Max Hahne - Home Sweet Home

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Dear Homeowners, September brings a crisp shift in the air—and with it, new routines and home projects for fall. In this issue of Home Sweet Home, our guide to great fences covers everything from fencing to foliage, so your property boundaries are attractive, functional, and neighbor-approved! If a kitchen refresh is on your fall to-do list, discover smart ways to renovate beautifully without breaking the bank. From layout decisions to budget-friendly upgrades, we show you how to make practical choices that deliver lasting impact. To help you ease into the busy weekdays this fall, our recipe guide is filled with prep-ahead breakfasts, snack bin hacks, and easy one-pan dinners that are perfect for fueling your family without the frenzy.

If you’re tackling the back-to-school bustle, we have some simple home organization tips that bring calm to closets, homework hubs, and morning chaos.

If I can help with any real estate needs this fall—whether it’s buying, selling, or simply exploring what your home is worth—I’d be happy to assist.

Max Hahne ENGEL & VÖLKERS 705-441-5800

max.hahne@evrealestate.com max-hahne.homesweethome.digital

Table of Contents Great Fences! Property Line Solutions That Work 15 04

Fast, Fresh, & Family- Approved:

BACK-TO-SCHOOL RECIPES FOR BUSY SCHOOL DAYS • 5-Minute Freezer- Friendly Breakfast Burritos • No-Bake PB&J Energy Bites • One-Pan Sheet Pan Nachos

Fences and other boundary markers do more than mark your property line, they add privacy, boost curb appeal, and help prevent future disputes. This article explores a range of options for homeowners, from traditional fencing to natural dividers like shrubs, vines, and trees. You’ll also find expert opinions on some of the rules and regulations to consider to ensure your boundaries are both beautiful and compliant.

Ready, Set, School! ORGANIZE YOUR HOME—AND YOUR SANITY—BEFORE THE SCHOOL BELL RINGS Summer’s carefree rhythm can make the back-to-school shift feel abrupt, but a little prep now can save a lot of stress later. Here are some simple, effective ways to reset your home for the new routine— think streamlined closets, paper- station hacks, lunch-packing zones, and more.

Value-Driven Remodel HOW TO GET MORE KITCHEN FOR YOUR MONEY

Want the most kitchen remodel for your money? This article shares smart, value-driven strategies to help you upgrade your kitchen without overspending or losing control. From layout decisions to sourcing materials and knowing when to DIY or hire a pro, these expert tips show you exactly where to invest— and where to hold back—to get the kitchen you want without wasting a cent.

September 2025

Great Fences! Property Line Solutions That Work Neighbors are great. They’re the first to call if your pets escape, and often come to the rescue when you’re short an egg or a cup of sugar. But sometimes neighbors are…too close. Whether you live in a suburban lot or an expansive ranch, there are many reasons you may want to separate your property from that next door. Perhaps you’re looking for a bit more privacy, you want to add a layer of protection, or you need to keep domestic animals contained. Whatever the reason, ensure you have a well-developed plan before you begin putting up fences or creating boundaries. PLANNING YOUR BOUNDARY When considering your options for a boundary between property lines, think about the overall look and function you hope to achieve. Is it to have a fenced yard for a dog? Is it to keep intruders out? What about height? Will a tall item block an important view? In contrast, do you have a minimum height in mind? Should it be see-through or provide complete privacy? As an initial step in the process, talk to your neighbors before beginning any project on adjacent property borders. Let them know what you’re planning and allow them to provide input. Your project may affect their view or property value so it’s the courteous thing to do. You might even find they were also considering building a fence. If that’s the case, they may be willing to split the cost. However, if your

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neighbor doesn’t want to take part in your project, make sure that every portion of your fence or other obstruction stays within the boundaries of your property, even down the road after fences sag and plants reach full maturity. We spoke with Ben Michael from Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law, based in Austin, TX. While this is not legal advice, Ben emphasized the importance of early communication with your neighbor to avoid miscommunication. “The proper placement of the fence can vary depending on your neighbor’s involvement,” explains Ben. His advice: “Talk to them before you do anything.” Your neighbor’s level of involvement can guide your next steps. For example, “If they agree to share a fence with you and split the cost, then the fence can go

RULES & REGULATIONS TO CONSIDER

Save yourself a lot of time, hassle, and headaches by thoroughly researching the legal aspects of creating a property boundary through fencing or landscape design. This article is not legal advice and homeowners should always contact a qualified legal expert in their area for specific advice on their situation. Here, we give an overview of the things you might want to consider if you are planning to add a fence along your property line. If you own your home, the first thing to consider is the CC&Rs for your property. These Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions are the rules and guidelines set by a homeowners association (HOA), developer, or community governing body that limit or regulate property use. They outline things like lot size, shed location, and debris accumulation so that everyone in the neighborhood is on the same page about the expectations. Often, the CC&Rs will address whether you can have a fence and, if you can, what the restrictions might be on that fence. These may include height, material, and even color constraints. Similarly, check with your county for zoning laws, which often outline similar restrictions. Ben Michael adds, “You’ll need to obtain any permits necessary for the project so that you are legally compliant.”

directly on that property line.” What if your neighbor doesn’t want to share the fence? Ben explains, “If your neighbor doesn’t want a fence on their property or doesn’t want to pay for one, you can still install a fence so long as it is clearly on only your property.” Ben Michael says, “Fencing is one of the easiest, most clear ways to create property boundaries. Those boundaries already exist, but fencing just makes them more visually obvious.” Fence placement depends on accurate knowledge of your property boundaries. Before building, it’s always wise to have a recent professional survey and verify where your property line is located to avoid potential disputes. If there’s uncertainty or disagreement, consult with a licensed surveyor or qualified attorney in your area.

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you should be aware of in order to avoid fines. For instance, Seann Malloy points out that “Fences must be set back six inches within many city codes to allow for maintenance without trespass. Failing to account for these specifics can result in encroachment disputes, expensive removals, or judicially required modifications.” Malloy recommends that homeowners “always check local regulations as well as consult with an attorney specializing in property law before any boundary changes.” Malloy also emphasizes that a conversation with your neighbor is a good place to start: “It is so essential to communicate with your neighbors—many of the disputes I mediate could have been resolved with a chat and a copy of the survey. It doesn't matter what you install to define your space, as long as it follows local codes and respects adjacent rights. Remember, good fences make good neighbors— but only if they’re constructed legally.” FENCING OPTIONS Budget is typically another key factor in the planning process. If you plan to build the fence yourself, do some research on material costs. If you’re hiring someone to build your fence, gather a handful of bids to give you a reliable range of expected costs. Taking into consideration your personal needs, property layout, and budget, hammer out a design. Consider material options such as chain link, wood plank, stone walls, vinyl, barbed wire, or chicken wire.

Before you begin digging post holes for a fence, find out exactly where your property line is. Nothing says “Bad neighbor” like adopting property that is not legally yours. Ben Michael advises, “The first thing you’ll want to do before installing fencing is get a professional property survey, which will determine the specific property lines between you and your neighbors. Knowing exactly where the property line is allows you to install a fence entirely on your side so that your neighbor has no legal grounds against you.” Seann Malloy, founder and managing partner at Malloy Law Offices based near Washington, DC, emphasizes the importance of good strategic planning. “As a civil litigation attorney working in the area of property law,” Seann Malloy says, “I've seen how clearly defined boundaries can absolutely prevent years of legal disputes between neighbors.” You’ll also need to know the specific laws that apply in your area, which might include state and local regulations. According to Seann Malloy, “Property lines in the United States. are determined by recorded deeds, plats, and surveys, often related or bound to local zoning codes.” It’s important to look into the specifics even if you are not planning a traditional fence or wall, says Seann Malloy. “Whether you are erecting a fence, planting a hedge, or building a retaining wall, begin with a recent land survey and check municipal setback requirements.” There may also be local regulations related to municipal access for maintenance that

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7 September 2025

SOME COMMON FENCING TYPES INCLUDE: • Vinyl Fencing Panels: Durable, low-maintenance panels used for privacy, security, and decorative purposes in residential yards. • Cedar and Other Wood Fencing Options: Classic choice for privacy and curb appeal; wood fences can be customized in height and style but require regular maintenance. • Brick Wall: Strong, permanent fencing option providing maximum privacy, sound blocking, and a high-end aesthetic. • Rock Wall: Natural stone walls used for boundary marking and landscape design, valued for durability and rustic appearance. • Plexiglass Sheets: Transparent or frosted panels used for windbreaks, pool enclosures, or modern privacy fences while preserving light and sightlines. • Stucco: A cement-based finish applied over masonry or wood frames for a solid, smooth privacy wall with customizable texture and color. • Cement Walls: Heavy-duty fencing ideal for security and noise reduction; often seen in urban or commercial settings but used in residential properties for strong, long-lasting boundaries. • Corrugated Metal Dividers: Industrial-look panels popular in modern or minimalist landscapes, offering privacy and weather resistance. • Screen Fence: Lightweight structures made from lattice, fabric, or composite materials, mainly for partial privacy, wind protection, or decorative accents. • Natural Fences: Living barriers such as hedges, shrubs, or trees that define property lines while blending into the landscape, offering privacy and aesthetic greenery.

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NATURAL DIVIDERS

• Italian Cypress – This plant is popular because it rarely exceeds ten feet in width while reaching towering heights of up to 80 feet. Because of that height, watch for overhead obstructions when planning your location. Choose a sunny spot in Zones 8-10. • Boxwood – Although not a fast-growing option, boxwood creates a reliably dense border. Be aware that boxwood does not do well in direct sunlight, so it is typically most content on the north side of the property. Also, make sure that boxwood is not planted against the house. Depending on the type of boxwood, space them 18-36 inches apart when planting. • Arborvitae – This is perhaps one of the most commonly planted options to create a clean division between properties. They will grow in most regions with little routine maintenance. • Bamboo – Bamboo is easy to plant and grow- -perhaps too easy, as it can quickly become an invasive plant. Roots travel underground and happily pop up on the neighbor’s side of the fence, so bamboo must be contained with a thick ground cover if you don’t want it to spread. Knowing that, though, it is one of the fastest-growing privacy shields you can choose. • Butterfly Bushes – These stunners can grow four to eight feet tall, providing deep purple flowers in mid to late summer. They are also easy to grow and deer-resistant, making them a nice option as a border plant. – Another popular plant, rhododendrons are typically happy in Zones 5-8 with a sufficient amount of water and rich soil. They produce large blooms in the late spring, and the thick stalks make for a dense living wall. • Rhododendrons • Roses – Roses are always an option for security due to their prickly nature, which discourages lurking. They are nice in place of, or in addition to, a fence. Plus, they smell great and are a colorful complement to your yard.

There are many reasons that fencing might not work for your situation. Perhaps your HOA or local zoning laws don’t allow it. Maybe your property is too large to fence in, or you simply prefer a more natural look. If fencing isn’t an option, consider the many natural plants, trees, and shrubs that can create a barrier. In addition to trees and shrubs, natural fences can be made out of many foliage options such as hops, grapes, clematis, and other growing vines. Attach them to a lattice, the side of the pergola, or the fence itself. Tall crops such as corn or sunflowers might fit the bill, too.

PLAN FOR PLANT GROWTH

Rambling bushes such as blackberries can be an effective property divider for larger pieces of land. Not only do they create a visual block, but they also offer security protection with their thorny vines. However, it’s crucial that your landscaping doesn’t encroach on the neighbor’s property. Things like mint, bamboo, and blackberry will quickly take over any surrounding area, so if you choose these or similar options, you’ll need to rein them in. Depending on the size of your lot or land, you may want to use a combination of materials to meet your needs. For example, a larger lot might incorporate garden walls, lattice, trees, shrubs, and fencing.

TREES AND SHRUBS

Trees and shrubs offer a buffer between you and the neighbors. You can select tall trees that produce shade for the summer, or streamline the look with carefully sculpted varieties. Again, plan for the mature size of the tree so it doesn’t cross over the property line as it grows. If this is a concern, shrubs might be a better option. There are many cultivars popular for creating a dividing line. Here are a few:

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Consider the Scope of the Project Simply gutting the space isn’t a cost-effective route for most projects. Before you pick up a sledgehammer, take a hard look at how comprehensive this project needs to be. Are there elements that work as they are? For example, can you resurface cabinets instead of replacing them? Do you need to replace appliances, or can the current models stay in place for a while? Can the peninsula be converted into a breakfast bar instead of moving it to make room for a table? While considering the scope of the project, it’s critical to factor in major elements such as electrical or plumbing work. Don’t make cuts that can set you up for potential water leaks or fires down the road. If it’s time to upgrade the original building materials, do it during a remodel. It’s equally important to evaluate the footprint of your kitchen. As Rachel Blindauer, an interior designer who splits her time between St. Louis, Massachusetts, and Florida, explains, “The biggest cost-driver in kitchens is not materials—it’s movement. Plumbing and electrical relocations eat up your budget fast. Keeping appliances and sinks where they are allows you to spend on finishes and fixtures instead of foundation.” Setting a realistic scope requires mental effort but protects your project from unnecessary expansion. With the help of designers, contractors, and research, challenge yourself to make deliberate decisions about what stays and what changes.

A kitchen remodel is a major investment. Updates to cabinetry, countertops, flooring, backsplashes, paint, sinks, faucets, appliances, lighting, and windows can easily push a project into five- or six-figure territory. While that might be a worthwhile investment, most homeowners want to ensure their remodel feels intentional and aligned with their goals. The key is protecting your design vision without allowing costs to spiral out of control. With that in mind, we spoke to industry experts who shared strategies to help you approach your remodel with clarity and control. Kitchen for Your Money VALUE-DRIVEN REMODEL How to Get More

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Make Value-Conscious Decisions about Appliances Rachel adds, “A well-designed kitchen doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, some of the most compelling spaces I’ve created were built on constraint—which, if handled with intention, becomes a kind of design discipline. Budget- friendly doesn’t mean bare-bones. It means knowing exactly where your dollars matter most.” Set a Realistic Budget A well-planned budget is your best tool for staying in control of your remodel investment. Plan your project thoroughly before work begins. Gather bids from contractors, consider which tasks you might handle yourself, and get specific about your preferred materials. Confirm availability and factor in shipping and delivery fees. In addition to labor and materials, include allowances for eating out while your kitchen is under construction, debris removal, and any tools you may need to buy or rent. Planning each line item helps you stay in charge of spending as work progresses. Even with careful planning, surprises happen. Build a buffer by adding 30% to your projected costs. You may not use all of it, but that safety net helps absorb the unexpected. Brittney Luedecke, owner and lead designer for Signature Styles by Brit, offers this perspective: “Keep your appliances if they’re still working—upgrade them over time. Also, there is no shame in shopping the scratch-and- dent section [ie, floor models]. Especially for fridges or the range—you can hide side dents with a built panel or with your cabinetry. Pro tip: if you need to replace your range, replace it with a slide-in range versus freestanding; this will clean up the visual clutter and make it feel more custom. Slide-in ranges now cost about the same as a freestanding.”

Smart Sourcing for Materials There are countless ways to make intentional choices about where and how you source materials for your kitchen remodel: When shopping, prioritize appliances that offer durability, reliability, and long-term energy efficiency. Avoid the temptation to focus solely on price. Investing in higher-quality brands may reduce repair and replacement costs down the line. Watch for sales, holiday deals, and appliance bundles that provide value when buying multiple pieces together.

Shop around to compare pricing.

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Look for home improvement store discounts. Consider slightly used appliances that still carry a warranty.

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Explore bulk flooring warehouses.

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Check membership stores like Costco or Sam’s Club. Visit second-hand sources. Brittney shared, “Salvage yards are goldmines. I once found a brand-new Kohler cast iron sink for $50—just a contractor's misorder!” Browse Habitat for Humanity, Facebook Marketplace, and estate sales for unique finds.

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Be Strategic with DIY

Cabinets: Where to Save, Where to Invest

Professional help adds value, but there may be tasks you can confidently handle yourself. Painting, installing a backsplash, or swapping hardware might fall into your skill set. The important thing is knowing when to call in experts to avoid costly mistakes. Brittney notes, “One big mistake I see is when homeowners splurge on high-end materials but try to DIY the install without the right skillset. If those materials are installed incorrectly, they often have to pay twice—once for the materials, and again to fix the issue with a pro. So, knowing your strengths (and when to call in help) is key. That’s where working with a designer or hiring a quality contractor can actually save money. I help clients avoid expensive errors, like placing an island too close to appliances or creating poor workflow zones. It’s those small missteps that can have a big impact on the daily function of a space.” If DIY isn't your strength, consider trading skills with friends or family who have the experience you need.

If your cabinets are structurally sound, consider refinishing them rather than replacing them. Repainting or swapping hardware can deliver a big visual impact without the full replacement cost. Rachel says, “If your cabinet boxes are in good shape, don’t rip them out. A fresh coat of paint, updated hardware, and possibly new doors or fronts can save thousands. I’ve seen dated kitchens revived with just paint, patience, and a pro-level sprayer.” For smaller updates, she adds, “Swapping out standard knobs for elevated hardware is like tailoring a budget suit. It doesn’t just improve function—it telegraphs intent. Brass, matte black, or even leather- wrapped pulls can take inexpensive cabinetry from builder-basic to bespoke.” If replacement is necessary, maintaining your existing cabinet layout can help manage costs. Semi-custom options often offer a smart balance between quality and price. Brittney suggests, “Skip cabinet inserts for now—those clever storage upgrades can always be added later.”

September 2025

Countertop Considerations

Don’t Overlook the Small Touches While much attention goes to big-ticket items, smaller design elements can make a major impact. Brittney reminds us, “Sometimes it’s the little details that make the biggest impact— adding a runner rug, a few plants, a stylish knife block, or some cute curtains can make the whole space feel custom, cozy, and elevated without spending a ton.” A kitchen remodel doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or out of control. By focusing on clear priorities, intentional sourcing, and smart trade-offs between DIY and professional help, you can create a kitchen that feels thoughtfully planned and fully yours. You don’t have to cut corners, just focus your investment where it matters most. A well-executed kitchen remodel enhances the long-term value of your home. As one of the most scrutinized spaces during resale, a functional and stylish kitchen can increase market appeal, boost return on investment, and become a major differentiator if you decide to sell. Even if you’re staying put, thoughtful upgrades ensure that the space serves your lifestyle beautifully for years to come.

Countertops make a visual statement and get heavy use. Aim for surfaces that balance function, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Brittney suggests, “Don’t overlook laminate countertops—they’ve come a long way and look beautiful on a budget. Butcher blocks are also an excellent way to save and warm up the kitchen. Shopping remnants at the stone yard is a great way to save as well and get unique pieces.” Rachel adds, “If budget allows, invest in the surface you touch every day. A mid-priced quartz or honed granite gives you the look and feel of luxury without venturing into marble territory.”

Tools and Equipment

Before buying specialty tools, consider whether you’ll use them again. Borrow or rent when it makes sense, especially for one-time tasks like cutting stone or spraying cabinets.

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Fast, Fresh & Family-Approved Easy Recipes for Busy School Days

Back-to-school season brings new routines, tighter schedules, and less time in the kitchen. While organizing supplies, creating drop zones, and managing schedules are essential to smoother mornings, what you put on the table matters just as much. Fueling your family doesn’t have to mean early wake-ups or complicated prep. These simple, prep-ahead recipes are designed with busy parents in mind—because when mornings are calm and bellies are full, everyone starts the day off right.

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5-Minute Freezer-Friendly Breakfast Burritos

Instructions: 1. Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Scramble over medium heat until cooked through. 2. Let cool, then stir in cheese, meat, and veggies. 3. Lay tortillas flat and spoon mixture into the center of each. Roll into burritos and wrap individually in foil or parchment. 4. Freeze in a gallon freezer bag. Reheat in the microwave (about 90 seconds) or oven (350°F for 15 minutes).

Perfect for: Grab-and-go mornings Ingredients z 8 large eggs

z ½ cup milk z ½ tsp salt z ¼ tsp black pepper z 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) z 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage or crumbled bacon z 1 cup sautéed veggies (peppers, onions, or spinach—optional) z 6-8 flour tortillas (8-inch size)

Tip : Add hash browns or swap in black beans for a vegetarian option.

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No-Bake PB&J Energy Bites

Perfect for: Quick, crowd-pleasing dinners Ingredients z 1 bag tortilla chips z 1 cup cooked, seasoned ground beef or rotisserie chicken z 1 cup shredded cheese z ½ cup black beans or corn (optional) z Toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped lettuce, tomatoes Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. 2. On a baking sheet, layer chips, protein, beans, and cheese. 3. Bake for 8–10 minutes until cheese is melted. 4. Serve family-style with toppings on the side. One-Pan Sheet Pan Nachos (Weeknight Win!)

Perfect for: Lunchboxes or after-school snacks Ingredients z 1 cup rolled oats z ½ cup peanut butter or almond butter z 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup z 2 tbsp chia seeds or ground flaxseed z ¼ cup freeze-dried strawberries or raspberries, crushed z 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (optional) Instructions: 1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until fully combined. 2. Roll into 1-inch balls and refrigerate until firm (about 30 minutes). 3. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Tip: Use sunflower seed butter for nut-free schools.

Tip: Add a fried egg on top for a breakfast-for- dinner twist.

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As the leisurely days of summer end, the hustle and bustle of the school year takes over—often before we’ve had time to prepare for the transition. This year, don’t let morning chaos start the day off on the wrong foot. Instead, prepare for the influx of important papers, time-crunched meal prep, and schedule shifts by getting your home organized for what’s to come. Tips to Transition Back into the School Routine Start with Cleaning Out Whether last year’s school paper organization consisted of easily identifiable baskets for each child or a random pile on the entry table, now is the time to get them sorted and filed. Keep a few special works of art and projects, and recycle the rest. Next, clean out old backpacks and lunchboxes you plan to reuse. Ditch old folders, binders, and supplies in preparation for replacements. In the bedrooms, purge the closets, too. Students of every age should try on all school-appropriate clothing. It’s amazing how much a child can grow during a single summer break, so ensure the jeans from last year still fit. Also, try on the shoes. You don’t want to be surprised by shoes that are falling apart, missing laces, or have become too small. Make piles as you go, so you know what you can part with.

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Finally, hit up the pantry. Check expiration dates and dispose of stale foods to make room for a new inventory of school-friendly options.

Create a Paper Station Even in a world of digital communication, the amount of paper produced during the school year is staggering. Be ready for the onslaught with a designated area for homework, permission slips, and informational flyers. Provide an in-basket where your student puts things for you to review. Once you review them, move them to a tote in an out-of-the-way place like a bedroom or office. Set up an out-basket for papers, sharing items, and projects your student needs to take back to school. Keep this near the keys or front door so it doesn’t get overlooked. Also, create a to-do basket for the items that need follow-up. This is the spot for reminders about upcoming events, notifications of overdue lunch accounts, fundraising order forms, and permission slips that need to be signed. In the clothing department, evaluate what your student needs. Cover the basics for the first few weeks. Otherwise, it’ll be beneficial to wait a bit on restocking the closet. There are a few reasons for this. First, clothing often goes on clearance after the flurry of back-to-school shopping is over. Second, your child might discover a different style after spending a few weeks around classmates. Third, you and your student will have a better idea of what’s working and what’s not after a trial run. Fourth, the weather will likely be getting colder as the seasons change, which means transitioning into a different type of clothing and shoes.

Take an Inventory The cleaning out process not only allows you to get rid of unneeded items, but it also allows you to take an inventory of what you already have, so you don’t find yourself buying things you don’t need. Grab that school-supply list and start making notes. You might find an untouched box of crayons, an unused bottle of glue, or a set of mechanical pencils in last year’s backpack. Similarly, you could discover a nearly new lunchbox or an extra supply of notebooks. Check off what you already have.

Tip: Take a picture of the list so it’s handy when you’re out shopping in the upcoming weeks.

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Organize School Supplies Help your student stay organized during the school day. Start by having them use a label maker or marker to put their name on backpacks, coats, sweaters, sweatshirts, lunchboxes, and other frequently-used items. Also, label all pencil boxes, calculators, binders, and other supplies. Tip: For easy reference, color-coordinate notebooks and folders for each subject. That way, your student will automatically know the green folder and green spiral notebook are both for science, while the yellow ones are for English. Inside folders, label homework on one side so it can easily be stored and retrieved without getting lost in the paperwork shuffle. For the next level of organization, create a binder for each class, including a spiral notebook, folders, paper, and a pencil pouch inside. While you’re at it, create one space at home for all things related to school supplies. It can be an old desk, a drawer, a cabinet, or a trunk. Use it to store all binders, paper, folders, writing utensils, protractors, and other supplies so you can keep tabs on the inventory as the school year progresses. Organize Closets Now that you’ve purged all the too-small items and purchased a few new articles of clothing, it’s time to organize the closet with school in mind. On one side, place clothing that is not appropriate for school. On the other, sort clothing in a way that works for you. Some ideas include long sleeve to short sleeve, color groupings, or complete outfits on each hanger. You could also get a clothing sorter that hangs from the rod. This works great for younger kids. Simply place outfits for each day of the week in separate sections so they can quickly pick from limited options.

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Cut Kitchen Chaos With limited time in the morning schedule, automate the processes of making breakfast and putting together lunches. Maximize efficiency by leveraging space in your pantry, drawers, cupboards, and refrigerator. Within each space, make zones. For example, designate one drawer for grab-and-go lunch items like fruit roll- ups, granola bars, and raisins. Each week, go through the open boxes and bags of chips, nuts, pretzels, and crackers. Place serving-size amounts into sandwich bags and drop them into the drawer for quick access. Then do the same thing in the refrigerator by establishing a shelf or drawer that is reserved for breakfast or lunch items. Create single servings of grapes, cheese, leftover pizza, and pasta salad that are ready to go. Label items with dates as you unpack the groceries or put items into snack bags so that nobody has to ask how old the lunchmeat or string cheese is. On the counter, use a fruit bowl for quick grabs like mandarins, small apples, pears, and bananas. Ensure storage containers, paper bags, and sandwich bags are in stock and easily accessible. Also, stock up on reusable or disposable utensils. Set up the Drop Station This is the spot for the backpacks, coats, hats, scarves, umbrellas, and shoes. Try to organize a spot near an entryway. That can be in the garage, inside the front door, or near the laundry room entrance. Provide hooks, baskets, and shoe space for each person. This can also be a good spot for the paper station if it works with your home’s layout.

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other important information to the calendar. Include recurring practices and other after-school activities, along with carpool or pickup information, so everyone is on the same page. Each week, make a point to review the calendar of events and communicate any changes.

Checklist for Morning Chores

Having a routine means constantly asking the kids to do the same things every day. Save yourself the angst by creating a checklist. In the morning, this might include putting homework into backpacks, packing lunch, feeding pets, brushing teeth, etc. In the afternoon, it might serve as a reminder to wash hands, do chores, and complete homework. This is even a handy tool for adult students to help them remember items they might otherwise forget! Tip: For younger children, completing the checklist without having to be asked is a great lesson in responsibility. Reward those efforts with a success chart. At the end of each week, if your child maintained a good attitude, completed tasks consistently, and otherwise showed independent action, reward them with a treat, a small toy, or game time.

Electronic Organization

Before the school year begins, update your phone and email contacts. Create an email file for school information, or make a file for each child. Similarly, add the contact information for the school office, administration, and teachers. That way, there is no question about how to contact them or identify texts when you receive them. If you have a Facebook account, follow the school and your child’s group for up-to-date information.

Tip: If you’ve been considering an internet change for higher speeds or a different provider, get it in place before the school year begins.

Prepare for Emergencies

Finally, make sure you’re prepared for unexpected events when the kids are away from home. Refill prescriptions, ensuring there is an adequate supply at home and a reserve available at the school office or nursing center for days when your child misses a dose or has an emergency. This goes for things like food or bee sting allergies, but also applies to daily meds. Although you may have completed emergency contact information when you registered your child in the spring, make sure doctor and dentist contact information is current. If your insurance information has changed, be sure to update that as well. Getting prepared for the school year means investing some time upfront. But with organizational tools in place, your home can remain productive and peaceful during the back-to-school transition. Okay, maybe not entirely calm and stress-free, but at least less chaotic.

Centralized Schedule

While organizing clothing, supplies, and paperwork is essential to a smooth school routine, you’ll also need to manage activities and important events. Get a jump on planning with a shared digital calendar, a wall calendar, or a whiteboard. Regardless of your preferred method, ensure that everyone has access and understands the expectations. As you receive emails, texts, and correspondence from instructors, add back-to-school nights, concerts, sports functions, conferences, and

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Is Now The Right Time to Sell?

To Request a No Obligation Housin g Market Report: Call me at 705-441-5800 or Email max.hahne@e vrealestate.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 pr ovide 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!

Max Hahne ENGEL & VÖLKERS

705-441-5800 max.hahne@evrealestate.com max-hahne.homesweethome.digital

What's your next move? My recent book outlines the principles behind my own success and how I help others succeed in a quickly changing market. Learn strategies, secrets, tips, and much more from an industry insider!

Read it now or request a free copy at maxhahne.bestlocalexpert.com

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