Robert Backer: Tips for a warm and cozy home this winter

Monday, January 18, 2021 - by Robert Backer, President of Greater Chattanooga Realtors

All right, we're trapped inside. Even in a time without COVID, January is not exactly the best time to enjoy the outdoors. It's cold, wet and dark. Simply put, it's gross.

The truth is that many of us have spent a lot of time indoors over the past few months. How can you make your home more welcoming? How about keeping those cold blues off? Deirdre Sullivan of the National Association of Realtors Association's HouseLogic.com consumer website offers a variety of tips for making the interior of your home as inviting as possible.

Clean your lamps and lamps. They can help make your home look a lot brighter without turning on more lights. Are you saving money and energy? That sounds good.

Keep cold air out. There is no doubt that replacing your existing windows with energy efficient windows will save you money. If this is not currently possible, there are several ways to consider ways to prevent drafts from entering your home. And Deirdre points out that it's not just the leaky windows and doors that kill their home environment. She says she is safe to cover stealth areas around recessed lights, control boxes, and electrical outlets.

Get the slow cooker out. Yes the smell is amazing and did you know that a slow cooker generally uses less energy than a lightbulb? In addition to cooking food, these can be used to add great natural flavors to your home, such as: B. Mixing water with cinnamon sticks, blueberries and orange peel with water.

Bring a little bit of nature home. Many houseplants are especially good at picking up nasty fumes from household cleaners, paints, and dry cleaning. And because plants increase the humidity, they help reduce house dust. You look good too.

Vacuum with the thermostat fan switched on. According to Dierdre, running the fan helps filter out the dust that is created during cleaning. After vacuuming, let it stand for about 15 minutes and then set it back to "automatic". HVAC fans are not designed to run continuously. And don't forget to change your filter. Change your filter every two months (once a month if you have pets) to prevent dust and allergens from circulating.

Clean your windows. This task not only lets more natural light into your home but is good to do too. Deirdre says the American Clean Institute asked consumers what clean surfaces made them happy and that "shiny windows" were in the top 5 for a "clean sink". Daylight also improves mood. It's definitely worth the time.

Owning and maintaining your home is a year-round commitment. While it may seem very suggestive at times, the joy you get from owning your own home is well worth it. Real estate agents strive to get your investment the best they can. Who we are R.

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