5 Home Upgrades That Are Worth the Cost

5 Home Upgrades That Are Worth the Cost

1. Painting

Painting is an easy way to quickly update the ambiance and style of a room. In the transformation below, adding a light color and changing the trim to white drastically brightens the rooms.Likewise, painting the exterior of a home can improve the facade and curb appeal. The painted brick home pictured below gives off more of a modern feel with the new color.

5 Home Upgrades That Are Worth the Cost5 Home Upgrades That Are Worth the Cost

2. Landscaping

We’ve talked about the benefits of landscaping before, as the investment goes a long way in elevating the look of the home. Below, overgrown landscaping blocks this home’s outer beauty, but the curb appeal is drastically increased with new plants that perfectly frame the home and it’s stunning features. The front of your home is the first thing people see, so any landscaping or exterior improvements will be worthwhile.

5 Home Upgrades That Are Worth the Cost

3. New Windows

New windows can benefit in two ways: a decor boost and better insulation (which can reduce your energy bills!). If you have a room in your home facing drafts, new panes are well worth the investment. Energy efficient windows can eliminate these drafts and save you money. If you’re investing in new windows, don’t forget that they can boost the style of the home too. We love the chic upgrade to the windows in the transformation below.

5 Home Upgrades That Are Worth the Cost

4. Kitchen Appliances

To be honest, any kitchen remodeling is a great investment. Homeowners consistently see great returns on improvements to their kitchen, from new cabinets to new appliances. Professionals urge a sense of caution though, don’t splurge on high-end appliances for a smaller property as you may not see the return. Similarly, it can be dangerous to mix high-end features with cost-effective features that do not pair well together (i.e. nice new cabinets will pair better with marble than a laminate!)

5 Home Upgrades That Are Worth the Cost

5. Adding a Deck or Patio

A well done outdoor space such as a deck or patio can be seen as an outdoor extension of the home and add appeal for potential buyers. If a deck is too costly, a simple patio or pergola can still add to the personality of your backyard or outdoor area.

5 Home Upgrades That Are Worth the Cost

Tips for Renting with Pets

 

7 Tips for Renting with Pets

 

  • Be upfront about your pets.
    Your landlord will not be happy to find out about a secret or hidden pet and it could even result in eviction or serious financial penalties. If you have a pet, search for pet-friendly rentals and be upfront when making inquiries. Rental companies and property managers are much more willing to work with individuals who are honest about their pets.

 

  • Keep a file for your pets that includes medical information and any references or certifications.
    Keep your pet up to date with vaccines and keep the medical records from your veterinarian. If your dog has passed any training or behavior courses, keep a copy of those certifications as well.

 

  • Consider the layout and finishes of your apartment.
    If you have a puppy learning potty training, an apartment with new white carpets may not be the best option. Likewise, an apartment tight on square footage may not be comfortable for a larger dog. Think about the space and details of your potential apartment in terms of your pet. You want your pet to feel comfortable while minimizing risks of damage to the rental property. If there’s too much to pet-proof, it may not be the best home for you and your pet.

 

  • Be aware that having pets often means that you’ll be subject to additional deposits or rent.
    In the rental world, pets=money. Most apartments have a pet fee, and this fee is usually around $300.00 per pet. Be mindful that you may have to pay a pet fee, deposit, or additional pet rent.

 

  • Find ways to keep them entertained while you’re at work.
    Schedule a dog walker, or if you work close enough to home, visit your pet during your lunch break. You can also create some entertaining games and toys! We like these DIY toys for a dog or a cat.

 

  • Always clean up after your pet, indoors and out!
    Be courteous to your neighbors by picking up after your pet outside. Some leases may even require you to do so! If your pet has an accident inside, be sure to clean it up quickly to avoid stains.

 

  • Apologize to your neighbors when you need to.
    If your pet creates an issue with a neighbor, be sure to apologize and work on a solution. Most neighbors understand that accidents happen and that dogs bark, but apologizing for bad behavior and opening a dialogue with your neighbors never hurts!

Derby Days: Celebrating the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is almost here so pass the mint juleps, y’all!

Derby Days: Celebrating the Kentucky Derby

(Images from top: horse drink stirrers, golden horse DIY, individual salad cups, mini bourbon set upbenedictine sandwiches, pimento cheese).

I grew up not knowing very much about the Kentucky Derby. I knew what horse races were, but the big hats, seersucker suits, and the sophisticated parties were lost on me. It wasn’t until a coworker told me that she attended Kentucky Derby parties hosted by Garden and Gun that I truly started to grasp the Derby Culture.

“Garden and Gun, that’s a real magazine?” I asked her. (I did not grow up in the South and thought she may have been pulling my leg. She wasn’t.)

I was then presented with photos of Garden and Gun’s Derby Party which included pristine mint juleps, ladies in big hats and pastel summer dresses, and men whose attire looked like they just came from a quick game of croquet in a J.Crew store. It looked perhaps a little extravagant, but it also seemed like a fun way to spend an afternoon: drinking bourbon, mingling with friends, and watching races.

While I never went to a Garden and Gun Derby party or any similar event, I do now watch the derby and take advantage of the mint julep specials. This year, I’ll be hosting a small derby get together with some friends, so I’m sharing some easy ideas for a Kentucky Derby party below! And, if you’re really getting into the Derby celebrations, you can find the official Kentucky Derby Party Planning guide here or see our Wilmington Weekend Guide for Derby events and parties around town.

Easy Kentucky Derby Party Ideas:

  • Fun straws and swizzles.
    Make your cocktail extra glam with decorative straws or swizzle sticks, like the colorful horse ones above.

 

  • A build your own julep bar.
    Set up a build your own julep bar for guests with mini bottles of bourbon, superfine sugar, crushed ice, and fresh mint. You could also up the cute factor by framing a copy of the mint julep recipe by the bar area.

 

  •  Serve some classic hors-d’oeuvres.
    Serve up some Derby classics like pimento cheese and finger sandwiches. We also love the idea of fresh spring vegetables and dip served in a small clear cup!

 

  • DIY some winning prizes.
    Use old horse toys sprayed with gold spray paint to create a prize for guests who correctly predict the winners. You could also create winning bows with old ribbon.

 

  • Wear your best hat or dapper look.
    Half the fun of Derby parties is dressing up, but you don’t have to shell out big bucks to look the part. Grab a big hat and decorate it as you like, or simply throw on your favorite suit and break out a fun pocket square.

How do you celebrate the Kentucky Derby? Share with us on Facebook or Twitter!

Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Wilmington

Ready for Cinco de Mayo?

Cinco de Mayo arrives tomorrow and we’re ready to celebrate! While many celebrate with Mexican cuisine and a margarita (or two) the holiday really commemorates the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. If you’re looking for a good bite to celebrate, see our favorite Mexican spots in the Wilmington area below!

Cinco de Mayo in Wilmington: Our Favorite Mexican & Mexican Inspired Bites

 

1. Taqueria Los Portales

If you’re looking for simple, authentic tacos, most Wilmington residents will point you in the direction of Taqueria Los Portales. Don’t miss the tacos al pastor.

1207 S Kerr Ave, Wilmington, NC 28403. Find them on Facebook here.

2. Live. Eat. Surf. Restaurants

Live Eat Surf has locations throughout the Port City area including K38, Las Olas, and Tower 7. No matter how far you are from the beach, Live Eat Surf locations will make you feel like you’ve just walked from the ocean to a to a beachside hangout. Each restaurant offers unique Mexican and Tex-Mex inspired dishes with some Baja flair, along with great margaritas.

Various locations in the Port City area. Check out their website here.

3. Flaming Amy’s

Flaming Amy’s is a Wilmington classic, and for good reason. Customers can choose from a variety of specialty burritos, soft tacos, or nachos, or build their own with a wide range of proteins and ‘goodies’. You certainly won’t leave hungry. There’s also great folks behind this business: the owner, Jay Muxworthy, is being celebrated as a local hero after he recently risked his life while saving a woman from a burning car.

Locations in Wilmington and Carolina Beach. Check out their website here.

4. Wilmington Taco Factory

If you’re looking for delicious quesadillas and stellar service, Wilmington Taco Factory is the place to go to. The staff is helpful and friendly, and the restaurant serves sandwiches for those in your party who are more in the mood for American fare. (If you are, try the meatloaf sandwich).

1051 S College Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403. Find them on Facebook here.

5. El Arriero Taqueria

This Taqueria is easy to miss, tucked off of Market Street and at the end of a shopping center, but it’s well worth the hunt. Enjoy their taco bar, variety of salsas, and kick-butt micheladas.

6932 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28411. Find them on Facebook here.

6. La Guera

Another hidden gem in Wilmington, La Guera is also tucked away in a strip mall, but deserve high praise for their authentic Mexican dishes. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but we recommend the tamales and the carne asada torta.

6620 Gordon Rd, Wilmington, NC 28411. Find them on Facebook here.

7. Eatery 17

Don’t let the fact that there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options fool you, Eatery 17 offers burritos and tacos with serious flavor. The cafe also serves south pacific fare (try the pulled pork!) in addition to its southwestern offerings.

2547 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28401. Check out their website here.

8. Taco Point

Taco Point literally has the BEST carnitas tacos outside of SoCal. And they make their corn tortillas by hand in the restaurant. Enough said.

13732 NC-210 #100, Rocky Point, NC 28457. Find them on Facebook here.

9. Mama Rosa’s Bakery

This bakery has awesome Mexican pastries. Some of our favorites are the Marranitos (a molasses, pig shaped cookie) and the apple empanadas. And of course, the tres leches cake! They have a little tienda in there, too.

7316 Market St #6, Wilmington, NC 28411. Find them on Facebook here.

 

Any great spots we missed? Share with us on Facebook or Twitter!

Ready to Buy? We Offer Special Buyer Services for Tenants!

Renting but ready to buy? The agents at Dianne Perry & Company can help!

We can help you find your new home.

Did you know that your property managers are also real estate agents? Dianne, Jill, and Amanda are licensed agents who have several years of experience working with sellers and buyers in the Wilmington area. If you’re ready to transition from renting to owning, our agents can help with a smooth transition. We also guarantee personalized service to our tenants who buy a home with us!

If you have put serious consideration into buying a home, you should speak with a realtor about real estate options! If you have been watching your finances, if you are committed to your neighborhood, and if you are looking for a place to truly call your own, buying a home is a great option.


 

If you are currently renting but looking to buy a home within the next year, we can assist with this transition!

At Dianne Perry & Company, we have over 30 years of experience as agents in the Wilmington area and can help you find the perfect home. Here’s what you can expect when you work with our agents:

  • Pre-qualification in 15 minutes.
  • If you are renting from us and buying with us, we can work with you to help coordinate your dates to help avoid overlapping rent and mortgage payments.
  • We specialize in first-time home buyers! We will walk you through every step of the home buying process and guarantee personalized service. If you’re a first time home buyer, learn more about the process here.
  • As an extra incentive, we offer a $500.00 Lowe’s gift card to current tenants who buy with us!

 

Read more about Dianne, Jill, and Amanda here and give us a call at 910-322-0736 to find out how we can help you! Whether you are considering buying in the future, or ready to be a homeowner now, we can help you take the first steps!

The Only Spring Cleaning Tricks and Tips You Need

Spring Cleaning Tricks, Tips, and Checklists to Keep You Tidy!

The Only Spring Cleaning Tips and Tricks You Need

Our favorite and thorough Spring Cleaning Checklists: Imperfect Home Making, I Dream of Clean, A Blissful Nest (free printable!)

Our Tips for Spring Cleaning

  • Carve Out Some Time.

To thoroughly clean your home, make sure you set yourself up for success by setting aside a little more time than you think you need. Then, commit to a certain day or two to clean, such as Saturday or Sunday. Once you have a date set and marked on your calendar, you’ll be less likely to cancel on yourself!

  • Walk Through Your Whole House First.

Take a walk through your home prior to your cleaning date and make a note of which areas need more attention than others. If you clean your home regularly, you may see that your focus needs to be on particular spots, such as the pantry or attic, rather than on general cleaning.

  • Print or Create A Checklist.

Once you’ve done a walkthrough, utilize a printable checklist or create your own. Prioritize your “to do” items and set up more time for yourself, if needed.

  • Have Your Supplies Ready.

Nothing is worse than when you start cooking and realize you don’t have an ingredient you thought you had. The same principal applies to cleaning. Once you get going, you don’t want to have to run out to get something. Once you have your cleaning checklist, make a note of what cleaning supplies each item will require.

  • Be Realistic About What You Can Accomplish.

If you have a lot of big items on your to-do list, break them down by priority or schedule some tasks for future weekends.

  • Have A Plan For Your Next Meal.

This may sound silly, but once your home is clean and in pristine condition, the last thing you want to do is make a mess again. Make a meal beforehand that you can heat up later or treat yourself to a meal out on the town after all your hard work!

  • If a DIY Seems Risky, Hire A Professional.

We’re always tempted to follow a good DIY, but if you’re not familiar with what you’re doing, hire a professional! A mistake could be costly, so be honest with yourself about your skillset.

Some of Our Favorite Cleaning Tricks

  •  For cleaning  dust off blinds, wipe them down with a dry Swiffer sheet or create a 1:1 solution of water and vinegar, and wipe off with a rag.
  • Dryer sheets are also great for quick dusting. For dust on lamp shades, try using a lint roller.
  • Use post-it notes or a dusting spray to clean your computer keyboard.
  • Keep water spots away, by rubbing wax paper over your faucet after cleaning.
  • If you’re looking for more natural cleaners, try vinegar, baking soda,  or lemon! See some ideas here.
  • Remove furniture indents in the carpet by placing ice cubes in the indented areas.
  •  Run lemon peel through the garbage disposal to help deodorize bad smells. You can also use vinegar and baking soda.
  •  Fill a plastic bag with baking soda and vinegar. Tie it around your shower head and leave it overnight to clean and disinfect!
  •  Microwave a sponge to remove germs (just be sure to keep an eye on it!)

 

Any tips or tricks we missed? Share them with us on Facebook or Twitter!

10 Moving Costs You May Not Have Thought About

Trying to add up your moving costs?

When you’re moving, you’re likely thinking about transportation plans, deposits or closing costs, and a plan of action for packing up your personal items. (If you haven’t started planning, check out our 10 Tips for An Easier Move!) However, while you may have a cost in mind for your move, there are some hidden costs that you may not be thinking about. The truth is, moving always costs more than you expect. It is important to prepare for all scenarios when you move, so we’re sharing some hidden moving costs that you may not have factored into your budget.

10 Moving Costs You May Not Have Thought About

1. Apartment or Home Searching.

Don’t forget that the home search process has costs too! Whether it is the cost of gas to visit homes or apartments, hotels for overnight visits to your new neighborhood, lunch after some home tours, or application fees, the cost of moving starts before you even start packing! To cut down on your spending while searching, make a game plan for the day. If you are looking at homes or apartments, try to schedule them all for one day if you can. Instead of overnight trips, consider taking day trips on the weekend and schedule time to see prospective homes and explore your new neighborhood.

2. Moving Supplies.

Boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape can add up! There are ways to cut down on these costs here, though:

  • Reach out to your local grocery stores or bookstores for used boxes.
  • Search Craigslist or Reddit for boxes and moving supplies from someone who has moved recently.
  • U-Haul  has a customer connect page, where you can search your local area for moving boxes and supplies.
  • You can also poke around apartment complexes! Many complexes have boxes from residents who have recently moved in, although you may have to look by the dumpster.
  • If you are using a moving company, boxes may be included or added on for an additional cost. Be sure to ask when making your reservation!
  • In lieu of bubble wrap, use old newspapers or pages from an old phonebook. You could also wrap some delicates in linens such as dish towels. Just be careful while packing and choose bubble wrap for the items you would hate to have broken!

3. Babysitters and Pet Hotels.

If you are traveling with pets or kids, factor in the cost of babysitters or pet hotels if necessary. If you know that the process of moving or unpacking will take some time and your little ones or fur babies will need attention, it could be worthwhile to splurge on some extra help. If you are looking after your kids or pets, be sure to have snacks, food, water, leashes, and toys readily available!

4. Gas for the Moving Truck.

Don’t forget to factor in the cost of gas, especially if you are renting and driving your own truck! Trucks can expensive to fill and especially expensive if you are traveling a long distance.

5. Tips for Movers or Gifts for Friends that Help You Move.

If you hire movers, gratuity is not included! Most industry professionals agree on 5% for gratuity, however, they recommend factoring in how many items they personally packed and moved, time, and distance when deciding on a tip. If they moved a whole home and traveled for most of the day, consider tipping more than the standard 5%.

If your friends help you move, they may be doing you a favor but it is always nice to show them your appreciation with a small gift. Consider taking them out to dinner, or giving them a gift card to their favorite store. A little token of gratitude can go a long way!

6. New Home Appliances or Accessories.

Many blogs recommend cleaning out your items while packing and we do too! Packing provides a great opportunity to purge what you don’t need and items that will not be useful in your new home. One thing to consider is items that you will need for your new home. For instance, if your current shower has sliding doors but your new shower has a rail, you will need to get a shower curtain and liner. It may also be helpful to get a floor plan and measurements of your new space to ensure that all your furniture will fit in your new space.

7. Food.

When you’re packing up your things and cleaning out your current home, you’re often cleaning out your fridge and pantry. While we commend those individuals who can clean out their fridge and still make meals to enjoy during the moving process, we think it is far easier to budget for some takeout and road stop meals. Of course, you can plan ahead with some snacks and drinks, but who really wants to deal with the fuss of cooking when your whole life is in boxes? To help your budget, take a look at what dining options you’ll have on the road and in your new neighborhood ahead of time.

8. Insurance.

A new place often means new insurance. Start your research early on the cost of a new policy if you can transfer policies. If you’re renting, you may need to increase or reduce your coverage. If you’re new to renters insurance, learn more about cost and coverage here.

9. Utilities.

Utilities can be easy to forget about, but don’t forget to start and stop service! Be mindful that there is sometimes a cost for opening or closing accounts. It could also be helpful to sign up for email notifications and/or e-billing, to make sure that you don’t miss a bill during your move and get stuck with late fees.

10. Exploring Your New Neighborhood!

Once you’re in a new town you’ll want to explore all that it has to offer and meet new people! Factor in some funds for dining out and seeing local attractions. If your budget is tight try looking on social media or local blogs for free events. You can also explore local coffee shops, free museums, or take your dog to the park to meet some locals!

 

Any hidden or extra moving costs that we missed? Share them with us on Facebook or on Twitter!

 

What You Need To Know About Renters Insurance

What You Need to Know About Renters Insurance

Renter’s insurance is required by many property management groups and landlords, but what exactly do you need it for? Many renters, from first-timers to veteran renters, often don’t think about renters insurance and many may not even know what it is. Other renters may stray from renters insurance because it may seem daunting, complicated or expensive.

The truth is, renters insurance is usually fairly inexpensive and highly valuable to renters.

So, what is renters insurance?
Renter’s insurance is insurance that protects you and your personal belongings in the home or apartment you are renting.

Won’t the landlord’s insurance cover damages?
Yes, their insurance or homeowner policy will cover their property – the building- but not your personal belongings. So for example, if someone breaks into your home, or if there is a small fire, the homeowner policy won’t cover your lost or stolen items, but renters insurance will.

What kind of items does renters insurance cover?
Renters insurance covers several types of property in your home including clothing, furniture, electronics, jewelry and even home appliances. While you may think it is silly to insure some or all of your personal items, just remember that these items can quickly add up!

How much is renters insurance?
Renters insurance does not have to cost an arm and a leg. The average cost of renters insurance is about $12.00 a month.

What do I need to know before buying renters insurance?

  • Read the insurance coverage carefully. While most coverage usually includes theft, fire, or stormy weather it often does not include flooding or earthquakes. However, most companies will allow you to add on flood and/or earthquake protection. Additionally, be sure to take a good look at what is protected. Often your clothing, jewelry, and electronics will be covered, but items like cars, glassware or items made of porcelain or china, may not be covered. Pets are also not usually covered by renters insurance.
  • Choose the right coverage amount. Some property management groups or landlords will require a certain amount of coverage, so be sure that your policy meets those requirements. You should also take an inventory of your possessions and their estimated cost, so you can get a better idea of the amount of coverage you will really need.
  • You can often bundle your insurance policies. Certain insurance companies allow you to bundle your policies and many offer a bundle discount. If you already have an insurance policy, such as auto insurance, reach out to your insurance company to see if they offer renters insurance as well.

How it Really Works: Fixer Upper

Have you ever had questions while watching Fixer Upper? (I have: “Who do I need to sell my soul to to get on this show?”). We’ve all been in awe of Chip and Joanna’s fixes, but how exactly does the process work? There’s more to the flips than the 60 minutes show you, so we’re breaking down every step below.

Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV s Fixer Upper Chip and Joanna Gaines, hosts of HGTV's Fixer Upper. 08302015xPUB

Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV s Fixer Upper Chip and Joanna Gaines, hosts of HGTV’s Fixer Upper.

  • You have to apply.
    Homeowners featured on Fixer Upper have to go through an application process to be considered for the show and the home must be no more than 40 miles outside of Waco, TX.
  • You have to meet the budget.
    There’s a bit of a formula required by HGTV. Homeowners on the show must have a home with a purchase price under $200,000 and they require at least $30,000 worth of renovations. HGTV does not fund the renovations, but they do cover the cost of one bonus item and pay a talent fee to Chip & Joanna.
    If you thought that renovation budget seemed impossible for everything Chip and Joanna accomplished, that’s because the buyers are basically getting the renovations done at a cost.
  • Homeowners may already have their home.
    If the beginning scenes of house hunting seem phony to you, it’s because they might be. Sometimes the couple already owns their home or may have submitted an offer to purchase a home, even though it may seem like they are selecting from three options. Though this part of the show is sometimes staged, the property still has to meet the budget requirements set by HGTV.
  • Not every room is fixed or gutted, but the whole home does get a makeover.
    They may not “fix up” every room in the home, as some may just need a fresh coat of paint or re-staining, but the team does touch up every part of the house. They may not get the full Joanna Gaines treatment, but all the cosmetic updates are completed for the homeowner.
  • Some of the “issues” Chip and Joanna find may not be such a surprise to the homeowners.
    Once homebuyers submit an offer, they usually have a due diligence period, which is a period where the buyers have an opportunity to get a home inspection. The home inspection will note any issues with the home, from old batteries in a smoke detector to foundation or crawlspace issues. However, on occasion, the buyer and the seller may waive the due diligence period or the buyers may be buying the home as is (such as a foreclosure or auctioned property). While some issues appear to truly come to light during the flip, the homeowners may also have some knowledge of the underlying issues at the property.
  • Homeowners don’t get to keep the furnishings from Joanna, but they can purchase them.
    The finished home you see at the end of the episode is actually staging done by Joanna to show homeowners how they can utilize and maximize the new space. The budget set at the beginning of the episode is only for the flip, although some clients may give Joanna an additional budget for furniture. Many of the pieces are from her Magnolia collection and can be purchased by the homeowners (and us viewers!) although sometimes the finished reveal features some of the homeowners own furniture. Joanna does often gift a piece or two to the homeowners, which is often featured on the show.
  • That big reveal is essentially a billboard.
    The reveal at the end of the episode is real Chip Gaines ingenuity. He had a friend weld together the rolling frames and reached out to a friend at a billboard company to produce the canvas with a photo of the old home. The homeowners even get to keep the “before” canvas after filming! The walkthrough isn’t a quick showing either- according to one homeowner, filming the reveal takes all day!

 

Love It or Loathe It? The Tiny House Craze

tiny house

Image via Tammy Strobel on Flickr.

The tiny house craze is one of the newest home trends in the past few years and has even inspired Tiny House Hunters a spinoff of the classic HGTV House Hunters series.

These tiny house hunters and tiny house lovers enjoy the downsizing draw of the small homes and since many are also portable, those looking to travel more and work less can finally have the best of both worlds.

On the other hand, there are people like me who cannot imagine having 400 (or so) square feet as my ENTIRE living space. While I love the idea of being able to travel more and work less, I’m not yet willing to give up my beloved walk in closet or full-size appliances. While I

There’s a lot to love or a lot to be desired with these tiny homes, depending on how you look at it. We’re sharing some of the pros and cons of this trend below!

Pros

  • Downsizing.
    If your home is too big to manage, you can cut down on space by purchasing a tiny home. It could be a great option for a couple or individual living on their own.

 

  • Low cost.
    While tiny homes vary in size and cost, most are affordable and cost just a few thousand dollars. Not to mention, the mortgage payments are usually much more affordable and less cost usually allows for more savings.

 

  • Quicker cleaning time!
    With a tiny home, there’s less to clean and the small home will be more manageable than a whole house.

 

  • Lower utility bills.
    A smaller space will take less time to heat or cool and the utility bills will be much lower than in a larger home.

 

  • Lower carbon footprint.
    Tiny homes produce less energy and waste, benefitting the environment.

 

  • Mobility.
    Most tiny homes are mobile and bring a whole new meaning to “pack up and go”. That being said, the cost of moving a tiny home can still be costly and could be a con.

Cons

  • Space.
    This is obvious, yes. But it is important to consider all the activities that you like to do in a full-size home. Do you like to cook? A tiny home may not afford you as much counter or prep space. Do you like to entertain? Most tiny homes can utilize the outdoors, but you may not be able to host your whole family inside of a tiny house. Take into consideration all of your activities – even the ones you do just some of the time- to make sure that you will be happy in a tiny home.

 

  • Lack of personal space.
    If you’re looking to live in a tiny house with a friend, partner, spouse, or kids, you should definitely consider personal space. Will you need some alone time? What if you get in a fight and want to spread out?

 

  • Storage.
    Many tiny homes get creative with storage, but you still may not be able to bring all of your beloved items into your new space. Consider the storage dimensions in a tiny home, you may be able to roll up your shirts, but do you have room for that guitar? Factor in the cost of a storage unit if you’re unwilling to part with all of your items.

So,  do you love or loathe tiny homes? Share with us on Facebook or Twitter using the hashtag #dperryco!