make sure that the lamps and ceiling lights in a room have matching Kelvin ratings. Nothing’s worse for a room’s appearance than mismatched light color. A bedroom with 2700K lighting at the ceiling and 4000K in the nightstand lamp looks awkward and will create an imbalance in paint and fabric colors.

Dimming: Ever say, “let’s dim the lights” to create a little romance or watch a movie? When incandescent bulbs are dimmed, their color warms, meaning that it changes to look more like candlelight.

Look for the word “dimmable” as a feature on the lightbulb package or integrated LED fixture. Unlike incandescent lighting, not all LED or CFL lights can be dimmed. This is not a huge consideration for bulbs used in table or floor lamps, but ceiling lights, especially chandeliers, are often controlled by wall dimmer switches. Nondimmable LEDs may not react and CFLs may turn a greenish-blue color. So much for atmosphere.

Further, LEDs and CFLs rated as dimmable will not warm to look like candlelight. They will simply get less bright while giving off the same color. LEDs offer a technology called “warm dim” that mimics the dimming of incandescent bulbs. Search for warm dim LEDs that offer a color range of 3000K to 2200K or wider.

Color Rendering: You probably won’t see the color rendering index of a lightbulb on its package. But this measurement is important when illuminating artwork or when highlighting decor, such as fabrics or paint colors. Low CRI ratings make the colors in a room seem flat, while high CRI makes color snap.

Sunlight, with a CRI of 100, has the most accurate color rendering; halogen matches sunlight with 100 CRI, which is why galleries often use halogen lighting. Most LED bulbs are rated above 85 CRI, which is considered acceptable; CFLs are somewhat lower. However, LEDs are available at higher CRI levels when color rendering is critical.

 

Al DeGenova is a freelance writer and former marketing executive in the lighting industry based in the Chicago area.

 

Many Americans admit to being superstitious when it comes to choosing what home to buy—in fact, they say if a home feels unlucky, they aren’t buying it. More than a third—or 38%—of Americans have decided against buying a home because of superstition, according to a newly released survey from LendingTree of about 1,500 Americans. And consumers who find their self-described lucky house are willing to pay even more for it.

 

Reasons some consumers reconsidered a home purchase due to luck or superstition

                                                                                                                                                               

Source: LendingTree survey of 1,550 consumers conducted Feb. 19-22, 2021. Only those who chose not to buy a certain home due to luck or superstition answered this question. 

Homes a buyer perceives as lucky can nab more at resale. Nearly 47% of survey respondents say they would blow their budget for a lucky house—and are willing to go an average of $38,000 above their range for the home, the LendingTree survey shows. What qualifies as a lucky home? More than a third of buyers say they’d pay extra for a home whose street number was their lucky number.

The younger generations appear to be the most superstitious in real estate—55% of Gen Z and 50% of millennials said they’ve bypassed a home because of something related to luck or superstition. Overall, men are more likely than women to decide against buying a particular home because of superstition, at 51% of men and 37% of women.

Here are some additional findings from the LendingTree survey:

• 39% of homeowners refuse to live next to a cemetery.

• 32% would not buy a home with an unlucky street number. (On the other hand, the majority of respondents did say they’d buy a house with an unlucky street number like 13 or 666, but 20% would prefer to pay less because of it.)

• 30% say they would not buy a home where the previous owners experienced a tragedy inside the home, like death.

• 43% say they have at least one deal breaker related to the home’s feng shui, with the most cited reasons being a staircase that faces the front door, back and front doors in the same path, or a bathroom door that faces the front door.

• 43% of survey respondents who reported being previous home sellers said they’ve had difficulties selling their home due to superstitious buyers.

 

Source: "Nearly Half of Americans Would Burst Their Budget for a "Lucky" Home," LendingTree (March 16, 2021)