What Is a Heat Pump? Get to Know This Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling Device

Find out if this heating and cooling system is a good alternative for your home.

Heating and cooling technology has advanced considerably over the years to keep homes comfortable. Despite the wide range of devices available, many people stick with the heating and cooling systems their home came with when they moved in. However, you could be missing out on new and more effective technology, like a heat pump. Use this guide to learn about heat pumps and discover if this appliance is a suitable replacement for more common cooling and heating systems.

What Is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a heating and cooling appliance installed outside the home, similar to an air conditioner. The system uses a refrigerant to draw heat out of the air or ground and releases it within the home to provide heating. This can occur even when the temperature outside the home is cooler than inside the home. Additionally, a heat pump can be used in reverse to cool the home. The heat pump system absorbs heat from the inside air, then releases it outside or into the ground. This appliance both heats and cools the home.

This heating and cooling system operates on electricity instead of burning fossil fuels like a furnace, making heat pumps the more environmentally friendly option. The effectiveness of a heat pump system drops a bit in colder climates, where it is more difficult to maintain the temperature inside without a direct heat source. However, some heat pumps have an electric heat strip added to the indoor fan coil for improved heating capabilities.

How a Heat Pump Works

A heat pump's refrigerant transfers heat into or out of the house, depending on whether it's in heating or cooling mode. Switching the mode is accomplished by using the reversing valve or a setting on a thermostat. The process for how a heat pump works is as follows:

• When air blows across the evaporator coils, the refrigerant absorbs heat, cooling the air and causing the liquid refrigerant to heat up enough to become a gas.

• The gaseous refrigerant flows through a compressor, which further heats up and pressurizes the gas before it moves through the system to the coil in the outdoor unit.

• The outdoor unit then uses a fan to move the air across the coils. This process releases the heat into the outside air while the refrigerant cools and condenses it back into a liquid.

• The liquid refrigerant is then pumped to the indoor unit’s expansion valve. The expansion valve relieves the pressure on the refrigerant, cooling it to the point where it is ready to be pumped back to the evaporator coil to restart the cycle.

What Is the Ideal House Temperature? Thermostat Settings for Each Season

Types of Heat Pumps

The two main types of heat pumps commonly used for residential homes are air-source and geothermal heat pumps.

Air-Source Heat Pumps

Air-source heat pump systems can be ducted or ductless. Ducted air-source heat pumps use the heat from the outside air to warm the house. The heat is carried indoors and then blown through a series of ducts to spread it throughout the home. This method of heating the home can function during the winter, although the heat pump may need to work harder to keep up with heating demands.

Ductless heat pumps don’t use a series of ducts throughout the home. Instead, the heat pump draws the heat in from outdoors and transfers it to one or more indoor units using refrigerant lines before releasing the heat directly into the indoor units’ spaces.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

Geothermal heat pumps are less commonly used for residential homes due to the high initial purchase and installation cost. However, this type of heat pump is more reliable than an air-source heat pump because the ground temperature is less variable than the air temperature. Geothermal heat pumps have refrigerant lines that run down into the ground to absorb the geothermal heat instead of absorbing the heat from the outside air.

These heat pumps can also function as air conditioners during the warmer months by absorbing heat from indoors and then releasing the heat into the ground. The low operating cost of a geothermal heat pump makes it an excellent option for anyone who can afford the initial investment. They can even be used to control indoor humidity and reduce energy use by up to 80%.

Heat Pump Benefits and Drawbacks

When deciding if a heat pump is a good choice for the home, consider both the benefits and drawbacks of this heating and cooling system.

Benefits

A heat pump system has many benefits, including improved safety, eco-friendliness, and lower operating costs than standard heating and cooling systems like furnaces and boilers. Heat pumps also offer the option of installing a single appliance for both heating and cooling the home, reducing the overall cost of these systems.

Since heat pumps don’t rely on the intense heat of a furnace, homes tend to experience more even temperatures when a heat pump is installed. Homeowners can even use a heat pump to help improve the air quality in the home and control humidity levels. They also pair well with solar panels to further improve energy efficiency and savings.

Drawbacks

If there were no drawbacks to installing a heat pump, everyone would already have one, so it’s not surprising that not every aspect of this appliance is beneficial. The more obvious drawback to installing a heat pump is the high installation cost. Since heat pumps are more complex and relatively new to the industry, they cost more to purchase and install than a furnace or an air conditioner.

Heat pumps also have problems with colder climates. They tend to be less efficient in cold weather and may need to be defrosted if ice forms on the outdoor heat pump unit. Heat pumps have long operating cycles that make more noise than a furnace system, and the home can feel drafty and uncomfortable, especially if you are sitting close to a vent. Additionally, a furnace typically lasts about 15 to 20 years, while a heat pump lasts about 10 to 15 years.

Heat Pump Maintenance

After investing in a heat pump system, regular maintenance is necessary to ensure that it lasts as long as possible and operates efficiently. During the colder months of the year, check the heat pump for snow or ice buildup and remove all foliage around the outdoor unit, keeping shrubs at least 18 inches away on all sides.

The heat pump should sit about 4 to 8 inches above the ground for proper drainage, and the filters need to be cleaned or replaced about once a month. Keep the registers open and clean the outdoor coils whenever they appear dirty.

For the original article By Timothy Dale Published on April 29, 2024 visit Better Homes & Gardens.

Tips for Younger Homebuyers: How To Make Your Dream a Reality

If you’re a member of a younger generation, like Gen Z, you may be asking the question: will I ever be able to buy a home? And chances are, you’re worried that’s not going to be in the cards with inflation, rising home prices, mortgage rates, and more seemingly stacked against you.

While there’s no arguing this housing market is challenging for first-time homebuyers, it is still achievable, especially if you have professionals on your side.

Here are some helpful tips you may get from a pro.

1. Explore Your Options for a Down Payment

If a down payment is your #1 hurdle, you may have options to give your savings a boost. There are over 2,000 down payment assistance programs designed to make homeownership more achievable. And, that’s not the only place you may be able to get a helping hand. While it may not be an option for everyone, 49% of Gen Z homebuyers got money from loved ones that they used toward a down payment, according to LendingTree.

And chances are you won’t need to put 20% down (unless specified by your loan type or lender). So be sure to work with a trusted mortgage professional to explore your options, find out how much you’ll really need, and learn about any guidelines on getting a gift from loved ones.

2. Live with Loved Ones To Boost Your Savings

Another thing a number of Gen Z buyers are doing is ditching their rental and moving back in with friends or family. This can help cut down your housing costs so you can build your savings a whole lot faster. As Bankrate explains:

“. . . many have opted to stop renting and live with family in order to boost their savings. Thirty percent of Gen Z homebuyers move directly from their family member’s home to a home of their own, according to NAR.”

3. Cast a Broad Net for Your Search

When you’ve saved up enough, here’s how a pro will help you approach your search. Since the supply of homes for sale is still low and affordability is tight, they’ll give you strategies and avenues you may not have considered to open up your pool of options.

For example, it’s usually more affordable if you consider a rural or suburban area versus an urban one. So, while the city may be livelier and more energetic, the cost of living may be reason enough to look at something further out. And if you consider smaller homes and condos or townhouses, you’ll give yourself even more ways to break into the market. As Colby Stout, Research Analyst at Bright MLS, explains:

“Being flexible on the types of home (e.g., a condo or townhome versus a single-family home) and exploring more affordable neighborhoods is important for first-time buyers.”

4. Take a Close Look at Your Wants and Needs

And lastly, an agent can help you really think about your must-have’s and nice-to-have’s. Remember, your first home doesn’t have to be your forever home. You just need to get your foot in the door to start building equity. If you want to buy, you may find making some compromises is worth it. As Chase says:

“An open-minded approach to house-hunting may be one way for Gen Z homebuyers to maintain some edge. This could mean buying in areas that are less expensive. Differentiating needs vs. wants may help in this area as well.”

An agent will help you prioritize your list of home features and find houses that can deliver on the top ones. And they’ll be able to explain how equity can benefit you in the long run and make it possible to move into that dream home down the line.

Bottom Line

Real estate professionals have expertise on what’s working for other buyers like you. Lean on them for tips and advice on ways you can get ready to buy. As Directors Mortgage says, with that support you can make it happen:

“The path to homeownership may not be a straightforward one for Gen Z, but it’s undoubtedly within reach. By adopting the right strategies, like exploring down payment assistance programs and sharing living costs with relatives, you can bring your dream of owning a home closer to reality.”

For the original article, visit Keeping Current Matters.

The Perks of Buying over Renting

Thinking about buying a home? While today’s mortgage rates might seem a bit intimidating, here are two solid reasons why, if you’re ready and able, it could still be a smart move to get your own place.

1. Home Values Typically Go Up Over Time

There’s been some confusion over the past year or so about which way home prices are headed. Make no mistake, nationally they’re still going up. In fact, over the long-term, home prices almost always go up (see graph below):

Using data from the Federal Reserve (the Fed), you can see the overall trend is home prices have climbed steadily for the past 60 years. There was an exception during the 2008 housing crash when prices didn’t follow the normal pattern, but generally, home values kept rising.

This is a big reason why buying a home can be better than renting. As prices go up and you pay down your mortgage, you build equity. Over time, this growing equity can really increase your net worth. The Urban Institute says:

“Homeownership is critical for wealth building and financial stability.”

2. Rent Keeps Rising in the Long Run

Here’s another reason you may want to think about buying a home instead of renting – rent just keeps going up over the years. Sure, it might be cheaper to rent right now in some areas, but every time you renew your lease or sign a new one, you’re likely to feel the squeeze of your rent getting higher. According to data from iProperty Management, rent has been going up pretty consistently for the last 60 years, too (see graph below):

So how do you escape the cycle of rising rents? Buying a home with a fixed-rate mortgage helps you stabilize your housing costs and say goodbye to those annoying rent increases. That kind of stability is a big deal.

Your housing payments are like an investment, and you’ve got a decision to make. Do you want to invest in yourself or keep paying your landlord?

When you own your home, you’re investing in your own future. And even when renting is cheaper, that money you pay every month is gone for good.

As Dr. Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and VP of Research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says:

“If a homebuyer is financially stable, able to manage monthly mortgage costs and can handle the associated household maintenance expenses, then it makes sense to purchase a home.”

Bottom Line

If you're tired of your rent going up and want to explore the many benefits of homeownership, talk to a local real estate agent to explore your options.

For the original article visit Keeping Current Matters.

Fire Safety 101: 4 Things to Know About Fire Extinguishers

Learn the basics about where to put them and how often to replace them.

Fires are burning faster than in years past due to modern home furnishings, open floor plans, and unprotected lightweight wood, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Homeowners only have two minutes (or less) from when a smoke alarm rings to react. For small fires, a fire extinguisher could save your home from destruction.

Melissa Gugni, a professional home organizer in San Francisco, has noticed that many fire extinguishers in her clients’ homes are tucked away and even left in their original packaging. “That could be a problem if they were needed in an emergency,” she says.

While many households know the importance of having a fire extinguisher, they may be fuzzy on upkeep. Steve Kerber, vice president and executive director of the Fire Safety Research Institute, offers guidance on fire extinguishers.

How Often Should You Replace a Fire Extinguisher?

The general guideline is every 10 years. But always check the manufacturer's recommendation, which should be displayed on the fire extinguisher.

How Do You Know If Your Older Fire Extinguisher Still Works?

Most fire extinguishers have a pressure gauge that shows the current pressure. That will indicate if it has been used or damaged. Check to see if the pressure gauge is still within the device’s indicated proper pound per square inch (PSI) range. Also, make sure the extinguisher’s can, hoses, and nozzles aren’t damaged, dented, or rusted. If they are, it’s time to replace the extinguisher.

Where Should You Put Fire Extinguishers in Your Home?

In general, a portable fire extinguisher should be placed so that a person wouldn’t ever have to travel more than 40 feet to reach it. You should never have to travel up or down stairs to access an extinguisher either, Kerber says. Keep at least one on each floor of the home. Make sure nothing is blocking or limiting your ability to reach it quickly. So, avoid storing it under sinks, where it may be more prone to getting blocked by other items.

What Type of Fire Extinguisher Should You Have in Your Home?

There are actually many types of fire extinguishers. Here’s a primer on what the markings mean from the U.S. Fire Administration:

A: For use on ordinary materials like cloth, wood, and paper

B: For combustible and flammable liquids, such as grease, gas, oil, and oil-based paints

C: For electrical equipment, like appliances, tools, or other equipment that is plugged in

D: For flammable metals (geared to use in factories)

K: For vegetable oils, animal oils, and fats in cooking appliances (geared to use in restaurants)

Most home improvement stores carry multipurpose fire extinguishers that cover Class A through Class C. If you want to get more technical, look for a portable fire extinguisher with a rating of at least 2A:10B, Kerber says. That means it has a firefighting capacity equivalent to 2.5 gallons of water and 10 square feet for a BC type of fire.

Prepare now. Fire extinguishers can do their job only if they’re in good working condition and placed where you can quickly reach them.

For the original article visit Houselogic.com.

What Is Going on with Mortgage Rates?

You may have heard mortgage rates are going to stay a bit higher for longer than originally expected. And if you’re wondering why, the answer lies in the latest economic data. Here’s a quick overview of what’s happening with mortgage rates and what experts say is ahead.

Economic Factors That Impact Mortgage Rates

When it comes to mortgage rates, things like the job market, the pace of inflation, consumer spending, geopolitical uncertainty, and more all have an impact. Another factor at play is the Federal Reserve (the Fed) and its decisions on monetary policy. And that’s what you may be hearing a lot about right now. Here’s why.

The Fed decided to start raising the Federal Funds Rate to try to slow down the economy (and inflation) in early 2022. That rate impacts how much it costs banks to borrow money from each other. It doesn’t determine mortgage rates, but mortgage rates do respond when this happens. And that’s when mortgage rates started to really climb.

And while there’s been a ton of headway seeing inflation come down since then, it still isn’t back to where the Fed wants it to be (2%). The graph below shows inflation since the spike in early 2022, and where we are now compared to their target rate:

As the graph shows, we’re much closer to their goal of 2% inflation than we were in 2022 – but we’re not there yet. It’s even inched up a hair over the last 3 months – and that’s having an impact on the Fed’s plans. As Sam Khater, Chief Economist at Freddie Mac, explains:

“Strong incoming economic and inflation data has caused the market to re-evaluate the path of monetary policy, leading to higher mortgage rates.”

Basically, long story short, inflation and its impact on the broader economy are going to be key moving forward. As Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, says:

“It’s the longer-term outlook for economic growth and inflation that have the greatest bearing on the level and direction of mortgage rates. Inflation, inflation, inflation — that’s really the hub on the wheel.”

When Will Mortgage Rates Come Down?

Based on current market data, experts think inflation will be more under control and we still may see the Fed lower the Federal Funds Rate this year. It’ll just be later than originally expected. As Mike Fratantoni, Chief Economist at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), said in response to the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) decision yesterday:

“The FOMC did not change the federal funds target at its May meeting, as incoming data regarding the strength of the economy and stubbornly high inflation have resulted in a shift in the timing of a first rate cut. We expect mortgage rates to drop later this year, but not as far or as fast as we previously had predicted.”

In the simplest sense, what this says is that mortgage rates should still come down later this year. But timing can shift as new employment and economic data come in, geopolitical uncertainty remains, and more. This is one of the reasons it’s usually not a good strategy to try to time the market. An article in Bankrate gives buyers this advice:

“ . . . trying to time the market is generally a bad idea. If buying a house is the right move for you now, don’t stress about trends or economic outlooks.”

Bottom Line

If you have questions about what’s happening in the housing market and what that means for you, connect with a trusted real estate professional.

For the original article, visit Keeping Current Matters.

Equity Can Make Your Move Possible When Affordability Is Tight

Some Highlights

• Did you know the equity you have in your current house can help make your move possible?

• Once you sell, you can use it for a larger down payment on your next home, so you’re borrowing less. Or, you may even have enough to be an all-cash buyer. 

• The typical homeowner has $298,000 in equity. If you want to find out how much you have, connect with a local real estate agent for a Professional Equity Assessment Report.

For the original article visit Keeping Current Matters.

Is a Multi-Generational Home Right for You?

Ever thought about living in the same house with your grandparents, parents, or other loved ones? You’re not alone. A lot of people are choosing to buy multi-generational homes where everyone can live together. Let’s check out why they think it’s a good idea to see if it might be a good fit for you, too.

Why People Are Choosing Multi-Generational Living

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), here are just a few key reasons buyers opted for multi-generational homes over the past year (see graph below):

 Two of the top reasons had to do with aging parents. 27% of buyers chose multi-generational homes so they could take care of their parents more easily. And 19% did it to spend more time with them. A lot of older adults want to age in place, and living in a home with loved ones can help them do just that. If your parents are hoping to do the same, but need a bit of help, a multi-generational home may be worth considering.

But buying a multi-generational home isn’t just about being close or taking care of the people you love—it can save you money, too. 22% of buyers say they picked a multi-generational home to cut down on costs, and 11% needed a bigger house multiple incomes could afford together.

Sharing costs like the mortgage and utilities can make owning a home more affordable. This is especially helpful for first-time homebuyers who might find it challenging to buy a place on their own in today’s market.

As Axios explains:

“Financial concerns and caregiving needs are two of the major reasons people live with their parents (and parents’ parents).”

How an Agent Is Key in Finding the Right Home for You

Looking for the perfect multi-generational home is a bit trickier than finding a regular house. You’ve got more people, which means more opinions and needs to think about. It’s kind of like putting together a puzzle where all the pieces need to fit perfectly.

If you’re into the idea of living with loved ones and want all the benefits that come with it, team up with a local real estate agent who can help you out.

Bottom Line

Whether you're looking to save money or want to take care of your loved ones, buying a multi-generational home might be a good idea for you. If you want to find out more, talk to a local real estate agent.

For the original article visit Keeping Current Matters.

Sustainable Spaces: The Kitchen

From induction ranges to faucet aerators, there are many ways to boost a kitchen’s sustainability score.

You've heard it here before: More than half of real estate professionals recently reported that their clients are interested in sustainability. For some homeowners, environmental consciousness is a lifestyle choice. For others, going green is purely practical. Reducing energy and water use lowers utility bills, after all. Sustainable home features can also become selling points in property listings.

Of course, every room in a structure comes with its own environmental challenges. Whether you're interested in an eco-friendly new build or are considering a renovation, the kitchen is a great place to focus efforts.

The Importance of Sustainable Kitchen Design

"The first priority of a renovation or new build should be the sustainability and long-term use of the kitchen," says Nicci Pucci, real estate professional and owner and principal designer of Tambourine Home in Las Vegas.

Jeff Manning, CEO of ABG Builders, a West Coast commercial construction and development company, agrees: "Kitchen and bathroom upgrades add more marketability, resale value, and open the home for greater appreciation."

Homes with environmentally friendly kitchens pack in several selling points:

• Sustainable kitchens reduce energy and water bills.

• Sustainable kitchens lead to positive buyer perception.

• Sustainable kitchens are often healthier due to the incorporation of natural materials that are inherently antimicrobial.

Building a Sustainable Kitchen from the Ground Up

What makes a kitchen sustainable? Manning says it is a combination of several factors, from energy and efficiency to plenty of natural light and air circulation. Creating a sustainable kitchen in a new build is easiest, but there are still ways to boost eco-friendliness in existing homes.

Following these sustainable kitchen design ideas can help a new build stand out. They're also helpful considerations for homeowners who want to renovate the kitchen to boost home value.

Consult the experts

Sustainability is trending, which means there are always new energy-efficient and eco-friendly products and materials on the market. To stay on the leading edge, builders and developers remain in contact with experts in the field.

"Consulting with the United States Green Building Council(link is external) for Residential Kitchens is the first item a savvy home owner or developer might do," says Manning. "This internationally recognized organization has guidelines and parameters for outlining the best methods for an energy efficient kitchen."

Assess the 'building envelope'

"In new construction, the first places to save energy would be through the building envelope — things like insulation and types of windows, then looking at the heating and cooling systems…" says Jennifer Turchin, a LEED--accredited architect at Coda Group, a sustainability consulting firm in Southern Nevada.

Of course, this assessment applies to the entire building, not just the kitchen. But kitchen cooling and insulation are critical since the space tends to be heated and used frequently.

Install an under-sink heater

In the kitchen, hot water is necessary for cooking, washing up, and making hot drinks. Have you ever noticed how much time and water are wasted running the tap while you wait for it to get hot? There's a solution for that.

"Adding insta-hots" — under-counter instant water heating tanks — "directly under the water fixture in the kitchen can speed up the time it takes to heat water and reduce the wasted amount of water significantly," explains Manning.

Choose energy-efficient appliances

More than 60% of agents and brokers say promoting energy efficiency in listings is valuable, according to National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) data. But real estate professionals should also stay educated on which Energy Star kitchen appliances are turning buyers' heads.

"Something to point out to buyers is the brand of appliances, and what those brands are doing on a broader scale when it comes to eco-friendly manufacturing and packaging," says Pucci.

"Brands like Asko, Miele, Speed Queen, Sub Zero and Wolf test their products for at least 20 years of regular use."

Top-of-the-line appliances aren't cheap — Pucci says a 72" refrigerator and freezer cost about $18,000 — but sustainability-savvy buyers appreciate the brands' reputations and how these units are built to last. Turchin points out that modern refrigerators can save energy in small ways, such as how some units show you what is inside without opening the door.

Skip the gas stove

Energy Star data(link is external) shows that induction cooktops are up to 10% more efficient than electric and 300% more efficient than gas.

If an induction range is out of the question, opt for electric over gas. "There are some studies that show electric appliances are both more efficient and produce less toxins in our indoor environment," Turchin explains.

Be strategic about natural light

Natural light reduces reliance on electricity, but that doesn't mean floor-to-ceiling windows are best. Windows should be well-insulated (triple-pane, if possible) to stabilize indoor temperatures. Because heat rises, skylights and operable clerestories — rows of windows above eye level — allow light to pour in without heating the kitchen.

Of course, natural light isn’t available all the time. Manning says LEDs are the best artificial lights for sustainable kitchen designs.

Install proper venting

Proper air exchange is crucial for sustainable kitchen design, according to Manning. Adequate venting helps maintain a comfortable temperature while eliminating smells and toxins from cooking.

“Recirculating charcoal filters are great and the best option if a route to an outdoor vent is not possible,” adds Pucci.

Incorporate sustainable, healthy materials

Kitchens have a lot of surface types: floors, countertops, cabinetry, and more. Opt for sustainable materials such as natural stone, reclaimed wood, cork, or concrete whenever possible. According to Manning, eco-friendly countertops, wallpapers, and even insulation products are all available.

"There are countertops that have antimicrobial properties built in, so they don't need to be cleaned with as many harsh chemicals," says Turchin.

As for cabinets, Pucci recommends Greenguard Gold–certified cabinetry because it is guaranteed to have low levels of formaldehyde.

Boosting Sustainability in Existing Kitchens

If homeowners want to leverage the benefits of sustainable design in an existing kitchen, the experts have a few tips:

When possible, work with an interior designer. "A $30,000 renovation can easily double in value come appraisal time, and an interior designer is your best resource in finding environmentally friendly options for a simple kitchen update, renovation or new build,” says Pucci.

• Swap out old lightbulbs. One of the easiest updates also offers immediate benefits. "All lighting should be replaced with LED bulbs which last longer and immediately reduce energy consumption," says Turchin.

• Replace outdated appliances. This lowers energy costs and increases value to potential buyers. "The EPA estimates that a typical household using Energy Star appliances can expect to save $450 on their energy bills each year," says Turchin.

• Aerate the faucet. "A high-efficiency aerator will save overall water use and provide energy savings," says Turchin. Faucet flow restrictors can reduce water consumption from 2.5 gallons per minute to 1.2 gallons, all without a loss of pressure, according to kitchen fittings company GROHE(link is external). 

For the original article by Leandra Beabout on April 9, 2024 visit Realtor Magazine.

14 Common Interior Design Mistakes—and What the Pros Say You Should Do Instead

From awkwardly placed art to inadequate lighting, interior designers reveal the most common décor blunders they see.

We all want a home that’s beautiful, comfortable, and inviting. But all too often, we start decorating without taking enough time to think about how we need our rooms to function. Or we start decorating without a plan, which can be a recipe for décor chaos.

Meanwhile, there are so many nuances in interior design that many of us have simply never considered—like area rug size or curtain length. Not getting these right can lead to a room that looks off, when the goal is a space that is harmonious and welcoming.

To learn more about common décor mistakes like these, we spoke with design pros to find out the missteps they see most often. Ahead, learn what they say to avoid and what to do instead.

9 Home Décor Trends on Their Way Out, According to Design Insiders

Furniture Lined Up Against the Walls

When professionals plan interiors, they rely on principles of good interior design, such as visible weight, proportion, scale, balance, and symmetry. The biggest mistake people make when arranging furniture is to push the largest pieces back against the walls, creating a big space in the middle. “When you push furniture against walls, it actually makes your spaces far less functional, and you’re creating disruption in your space,” says interior designer David Samuel Ko, principal at Maison Ko. “Furniture should be paired with other pieces to create a pleasant and habitable space.” 

Think about how you use your room and group furnishings to create zones. For example, in a living room, you might have a conversation zone, a game-table zone, and a movie-watching zone. Ko suggests taping out on the floor exactly where your furniture pieces are going to sit to get an idea. Or if you’re working with a professional, he says to ask for renderings of your space with everything to scale.

Too-Small Rugs

Area rugs aren’t only a great way to bring in texture and color; they also help ground the furniture and create zones. But designers say it's very common to see a rug that is either too large or too small. The size of a rug should be determined by the size of the zone you’re creating and where the furniture will be placed on it, according to Laura Williams of ATX Interior Design. “Area rugs should not cover an entire space of a home. In the living room, for instance, it is best to have the rug just underneath half the sofa and accent chairs,” she says.

Martha's Tried-and-True Tips for Arranging Area Rugs in Every Room of Your Home

Inadequate Lighting

Lighting is often an afterthought. One common error is to rely on just that single light fixture in the center of the ceiling to light your whole room. This can make a room seem smaller, darker, and uninviting—and never provides enough light for tasks. Professionals say lighting should be layered—a good mix of recessed ceiling lights, gimbals or spotlights, ceiling fixtures, sconces, and floor and table lamps.

6 Outdated Lighting Trends to Skip in 2024, According to Designers

Non-Complementary Paint Colors

Choosing paint colors is one of the most impactful design decisions you can make. Not only do you want to choose from a palette that flows well from room to room, but you also want to choose coordinating trim colors. Too often, homeowners default to bright white for trim, which might feel safe but is not always right.

Designers notice it right away. “When trim throughout a house is all painted the same color white, especially in non-white rooms, there was a missed opportunity,” says Andrew Pharis, architect and interior design expert at Vertical Arts Architecture. “When picking paint colors, select a trim color that is complementary to the wall color or go tone on tone. This will add a layer of sophistication and help the room feel more thoughtful.”

Color Drenching Is the Latest Must-Try Paint Trend, According to Interior Designers

Too-Small Light Fixtures

Fixtures that aren’t the right size and proportion is another common problem. “Choosing appropriately sized fixtures is crucial to the overall look and feel of a space,” says Williams, noting that when light fixtures are too small, they provide inadequate lighting—and they look puny. “You lose an opportunity for a beautiful, impactful moment,” she says. “Light fixtures create an amazing ambiance.”

Mixing Lighting Temperatures

And then there are the more technical aspects of lighting, such as color temperature. Did you know that mixing temperatures in a room can be a problem? “Walking into a room with light fixtures that do not have the same color temperature can be jarring and feel uncomfortable,” explains Pharis. “Measured in degrees of Kelvin (K), the higher the number, the cooler the light (aka more blue). Typically, 2700 K for a residential space feels warm and inviting. Anything above 3000 K, and you’ll feel like you’re in a dentist’s office.”

The Difference Between Soft White and Daylight Light Bulbs—and Where to Use Each

Pendants Hung Too High or Low

If you’ve ever toured a home for sale, you’ve probably seen a ceiling pendant that looks laughably low in an empty room. But if it had been recently hanging above a dining table, it was probably just right.

When hanging a dining pendant, the bottom of the fixture should be about eye level when seated. This translates to roughly 30 to 36 inches above the surface of the table. There is a similar rule of thumb for countertop pendants. “We like to hang kitchen pendants around 32 to 36 inches above the countertop,” says Barrett Oswald, principal at Barrett Oswald Designs. “For kitchens with standard eight-foot ceilings, it should be closer to 32 inches, while greater ceiling height allows for more clearance under the pendant. That being said, it's also important to keep the client's height in mind.”

Not Mixing and Matching Furniture

Another mistake that is easy to make is to purchase furniture in sets or all from the same place. Often, the rooms we love the most in our social media feeds reflect a lifetime of the homeowner collecting—or getting help from a design professional who will source furniture and objects from a multitude of shops and artfully mix furnishings from different eras. “Mixing and matching furniture is my preferred way to design a space,” says Ko. “It provides interest and feels much more custom and curated this way. It’s okay to have matching lounge chairs or matching stools. But complete sets end up feeling very boring and catalog.”

Overstyled Shelves

Beautifully curated shelves are a pleasure to behold, but getting it right takes finesse. Beyond just collecting tchotchkes, you have to employ design principles like symmetry, balance, and proportion—and be restrained from going overboard. “I love including meaningful pieces throughout the space to add a homey feeling; however, sometimes over-styling with knickknacks can make a space feel cluttered,” says Williams.

Bookshelf Wealth Is the Ultimate Design Trend for Readers

Wallpaper That’s the Wrong Orientation

Wallpaper is having a heyday. You’ll see it now in every room of the house and on every surface—even overhead! While wallpaper on the ceiling can give a room great visual impact, you have to orient the wallcovering properly and choose your pattern wisely, according to Michelle Gage, founder and creative director at MichelleGage.co. “I love a wallpapered ceiling but hate to see a vertical pattern lay horizontally,” she says. Choose a multidirectional pattern.

Art That’s Hung Too High

Art that is hung too high or too low can throw off a room’s proportions and leave a space feeling "off," says Pharis. The rule of thumb is that the center of the work should measure 60 inches from the floor (roughly eye level). He starts there and adjusts accordingly. That said, also, do what you like. “Like many things in interior design, there are no hard and fast rules that work every time. If the piece of art brings you joy, that’s all that matters,” he says.

Art That’s Not the Right Scale

And then there’s the artwork that’s not quite the right size. Art doesn't look its best when it is the wrong scale for the space "unless it’s offset and intentional,” says Gage. For example, artwork hung over a sofa looks best if it’s rectangular and about two-thirds the width of the sofa. 

“When sizing art above a piece of furniture I use the rule of thirds, where the piece is between a third to two-thirds the width of the furniture piece it is hanging above,” says Pharis. “Try using painter's tape to mock it out on the wall first to see if it feels right.”

Hanging Curtains Too Low

A common mistake is hanging curtains the height of the window box, but that’s often too low, making the ceilings feel low. “I like to have at least 6 inches above the window casing,” advises Michelle Yorke, principal at Michelle Yorke Interior Design. If it is a high ceiling, hang the curtains 10 to 12 inches above the casing. This brings height to the room and draws the eye up above the window.”

Hemming Curtains Too Short

When hanging curtains, there are three choices: The fabric can graze the floor, break at the floor and go on another inch, or be long enough to pool on the floor. While designers and homeowners may have different opinions on pooling, most agree that too long or too short is not great.

“Hang the curtain panels so the bottom of the fabric sits just above the flooring. So they hang nicely and can open and close without touching the floor,” says Yorke. Oswald agrees: “We prefer curtains that are just touching or ‘kissing’ the floor. That is usually achieved by stopping the length just shy of the floor, around 1/8" above.” Anything shorter looks unfinished. Exceptions include windowsill-skimming curtains for kitchens and bathrooms and cafe curtains at a dining nook.

How to Choose the Right Curtain Length for Your Specific Windows

For the original article by Sally Jones on March 27, 2024, visit MarthaStewart.com

90% of homebuyers have historically opted to work with a real estate agent or broker. Here’s why that’s unlikely to change, according to the National Association of Realtors

The National Association of Realtors has agreed to settle litigation over commission rules for U.S. real estate agents, clearing the way for possible changes in how Americans buy and sell homes.

Last month, the National Association of Realtors announced a settlement that would resolve nationwide litigation over claims from home sellers related to broker commissions.

The $418 million settlement, and the practice changes it will usher in, have led some to speculate that real estate agents are at risk of becoming obsolete. As someone who has practiced real estate for 15 years, nothing could be further from the truth.

Members of the National Association of Realtors will continue to be the most reliable partner for the millions of Americans striving to realize the American dream through homeownership.

Specifically, the settlement will prohibit offers of compensation from being shared on multiple listing services (MLSs), the databases that show real estate brokers the properties for sale, and it will require MLS participants to enter into written agreements with their buyers.

These changes will go into effect in mid-late July 2024.

It’s important to note that the National Association of Realtors does not set commissions, and nothing in this proposed settlement would change that. Commissions would continue to be negotiable among buyers, sellers, and their brokers.

The “cooperative compensation” rule that has been subject to litigation says that selling brokers have to specify on each listing an offer of compensation to buyers’ brokers. That offer could be any amount, even zero.

Consumers continue to have options when it comes to compensating the brokers they work with. Some consumers may opt to pay a fixed fee for their broker’s services. In other cases, a seller may offer a concession on the sales price, which could be used by the buyer to help compensate their broker. And in other cases, listing agents may offer a portion of their compensation to buyers’ agents as long as the offer of compensation does not occur on an MLS.

Cooperative compensation, where the compensation a seller pays to their broker is shared, covering the cost of a buyer broker’s services, will continue to be an important option for consumers in all transactions and especially those involving lower and middle-income homebuyers, who may already have a difficult-enough time saving for a down payment.

The bottom line is that consumers will continue to be able to choose what kind of professional real estate advice they’d like–and how much, and how, they will pay for the work of a real estate professional.

Historically, nearly 90% of homebuyers have opted to work with a real estate agent or broker. That figure is unlikely to change.

Even in an era where seemingly everything can be researched and purchased electronically, the clear value added by realtors remains evident. Nine in 10 home buyers would use their agent again or recommend their agent to others.

Agents and brokers demystify local markets and neighborhoods and provide access to extensive information about available homes. We help prospective buyers determine realistic budgets and research varied financing options, including programs that may be able to help buyers with a down payment.

Seasoned agents and brokers also offer insights into property values, taxes, regulations, and zoning laws while overseeing thorough due diligence processes. And we connect buyers and sellers with other reputable real estate-related professionals such as lawyers, lenders, contractors, and inspectors–any of which can make or break a transaction.

When it comes time to make or evaluate offers, real estate professionals have a decades-long track record as skilled negotiators, ensuring that their clients submit the most competitive bids for their dream home–or hold out for what their home is really worth. And at the settlement table, we help our clients confidently close on what is likely the most significant financial transaction of their lives.

Even post-sale, real estate agents and brokers are crucial advisors for their clients, providing ongoing support, answering queries, and offering guidance as people confront the challenges and delights of homeownership.

NAR’s proposed settlement agreement and the associated practice changes will not change what makes realtors valuable: specialized knowledge, diligence, and a commitment to our clients’ best interests. And it does not change the fact that millions of people will continue to rely on us to help them fulfill their dream of homeownership.

For the original Article by Tim Hur on April 3, 2024 visit Fortune.com.