7 Weekend Projects To Boost Your Property Value
Whether you’re putting your home on the market in a few weeks or a few years, strategic upgrades can make all the difference. But you don’t have to embark on a major remodel to make a significant improvement. Even minor updates can have a big impact on your home’s aesthetic, and certain renovations can even boost its future sale price. From curb appeal to interior updates, here are seven weekend projects that will enhance your home’s current charm and long-term value. 1. Freshen Your Front Door Is your front door looking a little tired? A new coat of paint can make your home more inviting to today’s guests and tomorrow’s buyers. But before you grab that paintbrush, think carefully about your choice of hue. According to a recent study, the color of your front door can boost—or lower—your home’s sale price by thousands of dollars.1 Cement gray, for instance, was found to decrease purchase offers by an average of $3,365. Going too bold can also deter home shoppers. The safest bets? Classic black or a mid-tone brown are proven winners.1 Need help choosing the perfect paint or stain for your front door? We’d be happy to offer advice or refer you to a design professional for assistance. 2. Upgrade Your Hardware and Lighting It’s easy to overlook dated cabinet pulls or dingy light switches in your own home. But those seemingly minor details can leave a bad impression on visitors. Swapping out old hardware for modern alternatives can easily and affordably elevate your space. New cabinet handles, for example, are relatively inexpensive and require just a few minutes and a screwdriver to install. To maximize the longevity of your update, consider classic shapes and finishes like brass knobs or nickel cup pulls.2 Take a look at your light fixtures, too. Try replacing an out-of-style chandelier with a more contemporary option. Even just updating your lampshades and lightbulbs can create a brighter, more welcoming space. Additionally, many experts agree that high-quality lighting can show off your property’s best features when it comes time to sell.3 Uncomfortable changing a light fixture yourself? Contact us for a referral to a licensed electrician for help. 3. Update Your Bathroom Fixtures Bathrooms can show their age quickly, but a few inexpensive updates can take years off in just a few hours. And since many buyers will be more drawn to a home that feels clean and modern, even small changes can make a big difference. According to one study, for every dollar you spend on minor cosmetic upgrades—like swapping out the bathroom mirror, upgrading hardware, or refinishing cabinets—you’ll see a $1.71 increase in your home’s value.4 Bathroom hardware is a great place to start. Consider updating your faucets and showerheads (we recommend lower-flow options to save money and the environment), and don’t forget about towel racks, toilet paper holders, and any other fixtures that look worn or discolored.5 If you want to stay on-trend, the most popular faucet finishes are currently black, nickel, and pewter. Spa-like upgrades, like steam showers and rain showers, are also in high demand.5,6 If your existing vanity is in poor condition, installing a new one is a slightly bigger project, but it has a huge impact on the look and feel of the room. Reach out for a list of retailers who carry high-quality but affordable prefabricated options. 4. Give Your Kitchen Cabinets a Makeover The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home, so it’s no surprise that an updated kitchen is a top priority for current homeowners and potential buyers alike.7,8 If your kitchen cabinets are from another era, that’s probably the first place you’ll want to start. Fortunately, you don’t need to commit to the hassle and expense of installing new cabinets if your current ones are in good shape. Instead, consider painting them. Not only is it more affordable and eco-friendly than replacement, but Better Homes and Gardens reports that this option typically offers a greater return on investment.9 When it comes to choosing the right color, warm neutrals and shades of green and blue are especially on-trend.10 Thinking about painting your cabinets yourself? Be sure to plan in advance and block out at least a couple of days for the project. You’ll need to take off all your cabinet doors and hardware and thoroughly cover your kitchen appliances and counters. You’ll also need to wait for the doors to dry before reassembling your kitchen.11 If you’re not confident in your painting skills, hiring a professional will still be far less expensive than installing new cabinets. We’re happy to refer you to capable painters in our network. 5. Look at Your Landscaping First impressions matter, and putting some work into your home’s exterior can make a big difference in how your guests and neighbors view it. Curb appeal can also make or break a potential buyer’s perception of your home—and significantly impact their offer. According to HomeLight, buyers will pay 7% more, on average, for a home with good curb appeal. And in some areas, the return on investment for improvements can exceed 300%.12 One of the best ways to improve curb appeal is through landscaping—and it doesn’t have to be elaborate. First and foremost, focus on keeping things neat, tidy, and welcoming. Mow your lawn, refresh any mulch, prune overgrown shrubs, and add pops of color with flowers. To take things up a notch, add outdoor lighting and plant perennial flowers along the sides of your walkway. When you’re ready to get started, reach out for a list of our favorite local garden centers where you can find all the necessary supplies. 6. Refinish Your Wood Floors For many buyers, wood floors are a huge selling point. Unfortunately, they also tend to get scuffed and worn over time, especially if you have kids or pets. The good news? If your wood floors could use a touch-up, it’s well worth the time and cost. According to the National Association of Realtors, it’s the project that pays off the most in terms of resale value, with an average 147% return on investment.13 If you have a few days to devote to your floors, you can rent the necessary equipment from a local hardware store. While you’re there, pick up some basic supplies, like a putty knife, paintbrushes, sandpaper, and stain.14 And if you want to modernize your space, opt for a lighter wood tone, which is the current trend.15 Of course, we’re also happy to provide the names of trusted professionals who can tackle the work for you. 7. Clean or Replace Your Grout Let’s face it: Whether it’s on a kitchen floor or a bathroom wall, grout gets grimy over time, even with regular cleaning. Fortunately, refreshing your grout is a relatively simple and affordable project that can yield impressive results. According to Apartment Therapy, grout that’s in poor condition is often one of the first things a potential buyer notices when they tour a bathroom.16 Fresh, clean grout, on the other hand, makes your bathroom sparkle—and that can pay off in a big way in terms of buyer’s perceptions. If your grout is simply stained, a focused cleaning session can make a big difference. Try a specialized product or a simple mix of baking soda, water, and hydrogen peroxide.16 If the grout is cracked, crumbling, or stained beyond repair, it’s time to replace it. Luckily, the right tools make that a very doable DIY project, even if it can get messy—and it’s a lot easier and less expensive than retiling.17 No time to tackle it yourself? Reach out for a recommendation of a pro who can help. CHOOSING THE PROJECT THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU Embarking on home improvements can be exciting, but it’s essential to choose projects that align with your goals, budget, and skill level. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home or simply want to enhance its value, there are projects to suit every homeowner. If you’re unsure where to start, don’t hesitate to reach out for personalized advice and recommendations. With the right approach, you can unlock your home’s full potential and enjoy the rewards for years to come. The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs. Sources: Zillow –https://www.zillow.com/learn/what-color-paint-front-door/ Martha Stewart –https://www.marthastewart.com/kitchen-hardware-trends-8563764 The Spruce –https://www.thespruce.com/expert-home-lighting-tips-8302722 Zillow –https://www.zillow.com/learn/roi-for-bathroom-remodel/ Forbes –https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/bathroom/easy-quick-bathroom-updates/ Real Simple –https://www.realsimple.com/nkba-bathroom-design-trends-2024-8403788 Houzz –https://www.houzz.com/magazine/2024-u-s-houzz-and-home-study-renovation-trends-stsetivw-vs~174492310 National Association of Realtors –https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/survey-buyers-judge-a-home-by-its-kitchen Better Homes and Gardens –https://www.bhg.com/kitchen/remodeling/planning/kitchen-upgrades-cost-value/ House Beautiful –https://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/colors/g46105350/kitchen-paint-color-trends-2024/ HGTV –https://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/kitchens/best-way-to-paint-kitchen-cabinets Homelight –https://www.homelight.com/blog/what-upgrades-increase-home-value/ National Association of Realtors –https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/stub-for-148394 Architectural Digest –https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/refinishing-hardwood-floors Houzz –https://www.houzz.com/magazine/5-new-trends-in-flooring-for-2024-stsetivw-vs~173560747 Apartment Therapy –https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/outdated-bathroom-features-37131219 Better Homes and Gardens –https://www.bhg.com/how-to-regrout-tile-7554710
Upgrade Your Home With These 2024 Design Trends
One of the best parts of owning a home is the freedom to make it truly your own with design choices that reflect your personality and lifestyle. Whether you lean toward contemporary design or a farmhouse aesthetic, your home is your canvas. Even so, it’s always smart to think about the long-term impact those decisions might have on your home’s value. Choosing over-personalized or unpopular materials and finishes could make your home less appealing to future buyers. And selecting out-of-style or overly-trendy elements could cause your home to feel dated quickly. To help inspire your design choices, we’ve rounded up some of the top trends we’re watching in 2024. Keep in mind, not all of these will work well in every house. If you plan to list or renovate your property, give us a call. We can help you realize your vision and maximize the impact of your investment. 1. Spa-Like Bathrooms We could all use a little more relaxation in our lives—so why not bring the spa into your home? In 2024, more homeowners will remodel their bathrooms to turn them into personal oases.1,2 If you’re undertaking a renovation, consider upgrading fixtures and materials. Handmade tile and custom cabinetry can add a touch of style and luxury. Trade stark whites for warm neutrals to create a more relaxed feel—think light wood tones, creams, and beiges.3 Complete the look with soft ambient lighting from a backlit mirror or pair of decorative sconces.2,3 If you want to maximize the mind-body benefits of a relaxing bathroom (and have the budget to spare), you might consider installing a steam shower, infrared sauna, or cold plunge tub.3 Not looking to spend as much? Even minor upgrades like a massaging showerhead or heated towel bar can add some pampering to your morning routine.3 But remember, if you’re modifying your bathroom, it’s always wise to work with experienced and licensed professionals to avoid water damage that could lead to costly repairs. We can refer you to a trusted contractor for help. Photo by - Browse bathroom photos 2. Maximalist Decor In 2024, maximalism is back in vogue, contrasting the neutral aesthetic that dominated design in recent years. While maximalism can be summed up as “more is more,” there’s nothing sloppy or cluttered about this look. Instead, it’s all about intentional curation.4 Hallmarks of maximalist style include rich and saturated colors, bold wallpaper, statement rugs and furniture, and lots of art. And forget matching—maximalist interiors often include plenty of contrasting colors, textures, and patterns selected to complement one another.4 If you’re trying to embrace maximalism on a budget, check out thrift stores. They’re often a great place to find unique furniture, colorful rugs, and interesting art or collectibles. Before you invest in rolls of vintage wallpaper, though, it’s important to note—if you plan to sell your home in the near future, the maximalist look won’t appeal to every buyer. We typically advise sellers to remove clutter and personal items to help buyers imagine their own future lives within the home. Sometimes, that means repainting or redecorating in a more neutral palette. Of course, this shouldn’t stop you from embracing your own style now—just be aware that you may need to walk back your aesthetic prior to selling. We can advise you when the time comes. Photo by Noz Design - Search living room design ideas 3. Japandi Style Not quite ready to embrace maximalism? Japandi style, which blends Japanese and Scandinavian influences, offers a more subdued approach that still has plenty of character. The look dates back about 150 years to a time when many Scandinavian designers were traveling to Japan for inspiration.5 Japandi style brings together clean lines, simplicity, and a focus on natural elements and light. It emphasizes the beauty in imperfection, or “wabi sabi,” and a deep connection to Mother Earth. And like Scandinavian decor, the look prioritizes comfort and a sense of sanctuary in the home.5 Interested in playing with Japandi? Common features include calming color palettes and organic materials like raw wood and bamboo. Try softening harsh edges with softer textures, like cozy blankets and ceramic pieces. The look also minimizes clutter, but that doesn’t mean you need to be a minimalist. Instead, Japandi style embraces storage solutions like baskets, folding screens, and sofas with built-in storage to give everything a place.6 If you’d like some help implementing Japandi-style organization in your home, contact us for a list of recommended professionals. Photo by Eric Miller Interiors - Discover bedroom design inspiration 4. Mixed Metals Mixing metals used to be a “no-no.” But in 2024, it’s definitely a “yes.” According to designers, mixing the colors and finishes of metal fixtures and hardware can bring visual interest to a room—as long as you go about it the right way.1,7 The most important rule to keep in mind is to stay away from near matches, like brass and gold—that’s more likely to look accidental than intentional. Instead, go for bold contrast: Think polished nickel and matte black.7 Some designers recommend using each metal at least twice in a room to make it look cohesive. Another good rule of thumb is to stick to two types of metals in a small room and two to three in a larger space.7 Finally, you might think about playing with undertones (brass is warm, chrome is cool) to change the “temperature” of a room. And don’t be afraid of a little shine—many designers predict that a retro, high-polished look will replace matte finishes in 2024.8 Want some help sourcing fixtures and hardware in a variety of finishes? Reach out for a list of our favorite retailers. Photo by Jessica Koltun Home - More bathroom photos 5. Wood Cabinetry And Accents The all-white kitchen has been ubiquitous in recent years. But in 2024, classic wood cabinetry is back in a big way.9 In fact, industry professionals surveyed by the National Kitchen & Bath Association predict that wood cabinets will be more popular than white in the next three years.10 Natural wood tones offer a sense of warmth and natural beauty.11 And today’s cabinets aren’t anything like the heavy, dated versions of the past. Instead, light to medium versions—like white oak and walnut—and warmer undertones are trending.9 The addition of wood-grain accents to painted kitchen cabinets—like with a contrasting island or range hood—is another popular option.12 And wood continues to be a favored choice for flooring. A recent survey found that 40% of homeowners opted for either hardwood or engineered wood when renovating their kitchen floors.13 You can also expect to see more wood in bathrooms in 2024. According to Houzz, last year, wood vanities surpassed white in popularity for the first time in recent years, and designers expect the trend to continue.12 While white countertops and walls still dominate bathrooms, a wood-grained vanity brings a relaxed, organic element into the space. Dreaming about new cabinets or hardwood floors? We’d be happy to share a list of recommended trade professionals who can help. Photo by Great Rooms Building Group - Look for kitchen pictures 6. Timeless Renovations In its latest Kitchen Trends Study, Houzz found that “nearly half of homeowners (47%) opt for a timeless design as a sustainable choice during renovations.” Respondents cited long-term cost effectiveness and environmental consciousness as their main motivators.14 In a rapidly changing, technology-driven world, it’s no surprise that homeowners want a nurturing space with lasting appeal—especially if they plan to stay in their homes for years to come.12 Traditional materials and quality craftsmanship lie at the core of timeless design, which some designers are calling “quiet luxury.”15 Think of enduring classics, like hardwood floors, hand-crafted tiles, and marble countertops.12 A timeless color palette will also often include warm neutrals and muted shades of blue and green.15 If you’re thinking about remodeling, it’s wise to incorporate as many classic elements as you can. These stylistic choices tend to hold up well over time, which can prolong the life of your investment and make it easier to sell your home down the road. If you’d like advice on an upcoming project, contact us for a free consultation. Photo by REFINED LLC - More entryway photos BEAUTIFY YOUR HOME WHILE BOOSTING ITS VALUE If you’re thinking about making design changes—whether that’s repainting or a full remodel—it’s important to be informed about how your choices could impact your home’s resale potential. Buyer preferences can vary significantly based on your home’s neighborhood and price point. Before you begin your project, reach out to discuss your plans and how they could impact the value of your home. *The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs. Sources: HGTV - https://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/2024-home-and-garden-design-trends The Spruce - https://www.thespruce.com/2024-design-trends-8411457 The Spruce - https://www.thespruce.com/2024-bathroom-design-trends-8380169 Homes and Gardens - https://www.homesandgardens.com/interior-design/maximalist-decor-ideas The Spruce - https://www.thespruce.com/japandi-design-4782478 House Beautiful - https://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/a45851530/japandi-interior-design-style/ The Spruce - https://www.thespruce.com/4-rules-designers-say-you-should-follow-or-ignore-when-mixing-metals-in-a-room-5199031 The Spruce - https://www.thespruce.com/2024-lighting-trends-8365056 Good Housekeeping - https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-ideas/a45576463/wood-kitchen-cabinet-trend-2023/ Better Homes and Gardens - https://www.bhg.com/2024-kitchen-trends-840656 Real Simple - https://www.realsimple.com/2024-kitchen-cabinet-trends-masterbrand-7974600 Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/magazine/28-home-design-trends-that-will-define-2024-stsetivw-vs~172317389 Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/magazine/10-kitchen-trends-to-watch-in-layouts-features-and-more-stsetivw-vs~165050822 Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/magazine/2023-u-s-houzz-kitchen-trends-study-stsetivw-vs~164970160 Better Homes and Gardens - https://www.bhg.com/quiet-luxury-home-trend-7554026
Celebrate Sustainably: 5 Ideas for an Eco-Friendly Holiday at Home
It's the most wonderful time of the year. But for many families with festive plans and hectic schedules, it's also the most wasteful. According to one survey, for example, 60% of respondents admitted to throwing away more than usual during the holiday months as they filled up their trash bins with uneaten food, wrapping paper, gift bags, and commercial packaging.1 The reality is, Americans routinely toss about 25% more trash between Thanksgiving and New Year’s than at any other time of year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.2 In fact, we throw away so much ribbon during the holidays—around 38,000 miles’ worth—that the discarded material could easily run more than one and a half times around the Earth.3 As our holiday schedules grow busier, many of us also forget to take simple steps at home to shrink our carbon footprints or prepare for a more energy-efficient winter. Luckily, it’s not that hard to shift our habits and plan for a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly celebration. Here are five ideas for ringing in the holidays this year without overstressing Mother Nature. 1. PREP YOUR HOME FOR WINTER Depending on the amount of time and resources you have available, you could cut your carbon emissions significantly this season just by winterizing your home. Investing in a more sustainable way to warm up your surroundings—such as a geothermal heat pump or solar heating—could be especially impactful if your current HVAC is underperforming and you can afford a more expensive system.4 Replacing old appliances or things like chronically leaking windows with newer, more energy-efficient solutions can also save you money over the long term.5 Plus, you may be able to claim a federal energy-efficient tax credit for up to 30% of your investment.6 You don't necessarily have to spend a lot upfront, though, to prep your home for winter. Even simple tweaks—such as sealing windows and doors or upgrading to more energy-efficient window coverings—can lower your energy consumption and reduce your carbon footprint.7 Incorporating environmentally healthier habits into your routine can also make a meaningful difference. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, for example, dialing back your thermostat by as little as seven to 10 degrees for eight hours a day can trim up to 10% from your bills.8 Consider a home energy assessment to help you pinpoint what needs fixing. Depending on your comfort level, you can audit your home's energy efficiency yourself with the help of the Department of Energy's DIY Guide.9 Or you can hire a professional, such as a home energy auditor or weatherization contractor.10 Call us for a recommendation or personal referral. 2. DECORATE SUSTAINABLY Decking your home's halls is one of the most jolly seasonal activities of all. There's something special about gathering 'round with friends and family and relaxing in the comforting glow of a festively decorated space. But since so much of the holiday-themed decor that's sold in stores is notoriously disposable, it can be a challenge to spruce up your home sustainably. Cheaply produced and rarely recyclable, store-bought decorations are often made with plastic, styrofoam, and other environmentally unfriendly materials that can crowd landfills for generations.2 Luckily, you don't have to trade style for sustainability when making your holiday decor. Thrifting is still in vogue, so consider crafting new and on-trend decorations out of secondhand finds or upcycling items already in your closet. For example, you could transform an ill-fitting sweater into a holiday-themed pillow, turn teacups into candles, or turn leftover shipping boxes into creative decorations. Alternatively, natural decor foraged from your yard—such as dried leaves, flowers, pine cones, and branches—can make for especially beautiful wreaths and centerpieces. If you do purchase store-bought decor, proactively look for the most environmentally friendly options. LED lights are now ubiquitous in stores and use far less energy than incandescent versions.11 Similarly, if you celebrate with a Christmas tree, think twice about choosing an artificial option. Plastic trees may be reusable, but natural trees are generally thought to have a smaller carbon footprint.1 3. CUT BACK ON HOLIDAY SHOPPING Shopping online or at the mall may be convenient, but it can be costly for the environment. The greenhouse emissions from shipping and transportation alone add up fast, as do the emissions that are produced when an item is first made. According to the online consignment and thrift store, thredUp, 4.5 billion pounds of carbon emissions could be saved if every American bought just one used item instead of new this year.12 Splurging on brand-new products also makes it more likely that the gently used but still functional items that you've got at home will wind up in the trash. Rather than buy new, check vintage stores and consignment shops for unique gifts that you and your recipient can both feel good about. According to research by thredUp, most people are open to receiving gently-used presents, especially if they're socially-conscious members of Gen Z.12 Alternatively, consider regifting items that you haven't used, upcycling something you own, or try crafting gifts by hand. Giving away special experiences, such as concert tickets or community memberships, may also be a more eco-friendly option. So is donating to a favorite charity in a gift recipient's name or offering gifts of time, such as promising to help a loved one clean out their garage or fill their freezer with home-cooked meals. Research shows that gift recipients often value thoughtful gifts with sentimental value, especially if they're homemade or nostalgic or will provide them with a unique experience.13 And if you prefer to buy something tangible, look to local businesses that source or manufacture their goods nearby. Craft fairs and community markets are a great place to start. Or, give us a call and we’d be happy to share a list of our favorite local stores, depending on the type of gift and your budget. We make an effort to patronize the independently-owned shops and restaurants around town and would love to share our recommendations. 4. GREEN YOUR HOLIDAY DINNER Do you hail from a family of passionate carnivores? If so, trading your meat for a vegetarian option may seem like a step too far—especially for a holiday dinner. But swapping your meat for beans isn't the only way to “'green” your holiday meal. For example, you can consciously source your meat from ethical sellers, prioritize local producers for seasonal sides, and serve enough filling vegetables to satisfy a large portion of your appetite.14 You can also minimize food waste by planning ahead so that you don't cook more than necessary. Check out the Natural Resources Defense Council's dinner party “Guest-Imator” to help you narrow down how much food you and your guests will actually need.15 In addition, consider using the USDA's FoodKeeper App to help track safety recalls and set up calendar reminders for expired food.16 Once you're finished eating, clear the table immediately and either freeze the leftovers you'd like to keep or send guests home with reusable containers. Or, if you have untouched food that's still whole or in unopened packaging, take it to a local food bank or homeless shelter. We’d be happy to share a list of options in our area. 5. DONATE OR RECYCLE WHAT YOU CAN Once the festivities are over, the real work on behalf of Mother Nature begins. This is the time when taking a few minutes at the end of your holiday celebration to swiftly collect wrapping paper and ribbons, unwanted packaging, and other discarded items can make a real environmental difference by reducing what you send to landfills. Your goal should be to reuse what you can and compost or recycle what's left over. For example, if you upgrade any electronic gadgets over the holidays, you can conserve resources and limit pollution by donating or properly recycling your old versions. The U.S. Geological Survey estimated that recycling a million laptop computers could help save the energy equivalent of 3,500 homes' annual usage of electricity.16 Similarly, the EPA says that recycling one million phones can help salvage 35,000 pounds of copper, 772 pounds of silver, 75 pounds of gold, and 33 pounds of palladium.17 It can also help to reimagine new ways to make old traditions more eco-friendly. For instance, if lighting candles is part of your holiday celebration, consider choosing beeswax candles this year instead of the typical paraffin wax, which is a petroleum derivative. Not only are they cleaner burning and less toxic, but the leftover wax is biodegradable and can be composted, unlike traditional candle wax.18 There are also plenty of earth-friendly ways to dispose of a natural Christmas tree without kicking it to the curb. Trees that are sent to landfills release a potent greenhouse gas called methane.19 So, it’s important to properly dispose of a live tree, if you have one, so it can be recycled or composted. If you’re not sure how, reach out for a list of local options. BOTTOMLINE We can still celebrate a fun and festive season without draining our community’s resources or sending leftovers to the landfill. And remember, we’re here to lend a helping hand, now or in the new year. This is the perfect time to strategize your next move or set some real estate resolutions with personalized guidance from an expert. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation. The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs. Sources: Eco Watch -https://www.ecowatch.com/sustainable-decor-winter-holidays.html Architectural Digest -https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/best-holiday-and-seasonal-decor-for-the-environment The New York Times -https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/18/style/zero-waste-holiday.html Environmental Protection Agency -https://www.epa.gov/burnwise/heat-pumps U.S. Department of Energy -https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/articles/appliance-and-equipment-standards-fact-sheet IRS -https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit Energy Star -https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/seal_insulate/sealing_window_door U.S. Department of Energy -https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/programmable-thermostats U.S. Department of Energy -https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/do-it-yourself-home-energy-assessments Kiplinger -https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/real-estate/t029-s001-12-ways-to-prepare-your-home-for-winter/index.html U.S. Department of Energy -https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/articles/reduce-waste-and-save-energy-holiday-season# Thred Up -https://newsroom.thredup.com/news/thredup-releases-thrift-for-the-holidays-report-revealing-that-new-waves-of-consumers-are-planning-to-gift-secondhand-this-year The Conversation -https://theconversation.com/the-4-biggest-gift-giving-mistakes-according-to-a-consumer-psychologist-195169 Popular Science -https://www.popsci.com/story/diy/sustainable-holiday-strategies/ Natural Resources Defense Council -https://savethefood.com/guestimator USDA -https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2018/10/04/usda-updates-foodkeeper-app-include-new-food-items U.S. Environmental Protection Agency -https://www.epa.gov/recycle/electronics-donation-and-recycling CanICompostIt.com -https://canicompostit.com/candle-wax/ CNN -https://www.cnn.com/2022/11/25/us/real-or-artificial-christmas-tree-climate/index.html
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