Stephen Roake - Home Sweet Home

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Dear Homeowners As autumn settles in, it's the perfect time to refresh your space with cozy, modern touches! This month's Home Sweet Home is full of creative ways to bring warmth and style to your home, from plush throw pillows to unique accents like glass pumpkins and metallic details. You’ll discover how to balance cozy and chic effortlessly! Planning to host holiday guests? Our guide makes it stress-free with tips for prepping meals, thoughtful home touches, and stocking up on essentials. Plus, don't miss our mouthwatering Thanksgiving recipes, including Pumpkin Hummus and Pecan Pie Tartlets!

And if you're looking to tackle some home projects, check out expert tips on painting like a pro to give your walls a fresh, polished look.

I hope these ideas inspire you to love your home even more this season. As always, if you have any real estate needs, I’m here to help!

Warm regards,

Stephen Roake Freedom Group Global at Keller Williams Infinity

630-866-3733 hello@freedomgroupglobal.com freedomgroupglobal.com 608 S Washington St, Naperville, IL 60540

Fall Décor with a Modern Twist! 04 Table of Contents

Recipes: MOUTHWATERING THANKSGIVING TREATS • Pumpkin Hummus • Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes • Pecan Pie Tartlets • Pumpkin Spice Latte Hosting loved ones this holiday season? While it can be overwhelming to get everything ready, this guide will help you tackle the process with ease. With helpful tips like prepping meals in advance, adding thoughtful touches, and stocking the kitchen with essentials, you'll be able to focus on creating lasting memories without the last-minute stress. Guide to Preparing Your Home for Holiday Guests Ready to refresh your space for autumn? We’re sharing creative, simple ways to bring the warmth of fall into your home, from swapping out light throw pillows for cozy textures to using unexpected materials like glass pumpkins and metallic accents. Discover how to create the perfect blend of cozy and chic, ready to welcome the season in style!

Paint Like the Pros: TIPS EVERY HOMEOWNER SHOULD KNOW

Curious about harnessing the sun's energy for your home? Solar power offers a unique blend of environmental benefits and long- term cost savings, but there are many factors to consider before making the leap. From understanding how solar panels work to evaluating the costs, potential savings, and whether a DIY approach is feasible, this guide covers it all.

November 2024

ADD A TOUCH OF FALL DÉCOR TO YOUR HOME WITH A MODERN TWIST!

It’s that time of year when the warm winds of summer give way to crisp autumn evenings. Just as your wardrobe changes with the seasons, so too should your home décor. Doing so not only keeps you from getting bored with your interior but also helps you embrace the spirit of each season. The ideas shared below are meant to inspire your sense of creativity as you find ways to introduce design elements that speak to the approaching or current season while expressing your distinct tastes and sense of style!

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Change up your décor by swapping out throw pillows and blankets in light fabrics and tones suitable for summer such as neutral tans or white shades in lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton for options crafted from heavier, textured fabrics such as fleece, wool, velvet, or cashmere in warm harvest tones such as golds and oranges. Or if you prefer, use deep jewel tones—shades of burgundy and/or deep, rich evergreens layered with earthy browns to evoke a sense of change of season and preparation to make your home cozy for cooler temperatures. Capture the eye’s attention by adding depth and dimension to your look by choosing a selection of throws pillows and blankets in a variety of shapes, sizes, and patterns that complement your selected color scheme. By working within a color palette, you can give any room in your home an edited look that exudes a feel of easy and welcoming sophistication! LIVING AREAS: SWAP OUT THROW PILLOWS AND BLANKETS

PLAID

Plaid and/or tartan and fall go together perfectly. Perhaps the most popular color combination for plaid, red and black, works perfectly to accent almost any design scheme. A plaid pattern in any color combination marries well with the darker tones associated with the season, and mixes well with other fabrics and warm wood tones, making it a versatile choice that works in any room of your home! (For more info and interesting trivia about the origins and differences between plaids and tartans, see the sidebar at the end of this article!) As this article points out, a wide range of textiles can be used to help create a cohesive décor that heralds the change of season. Leather is a timeless example as it can be used for everything from furniture upholstery to throw pillow covers and seamlessly introduces a contemporary feel that anchors any room or display.

November 2024

Suppose you are looking for a way to up the glam factor. In that case, you can’t go wrong by choosing black and gold, a combination that gives your home a look that ushers in the darker tones associated with autumn and transitions easily into a chic Christmas look that blends well with the traditional winter holiday colors of red and green, should you decide to introduce those hues as autumn gives way to winter. Again, the change doesn’t have to take a lot of effort or cost a lot of money; for instance, you can introduce a selection of black mirrored glass or pottery bowls of different shapes and sizes, displayed in descending order according to size, and fill them with your choice of items such as a potpourri mix of appealing colors and textures with a scent that appeals to your senses. If you prefer, fill them with gold marbles or drape wooden beads in gold or a combination of gold and other seasonal colors for an aesthetic that shows an innovative way of thinking “outside the box” while exuding a sense of easy elegance. EMBRACE THE SIMPLE ELEGANCE OF BLACK AND GOLD

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Floral arrangements are an easy and effective way to instantly brighten and change the atmosphere of any room. The rich, warm tones of autumn translate well into stunning floral arrangements; sunflowers and black-eyed Susans are just two examples of traditional favorites. You can transform the presentation of any arrangement with the vase you choose. For instance, pairing a traditional floral arrangement with a modern vase gives the presentation an entirely different spin! You can also give your floral arrangements (real or faux) a modern feel by choosing greenery such as olive branches and placing them in black or white vases or baskets. Introducing a black-and-white color scheme is a subtle, sophisticated way to decorate for Halloween. A CONTEMPORARY TAKE ON FALL FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS Embrace the harvest season by going outside and foraging for flora and fauna and let Mother Nature lend a hand in assembling your fall décor. It can be as simple as cutting branches from a tree in your yard and placing them in water in a clear vase or a receptacle in one (or more) of the colors you have selected for your autumnal design scheme. Create a vignette by displaying your foraged arrangement with pillar candles on a runner crafted from a rich, tactile textile. SIMPLE DIY PROJECT #1: NATURAL FOLIAGE/FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS

November 2024

Pumpkin displays come with the territory when it comes to fall décor. This year, instead of a traditional display of real pumpkins in bright orange, consider a more modern turn and select glass or velvet pumpkins. Not only will this change up your traditional decorations for the fall season, but it will also allow you to recycle your pumpkin collection from year to year. As the seasons change, so too can your fireplace mantel and hearth. A decorative broom easily conveys the spirit of Halloween without feeling costume-like. Fireplace tools with a warm patina will help to visually reinforce the message of cozy comfort. MODERN ALTERNATIVES TO TRADITIONAL PUMPKIN DISPLAYS

SIMPLE DIY PROJECT #2: OUTFIT YOUR FIREPLACE MANTEL AND HEARTH WITH SEASONAL DECOR

To achieve a contemporary fall look, select glass or velvet pumpkins to display along with your choice of candles and seasonal garland. If you display artwork above or on your mantel, consider changing out these pieces for compositions featuring subject matter and color palettes that echo the tone of the season. Whether you decide to display real or faux pumpkins this year, consider steering away from the traditional bright orange pumpkin and instead select jewel tones or lighter, more muted shades such as creams and pastels. By choosing a layered approach, you can easily add in bolder colors while celebrating Halloween. Change out your kitchen linens for those that depict a seasonal theme or simply embrace the warm, jewel-toned, or neutral hues of the season. Display seasonal florals in spaces where it is practical, and your décor will not impede the functionality of your workspace. Some suggestions include saving large floral arrangements and decorative placemats for formal dining areas that are seen but not used daily. This will save you from having to move decorative items each time you need to prepare or serve meals. Open shelving offers another opportunity to display fresh or faux garland and place settings or copper cookware, further introducing your chosen color scheme or motif for fall. ACCENTUATE THE KITCHEN AND DINING AREAS

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your home a high-end interior design theme that embraces the season with a minimalist modern aesthetic. You can also introduce metallic tones into your homes by hanging new artwork or simply changing out the framework on existing pieces with frames that are heavier, such as switching out light wood frames for black metallic frames or copper/brass frames. The primary takeaway is to make the most of common accent pieces by using them strategically to give your home a distinctive seasonal feel with an unmistakable modern twist! Don’t be so bound by traditional approaches to color and content that you are not open to new, contemporary takes on seasonal home décor. And remember, a little can go a long way. A clean, edited look helps the eye to focus and will leave your family and visitors with the impression you are endeavoring to convey without looking too busy or contrived.

Bedrooms take on a completely different feel when you swap out your summer duvet for a heavier comforter set or bedding in coordinated colors of the season combined with quilts. Take a chapter from the living area décor recommendations and change out your bedding décor as well, trading light summer blankets for textured throw blankets such as a wool blanket and/or pillows in plaid or tartan or heavy, textured throws in chenille or wool. Bring a traditional feel to your bedroom by topping your bed with a folded quilt in a timeless design, or if you have an heirloom quilt, take the opportunity to warm the room by displaying the textile on a dark wooden, brass, bronze, or copper quilt or clothing rack. You can further embrace these yellow and red-based metallic tones that naturally coordinate with autumnal hues by switching out lightweight wood or wicker base lamps for those with heavier bases or accents combined with a lampshade in a seasonal color. Another option would be to introduce lamps with a pottery or ceramic base, warm alloy hardware, and quilted or otherwise textured lampshades. Extend the look by spreading small accent lamps or candles made of the same material, color combinations, or alloy accents throughout your home. The result will be a cohesive look that gives CHANGE YOUR BEDDING TO FIT THE CHANGE IN SEASON

DO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PLAID AND TARTAN? Although often used or thought of interchangeably here in the States, plaid and tartans are quite different: Plaid is both a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it is the traditional Scottish word for a blanket or wrap. It is also a descriptive word for textiles woven in crisscross patterns featuring two or more colors. Tartans are plaids with proper names that are identified with a particular clan or community. While all tartans are plaid, not all plaids are tartan!

November 2024

A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO PREPARE FOR HOLIDAY GUESTS

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and welcoming loved ones into your home. As exciting as it is to host family and friends, the preparations can sometimes feel overwhelming. From ensuring your home is clean and inviting to planning meals and activities, there’s a lot to consider to make your guests feel comfortable and cherished. However, with this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to get your home ready with minimal stress, so you can focus on creating warm memories when the guests arrive.

STEP 1: START EARLY

There are tasks you can’t complete until the last minute, such as picking up fresh food or putting clean sheets on the bed. However, there are many other things you can accomplish well in advance. Start by making lists. Include everything you’d like to get done before the company arrives, but be realistic in terms of budget, time, and energy. Prioritize those tasks that must be done, like unburying the guest bed or creating space for the dining room table. Decluttering all spaces is a great way to get a jump on your organization and cleaning too. Focus on the areas you’ll use the most while guests are visiting and work on other spaces if you have the time. When you make lists, include a schedule so you don’t find yourself trying to accomplish everything last minute. For example, if your guest bedroom is unused, you can prepare it early. On the other hand, the final grocery store run will probably have to be last minute, so give that task a list of its own.

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Making a trek to the grocery store is much more manageable when you know what you’re looking for. With a plan for meals, you can easily map out what you’ll need to grab before the company pulls into the drive. Be sure to ask your guests if they have any dietary concerns and ask them for recipes or help in the kitchen if those restrictions cause challenges. Take an inventory of what items you still need and update your list as the date approaches. Remember to include drinks and snacks in addition to meal items. Also remember to take large pieces of frozen meat, like turkey, out a few days before so they have adequate time to thaw. STEP 2: CREATE A MEAL PLAN

STEP 3: DEEP CLEAN

There’s a reason professional organizers and house cleaners are slammed in the last few months of the year. This is the time when people realize they need some deep cleaning done. If you’re tackling the task yourself, don’t wait. Instead, wipe down the ceilings and soffits, clean the corners of the floors, and scour the fridge. Once you’re able to give the high- traffic areas some extra attention, you’ll just need to maintain things rather than stressing over when you’ll find the time for the deep clean. With limited time, focus your energies on the kitchen, bathrooms, guest quarters, and living room. If you have the resources, it’s the perfect time to hire extra hands. Reach out to professional organizers and house and carpet cleaners. Or ask family, friends, and community members if they know anyone looking to make a bit of holiday money. Have helpers move furniture, sort items, clean, or even prep food.

STEP 4: MAKE SPACE

You want your guests to feel welcome, so give them plenty of space to make their own. Start by clearing off the coat rack or moving items from the coat closet elsewhere. Leave empty hangers so guests have a place to hang coats. The same goes for the shoe rack and drawers or hanging space in the guest room. If you have a guest with special dietary needs, clear out a section of the fridge and label it with their name too.

November 2024

STEP 5: PREPARE GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS

STEP 8: INVENTORY YOUR SUPPLIES

Once you have a rough idea of who you’ll be hosting, start setting up sleeping areas, whether that’s pulling down the Murphy bed, blowing up air mattresses in the basement, or putting sheets on the hide-a-bed. Be sure to provide pillows and plenty of blankets. Extra touches might include a white noise machine, a phone charger, a bedside lamp, reading materials, and slippers. In the guest bathroom, stock up on clean towels, toilet paper, hand soap, and a few small personal hygiene items like toothpaste and shampoo. STEP 6: ADD THE FESTIVE TOUCHES You’re not only welcoming guests into your home, but you’re also celebrating the holidays together. Decorate the space with your choice of lighting, wreaths, centerpieces, wall hangings, and other decor pieces. Along with the sights of the holiday, put on a pot of homemade potpourri made from a mixture of citrus rinds, berries, and cinnamon sticks and queue up the holiday music. If you’re planning to share gifts, it’s never too early to get them wrapped and ready.

If you’ll be having formal meals, take an inventory of your chairs, dishes, glassware, and utensils. Borrow or rent additional items well in advance. For additional seating, dig out the card tables or place a board across two sawhorses. Ensure you have enough tablecloths, as well as napkins. Also, gear up ice production or buy a few bags if you have freezer space to store them. If refrigerator space is limited, prep a cooler for beverages or as overflow for food storage.

STEP 9: SAFETY & ACCESSIBILITY CHECKS

If you’ll be hosting children or pets, be sure to prepare the space accordingly to keep them safe. Tie up curtains and electronic cords, gate off stairways, and provide a portable crib if you have one. Also, lock up sharp and poisonous items. If you have tables with sharp corners, consider moving them to another space. If you have pets of your own, figure out a way to separate food bowls before other pets arrive. For pets that prefer to spend time alone, create a space in a quiet area where they can retreat. If guests have mobility issues, be sure to tape down rugs or remove them. Also, widen walkways to make room for walkers and eliminate common tripping hazards. You may also want to add a few motion lights in hallways and the bathroom to aid guests when they get up during the night.

STEP 7: PLAN SOME ACTIVITIES

You don’t have to entertain your guests every minute, but it’s nice to have some supplies ready if everyone wants to have a game night or is looking for an outdoor activity. For example, you could have a few cookie decorating or gingerbread house kits for the kids, or you could dust off the snowshoes or football, depending on the weather where you live. During the downtime, you can make an easily accessible movie playlist or check the community events calendar to see what’s going on nearby.

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One of your final steps is to check off items on your grocery list and stock the kitchen. Remember to have a variety of drinks, including both alcoholic and nonalcoholic options. If you need to reserve certain ingredients for a recipe or meal, put them in a designated space and label them as off-limits. Prep meals as much as possible so you have the time to engage with guests when they arrive. This might include cutting vegetables, making salads, or preparing appetizers. Have plenty of easy-to-grab snack options on hand. For convenience, freeze some meals ahead of time. Be sure to label them with contents and cooking directions. For breakfast, provide a self-serve station with juices, pastries, and oatmeal so guests can eat on their own schedule. Also, prepare a breakfast casserole for a quick meal that won’t require you to spend all of your time in the kitchen. While preparing for guests can be stressful, when you take the time to consider a few personal touches for the special people in your life, the holidays will be more enjoyable for everyone. Remember, while it’s not easy being a host, your guests are also away from the comforts of their own home. Be sure to provide them with the Wi-Fi network and password information and consider leaving a handwritten note welcoming your guests and letting them know you’re happy to have them. Once everyone has the supplies they need, a comfortable space, and good food, you can focus on creating holiday memories that will last a lifetime. STEP 10: STOCK THE KITCHEN STEP 11: REMEMBER TO ENJOY

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Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing gratitude, and enjoying delicious food that warms both the heart and soul. This year, make your feast unforgettable with some creative takes inspired by traditional dishes, each one sure to bring extra flavor and joy to your celebration. Thanksgiving Treats MOUTHWATERING

APPETIZER:

SIDE DISH:

INGREDIENTS : z 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed z 4 cloves garlic, roasted z 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese z 1/2 cup milk z 1/4 cup butter z Salt and pepper to taste Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Pumpkin Hummus

INGREDIENTS :

z 1 cup roasted pumpkin z 1/4 cup tahini z 1 clove garlic, minced z 1 tsp ground cumin z 2 tbsp olive oil z Salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. In a food processor, blend the roasted pumpkin, tahini, garlic, cumin, and olive oil until smooth. 2. Season with salt and pepper. 3. Serve with pita chips or fresh veggies.

INSTRUCTIONS: 1.

Boil the potatoes until tender, about 15- 20 minutes. 2. Mash them together with roasted garlic, parmesan, milk, and butter until velvety smooth. 3. Season with salt and pepper.

November 2024

DESSERT:

BEVERAGE:

Pecan Pie Tartlets

INGREDIENTS : z 2 cups milk z 1/2 cup brewed coffee or espresso z 1/4 cup pumpkin puree z 2 tbsp sugar Pumpkin Spice Latte

INGREDIENTS :

z 1 cup chopped pecans z 1/2 cup light corn syrup z 1/2 cup brown sugar z 2 large eggs

z 2 tbsp butter, melted z 1 tsp vanilla extract z Tartlet shells (store-bought or homemade) INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a bowl, mix pecans, corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. 3. Pour the mixture into tartlet shells. 4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. 5. Cool before serving.

z 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice z Whipped cream for topping (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. In a saucepan, heat milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until hot but not boiling. 2. Whisk until well combined and frothy. 3. Pour over brewed coffee or espresso. 4. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice if desired.

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CREATE A THANKFUL TREE WITH YOUR FAMILY Thanksgiving Gratitude This Thanksgiving, add a new tradition to your holiday by creating a "Thankful Tree" with your family. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to celebrate the spirit of gratitude that the season embodies. WHAT IS A THANKFUL TREE? A Thankful Tree is an interactive family activity where everyone contributes by adding "leaves" to a tree, each leaf representing something they’re thankful for. It’s a beautiful and tangible way to reflect on your blessings and bring the family closer.

HOW TO CREATE YOUR THANKFUL TREE:

1. Set Up the Tree: Choose a spot in your home where everyone can easily access it. The tree can be as simple or elaborate as you like—a vase of branches, a poster on the wall, or even a small artificial tree. 2. Prepare the Leaves: Cut out leaves from colorful paper or use pre- made tags. Place them near the tree along with pens or markers. 3. Encourage Participation: Invite everyone to add their leaves throughout the day. This can be a reflective morning activity, a pre- dinner ritual, or something done after the meal. The Thankful Tree isn’t just a one-time activity—it’s a keepsake that can grow each year, serving as a visual reminder of all the good things in your life. This Thanksgiving, let the Thankful Tree be the centerpiece of your celebration, fostering a deeper connection and a sense of gratitude among your loved ones.

November 2024

PAINT LIKE THE PROS: TIPS EVERY HOMEOWNER SHOULD KNOW

When it comes to freshening up your home, painting is both one of the easiest and most impactful improvements you can tackle. However, whether you’re simply painting a closet or canvasing the entire exterior of your home, you’ll need to understand some key points about painting and the application process. To get some perspective on what every homeowner should know about painting like a pro, we met with Anne Campbell, Store Manager at Miller Paint in Corvallis, Oregon. She says, “Anyone can paint, but doing it well requires a combination of high-quality tools and the right paint for the job.” She offers several tips to ensure you get the desired results on your next painting task, but sums it up by saying, “Better products equal less work.”

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Every paint brand offers a variety of paint qualities, and while not every job requires the premiere version, Campbell recommends customers, “buy the best paint they can afford.” This is because high-quality paint offers better coverage and protection. In other words, the finished product will look good and perform well, while lower-quality paint can result in drips, adhesion issues, bleeding, and peeling. In addition to quality, you’ll want to come into the paint store prepared to talk about sheen. Campbell says, “Many customers don’t realize there are different paint sheens, but picking the right one is a crucial decision when it comes to appearance and durability. For example, something with a flat or matte finish is great for covering surface imperfections, which is why most contractors choose it for new homes. However, the finish is difficult to clean. On the other hand, sheens like satin and semi-gloss reflect light in a way that can highlight imperfections, but the surface is durable and easier to clean.” CHOOSE THE RIGHT PAINT 1.

You’ll also need to decide between latex or oil-based paint. For most paint jobs, latex will be the easiest to use because it’s a water-based product. That means it’s easy to clean up brushes and other supplies without any special cleaners. Plus, latex dries much faster than oil paint. However, oil paints are often more durable so they might be a good choice for trim, cabinets, and other areas that see high impact. Once you’ve selected a brand, sheen, and type of paint, it’s time to finalize your color selection. Campbell says, “Customers should prepare to spend some time making color decisions. It can be a detailed process. We recommend narrowing down your options by displaying color swatches in different types of lighting within the space. Then get a few paint samples to apply to the wall before committing to full gallons.” Actually putting a small amount of paint on the wall is worth the effort, even though it might mean making a few extra trips back and forth from the paint store. The many slight variations between tints, hues, and bases can result in dramatically different looks. Campbell makes the point saying, “There are many, many shades of white and every other color. Come into a paint selection with more in mind than just blue, white, or green. Think about the undertones and overall effect you want for your space. If this is too overwhelming, hire a color consultant for help.”

November 2024

MEASURE WALLS BEFORE CHOOSING PAINT

Spending a few minutes with a tape measure will help you decide how much paint you’ll need. To do this, simply measure each surface and multiply the height of the wall by the length of the wall. So a 12-foot wall with an 8-foot ceiling height will require 96 square feet of coverage (12’ x 8’). A quick read of the back of the paint can provide an estimated coverage, such as 200-400 square feet. The range can vary quite a bit from one product to another and between different tasks. Campbell warns, “The coverage amounts on the can are an estimate based on optimal preparation and application techniques. If you’re in between ranges, assume you’ll need more rather than less. You’ll find very dry surfaces will soak up a lot of paint while paint that’s in great condition will cover very easily. For example, the north side of your home’s exterior probably doesn’t get a lot of sun, so there will be less damage in that area, while the west side may drink up an additional coat of paint.” Knowing your square footage will also help with the budget. Like most things, paint continues to increase in price, so knowing how much you need will help you make product decisions based on overall cost. Hint: Remember that high-quality paint will provide better coverage and require less paint than lower-quality options.

USE PAINTER’S TAPE PROPERLY

Blue tape, Frog tape, Painter’s tape—whatever you call it, homeowners appreciate this aid for creating clean lines and protecting surrounding surfaces. When you apply painter’s tape along the trim, windows, and other areas you don’t want to paint, press it down firmly to avoid paint bleeding underneath. As you begin to brush, use a light amount of paint, starting on top of the tape. Move your brush away from the tape in short strokes. Avoid running your brush towards the tape or alongside it. Using this technique not only minimizes the amount of paint being pushed beneath the tape, but it creates a thin paint barrier that reduces bleeding with subsequent coats of paint. Also, be sure to match the proper painter’s tape with the project at hand. Campbell says, “Not all tape is the same. It’s important to read the labels for the best results. For example, a heavy-duty tape wouldn’t be used for a delicate surface, whereas a tape labeled for delicate surfaces will offer strong protection without damaging the surface.”

PREPARE THE SURFACE

“If you don’t properly prepare the surface, nothing you put on top of it will fix it,” Campbell explains. Depending on your project, this might mean replacing window trim, sanding down surfaces, filling nail holes, caulking, or spackling. Preparing the surface is the single best way to ensure a good finish for your project. Once you’ve double-checked surface imperfections, be sure to clean walls and ensure they are dry before painting.

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PRIME WHEN NECESSARY

Many paints these days claim to be a “paint and primer in one,” but that’s a little like using a shampoo and conditioner in one - it requires two separate steps for the best results. Think of it as part of that essential surface preparation. If the surface isn’t ready to receive the paint, you won’t get the finish you’re looking for. However, you don’t always need a primer. Talk to your paint professional if you have questions. Campbell highlights, “It’s important to use a primer on bare surfaces if you’re painting over new drywall, are covering a patchy surface, or are making a drastic color change.”

PRACTICE PROPER PAINTING TECHNIQUES

USE QUALITY TOOLS

Is there really a difference between one brush or roller and another? Yes, yes, and emphatically yes—however, it depends on the project at hand. If you’re staining a fence, most applicators will adequately get stain onto the surface without concern for brush marks or roller stippling. On the other hand, smooth deck boards or cabinet faces are very susceptible to the effects of low-quality tools. Be sure to talk with your paint professional about the surfaces you’re working on and the products you’re using to get recommendations for the best brushes and rollers. In addition to brand and quality, be sure to match the purpose of the tool to your project. For instance, a thinner nap on a roller is best for smooth surfaces while a thicker nap will offer better coverage for semi-rough or rough walls. Similarly, an angled-edge brush will aid in ‘cutting in’ around light fixtures, wall brackets, and corners.

When it’s finally time to get started, start with the edging. Cut in around all corners, adjacent walls, and obstacles using an angled brush. Then move on to rolling the larger surfaces. When rolling paint on walls, use a “W” or “M” motion to distribute the paint evenly and avoid streaks. Be sure to not oversaturate your roller. Campbell says, “Perhaps the number one key to a good paint job is applying light coats. It’s much better to apply a few thin coats than to try to glop on paint that will drip and take longer to dry.”

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OTHER PAINTING TIPS:

CONSIDER THE WEATHER The warnings on paint cans are not a suggestion. If it’s too cold or hot, the paint will not function properly. Avoid outdoor painting during rain or if there is rain in the forecast. Also, avoid painting in direct sunlight or in hot or windy conditions. ALLOW ADEQUATE DRYING TIME Let each coat of paint dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying the next. Rushing this process can lead to peeling and uneven coverage. VENTILATE Paint fumes can result in serious health concerns. Open windows and use fans to ventilate the room while painting indoors, especially when using oil-based paints, to help the paint dry faster and reduce fumes. When working with paints containing strong fumes, wear a mask or respirator for protection. STORE PAINTS PROPERLY If you have leftover paint, clean out the groove around the top of the can, called a chime, and tightly seal the lid to keep the paint fresh for future touch-ups. Clearly label the paint can with the space where you used it and the date. Also ensure the paint brand, color, and sheen are all clearly recorded in case you want to match the product in the future. USE A PUTTY KNIFE When you need quick protection for surrounding trim or other surfaces, grab a putty or taping knife. Press it against the surface you want to protect and carefully paint along the edge with a measured stroke. While being a homeowner means you’ll need to manage a variety of home improvement tasks, with the right game plan painting doesn’t have to be one that you dread.

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Is Now The Right Time To Sell?

To Request a Free Housing Market Report: Call me at 630-866-3733 or Email hello@freedomgroupglobal.com .

This is all 100% free with no obligation. After you submit the online questionnaire, you will receive my free report with information that will help you determine your home's value. I recommend printing it out and taking a drive to see the homes I've identified as comparable to yours. See how your home measures up. This will help you get an even more accurate idea of what your home is worth. An appraiser would charge hundreds for this service, but I will provide one at no cost. If you would like my free, professional opinion on the value of your home, I'd be glad to help. We can talk on the phone, or we can meet in person. I look forward to helping you!

Stephen Roake Freedom Group Global at Keller Williams Infinity

630-866-3733 hello@freedomgroupglobal.com freedomgroupglobal.com

To Request a Copy of My Free Home Value Report to Determine What Your Home is Truly Worth, Call 630-866-3733 or Email hello@freedomgroupglobal.com . This is all 100% free with no obligation. After you submit the online questionnaire, you will receive my free report with information that will help you determine your home's value. I recommend printing it out and taking a drive to see the homes I've identified as comparable to yours. See how your home measures up. This will help you get an even more accurate idea of what your home is worth.

An appraiser would charge hundreds for this service, but I will provide one at no cost.

If you would like my free, professional opinion on the value of your home, I'd be glad to help. We can talk on the phone, or we can meet in person.

I look forward to helping you!

Stephen Roake Freedom Group Global at Keller Williams Infinity 630-866-3733 hello@freedomgroupglobal.com freedomgroupglobal.com

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