We’ve all heard of various things that should never be disposed of in the kitchen sink- grease, pasta, potato peels, but milk?! Yes, indeed. While it may not damage or clog your pipes, pouring milk down your drain is actually terrible for the environment. It takes a lot of oxygen to break down milk, taking oxygen away from living organisms that need it to survive. Large amounts of milk have even been known to suffocate entire ecosystems. In fact, some places fine businesses for disposal of milk down drains. 

 

So if your milk is getting close to expiring, find another way to dispose of it- maybe a tasty batch of rice pudding, homemade Greek yogurt, or even fresh ricotta.

 


Other no-nos for your drains:

Cooking Oil and Grease: Two of…

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Selling your home in the wintertime isn't as difficult as you might think. In fact, with a little preparation and the right mindset, you can have your home sold before spring arrives! To help get you started, we've put together this list of 10 tips for selling your home this winter.

1. Price your home correctly. Winter is a great time to capitalize on motivated buyers who may be looking to take advantage of lower prices, less competition from other buyers, or tax incentives. Be sure to price your home competitively – this may even mean pricing it slightly below market value in order to attract the most interest from potential buyers, increasing competition for it, and naturally driving the price up. 

2. Make your home inviting and comfortable for…

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The Role and Benefits of Homeowners Associations

Homeowners associations are corporations that manage residential developments, condos, or townhouses. Once you buy a building or a property governed by Homeowners Associations, you automatically attain an HOA membership. This means you have to abide by HOA rules and regulations. Additionally, there is a must-pay fee once you become a member.

Generally, homeowners associations are run by directors usually elected by homeowners. The primary role of the managing board is to protect property value, oversee its common assets, and create a good living atmosphere. 

The HOA board of directors usually includes a president, treasurer, and secretary, where the president is the overall leader. The HOA…

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When to Hire a Qualified Home Inspection Specialist

Selling or buying a home can be a daunting process whether you want to buy your first home or would like to sell your current home and get an upgrade. However, this process can be made more straightforward through a home inspection. Suppose you are in a situation in which you are finally ready to buy a new house or sell your home; it would be best to hire a qualified home inspection specialist.

What Home Inspectors Do

It is essential to work with a qualified home inspector since the state has licensed them to evaluate the condition of the property and to issue the buyer a report. Typically, home inspectors have construction-industry experience, so they inspect the home visually, and they also…

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Factors to Understand Before Hiring a Realtor

When you're ready to sell or purchase a home, you will have to seek a realtor who will give you professional guidance on market perspective. Unfortunately, many people do not have up-to-date experience and knowledge concerning the real estate market. Thankfully, many agents have the knowledge, capabilities, resources, personality, and ambition to complete the task. Here are several factors to consider when hiring a realtor.

Buying and Selling Experience

Real estate transactions are often complex and extensive, and as such, the real estate owner will directly face daunting challenges while undertaking this transaction. Experienced real estate agents will put you in a safe position to navigate the…

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Home Improvement Tips You Should Watch out for This Fall

Homeowners are often on the lookout for ways to improve their homes throughout the year. Fall is one of these times because homeowners can repair exterior surfaces like painting and repairing roof shingles. Below are tips to help you stay safe while doing these projects around your property this fall season.

Fixing the Roof

There are two types of roofs: asphalt shingles and clay tiles. Many people choose an asphalt shingle roof because it is cheaper than a clay tile roof, but there can be problems with them since they can easily crack and develop leaks if not maintained properly. It is essential to scrap the shingle's surface occasionally to remove dirt and other debris that accumulates on…

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3 Tips for Bidding on a Home

While you might be anxious to get into a new home ASAP, approaching the home-buying process with a strategic plan can help to ensure that you and your family get the best deal possible on your new home.

Like all major purchases, it is always a smart idea to invest in research first since you'll be making a long-term commitment to the home you choose. By doing so, you can help ensure that your most important needs get met.

Bidding on a home can be a scary and stressful process, but with these three tips, you will be able to bid on homes with confidence.

Start Bidding Low

Tip number one for bidding on a home is to start with low bids. 

People decide how high they should bid when buying a house by comparing the…

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3 Tips to Procuring a Property While Out of State

Buying a home is an exciting step in life. But if you’re planning on making a move out of state, things might start to seem a little overwhelming. With a solid plan and a few tips, you’ll be more likely to make a smooth transition.

Have a Proxy Do a Walk-Through of the Property

The best way to make sure that the property you’re considering is right for you would be to contract a proxy, also referred to in this case as a “buyers’ agent”.

A buyer’s agent will have your best interests at heart and will work towards getting you great value. It’s important to not confuse this type of agent with a listing agent, who will undoubtedly prioritize the seller in this transaction. A buyer’s agent will also…

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Upgrading Your Family Home? Here’s How to Make It More Marketable to Renters

Have you reached the phase of your life where you’re considering downsizing to a smaller home? Before you begin the selling process, consider turning your once family home into a rental property. There are several benefits to owning a rental property, one of the main attractions being that it can provide a source of income, which can be especially beneficial as you near retirement. 

However, if you’ve owned your home for years (even decades), there may be a few upgrades that can help make your property more attractive to renters. Here are four things to consider to make your family home marketable to renters:

Make Necessary Repairs

Before you begin making cosmetic…

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6 Tips to Stage Your Home for a Fast Sale

If you're going to put your house on the market, it's because you want it to sell quickly and are hoping to get your asking price for it. The way you stage your home will do a lot to improve your results. The following are some tips and tricks that can help you sell your home fast.

1. Improve Curb Appeal

This is advice you hear frequently. People will typically do a drive-by of your home before touring the inside. Based on what they see on the outside will determine if it's worth their time to look inside.

You can improve the curb appeal by power washing the walkways and siding. Make sure the house numbers are visible and easy to read. Plant attractive flowers, mow the lawn, and wash the windows. Stain…

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