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The Halloween decorations are down. Or at least you have that task on your to-do list. But that means you need to start thinking about how to decorate for the holiday season. These ideas for festive decorations for a Carolinas home can help you spruce up your house for the season.

Here in North Carolina and South Carolina we don’t always see winter snow. That could change this year with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicting a wet wintry season in the south thanks to an El Niño influence. Yet it depends also on the temperatures and cold air setups, and those are more challenging to predict.

Yet whatever the actual winter weather holds in store, you may still be looking ahead to the holidays wanting to put up festive decorations. It helps get everyone in the spirit of the season!

To give you get some fresh ideas for 2023, we’ve rounded up some fun suggestions for both outdoor and indoor decorating for your winter home.

Outdoor holiday decor ideas

There are many different styles of home, which can make decorating more interesting. If you have a Craftsman-style or a classic Colonial Brownstone home in Charlotte, for example, you may take a different approach than someone with coastal luxury home on Kiawah River. We’ll try and keep our suggestions more architecturally agnostic for convenience.

#1 Get out the garland

Simply adding a garland around your front door can make your house feel more festive to guests (and your many online shopping delivery drivers!). If you have columns, balconies, or fencing, you can hang pine greens there too to complete the look.

Adding lights to any of these garlands brightens the effect with some evening sparkle.

You can find DIY garland ideas on Pinterest or learn how to make your garland look fuller.

#2 Fill planters with evergreens

Fill your planter pots around the exterior of your home with fresh evergreen branches. Home decorator Holly J suggests mixing fresh and faux for more color. She puts sugar pine cones and faux red berries amidst her greenery to make the arrangements even prettier. You might also add birch logs for added texture.

#3 Get creative with accessories

Of course you can start a gallery of inflatables on your lawn and roof. Or you can simply add small touches to accessorize your exterior and add a personalized touch. For instance, you might:

#4 Let there be light

Instead of strands of lights you might go with lanterns and luminarias for more traditional appeal. We like Better Homes & Gardens inexpensive cranberry luminarias. Fill vases halfway with faux snow tucked around a pillar candle. Then add real cranberries to the top of the snow to light your walkways in a pretty way. You can put greenery around the vases for another color contrast.

Indoor decor for the holidays

You may have already applied some of our recent suggestions on how to embrace Hygge and give your interior spaces a cozy feel. But, there’s still room for seasonal touches that add to the festive fun for you and your family and any guests you may welcome over the holidays.

#1 Bring the outdoors in

Nature-inspired decor is predicted to be a top trend for 2023’s holiday season. Old World Christmas calls for “woodland whimsy.” They suggest you use pinecones, rustic wooden ornaments, and garlands made of twigs and berries. You might also use faux fur tree skirts and animal-themed ornaments.

Adding garland to your banisters and using it to bookend shelves and (ahem) spruce up your bar cart can also have a warm and welcoming holiday impact.

Another idea is to make a centerpiece of pomegranates, red berries, pinecones, and birch logs for your holiday table or front entryway. Southern Living suggests adding ornaments scattered at the base of your centerpiece to complete the effect.

#2 Set the table

Why wait for the big night of your holiday feast to enjoy the beauty of a decorated table? Before Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa you can add stunning accents to your dining table: Consider these options:

#3 Fire up your fireplace

Even if it isn’t cold out, a crackling fire is always warm and welcoming (even if it’s fake). Dressing up your hearth to suit the holiday you’re celebrating can create a focal point in the room. Bows, garlands, wreaths, string lights, mantel mirrors, frames, ribbons, menorahs, candles…the options are endless for creating a mantel that makes an impression.

#4 Have fun with flowers

Some people will go every year to poinsettias or, here in the south, Magnolia leaves. But you can also get creative with flowers for other holidays too. Go for a bouquet of blue and white flowers for your Hanukkah celebration. You might have a hard time finding blue at the florists, but you can bet you’ll find some faux stems at a craft store. Or put together a black, red, and green arrangement for Kwanzaa.

Whether you live in or around Charlotte, NC, Myrtle Beach, SC, or Charleston, SC, Saussy Burbank hopes these holiday decor ideas are just a small part of a wonderful winter season for you and yours.

Many residential communities rely on Homeowners’ Associations to oversee neighborhood maintenance, manage common amenities, and provide a sense of order. When you move into a planned community or live in a townhouse or condominium, you can often expect to become a member of the HOA. But what does that mean for you? That’s covered in this overview of what homeowners need to know about HOAs.

What is a homeowners association?

A homeowners’ association, informally known as an HOA, is an organization that sets and enforces rules, regulations, and responsibilities for a given neighborhood. It’s estimated that approximately 25-27 percent of the U.S. population lives in private communities governed by condominium, cooperative, and housing associations.

Typically, membership is required when you purchase a property in an HOA-managed community. You’ll also be required to pay regular dues, which the HOA uses to cover the maintenance and operation of common areas, such as parks and swimming pools.

HOAs are more common when you have several people living in close proximity to each other, says Peter T. Harakas, Saussy Burbank’s VP Development and Land Acquisitions. “Your home is your castle, but you have to be considerate of your neighbors.”

#1 HOAs live by their CC&Rs

Before moving into a HOA-maintained community, you may want to familiarize yourself with their Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). The CC&Rs dictate what you can and cannot do with your property. These rules can cover everything from the color of your house to the types of pets you can own. They can also regulate how loud you can play CCR and how late.

The CC&Rs typically include standard rules and regulations, with the state providing an outline of what needs covered. Often the HOA is incorporated by the home developer. Then, once construction is complete and the homes are occupied, the neighbors elect their own board of directors and officers (selected from member residents) to run that HOA.

HOA CC&Rs often set rules regarding things such as:

#2 HOA fees vary

It’s important to understand the costs associated with your HOA. They can vary dramatically across communities. That matters, because as Harakas notes, “You don’t get to choose whether you abide by the HOA and pay dues. By virtue of buying that land you agree.”

With a new construction home, like Saussy Burbank’s townhome communities, you know that the neighborhood’s public amenities are all new and typically covered by warranty at the outset. Yet, if you’re moving into an existing townhome or condo that has been there several years, you’ll want to understand the financial position of that HOA.

Find out the condition of the shared property and the financial status of the HOA. “Most should have reserves accumulated,” Harakas says, adding you also want to see that the HOA has been taking ongoing care of maintenance issues. “There’s all sorts of things that can go bad,” he says. If they’ve just been postponing replacements of roofs or rotten wood on the home exteriors, you could get asked for more money down the road.

Other important considerations include:

In 2023, Today’s Homeowner reported 1.1 million homes in North Carolina had HOAs paying a total of $5.2 billion at an average monthly rate of $385. South Carolina’s 556,000 homes in HOAs paid $390 per month on average for a total of $2.6 billion.

#3 You still need home insurance

Often a HOA will have an insurance policy for common areas paid out of the member dues. However, this will not cover your belongings or any additions you might make to the interior. For example, if you add fabric panels or a chandelier, those are specific to your home insurance policy. The HOA’s insurance generally covers the exterior shell of the building to the drywall, but nothing inside the walls, Harakas says.

#4 Residents rule the HOA

HOAs are typically governed by a board of directors elected by homeowners. By attending the regular meetings held to discuss community matters, and participating in elections, you can have more direct influence on important issues.

#5 HOAs have enforcement authority

The HOA can be perceived as the “neighborhood police.” That’s because the association has the authority to enforce the CC&Rs. If you violate any rules, you may face fines or other penalties. Find out the extent of their authority. Some HOAs actually have the power to place a lien on your home or can foreclose on your property for failure to pay dues or fines for violating the CC&Rs.

#6 You may need HOA approval

You can avoid running afoul of your HOA by ensuring you are familiar with the CC&Rs. Often, for example, you will be asked to submit your plans for any changes to your exterior to the HOA or its architectural review committee. You may need to do so in advance if you want to add a fence, change a paint color, or landscape your lawn differently.

Learn more about HOAs with Saussy Burbank

HOAs aim to ensure community wellbeing. The rules are intended to keep the peace and protect your neighborhood. You may also benefit from amenities such as clubhouses, pools, and parks with a HOA. Find out whether there’s a homeowners’ association at your home of choice in Charleston, Myrtle Beach, or Charlotte when you speak with one of Saussy Burbank’s friendly, helpful sales agents.

Charlotte, NC, is one of the fastest growing cities in the south. But that doesn’t take away from the character of the Queen City and its unique neighborhoods and communities. Here’s what to expect when you live in Charlotte.

For one, you can enjoy exploring the historic areas among the city’s more than 250 distinct neighborhoods. “In any city, of course, the historical neighborhoods are all unique,” says Peter T. Harakas, Saussy Burbank’s VP Development and Land Acquisitions. “Things were just built differently many years ago.”

That’s part of the appeal of the Dilworth neighborhood. A designated historic district, this area south of Uptown was the original streetcar suburb. Founded in the late 1890s, this neighborhood was developed by Edward Dilworth Latta with the help of the Olmsted Brothers.

You’ll also see historic homes in the Fourth Ward. A popular residential area in the mid-1800s for its proximity to Uptown, this neighborhood now features both Victorian homes and post-modern architecture. Or visit the local historic district of Plaza Midwood to see a varied mix of Victorians, mid-20th century-style, and other homes all in one Charlotte community.

But, there’s more than history

Historic homes aren’t the only thing that make Charlotte unique. Throughout the city, you can explore great street art, well-preserved green spaces, and thriving breweries and restaurants. In fact, Food & Wine named Charlotte in their 2022 list of “America’s Next Great Food Cities.

All this vibrancy is part of the reason people are drawn to the Queen City. Charlotte ranked 15th in the U.S. Census Bureau’s list of the largest cities in 2022. It also rounded out the list of the nation’s top five cities by numeric growth.

Fortunately, “Charlotte was preparing for growth as early as 40 to 50 years ago,” says Harakas. “Charlotte has always had ambitions to be among the world-class cities.”

Now, he says, Charlotte is well positioned to handle the consistent influx of new residents. The ambition is no longer to grow, as far as he can tell, as much as it is to effectively manage what growth we’ve got.

The growth has also shaped the types of new home available within the city of Charlotte. “There just aren’t many large tracts of lands left that lend themselves to residential,” says Harakas. If you want to live in a newly built home close in, you’re likely looking at buying a townhome or buying an existing property to build something new.

Saussy Burbank builds infill housing in communities that are walkable and already have an intact fabric of neighborhood. “We think each of our neighborhoods are unique because we design our homes on an individual basis to reflect the character that is already there,” says Harakas.

We’re currently building five traditional-looking homes at Ashbrook on Heather on a cul de sac in a neighborhood across Park Road from the Park Road Shopping Center. Another larger Saussy Burbank neighborhood is our Cottages on Rama Road. The ten single-family, detached homes are built in Craftsman-style with open living spaces, large kitchens and front and rear porches.

More draws to Charlotte, NC

As the second largest banking hub in the U.S., Charlotte has a strong financial sector. Yet, that’s not the only type of employment here. The Queen City is also in the top 15 cities nationwide for tech jobs. Plus, the job market is generally solid with an August 2023 unemployment rate of 3.3 (compared to the national average of 3.9).

While cities aren’t always affordable, many residents find Charlotte reasonably priced. The U.S. Census shows per capita income in Charlotte at around $43,000, with the median household income around $68,000. Meanwhile, Charlotte’s cost of living is two percent lower than the national average, according to Payscale. In Mecklenburg County, where Charlotte’s found, the annual weekly wage across all industries was $1,949 in August 2023.

Residents are also drawn to the relatively mild climate and the city’s cleanliness. Charlotte was one of only two non-California cities (along with Tampa, FL) to make InsureMyTrip’s cleanest city ranking.

Fun for everyone in and around Charlotte

Still, when people want to get away from the city, there’s convenient access to the great outdoors. You can easily visit either the mountains or the beach, with both reachable in under three hours from Charlotte.

Families enjoy a strong school system and the many things to do with kids in Charlotte. Niche gives Charlotte’s public schools a B+ rating, and the city gets an overall A- for “good for families.”

Everyone benefits from the city’s diversity as well. Seen as the most diverse city in North Carolina, Charlotte’s most recent census data found a population that was made up of roughly 45% White residents, 35% Black or African American residents, 15% Hispanic or Latino residents, and 7% Asian residents.

That’s a diverse group of people who can all come together and rally around one or more of the city’s local sports teams. Charlotte has professional sports teams in several sports:

Lots to cheer about in Charlotte

Now that you know what to expect when you live in Charlotte, you need to find that forever home. Check out Saussy Burbank’s quality craftsmanship houses and townhomes in the Charlotte area.

 

 

 

 

Few homeowners actually enjoy home maintenance. Yet it’s essential for preserving your home’s value, longevity, and safety. A well-maintained home is also a more comfortable place to live. The’s why we’re providing this guide to what homeowners need to know about home maintenance.

Advantages of home maintenance

Regularly maintaining your home offers several benefits:

Top 10 things to know about home maintenance

There are many different considerations when it comes to maintaining your home. To make it easier, we’ve rounded up 10 important things it helps homeowners to know about home maintenance.

#1 Budgeting for maintenance helps.

Home maintenance can be expensive, especially when unexpected repairs arise. Putting aside home savings to deal with a plumbing problem or leaking roof can help you better manage the costs and inconvenience. Having budgeted for maintenance issues can also help cut the emotional stress.

#2 DIY is not for everyone.

Certain maintenance tasks may require specialized skills or knowledge. DIY maintenance can lead to mistakes if you’re inexperienced. Doing it yourself could save money, but knowing your limitations is important. Some tasks, such as electrical or structural repairs, are typically best left to professionals to avoid costly mistakes or safety hazards.

#3 Safety has to be a top priority.

You have many safety hazards to address when it comes to home maintenance. Be cautious about:

#4 Pay attention to manufacturer guidelines.

When maintaining appliances or equipment, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and servicing. Experts who know the products’ intended function and safety guidelines make these recommendations to ensure their safe and proper use. Plus, neglecting the guidelines can void warranties and reduce the lifespan of your appliances.

#5 Materials matter

Using inferior or incorrect materials can lead to premature deterioration, structural issues, or even safety hazards. Make sure to use appropriate materials and follow recommended techniques for repairs and upkeep. This can help you not only protect your investment and your property’s integrity, but also avoid costly rework or repairs in the future.

#6 Structural issues typically need pro help

Structural problems often require specialized knowledge and skills to diagnose and repair correctly. Attempting DIY maintenance without the necessary expertise can lead to misdiagnosis or improper fixes, potentially exacerbating the issue. You might be able to rig up a temporary solution, but that may not address the root cause. This could lead to safety risks, further damage to your home, and more extensive and costly repairs in the future.

#7 There could be a code for that

How familiar are you with local building codes and regulations? Keep in mind that any maintenance and DIY work needs to meet these standards. If your modifications don’t, you could be creating legal and safety issues that can affect your property’s resale value and insurance coverage.

It’s a good idea to research building codes and regulations applicable to your area. They may encompass zoning, structural, electrical, plumbing, and safety requirements. You also need to determine whether you need a permit.

#8 Document everything

If you ever need to prove compliance, it helps to keep detailed records of your maintenance or repair work, including receipts, permits, and inspection reports. This documentation can also prove useful when selling your home.

#9 Research contractors and service providers

It may seem like a small thing that provider is doing for you, but it is always a good idea to check credentials, licenses, and certifications. Research online reviews and get multiple quotes before deciding on who will do the work. Then, insist on a written contract to outline the scope of work, timeline, payment schedule, and any warranties or guarantees.

#10 Inspect regularly

Create a schedule of regular home inspections and stick to it. We’ve in the past offered checklists for your spring, summer, fall, and winter inspections. Doing these can help you catch issues before they become more significant and costly.

Own your home with confidence

In essence, home maintenance is a blend of diligence, awareness, and a commitment to the well-being of your home. A well-maintained home is a comfortable and secure place for you and your loved ones to thrive, and it’s a valuable asset that can endure for generations.

Find the right home for you in South Carolina or North Carolina with Saussy Burbank. We’ve been building some of the most distinctive neighborhoods in the Carolinas since 1989. See what we’re working on today!

 

 

 

 

Denmark consistently ranks high on lists of the world’s happiest populations. Perhaps the concept of Hygge has something to do with it. We can embrace this lifestyle approach here in the south too. This article focuses on creating cozy spaces for your Carolina home as the weather (finally) cools off.

What is Hygge?

Hygge is a Danish term introduced into the Oxford English Dictionary in 2017. Pronounced “hoo-ga,” Hygge focuses on creating a sense of remove from the outside world. When you embrace Hygge in home design, you set up relaxing spaces where you can destress either alone or with close friends.

Hygge doesn’t only happen in the colder months. You might set up a picnic space to soak in the sun and enjoy a good book during the summer. But as the weather at last looks to be cooling down in the Carolinas, we thought we’d share some suggestions for incorporating Hygge home design.

Bringing Hygge home

If you’ve ever enjoyed a cup of cocoa, under a blanket, on your couch streaming a feel-good movie during a rainstorm, you’ve probably felt Hygge. But you don’t need bad weather to accomplish the coziness and warmth associated with this lifestyle approach. Adding these elements to your Carolina home can help you unwind in a warm, welcoming space.

Get your fireplace going

A real wood fire is preferred for its naturalness, but a gas fire can also help you feel more relaxed. Before starting your fire for the season be sure to first:

Add some candles

If you don’t have a fireplace, add candles around your home. The people of Denmark call candles “levende lys,” which translates to living lights. They burn an estimated 13 pounds of candle wax each year as they often prefer the warmth of candlelight to the brightness of overhead lights.

Southern Living offers a list of the best fall candles of 2023 including pumpkin, coffee, cinnamon cider, cashmere, and hayride scents.

Bring on the books

Many of us today use e-readers, but physical books continue to add a sense of comfort. Install book shelves or put a basket of books in your cozy setup. You might want to ensure you have some of these anticipated Fall 2023 titles on hand:

Incorporate natural elements

Bringing the outside into your interior can be soothing. This might mean adding balsam fir candles or putting out an arrangement of leaves, nuts, and twigs. On a larger scale, you could select wooden furniture, build a wood accent wall, or leave hardwood floors bare of rugs to better enjoy the natural look.

Other ways to bring nature into your home? You might add a water feature, bring in more plants, or install stone elements.

Build a special nook

Dedicate a space in your home to a comfortable nook. Consciously design and decorate this area to give you a feeling of peace and to shelter you from the rest of the house. Called a hyggekrog in Denmark, a space like this invites you to take a break from the stress of your daily life.

Maybe it’s a windowsill or corner of your master bedroom, but you’ll want to build the comfort with cozy cushions and blankets (and probably candles too). A weighted blanket is a great idea for these spaces as they are intended to reduce stress and promote calm.

Embrace emotional value

Adding photographs and other objects that have sentimental value can provide comfort in your home. You might also put furniture you’ve inherited or styles that remind you of the furniture you grew up with in your home to give you a sense of continuity and connection with your past.

Preferring handmade works or items that you connect with instead of a mass-produced sofa can also help create a more Hygge atmosphere.

Things to avoid if you want a Hygge high

Hygge runs counter to a lot of what we do today. As Country Living points out, to make Hygge work in your home you’ll want to:

Comfort in your Carolina home

When you want your home to feel more comfortable, warm, and welcoming, the Hygge approach can help. You can also feel better about your Carolina home when you live in one custom crafted by Saussy Burbank. Learn more about our available properties in and around Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Charlotte.

Unpredictable and volatile, real estate is often compared to a rollercoaster. That means you can experience thrilling highs. But it also leaves you with sudden drops too. Market conditions, economic factors, interest rates, and other variables can all have an impact on your investment in a home. This article rounds up real estate trends in the Carolinas to help you navigate the dynamics of 2023.

Why care about real estate trends in the Carolinas?

Staying informed about real estate trends empowers you to make better decisions regarding your property. You can align your choices and personal financial goals with what’s happening with local real estate. Trends in real estate impact:

National real estate trends

Not all trends that impact you directly are regional or local. National trends can also play a role.

The higher interest rates right now certainly impact decision making. In late August, Freddie Mac reported the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) had reached a peak not seen since 2001. The average on 8/24/03 for a 30-year FRM hit 7.23 percent; a 15-year FRM was up to 6.55 percent. Freddie Mac’s analysts predicted continued “upward pressure on rates in the short-term.”

Median existing-home sales prices are also breaking records. The National Association of Realtors saw the price hit $410,200—the second-highest price ever recorded. The highest was $413,800 in June 2022.

The national market remains competitive thanks to tight inventory and people who purchased their homes at low mortgage rates deciding to stay put. Lawrence Yun, head economist at the National Association of Realtors told Forbes, “The recovery has not taken place, but the housing recession is over.”

Trends in South Carolina real estate

In North American Moving Services’s 2022 Moving Migration Report, South Carolina attracted the most movers.

Myrtle Beach, SC,is currently the fastest growing city in the nation, according to U.S. News and World Report with net migration at 4.46 percent. It also ranks high on the Best Places to Retire 2022-2023 (#28) and takes #18 on U.S. News’s Best Places to Live.

In late August, Zillow valued the average South Carolina home at $287.618, up 3.2 percent from the past year. As of June 30, 2023, 52.6 percent sold under list price with 24.4 selling over list price.

In Charleston, Zillow reported an average home price of $519,979 up 2.5 percent. Only 29.8 percent were sold over list with 48.8 percent sold under list price as of June 30, 2023. In Myrtle Beach, Zillow saw a typical home value of $302,303, up 1.3 percent over the past year. That’s with 75.8 percent selling under list price.

Discussing investing in South Carolina real estate, Fortune Builders predicted an increase in suburban housing in the Palmetto State thanks to the hybrid/remote work trend. That may be one factor in the 1.3 per percent increase in Summerville home values to $370,208 per Zillow.

Meanwhile, in the Milken Institute’s ranking of Best Performing Cities, Myrtle Beach came in 12th in one of the ranking’s biggest gains of 2023 up 89 spots from 101 in 2022. Charleston-North Charleston, SC, placed 24. 

Trends in North Carolina real estate 

North Carolina’s real estate market also remains strong, especially in the Charlotte area. Zillow predicted Charlotte would have the “hottest housing market” for 2023 largely due to the “forecasted annual home price growth.” According to Penske Truck Rental’s data Charlotte was also #6 in the Top 10 Moving Destinations for 2022. That was a drop from #4 in 2021. Further, Atlas Van Lines migration pattern data suggested North Carolina was the number one migration destination for 2022.

While there is a regular influx of buyers to the state, some important numbers are trending down. According to the NC Realtors’ April 2023 NC Housing Report, real estate listings were down 4.8% from 2022 (43,838 vs. 46,057). Sales dropped 22.5 percent year-over-year (12,297 in 2023 compared to 15,589 in 2023). Yet inventory was up 16 percent, which helps buyers. Meanwhile the median sales price increased 4.4 percent from $290K in April 2022 to $302,549 in April 2023.

In late August, Zillow reported the average North Carolina home value at $320,922, up 2.6 percent from the past year. As of June 30, 2023, 41.8 percent of homes sold over list price and 41.0% sold under list price.

In Charlotte, Zillow reported an average home price of $382,999 down 1.2 percent. Yet 47.4 percent were sold over list and 35.8 percent under list price as of June 30, 2023.

Meanwhile, in the Milken Institute’s ranking of best performing cities, Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia placed 20th.

Saussy Burbank adds to inventory

 The shortage of housing supply is one cause of increasing home prices. At Saussy Burbank, we’re doing our part to provide more available housing in both North Carolina and South Carolina. Look for our custom, quality new homes in and around Charlotte, Charleston, and Myrtle Beach. View our online gallery to see what’s available.

Home improvement projects offer a canvas for your creativity and the promise of enhancing your living space and increasing your property value. But before you start knocking down walls or picking out tiles, read our roundup sharing what homeowners need to know about home improvement projects. We’ll explore some of the potential obstacles and share strategies that can shape the success of your next home improvement venture.

Home improvement challenges

Home improvement projects can be full of surprises, and there are several challenges you might not anticipate. Being aware of the potential pitfalls can help you better prepare and navigate through them.

The main headaches you might encounter include:

Another challenge to consider with home improvements? You’re a unique individual. You may think that adding that custom skylight will increase your property value. But a stained glass peacock in the ceiling may not actually have broad appeal. Keep in mind that overly personalized or unconventional renovations might not suit potential buyers if you decide to sell your home in the future.

It’s also important to prepare for the potential emotional stress of home improvement projects. The process can be emotionally taxing, especially when unexpected challenges arise. Managing stress and maintaining a positive outlook is crucial.

Best practices for home improvement projects

Home improvements can be exciting and rewarding, but they also require careful planning, budgeting, and decision-making. Taking proactive steps to make your home improvement journey a success can help you navigate your project with greater confidence.

Set clear goals

Start by defining your goals for the project. Are you looking to increase your home’s value, enhance its functionality, or improve its aesthetics? Having clear goals will guide your decisions throughout the project.

 

Also, do your research before beginning any project. Understanding the scope of work, required permits, and potential challenges helps you make informed decisions.

 

Plus, the better you research and plan, the less likely you are to suffer scope creep. Making major changes to the project once work has started can lead to delays and increased costs.

Budget wisely

Determine your budget early on and stick to it. Include not just the cost of materials and labor, but also potential unexpected expenses. It’s common for projects to go over budget, so having a contingency fund is advisable.

 

If your project’s budget exceeds your immediate funds, you might research financing options such as home equity loans, personal loans, or credit lines. Make sure you understand the terms and interest rates associated with each option.

 

When budgeting, keep in mind that investing in quality, durable materials can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for repairs and replacements. Also consider investing in energy-efficient materials and appliances. While they may have a higher upfront cost, they can lead to long-term savings on utility bills.

Find quality contractors

When hiring contractors, don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Get multiple quotes from contractors and suppliers to ensure you’re getting a fair price for the work and materials.

 

To finding a reliable and skilled contractor, you should also:

Check local regulations, codes

As the homeowner, you’re responsible for ensuring that the necessary permits are obtained before starting any home improvement project that requires them. This includes understanding local building codes and regulations that apply to your project.

Research and determine which permits are required for the specific work you’re planning to undertake. This can include permits for structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, additions, and more.

A reputable and experienced contractor should be able to guide you through the permitting process. You can also contact your local building department or permit office to inquire about the permits needed for your project. They can provide information about the application process, fees, and any other requirements.

Maintain open communication

Open communication between you and the contractor is essential. It helps create an environment where information flows freely, problems are addressed promptly, and everyone is invested in the project’s success.

To begin, clearly convey your expectations to ensure both you and the contractor share understanding of project scope, timeline, budget, and desired outcomes.

Challenges are inevitable during a project. But, regular updates can help prevent misunderstandings.  By keeping the lines of communication open, you may also avoid potentially expensive rework.

You’ll also need to communicate to ensure that all required permits are obtained and that the project is compliant with local laws.

Improving your new home

Home improvements are a natural and beneficial part of homeownership. No matter how much you love the house you buy, your needs and preferences may evolve.

You can save yourself some effort by working with your new home builder upfront to construct the haven you want. There’s room for your say-so when you select one of Saussy Burbank’s high quality craftsmanship homes.

It’s hot out there. In fact, July 2023 was the hottest month ever recorded. The summer isn’t over yet, so try these strategies to keep your home in the Carolinas cool. Doing so will not only add comfort at home but can help you cut your air conditioning costs and reduce your carbon footprint.

“Last month more than 6.5 billion people, or 81 percent of the human population, experienced heat that was at least three times more likely in a world with climate change than without it,” according to Climate Central researchers.

It’s been a heat wave summer for those living in North Carolina and South Carolina too. Keeping your home in the Carolinas cooler with these useful tips can make a difference.

#1 Use fans

If you don’t already have them, install and use ceiling fans in the rooms you spend the most time in. Make sure the ceiling fan rotates counterclockwise (when looking up at it) to create a downward airflow that can help cool your skin. By using fans along with your AC, you can set the thermostat a few degrees higher and still maintain a comfortable environment.

You can also place oscillating fans or box fans throughout the house in areas where you don’t have ceiling fans. By placing pans strategically near windows to draw in cooler air or opposite windows to push hot air out, you can create a wind tunnel effect. You might also place fans near doorways to circulate air between rooms.

At the same time, use fans wisely. Running a fan in an empty room wastes electricity as fans only cool people not the actual air.

#2 Don’t kill your AC

Setting your thermostat really low doesn’t change your air conditioner’s capacity to cool your house. Trying to get your house cooled to 60 degrees on a really hot day will keep your system running continuously, but it may not actually get to 60. All you’re doing is adding stress on the power network and shortening the life cycle of your AC system.

Instead, academic studies suggest that people report feeling comfortable indoors between 71 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. When you’re out of the house, you could set it even five to 10 degrees higher than comfortable for you to save on cooling costs and system effort.

Investing in programmable or smart thermostats can allow you to adjust the temperature based on your schedule, optimizing energy usage and comfort.

Regular HVAC system maintenance can also help to ensure it operates efficiently and effectively year round.

#3 Close windows

If the air is hot outside, opening your windows only makes it harder to keep the house cool. At night, it may cool off enough to justify opening your windows. If you do, remember to close them again when the sun comes out.

Closing blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day (usually the middle of the day) can block out the sun and prevent it warming up your home. Reflective window film can also help reduce the amount of heat that enters your home through the windows.

While closing your windows, blinds, and curtains, keep your interior doors open. This helps with air flow, which can eliminate hot spots in your home.

#4 Start a home garden

Houseplants inside your windows can help lower the temperature in your home. The plants will absorb some of the sun streaming in the windows that would otherwise heat up the house.

It also helps to plant trees or install awnings around your house to provide natural shade. This can reduce the amount of direct sunlight that reaches your home. While planning your outdoor space, consider this round-up of the right plants for a summer garden in the Carolinas.

#5 Minimize afternoon appliance use

Avoiding heat-generating activities during the hottest hours of the day can help keep your Carolinas home cooler. Plus, you’ll be putting less burden on the power supply. Try to wait and use ovens and dryers in the cooler evening hours.

Stepping outside to grill to make meals can also help when the temperatures soar. Further, opting for energy-efficient appliances when you need to replace appliances can also make a difference.

#6 Keep your home in top shape

We’ve written in the past about homeowner maintenance for every season. Start by ensuring that your home is properly insulated. Pay particular attention to attics, walls, and crawl spaces and seal any air leaks around doors, windows, and other openings to keep the cool air inside and prevent warm air infiltration.

Using incandescent bulbs can generate more heat than LED or CFL bulbs, so consider switching to energy-efficient lighting options when you change out your lights.

Another option is to prefer lighter colors. Light-colored roofs, walls, and furniture better reflect sunlight and absorb less heat, keeping your home cooler.

Combining these strategies can offer you a cooler and more comfortable living environment. At the same time, you may cut your demand on the power grid, which helps counter the climate change that is wreaking havoc on temperatures globally.

Looking for a cool home in the Carolinas (in both senses of the word)? Check out Saussy Burbank’s quality crafted homes in and around Charlotte, Charleston, and Myrtle Beach. View our gallery today.

As the urgency to combat climate change intensifies, residents of North and South Carolina are embracing a powerful solution: energy efficiency. In this latest installment of our What Homeowners Need to Know series, learn about the smart choices you can make as part of a commitment to reduce your carbon footprint.

Energy efficiency in the home can help reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills, and contribute to a more sustainable environment. Start your energy efficiency journey with an audit. This valuable first step assesses the energy usage in your home and identifies areas where you can make improvements. You can hire a professional energy auditor or perform a DIY audit using online tools and resources.

Where energy efficiency happens at home

Your energy efficiency assessment will look at several key areas of the home. Intentional choices can have an impact.

Additional energy efficient choices at home

Smart home technology merits attention as well. Smart home devices and energy management systems can help automate and optimize your energy usage. Gaining the ability to control and monitor your energy consumption remotely can cut your carbon footprint. At the same time, it can offer peace of mind when you’re worried you left the drier running after leaving for dinner out.

You might also explore the possibility of installing renewable energy systems, such as solar panels. These systems can generate clean and sustainable electricity, reducing your reliance on grid power and potentially lowering your energy bills over time.

Energy efficiency incentives in the Carolinas

Governments and utility companies often offer incentives, rebates, and tax credits to encourage energy-efficient practices. Homeowners in the Carolinas can take advantage of federal tax credits for certain energy-efficient home improvements. Local utilities may also offer rebates for energy efficiency, free audits, or discounted or free products.

In South Carolina, you might benefit from programs such as the South Carolina Residential Energy Efficiency Program, which provides incentives for energy efficiency upgrades in residential properties. It has also offered rebates for eligible measures such as insulation, HVAC systems, and ENERGY STAR appliances. The Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (ECSE) allows homeowners to exclude from their state income tax the value of any subsidies received through state or local programs for energy conservation measures.

North Carolina similarly offers incentives for energy efficiency upgrades and rebates for eligible measures. Some North Carolina utilities also offers low-interest loans to homeowners who make energy efficiency improvements to their homes. The loans could be used for measures such as insulation, HVAC upgrades, and ENERGY STAR appliances.

Energy efficiency in the home matters

Making energy efficient choices at home can reduce your consumption and lower your utility bills. Energy-efficient upgrades can also make for a more comfortable home. You’ll enjoy more consistent temperatures and could prevent minimize moisture condensation, which can lead to mold growth and damage to the building structure. All this can benefit your property value in the long run too.

Simultaneously, you can play a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. You’re also helping American energy security. When households consume less energy, it reduces overall demand, which can reduce strain on the power grid and help reduce dependence on foreign energy sources.

Find out about the energy efficiency of Saussy Burbank’s quality construction homes in and around Charlotte, Charleston, and Myrtle Beach.

Gardening continues to top the list of American hobbies. Research by Bigger Garden in 2023 found “approximately 55% of American households garden.” That’s around 71.5 million households and over 185 million people. Plus, “Of those gardeners, 18.3 million are new to the hobby.” Where you garden makes a difference to what you can successfully grow. This roundup shares suggestions of the best heat-hardy plants for a summer garden in the Carolinas.

Benefits of gardening

Gardening gets you outside and can help you meet your weekly goals for moderate activity. Being out in the sunshine and fresh air can help you de-stress and lower your blood pressure.

If you’re growing produce, you can also enjoy the health benefits of adding fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet. Plus, you get to sit outside and enjoy watching the progress of your bounty of blooms.

No matter what you plant, you may find gardening makes you happier overall. Those who work in communal gardens often enjoy better self-esteem and a greater sense of community.

Even if you’re weeding in the solitude of your own backyard, growing something is thought to help your outlook on life. As Gwenn Fried, manager of Horticulture Therapy at NYU Langone’s Rusk Rehabilitation, puts it, “Growing something green, something real, something alive, is a hopeful thing to do.”

Planting your summer garden: Sunny areas

Avid gardeners want lush landscapes year round. That means you need some plants that can withstand steep summer temperatures in the Carolinas. Here are some popular options for the sunny spots in your garden:

Summer garden in the Carolinas: Shaded areas

Even in the shade it can get hot in the summer season. These options can survive sweltering temperatures and don’t need you to find more sunny real estate in your garden. You might try:

Other tips for your summer garden

Your plant choice isn’t the only seasonal consideration. Keep these other gardening tips in mind this summer if you’re living in North Carolina or South Carolina.

Looking for the right place to grow your next garden? Saussy Burbank offers distinctive, high-quality homes in and around Charlotte, Charleston, and Myrtle Beach. Find out more today.