Make These Changes To Your Home To Boost Value Before A Sale

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When you own a home, it’s always important to think about the future sale. The right sale can allow you to move to a larger property or just give you a lovely extra cushion of cash that you can use to boost your wellbeing. 

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Make It More Practical 

People often assume that buyers are looking for a home that is grand with tremendous levels of spectacle. This isn’t the case. Instead, most buyers are just looking for something practical that will provide the right space for their family to grow and thrive. There are lots of ways that you can make your home more practical. For instance, you could add more rooms. This doesn’t always need to mean an extension. You can do it using a professional drywall installation to split a large room in your property in two. 

Focus On The Kitchen And The Bathroom

If you are making larger changes to the home then we suggest that you think about focusing on areas of the property that matter most to buyers. There are key examples to keep in mind here but the main areas are the kitchen and the bathroom. The right kitchen changes could add as much as 25% onto the overall value of your home. You just need to make sure that your kitchen changes are completed to the right standard of quality. 

Conversions 

You could also think about completing conversions around your home. The right conversions will mean that your home has more space for you and the rest of your family. This is also going to be important to a future buyer. There are a few different areas of the home that you can think about converting. For instance, you could focus on the attic or you might want to consider thinking about changing the garage into a new room. The garage is a particularly smart choice because it does tend to just become a area where junk builds over time. 

Add To The Curb Appeal

Finally, you might want to think about changes that are going to boost the curb appeal of your property. Curb appeal is important because it determines whether your property is going to make the right first impression with buyers. If it doesn’t, then you can all but guarantee that they will opt to buy another property on the market instead. It doesn’t matter how great the interior of your home is if you can’t convince them to arrange a viewing. You should think about consulting with a landscaper to consider the best ways to change the garden so that it does help create the ideal impact with your home. 

We hope this helps you understand some of the key steps that you should take to add to the value of your home before it’s time to sell on the market. If you take the right steps here, then you can make sure that you don’t end up with a potential loss from one of the most significant investments that you have in your arsenal. 

Christmas On A Budget: Tips For A Fun And Affordable Holiday

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Giving gifts during the holidays can be stressful, both mentally and financially. I've compiled a list of ideas for spending less money on Christmas this year.

As you get older, your attitude toward the holiday’s shifts. Even though your feelings of happiness and friendliness should remain, your attitude toward gifts should shift.

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It goes from being something you are looking forward to being something you dread doing.

Maybe not, but when you're expected to give as much as you receive, gift-giving takes on a whole new meaning. When you're working with a limited budget, spending a large sum of money on a large number of people can feel like an imposition. It should come as no surprise that so many Americans end the year with credit card debt, unable to pay it off before the next holiday season rolls around.

Christmas shopping, on the other hand, does not have to be expensive. There are a number of strategies that can be used to reduce or eliminate holiday expenditures. All that is required is an openness to new ideas.

Make A Plan

When shoppers fail to plan ahead for Christmas, their spending often exceeds their budgets. Determine your Christmas spending budget, and then make a list of all of your responsibilities, including gifts, travel, and decorations, and stick to it. Add a monetary value to each item, erring on the side of overestimating.

Saving money this year may be difficult, but consider this: it will allow you to get a head start on your debts next year if you spend less this year.

One of the best ways you can create a plan is to read some budgeting tips on frugal living blogs. 

Look Out For Extra Savings 

A long list of gifts to buy? Here are a few favourite ways to look out for savings:

• Look for coupons.

• Join a store's mailing list

• New subscribers usually get an extra 10%-20% savings. Even creating a new email address to receive several discounts.

• Use a rewards card

• Credit card with a cashback offer

• Buy used gift cards

Talk To Your Loved Ones

If you are struggling to make ends meet, Christmas may seem like an imposition. Stress during the holidays may cause people to harbour ill will toward their more prosperous relatives and friends.

Discuss with your loved ones the possibility of skipping the gift exchange or spending less money. You don't have to tell them everything; just enough information to make sense to them is sufficient. Your brother-in-law who has recently become a parent might appreciate a year off from the madness of holiday gift-giving.

Summary

As an adult, purchasing gifts for friends and family members become a chore. Although it's not really enjoyable, coming up with non-traditional gift ideas is.

Remember that there are many different ways to be creative, so continue to think beyond the box.

Do you have any other ideas that could help? Please share some of them in the comments below. 

5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Be Physically Active

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5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Be Physically Active

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Like adults, children need to get some exercise and be physically fit. Encouraging your kids to exercise regularly will boost their immune system, help them maintain a healthy weight, and protect them from several diseases. According to research, about 80% of kids between 11 and 17 aren’t as physically active as they should be. This can be attributed to the accessibility of technology. Here are some ways to get your kids to be physically active. 

1. Set a good example

Kids are more likely to remember a lesson if they see a practical example in action. Therefore, to encourage your kids to exercise more, being a good role model will give them the push they need. If your kids often see you exercising, they’ll most likely mimic you, giving you an excellent opportunity to teach them about the importance of being physically active. 

2. Get everyone involved

Exercising together can be a great way to bond with your kids, no matter the activity. You can get your kids involved by signing up for an activity you all enjoy, such as playing soccer together, swimming, playing games in the park, etc. You can even consider inviting some of your kids’ friends over occasionally to take part in these activities. Getting everyone involved will help sustain your kids’ interest and get them to be more physically active. While engaging in such activities, remember to have items such as children’s ice packs on hand to apply if your kids have a minor injury. 

3. Walk more

If there are activities where you can walk instead of taking a car, you can consider doing so with your kids. For instance, you can take an early morning walk in the park or during the weekend, depending on your schedule. You can also walk to the grocery store if it’s close by or walk your kids to school. While walking, remember to be safety-conscious and keep an idea on your kids at all times. 

4. Reduce screen time

Studies show that children are less physically active because they spend more time behind the screen playing video games, watching TV, etc. Therefore, one great way to get your kids to be physically active is to limit their screen time and replace it with activities that will get them on the move. Even when you and your kids are watching TV together, you can still sneak in a little physical activity by stretching together, dancing to some music, or doing some hula hoops during commercial breaks. Doing this enables you to find fun ways to encourage your kids to do more than sit behind the screen.

5. Give them gifts that encourage them to be physically active

Whether it’s for their birthday, a holiday, or just a random day, the gifts you give your kids can encourage them to be physically active. You can consider options such as bicycles, balls, skates, etc. Giving them such gifts allows you to spend more time with them as you teach them how to use it, and will also lead them to spend more time exercising as they enjoy putting these gifts to good use. 

PPD & Me: 5 Tips That Can Help You Manage The Situation

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Post Partum Depression is a very common issue facing new mothers and the symptoms can feel even worse in the post pandemic era. After all, we all (not just parents) have been more prone to bouts of sadness and a lack of energy. The truth is that there is no magic cure for the situation. On a brighter note, however, you can learn to manage PPD in a better manner.

The first step is to accept the situation and realize that it’s not your fault. You wouldn’t punish yourself for any other health complaint and should never consider ignoring PDD. Focus on the following responses, and you should see a noticeable improvement in the way you feel.

Focus on providing for your child

Becoming a parent changes your life forever. Even when you do not feel in control of personal matters, giving your child the best start in life will be a major triumph. Experts at Foryourlittleone can help you find the perfect baby products for the nursery and daily life. Aside from the right surroundings, you will want to master some nutritious meals for when your baby reaches the wearing stage. Remember that your childcare workers are available to answer your questions and provide any advice that you may require too. 

Establish a sense of organization

PPD can often leave you feeling all over the place. Therefore, restoring a sense of control should be one of the top items on your agenda. While it’s great to set long-term goals, learning to take each day as a new challenge is equally vital. There are many reasons to create a daily routine, but it will ultimately allow you to stay on the right track at all times. Likewise, you will find that a schedule is hugely beneficial for your child. It may help you with issues like establishing a positive sleep routine.

Talk

As a new parent, most of your time is dedicated to your child. While it is an amazing and beautiful thing, there is no doubt that it can leave you feeling a little lonely from time to time. Social activities with other adults will have a positive impact, and this should include time with non-parents too. Perhaps more importantly, you must also remember that keeping your PPD locked up inside will do you no favors. Mental health experts are available while even using forums like Whattoexpect can be useful. You will no longer feel alone on this journey.

Try to reduce stress

It would be impossible to eliminate stress from your life. However, high stress levels will continue to make your PPD symptoms feel worse. So, any opportunity to reduce stress should be grabbed with both hands. Gaining control of your financial health is a good starting point. Avoiding people and habits that trigger stress or responses that indirectly cause stress will help. If nothing else, it will free your mind and allow you to enjoy the moments where PPD isn’t in control. 

Live Healthily

As a new parent, your child will be the priority. Still, you must remember that a healthy and happy mom is a better mom. With this in mind, there should be no sense of guilt about taking care of yourself. Make time for meditation and exercise. Eat the right foods. And be OK with the fact that you need personal hobbies and daily activities that focus on you rather than your child. In many cases, your baby will still be involved. Even when they aren’t, the balanced lifestyle will allow you to become an even better parent while also reducing PPD.

Newborn Checklist: Essentials You Need Before Your Baby Arrives

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Expecting a new baby is an exciting time in many parents’ lives due to the chance to welcome a new life into the world. According to Baby Center, just under 4 million babies are born in American annually. There is no shortage of advice for expectant parents regarding getting ready to receive their bundle of joy. Nevertheless, there are some bare essentials you will need for starters to prepare for your child. So, if you’re keen to find out which needs to be in place prior to your baby arriving, take a look at these points.

1. A crib

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Securing a sleeping place for your child is perhaps the most essential arrangement you have to sort out before the baby arrives. Bassinet cradles and three-sided cribs are ideal for the first few months. Many cribs come without mattresses, so you must buy quality, comfortable, and fitting ones. Double-sided mattresses are popular among parents because you can use them for the baby and toddler years, giving a little extra "mileage" in usability. Alternatively, you can choose a certified mattress as a more sustainable choice for your baby. Consider getting more comfort items like crib sheets, light blankets, a sleep sack, and waterproof mattress covers.

2. Diapering

Reusable cloth nappies and disposable diapers are the options available to parents for their child's diapering needs. Cloth nappies are reusable and eco-friendly, making them a great choice if you are big on sustainability. Also, cloth diapers are more pocket-friendly, considering that a whopping 27.4 billion disposable diapers are used in the US annually! While the idea of using cloth nappies may be new to you, you will get used to them after a while. And even though disposable diapers may seem more convenient, they are costly, more likely to rip during changes, and are less environmentally friendly. Therefore, consider which diapering options will best suit you and invest accordingly.

3. Clothing

Some experts think you should secure at least six “onesies," about four infant gowns, and three blankets wide enough to swaddle the baby as a start to welcoming your child. You will also need about five pairs of pants, eight stretchy sleepers, a sweater and cap, and about six pairs of socks or booties, scratch mittens (to keep the baby from scratching his or her face), and some cardigans for winter. Experts suggest that you consider the fabric, safety, size, and comfort of your baby’s clothes when making your choices, so keep this in mind while shopping.

4. Feeding

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Many nursing mothers will agree that bibs, burp cloths, nursing pillows, etc., are essentials for feeding your baby, whether you are breastfeeding or not. So, invest in these items before the baby arrives. You will likely need breast pumps and milk storage containers for convenience in case you have to be at work or somewhere else urgently. Should you choose not to breastfeed, you would need supplies like formula, bottles, and pacifiers. Also, a bottle brush and dishwasher basket will help clean your feeding items, so prioritize this when shopping.

5. A Baby Support Pillow

Baby support pillows, like the ones sold by the topponcino company are a must-have for any nursery. They ensure that your baby is safe, comfortable and cozy whenever you have to put him or her down for a while. You can also use them to wrap your baby up while you hold him or her for extra support during those first vital months of nursing.

Fixing Your Financial Health Isn't Easy But It Is Possible

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Are you worried about your financial health? If so, then you need to ensure that you are making the right decisions. It’s important to get on top of your finances because if you don’t do this it’s common for the situation to take a dire turn. Here are our recommendations in terms of what you should be doing. 

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Be Honest

If you want to fix your financial issues, the first thing that you need to do is start being honest with yourself. You’re never going to fix your finances unless you can admit that there is actually a problem. This is quite difficult for some people to do because avoiding the issue allows you to live beyond your means and access a better quality of life which is often great fun. However, it’s never long before you realize that things are getting a little too dicey and you need to act. 

Clear The Debt 

Once you have admitted that there is an issue that needs to be resolved you have to think about how to clear your debt once and for all. There are numerous ways to do this. If you’re wondering how to pay off debt, then you’re already going to be on the right track here. You just need to think about how much debt you’re dealing with because this is going to determine the right path to follow. For instance, you could have limited levels of personal debt. If that’s the case, setting a budget could clear it up completely. Alternatively, it’s possible that you have debt from multiple creditors. If that’s the case, you should think about a debt consolidation loan instead. 

Set A Budget

If you choose to, you can set a budget. Setting a budget will allow you to take control of your financial situation. It will ensure that you’re no longer being controlled by your money. To set a budget, you need to calculate all your incoming costs and then subtract any bills that you have. By doing so, you will be able to guarantee that you know exactly how much you are spending and how much you have leftover to play with each month. It can be tricky at first to live on a budget but once you get used to it, it can be very freeing. You’ll no longer have to worry that every decision you make is pushing you further towards higher levels of debt. 

Build More Income Opportunities

Finally, you need to think about how to expand your income. There are lots of ways to do this. However, ideally, you should be looking at both side hustles and passive incomes. These choices are going to help guarantee that you can boost your income without it eating into your spare time. In terms of passive income options, you might want to consider investment opportunities. There are lots of investments that could be right for you. Penny stocks are a great idea because they come with low levels of risk and a high chance of success. 

Supporting Your Child Through Life Changing Events

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When it comes to childhood, we like to think of it being a time of fun and carefree days and nothing untoward that will ruin that. As magical as we want childhood to be for our children, things don't always pan out the way we want them to. It is a sad reality that at some point children may experience the kind of issues that even adults struggle to process and deal with effectively.

Fun Ways to Strengthen Family Bonds

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When you’re a parent, one of the most important things you can do is build a strong bond with your children and ensure that they have strong bonds with all of their family - the more loving people a child has around them the better! 

For most people, bonding comes pretty naturally, but it is still a good idea to take the time to strengthen and solidify those bonds on a regular basis. Here are a few ways you can do that:

Tell personal stories

Kids love hearing personal stories about their parents, grandparents and aunts and uncles from the past. They enjoy hearing what their adult family members did when they too were young and care-free, and it’s a great way to show them that as well as being mom or dad you are a person in your own right. Sharing your past ‘secrets’ with them can also make them feel special and help to build a stronger connection between you. Just make sure your stories are appropriate!

Book a family photo session

What could be more fun than gathering everyone together for a family photo session? A good family photographer will know how to make the process lots of fun with jokes and a few well-placed props and you’ll get to show just how much you love each other not only in the moment but captured forever in the images your photographer snaps.

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Have a movie night

Something as simple as snuggling up together on the couch watching a favorite movie can be so special to a child. They’ll feel safe, secure, and loved and you won’t even have to leave the house or go to any special effort other than perhaps buying some of their favorite candy to chew on while the movie’s in progress so it’s perfect for those busy weeks when you just want to relax in your downtime.

Ask them about their life

One of the best ways to build a strong bond with children is by taking them more seriously and listening to them when they speak. Every day, you should make a point of asking your children not only about their day but at least one question about their personality such as their favorite book or what they love most about nature. They’ll feel more appreciated as a person and they’ll be more likely to open up to you in future if they know that you will listen, and more importantly, that you really care about what they think and feel.

Cook together

Cooking with children is a great way to get them interested in food and healthy eating, It’s also a great way to spend some quality time with them, especially if you sit down to eat whatever you’ve created together afterward. 

Go on vacation

Taking a family vacation where you can dedicate all of your time to each other is ideal for family bonding. You’ll build up more shared experiences and have unique adventures that you’ll all remember forever.

How do you strengthen the bonds with your children?

What Makes A Children's Party Great?

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If you are thinking about throwing a party for your child, then you are obviously going to want to ensure that it goes as well as possible. You want them to have the best time possible, whether you are throwing them a party for their birthday or any other occasion. There are a lot of things that you are going to need to be aware of, and there is a lot of work involved too. In this article, we are going to take a look at just what makes a children’s party great, and how you can make sure that you are throwing the best possible party for your child.

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Lots Of Invites

In general, you will want such a party to be as busy as possible, so that it feels much more like an event. Your child is bound to be excited if there are plenty of people in attendance, and it’s one of the hallmarks of a good party of any kind. So that means that you need to think about sending out a lot of invites as early as you possibly can, once you know what date you are thinking about having it on. You can even ask around first to see whether there is a date which seems best for most of the parents you know, so that you can increase the chances of there being good numbers. The more invites you are able to send out and get RSVPs for, the better.

Great Food

It’s not a party without food, and it is likely that this is one part of the day that you are going to spend a lot of time and money on. You need to make sure that the kids are going to love the food, and that part is easy enough. But you also need to consider the possibility that there will be kids who have particular dietary requirements. Make sure that their parents are including that information on the RSVP, so that you can prepare for it as well as possible. Beyond that, consider whether you want to get hold of a caterer to help you out with the food, or whether you are going to do it yourself - perhaps with the help of another adult who might be assisting you in planning the day.

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Entertainment

You also need to think about what kind of entertainment you are going to provide for the children. Many of the classic types of children’s entertainment are still going to work here, and you should think about whether or not you are going to want to include all or some of these at least. That could include looking out for a jumping castle rental, or getting a children’s entertainer or magician to come and do a show. You might also want to consider having pass the parcel and other classic games like that. The more entertainment there is, the better. You could even go down the pinata route if you want something a little different, and the child is not too young.

Decorations

You will probably find that you spend a lot of time decorating the party venue too. That is something that you need to think about in advance. Is there any particular theme that is likely to go down well? You could simply ask your child what they want - there is a chance they will have a clear idea, after all - or you could try to work it out with them if they are not quite sure. Then you can start to think about decorating the venue according to that theme, and in so doing you should be able to make the day much more memorable indeed. This is one part of the process that you might find you want some help with, as there can be a lot involved to get it right.

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Venue

Speaking of which, you will also need to make sure that you are clear on which venue itself you might want to use. There are many options that you can consider here, and it all depends on the nature of the party and how much of an event it is going to be, including how many likely respondents you will get to your invitations. But make sure that it’s somewhere people can get to easily, and which is going to have enough space for all to enjoy themselves. If you can do that, you are going to find that the day is much more of a success.