Articles to Share – Page 16 – The Real Estate Beat

Rainy or “Rainy” Day Home Tasks You Can Do in Your PJs

Rainy days often equal lazy days. It’s all too easy to find yourself in your pajamas all day, watching old movies and not getting a thing done. Here are a few things you can check off your home to-do list that you can do without getting out of your PJs. Here’s how to break your cabin-fever funk in each room without breaking a sweat.

1. Kitchen

Clean out the fridge

Can you confidently say you have no expired food or condiments in your fridge? If you haven’t done so in a while, go through your fridge and throw away any expired or spoiled items, or unwanted leftovers. Make a list of what you throw away so you can be sure to pick up those items up next time you’re at the grocery store.

Disinfect the sink

Did you know your kitchen sink usually has more germs than your toilet? There are typically more than 500,000 bacteria per square inch in the drain alone. Use a solution of about 1 tablespoon of bleach mixed with warm water to kill most of the germs lingering. If there is an odor coming from your drain, squeeze lemon juice into it, and then throw the lemon into the disposal and grind away.

2. Bathroom

Fix uneven fixtures

If you have a sagging towel rack or uneven toilet paper holder, now is the time to fix it. Unscrew the fixture and look for the culprit. Most likely it’s a cheap plastic drywall anchor or screw that wasn’t screwed in correctly. A few minutes can fix that eyesore you’ve been looking at since you moved in.

Clean the mirror

If you take a second and look at your bathroom mirror, you may be shocked at what you see. Take a few minutes and some window washing spray to make your mirror shine.

3. Bedroom

Clean out your closet

Who couldn’t use a little more closet space? Instead of looking at a full closet remodel, make a donation bag of clothes you haven’t worn in a while. A great way to easily decipher the clothes you wear from the ones you don’t is to turn all of your hangers backwards. When you wear something from your closet, turn that hanger forwards. After six months, whichever hangers are still backwards are the clothes that you don’t wear. Tada!

Clean out “that” drawer

Everyone has a drawer in their bedroom that they don’t open either because it’s a mess or because it’s so full that it won’t budge. Whether it’s a drawer of junk in your nightstand or an overstuffed dresser drawer, use this rainy day to finally go through it and discard the things you don’t want. If you can’t remember the last time you went through that drawer, throw everything in it away – you obviously haven’t needed anything in there in a while.

Everyone’s home could use a little TLC, whether that is some simple organization or disinfection of overlooked areas. The trick to turning your rainy lazy day into a productive PJ day is to look for the little things around your house that you’ve been putting off for a while and just do them. You’ll feel much better about staying in your pajamas all day if you do.

I read this article at: HERE

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Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

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The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

Winter To-Do Checklist

Winter is quickly approaching and for many of us that means rain here in the Bay Area but our investment properties in Tahoe need anntention. So do those heavy jackets to deal with freezing temps, wind, snow, and ice. Pull up those rain boots becuase it is important to winterize your home for the months ahead. Use this handy checklist and be ready for whatever old man winter has in store for you. But don’t forget to take time to enjoy the many fun things that make wintertime so special.

I read this article at: Here

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email | Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Want Real Estate Info on the Go? Download our FREE Real Estate App: Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

12 Ways to Make Your Home Healthier

Your home affects your health. In fact, research shows that when your surroundings are appealing to you, they are more healing to you as well. So when you make improvements to your home’s environment, those changes improve your well-being and affect your frame of mind, immune system, and physical health in beneficial ways. Here are a dozen simple, positive changes to make to and in your home that can improve your health and quality of life.

6 Steps to a Better Home Atmosphere

Let this stat sink in before you read on: according to the EPA, “the average American spends 93% of their life indoors.” On its face, that’s a scary stat, and while it’s likely that percentage will vary for you, your home will be where you spend most of your time. So it makes sense to do everything possible then to make your home your sanctuary, right? Here’s what can help:

Reduce clutter. Start simple by keeping your home’s entryway clutter-free. Just a regular upkeep of the front porch and the area when you step inside the front door can improve how you feel about coming home and being at home.Next, add a morning pickup routine of items like shoes, backpacks (get the kids involved), and bags. When you return later, you’ll feel a welcome sense of harmony rather than disarray.
Finally, if needed, create new storage areas, so you and your family have enough space to have everything in its place. This declutter checklist has more great ideas for making your home clutter-free.
Bring the outside in. Greening up your home with plants can freshen the air, remove certain toxins from the air, and enhance feelings of calm and happiness. These five houseplants that help provide all of those benefits.
Enhance indoor lighting. Adding more natural daylight in your home, which we need, can improve mood and even help regulate biological rhythms. It is recommended that the lighting in your home, whether artificial or natural, reach a minimum of 1,000 lux to provide healthful benefits.
Change your color. Did you know that colors can either perk you up or weigh you down? Color is powerful. It can affect how you feel, alter your mood, and impact your health. Do a quick internet search for advice on the effects of color, so you choose paint for walls and ceilings in your home that best suits you but also helps you feel content.
Create retreat space. A peaceful retreat space should be clutter-free and ideally include some natural plants and lighting. Add a few special items or personal decor to the space, comfortable seating and pillows, treasured pieces on walls, and so on. Include candles or essentials oils, and find ways to reduce noise or add subtle white noise to make the retreat meditative and quiet.
Get a pet. Having a pet can benefit your health. Studies show that pets can, for example, relieve stress and lower blood pressure.

6 Changes at Home to Improve Physical Health

Here’s another stunning EPA stat from a recent study. It found that “concentrations of some [indoor] pollutants are often 2 to 5 times higher than typical outdoor concentrations.” Removing toxins and other pollutants from inside your home can keep you healthier. So it makes sense to do everything possible then to avoid an indoor environment in your home that makes you sick, right? Here’s what can help

Use air purifier. These products may be expensive, but they can be very effective at cleaning inside air of dust, pollen, mold, and more. Shop around for the most highly rated air purifier. Can’t buy one just yet? Simply opening windows in your home on a regular/frequent basis, weather permitting, can help freshen stale indoor air.
Denounce chemicals. Use natural cleaners, like vinegar, for many household cleaning chores.
Vacuum often. It is recommended that you vacuum once per week at a minimum to control dust mites, and reduce allergens.
Choose candles wisely. Many candles contain chemicals that can be toxic. Worse still, some wicks actually contain metal. Netiher ingredient is a healthy idea to burn inside your home. Choose beeswax or vegetable-based candles with all-cotton wicks.
Use glass not plastic. Invest in glass containers for storing food and leftovers to reduce the potential for plastic to leech into foods from plastic containers. Use stainless steel water bottles. And eliminate plastic straws from your life. Use stainless steel or paper straws instead.
Make use of exhaust fans. The exhaust fan in your bathroom is your friend — use it for showering and bathing every time!

I read this article at: HERE

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email | Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Want Real Estate Info on the Go? Download our FREE Real Estate App: Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

Holiday Hosting: Big Crowd, Small Space

Planning a holiday gathering? Wondering how you’ll pile a big crowd of friends or family into a small space, without hitting the eggnog early and often? Relax. Take the time to plan your space, don’t over-decorate, keep the food simple, and get organized. Here are a few tips to help.

Clean and declutter ahead of time

Thoroughly clean the fridge and freezer. Recycle old magazines, put away mail and paperwork, and any unnecessary knickknacks or items that take up floor or counter space. Put away countertop appliances you won’t be using. Focus on deep cleaning bathrooms and kitchen, and vacuuming carpets and upholstery. If you’re crunched for time, and you can afford to have your house cleaned, do it. Even if it’s up to a week before, things will still feel fresh, and you’ll just have to touch up and wipe down kitchen and bathrooms before the party.

Rearrange furnishings if needed for seating

You’ll want to make the most of the space you have available. If you’re renting or bringing in chairs, benches, tables, or TV trays, you may need to rearrange (or remove) some things. Set up chairs and tables to make conversation areas. If you don’t have a dining area large enough for all your guests, just be sure you have enough chairs for people to sit when they eat, and a surface nearby to set their drinks. Most folks are comfortable sitting on a couch, or on a folding chair by a coffee table, or even standing at the counter to eat. Be sure you have a practical spot for any elderly guests.

Make-ahead menu

Whether it’s a holiday cocktail party, brunch, or mega Christmas day event with all the in-laws, the key to pulling off a great menu is organization and simplicity. Make as many dishes ahead of time as you can. You can freeze many baked goods like cookies and quick breads weeks ahead, and casseroles days ahead. Make your dips and prep your veggies at least a day ahead. If guests have offered to bring something, take them up on it. If not, and you are comfortable asking, request that they bring things like appetizers and desserts. Appetizers can take up a lot of refrigerator space, and both can take you a lot of time to make. Plus, it’s always nice to enjoy someone else’s cooking! Be sure to ask your guests to bring dishes that are ready to eat so they won’t be prepping, cooking, and cleaning up during the party.

Strategic serving

Map out where you’ll put all of the food and beverages, including what your guests bring. The night before, I set out my platters, trays, and bowls with sticky notes. It saves time on party day and ensures I won’t forget the dip that is hiding behind the milk in the fridge. To save counter space, think vertical where you can — tiered serving trays are a great space saver. Use recyclable paper or plastic plates to keep dishes from piling up and to save on clean up time. With a large group, I sometimes rent plates and silverware. After dinner I just rinse and set them aside in the garage, which means less mess and more time with my guests. If you’re short on refrigerator space, ice chests are the answer. For parties, I keep two on my deck: one for soda and water and the other for wine and beer. My aunt always makes a wonderful, fresh, HUGE salad for Christmas dinner. She brings an ice chest packed with a salad bowl, tongs, salad ingredients, and dressing. We set it outside on the porch or deck, out of the way until needed. It saves me a ton of space in my fridge and it’s easy for her to put the salad together just before dinner.

Crowd management

Everyone wants to be in the kitchen, which generally is the worst place when you’re trying to get food cooked or served. The crowding is worse if it’s a small kitchen. Set up food and beverage stations outside of the kitchen area. Place appetizers on coffee tables, ottoman trays, or any visible surface with easy access and away from the kitchen. Repurpose items if needed. Maybe a desk gets a tablecloth and becomes a dessert station, or clear out a couple of bookcase shelves to house spirits, wine, and glasses for a bar station. If you have the luxury of a bit of outdoor space, and weather permits, think about renting a small party tent or awning. Add some heaters and you’ve got additional space for gathering.

Creating a festive mood

When space is at a premium, keep items like large flower arrangements or centerpieces to a minimum. Get your holiday flair from festive door wreaths, colorful dishes and serving platters, holiday napkins, twinkle lights on windows, candles (battery operated) on sills or mantle, and garland on stair rails. Decorations should help set the mood, not get in the way. Don’t forget music, but keep the volume soft. Lastly, lighting is very important. If you have overhead lighting with dimmers, adjust to soft lighting. If your lamps are too bright, switch out to softer, lower watt bulbs. Battery-operated candles or strands of twinkle lights will add to the holiday sparkle.

A place for everything

When the crowd descends at my Christmas gathering, the first thing that happens is everyone has “stuff” to unload. Items such as holiday gifts, hostess gifts, food for now, food for later, platters and serving tools, coats and purses, ice chests, play pens, and so on all need an assigned place. Be sure you have areas cleared and designated ahead of time for the “stuff” so you can direct your guests to the drop-off spot. This also helps prevents the bottleneck that can happen when guests arrive at the same time.

Enjoy yourself

People love to help, so don’t be afraid to ask. Remember, you are not a caterer or Martha Stewart. A good host takes time to enjoy time with guests and doesn’t sweat the small stuff. If, even with the best planning and organization, your casserole bubbles over in the oven and smokes out your kitchen, temporarily forcing your guests outside for air, laugh it off. It will make a great story for years to come. Cheers!

I read this article at: HERE

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email | Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Want Real Estate Info on the Go? Download our FREE Real Estate App: Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

Indoor Weekend Projects

It’s that time of year when we spend the most time inside our homes. So why not use some of that time improving your home? Not only will it boost your mood, it’ll add value to your home. Here are some projects that you can do over the weekend.

Getting Rid of Junk

Removing clutter is a great way to make your home feel more open. Plus, having all the junk removed from your house will help spark some home improvement and decorating ideas.

Installing Shelves or Hooks

Shelves helps keep small items–decorative or otherwise–off counters and tabletops. Installing hooks around the house is another way of keeping items such as keys, towels, and jackets off flat surfaces.

Changing Light Fixtures

One way to brighten up a room is to install a new light fixture. One that fits the intended decor of the room. Ceiling fans are an especially nice addition because they can push warm air down in the winter and cool off a room in the summer. Another way to improve the lighting of the room is to install a dimmer switch.

Changing Blinds and Adding Curtains

Fresh new blinds make a room look sharp while curtains add a bit of softness. The two combined provide an effective sound and light barrier whenever needed.

Re-caulking a Bathroom

Re-caulking will make your bathroom feel cleaner and brighter while preventing mildew, mold, and water damage.

Changing a Faucet

Simply replacing a faucet can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom.

Changing a Showerhead

Updating a showerhead can save you money on your water bill and improve your overall shower experience. This is especially true if you switch from a single-function showerhead to a multifunction showerhead.

Changing Hardware on Doors and Cabinets

New hinges and handles can make cabinets pop and an updated doorknob can complete the look of a room.

I read this article at: HERE

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email | Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Want Real Estate Info on the Go? Download our FREE Real Estate App: Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

Pre-Holiday Oven and Stove Maintenance

It’s a holiday morning and you get up before everyone else to start cooking in peace. You preheat your oven and start prepping your turkey. Then, “BEEP, BEEP, BEEP!” Followed by smoke and hastily awoken judgmental in-laws. “How could you have burned something already?” they demand. Although it’s noon somewhere, it’s too soon to crack open the wine. Luckily, this kind of stress can be easily avoided with a little pre-holiday oven and stove maintenance.

Oven

Determine if your oven door has a tight seal and that its hinges are strong

Loose seals or weak hinges on your oven door can lead to heat loss resulting in foods taking longer to cook or cooking unevenly. To check your oven, make sure it’s off and completely cool.

Open the oven door and locate the gasket that goes around the perimeter. Feel around for any warped, torn, or broken areas. Keep these areas in mind for the next step.
Heat your oven, and then place something that sizzles in the hot oven. Since oven seals are meant to hold in heat and sound, check the perimeter of your oven door paying particular attention to any suspected problem areas you found. If you hear crackling or feel more heat in the problem areas, this may mean your oven’s seal isn’t working well and may need replacement. Finally, push against the door and see if that reduces the heat and sound. If it does, this could indicate that your oven door’s hinges aren’t strong.

Check your oven’s internal light bulbs

If you find that at least one of the bulbs is burnt out, you can remove the bulb to determine replacement type, or refer to your owner’s manual for that information. Most oven bulbs are a universal 40 watt appliance bulb. Note: Do not turn on your oven light if there isn’t a light bulb in there.

Cleaning the inside of your oven

Self-Cleaning Ovens

Self-cleaning ovens work by raising the temperature inside the oven to a very high temperature for about two to four hours. This turns all the debris in the oven to ash. If your oven has a self-cleaning feature, refer to your owner’s manual for instructions. Do not clean the inside of a self-cleaning oven by any other method unless approved by the manufacturer or owners manual. If using the self-cleaning feature, use it a few days before you start your holiday cooking. This process can make your house smell and possibly set of your smoke alarms.

Non-Self-Cleaning Ovens

Most standard oven cleaners will get the job done. A more natural way of cleaning your oven is to use baking soda and vinegar. First, make sure that everything in the oven is removed, including the oven racks. Then, in a bowl, make a paste by combining baking soda and water. Use an abrasive pad to rub the paste all over the inside of the oven. Gently spray vinegar over the pasted surface and allow to fizz. This will loosen the debris, so you can scrub it all away.

Stove

Clean or replace all vent filters over your stove

Metal-mesh grease filters can either be washed by hand with dish soap or can be placed in the dishwasher. If they’re made out of charcoal or paper, they should be replaced.

Clean the knobs

Use a damp rag with a little dish detergent. Replace the knobs if you’re no longer able to read what they say.

Cleaning the cooktop

Make sure you only use cleaning products appropriate for your cooktop material. Use with a soft, slightly moistened washcloth. Do not pour the product directly on the surface. Below are a couple of examples of home remedies: For a glass top stove, spray some white vinegar on a damp washcloth to remove any grease and debris. Then, lightly cover the surface with baking soda. Once that’s done, cover the entire cooktop with a warm damp towel. Let sit for about 15 minutes, then gently scrub removing all the baking soda. You can go over the stove again with the white vinegar for finishing. To clean stove grates and drip pans, use gallon-size plastic zipper storage bags and ammonia. For each bag, fill halfway with ammonia and add one or two grates or one drip pan. Thoroughly seal the bag. Let sit overnight or 8-12 hours. Rinse away the baked-on grime the next day. Whew! Now, you have a beautiful oven and stove that are a lot more likely to perform without incident for the holidays and days to come!

I read this article at: HERE

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email | Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Want Real Estate Info on the Go? Download our FREE Real Estate App: Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

5 Low-Maintenance Houseplants for a Healthier Home

Lately, there have been many studies exploring the benefits of spending time outside in nature, but did you know you can also gain many of those benefits – and more – by bringing plants into your home? Houseplants not only freshen the air in your home, but they can also help remove harmful toxins from the air. The calming influence of plants can help you concentrate and improve your memory. Plants and flowers can also make you happier and heal faster. Here are five easy-to-grow houseplants that have the added benefit of being great air filters.

Calathea

Also known as the “peacock plant,” this popular houseplant, which has many varieties, is known for its wide colorful leaves. Calathea do well with limited water and low light, but will not tolerate lots of direct light.

Chinese Evergreen

This highly decorative houseplant comes in a range of color variations–dark to light green, silver, yellow, and red. While it does well in low light, the Chinese Evergreen doesn’t like cold temps and needs to be kept moist. Note: Toxic to humans and pets when ingested.

Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)

These versatile plants come in a wide variety of patterns and colors. Very tolerant to low light, Pothos needs watering only once per week. These houseplants die if you overdo it with the watering can. Note: Toxic to humans and pets when ingested.

Snake Plant

Like its namesake, the snake plant loves to bask in the light and needs very little water. Let these plants completely dry out between waterings and give them good drainage – the roots will rot if kept damp. Mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Spider Plant

Although they look delicate, these tough plants can grow in a wide range of conditions. If you want this plant to thrive, it likes bright light, good drainage, and a chance to dry out between waterings.

As noted, some of these houseplants (and other common houseplants such as ivy and lilies) are toxic to humans and pets. If you have small children, or dogs or cats that like to nibble on greens, you might want to pass on some of these, or consider hanging plants. If you have other indoor plants you like, and want to check to see if they are safe, check out the ASPCA searchable list of plants poisonous to pets.

I read this article at: HERE

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email | Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Want Real Estate Info on the Go? Download our FREE Real Estate App: Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

Enjoy Your Deck Beyond the Summer Months

Decks and patios should be more than a summer space. With a little maintenance, creativity and planning you can create an outside area to enjoy throughout the seasons.

Maintenance

cleaning your deck The summer season can be drying for natural wood decks. Now’s the time to take care of any maintenance before the rainy season arrives. Check to see if any repairs are needed, such as split boards, nail heads, etc. After repairing, clean and wash your deck thoroughly and re-seal or stain if needed. Water-based products can offer easier cleanup and less odor while oil-based products tend to penetrate deeper and last longer.

If you have a composite deck, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on cleaning. If a deck-wash is recommended, be sure to rinse thoroughly so no residue is left behind.

Concrete patios need care too! Thoroughly clean the surface with mild dish soap and water. If stained, check you local home improvement store for concrete cleaning product recommendations. Once the surface is clean consider applying the protection of a colored or clear concrete sealer.

Replace and Refresh

potted plants Renew your outdoor space for the cooler months by changing out accessories and plants. With fall settling in and winter just ahead, table umbrellas can be put away and replaced with colorful arrangements of pumpkins and gourds. Replace summer annuals with hearty seasonal blooms. Some good choices are flowering cabbage and kale, ornamental grasses, pansies and chrysanthemums. Add decorative pots with shrubs like English holly, boxwood and dwarf evergreens to carry into the frosty winter season.

Create an Inviting Space

firepit on a deck Firepits and firebowls are a nice focal point for gathering and warmth. Replace weathered or faded cushions with fresh, bold seasonal colors. The right cushions can make the difference in comfort as well as beauty. Use colorful outdoor rugs and weatherproof pillows to bring the indoors out. Keep a basket or container with cozy blankets handy when entertaining.

If you don’t have the space for a firepit, portable gas heaters come in many sizes, including tabletop. In smaller spaces, try creating a conversation area with flameless candles and lanterns. Add strings of electric or battery-powered lights for interest and sparkle. Think colorful and cozy. A smaller deck or patio can be the most inviting and easiest to maintain and update. Once you’ve created your comfortable outdoor space, fill your favorite mug, grab a cozy blanket, and enjoy the beautiful colors and fresh air.

I read this article at: HERE

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email | Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Want Real Estate Info on the Go? Download our FREE Real Estate App: Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

Fall To-Do Checklist

The scent of fall is in the air. Time to bake an apple pie, crunch some leaves on a long walk, and carve the family pumpkin. It’s also time for some fall home maintenance. Use our fall checklist as a reminder to do important seasonal tasks like cleaning the gutters, replacing air filters, and getting the fireplace ready for the coming winter.

I read this article at: HERE

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email | Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Want Real Estate Info on the Go? Download our FREE Real Estate App: Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

Fall House Cleaning: Chores to Do Now

Everyone talks about spring house cleaning a time to freshen up your living space to get it ready for fresh air and sunshine. But, advises a staffing supervisor for Molly Maids cleaning service, a clean house requires a fall cleaning routine as well:

Deep Clean the Closets

Sort out your wardrobe and clean out clothes closets. Donate whatever you are unlikely to wear again to make room for seasonal purchases.

Get Rid of Expired Medicines

Check the medicine cabinet for expired meds and last winter’s leftovers. As you dispose of them, make note of things you need to buy, such as bandages, antiseptic creams or over-the-counter cough syrup.

Clean Out the Fridge

Dig deep for tired or expired foods, clean the shelves and organize the fridge. Remember to replace that old box of baking soda with a fresh one to guard against odors.

Clean the Carpets

A little elbow grease now will get you ready for holiday entertaining. Deep clean summer’s grime out of your carpets or hire a professional carpet cleaner with equipment that may dig deeper than you can.

Clean Ceiling Fans and Ceiling Light Fixtures

Open doors and windows all summer have likely left them coated with dust. Clean them thoroughly now that the doors are closed.

Wash the Windows

Washing them inside and out may be a pain, but winter can be depressing enough without having to look through dirty windows.

Shine the Silver

Before Thanksgiving is the best time to get out the polish and get your silverware ready for company.

Check the Gutters

Autumn means gutters are full of falling leaves. Clean them out now with a special hose attachment that has a hooked end to get down into the gutters. Look into attaching “hoods” or “helmets” to the gutters so you won’t have to worry as much about cleaning out leaves in the future.

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6 Steps to a Better Home Atmosphere

6 Changes at Home to Improve Physical Health

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Clean and declutter ahead of time

Rearrange furnishings if needed for seating

Make-ahead menu

Strategic serving

Crowd management

Creating a festive mood

A place for everything

Enjoy yourself

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Getting Rid of Junk

Installing Shelves or Hooks

Changing Light Fixtures

Changing Blinds and Adding Curtains

Re-caulking a Bathroom

Changing a Faucet

Changing a Showerhead

Changing Hardware on Doors and Cabinets

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Calathea

Chinese Evergreen

Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)

Snake Plant

Spider Plant

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Maintenance

Replace and Refresh

Create an Inviting Space

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