A Clean, Well-Lighted Place

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Lighting is a key item on any buyer’s checklist, and you don't need fancy lamps or chandeliers. Here are some simple solutions for using natural light to help your home shine bright like a diamond.

CHIC (Pearl)

From a design perspective, it can be easier than you’d think to make your home feel warmer, brighter, and more open. Try painting your walls and ceilings white (or off-white) and placing mirrors strategically to help bounce natural light throughout the house and make your spaces feel larger. If you have a big collection of artwork to display, hang light colored pieces on the walls to add warmth and combine style with function.

GEEK (Kevin)

Finding the right balance of lighting for your home is like a physics problem just waiting to be solved. First, remove any obstructions from your windows and keep them squeaky clean to allow the maximum amount of uninterrupted sunlight to get inside. Choose brightly-colored furniture that allows light to pass above, beneath, or even through it. And if you need an extra boost from above, try adding solar tubes or skylights in the ceiling.

Drawing the (property) lines

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Knowing the precise location of your property lines is crucial for a number of reasons, and there are just as many ways to find them. Let’s look at the how and why.

CHIC (Pearl)

I’ll take the “How?” The first thing you can do is consult your deed, the fundamental legal document that defines your property’s boundaries and dimensions. If the deed does not suffice, you could hire a professional surveyor to conduct an assessment, research property maps at your local assessor's office or land records department to access property maps. It’s also fun to hunt for physical markers like metal stakes, stone walls, fences, or even neighboring structures. And of course, it’s helpful to be on good speaking terms with your neighbors. Open communication can solve any problem.

GEEK (Kevin)

Guess that means I’m here to tell you the “Why?” Bottom line: Property lines establish ownership rights and prevent encroachment and trespassing by your neighbors and other randos. Knowing your lines also comes in handy when you’re planning a renovation or new build. The last thing you want to do is get on your neighbors’ bad side. So play nice. Happy block, happy flock. Oh, and don’t forget your property lines determine your property size and consequently, your property value. At the end of the day, if there’s any doubt, enlist the talents of a professional. The peace of mind is worth the price.

New city. Who this?

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The cost of living in California has many people on the move to new cities and new adventures. What are some of the resources you can use to get familiar with your future home?

CHIC (Pearl)

The first thing you can do before you pack a single box is check an online travel guide like Tripadvisor, lonely planet, or TimeOut. These sites are full of tips and insights for travelers, and that’s exactly what you are! You’re just staying a little longer. Speaking of which, you can check local government websites in your new city to learn about population demographics and public services like schools, transportation, and safety. It’s also a good idea to understand the city’s governance.

GEEK (Kevin)

If you’re moving to save money, you’d be wise to crunch the numbers and make sure your new city fits your current budget! You can use websites like Numbeo or Expatistan to get an estimate of the cost of living in cities you’re considering, including the current price of goods and services. Another great resource is local news. Reading the city newspaper or browsing local news websites can help you get a sense of the big issues and challenges you might face after your move.