Building Forward

Author: Janice Glessner

How to Help Kids Adjust to a New School

Moving to a new home can be an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming, especially if you have school-aged children. The thought of transitioning to a new school can be frightening for kids, but there are things you can do as a parent to help make the process easier. Here are some tips to help your kids transition to a new school and ease any anxiety they may be experiencing.

Start talking early

Before you move, start talking to your kids about their new school. Talk about the positive changes that come with a new school such as new friends, activities, and experiences. Encourage your kids to ask questions, and address any concerns or fears they might have about the new school. Starting early can help ease anxiety as it gives kids time to mentally prepare for this big transition.

Visit the school

If possible, arrange a tour of the new school before your move. This will give your children the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the new environment. Talk to the principal, guidance counselor, and teachers so they can get insights on what to expect academically and socially. Take time to explore the campus with them; point out where their classrooms are, where the bathrooms are, and where they can access other amenities. This can help them feel more confident and less intimidated on their first day.

Get involved in extracurricular activities

Find activities that interest your child to allow them an opportunity to meet new friends that share similar interests. From sports to activity clubs to music programs, most schools offer a variety of extracurricular activities. By getting involved, you and your child can make new friends and build relationships with other families in the community.

Communicate with teachers

Communicating with your child’s new teacher is crucial in helping them transition smoothly. You can arrange a meeting with the teacher to discuss your child’s strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles. This can enable the teacher to understand your child better, provide appropriate academic support and make the transition easier.

Establish a routine

Keeping a routine is essential when transitioning to a new school. It gives kids a sense of familiarity and consistency, which can reduce anxiety and help them feel more in control. Make sure to keep meal times, bedtime, and study time consistent. This will also help your children focus on the new academic demands and retain the information more effectively.

Be patient and listen

Transitions can be tough for children, and they may experience a variety of emotions. Be patient with your children and listen to how they are feeling. Address their concerns and answer their questions honestly. Acknowledge that change can be challenging, but remind them of the opportunities that come with moving to a new place.

Transitioning to a new school can be a difficult process for children, but there are ways you can help make it more manageable. Encourage your kids to get involved in the local community and extracurricular activities, maintain a routine, and communicate with their teachers. Remember to be supportive and provide an optimistic outlook for your children. With your help, your children can be successful in their new school, make new friends, and thrive in their new community.

New construction homes by S&A Homes

S&A Homes offers a variety of new home communities and floorplans in the most sought-after locations with proximity to great schools in Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. To learn more about the available home designs and quick move-in homes, call 1-855-SAHome1 or visit SAHomeBuilder.com.

August 8, 2023
9 Ways to Reduce Stress from Buying a Home

Buying a home is an exciting milestone for many first-time homebuyers, but it can also be a stressful process. From finding the perfect home to securing financing, there are several steps that can cause anxiety for potential homeowners. However, with the right tips and guidance, you can reduce the stress of home buying and enjoy the excitement of this significant life event. In this guide, we’ll share some tips on reducing the stress of home buying for first-time and seasoned homebuyers.

Educate Yourself on the Home Buying Process

One of the main sources of stress for first-time homebuyers is feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the homebuying process. The best way to combat this is by educating yourself on the process before you begin. Research different neighborhoods and schools, learn the difference between fixed and adjustable rate mortgages, and familiarize yourself with the various fees and costs associated with home buying. By understanding the process, you’ll be able to anticipate potential roadblocks and feel more confident in your decision-making.

Get Pre-Approved for Financing

Financing is one of the most significant factors in the homebuying process. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will give you a better idea of your budget and help you identify homes within your price range. This will also give you an advantage in the competitive housing market, as sellers will take you more seriously if you’ve already been pre-approved. While the mortgage process can be lengthy and tedious, getting pre-approved early on can reduce the stress of uncertainty and provide peace of mind.

Set Realistic Expectations

When you are looking to buy a home, set realistic expectations. Remember that no house is perfect, and there will always be compromises. It is crucial to develop a realistic list of your needs and wants for your ideal home. Your real estate agent can help you narrow down your search, manage your expectations, and find the best properties that meet your criteria.

Focus on Your Priorities

When we daydream about buying a house, we tend to envision a home with lots of amenities like an infinity pool or a big, beautiful garden. While these are great, your purchase decision should be based on priorities. Prioritize the important features that meet your needs, like the number of bedrooms, proximity to your job, schools, and other facilities. Focus on your priorities instead of getting caught up in an elaborate photo of a house that may not meet your needs.

Be Flexible

Being flexible with time is crucial when purchasing a house. Home buying may take longer than anticipated, and sometimes your perfect home may slip away from your hands. Sometimes it’s necessary to compromise on a few things when finding the perfect home. Even if your dream home isn’t available at the moment, don’t give up. Keep checking websites, join online groups, and staying in contact with your agent can help you stay updated with the latest developments.

Take Your Time

Don’t rush the homebuying process. Take your time to research the neighborhoods you’re interested in, and tour properties with your agent. Buying a home can be a significant investment, and rushing the process can lead to regrets later on.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Despite your best efforts to be prepared, unexpected things can still happen. Realize that a few hitches may arise during the homebuying process. However, by maintaining an open mind, flexibility, and a positive attitude, you can get through these situations with less stress and frustration. Be prepared for surprises, delays, and additional costs that can arise.

Take Care of Yourself During the Process

Home buying can be a time-consuming and emotional process, so it’s essential to take care of yourself during this time. Take breaks when needed, prioritize self-care activities like exercise and meditation, and rely on your support system. It’s essential to manage your emotional well-being, so you’re not overwhelmed by the experience. By taking care of yourself, you’ll be better equipped to handle any difficulties and enjoy the excitement of finding your dream home.

Trust the Process

Finally, trust the process. While feeling anxious during the homebuying process is natural, remember that you’re not alone. There are many people involved in the transaction, from your real estate agent to your builder to your lender. Everyone is working toward the same goal: to help you find the right home. Trust that the professionals you’ve chosen to work with will guide you through the process and help you make the best decision for your budget and lifestyle.

Home buying can be an overwhelming experience, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these tips, you can reduce the stress of homebuying and enjoy the excitement of finding your dream home. Remember, this is a significant life event, and with the right guidance and support, you can make it a memorable and enjoyable experience.

New Construction Homes by S&A Homes

Whether you’re looking for your starter home or forever home, S&A Homes offers a diverse selection of home designs to accommodate a variety of home buyers throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Learn more about new home opportunities from S&A Homes, including quick move-in homes and build on your land opportunities, by calling call 1-855-SAHOME1 or visiting us online at SAHomeBuilder.com.

August 1, 2023
Surprising Benefits of Downsizing Your Home

In a society that often measures success by how big and luxurious your home is, downsizing may not seem like the most appealing option. But surprisingly, many people are choosing to move to smaller homes. Why? Because they have discovered the many benefits of downsizing. From saving money to simplifying your life, downsizing can be a liberating and joyful experience. So, if you’re considering a move to a smaller home but need some motivation, here are some surprising benefits you can experience from downsizing your home.

Less clutter

One of the main benefits of downsizing your home is that it forces you to declutter and get rid of items that you no longer need or use. This can be a liberating process as it allows you to let go of things that may have been weighing you down for years. Downsizing can also help you prioritize what’s important in your life and make it easier to enjoy the things that matter most.

Lower costs

A significant advantage of downsizing your home is that it can save you a lot of money. A smaller home means lower mortgage payments, lower utility bills, and less money spent on maintenance and repairs. You’ll also likely have less space to fill up with expensive furniture and decor items. This can be especially beneficial for those who are approaching retirement or who want to live a more frugal lifestyle.

More quality time

By downsizing your home, you may find you have more quality time to spend with your family and friends. With less space to clean and maintain, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy your home. You may also find that downsizing your home brings your family closer together, promoting more communication and intimacy, as smaller homes encourage closer interaction and cooperation. With a smaller space, your family members will be encouraged to spend more time together in community spaces rather than locking themselves in their rooms.

A more sustainable lifestyle

Living in a smaller home can also be an environmentally friendly choice. A smaller home means using less energy to heat and cool your living space, which can help reduce your carbon footprint. You’ll also likely have less space to accumulate household items that are not very sustainable. By living in a smaller home, you are doing your part to protect the planet and create a more sustainable future.

A greater sense of freedom and flexibility

Downsizing your home can offer a greater sense of freedom and flexibility. With less space and fewer possessions to worry about, you’ll have more time and energy to pursue your passions and hobbies. You’ll also have more freedom to travel and explore the world, knowing that your home is secure and low-maintenance while you’re away.

Improved mobility

For older adults or people with mobility issues, downsizing to a smaller home can be a game-changer. A smaller home means less space to navigate, making it easier to move around and access all parts of the home.

Downsizing can help you to live the life you want, with fewer distractions and more joy. Whether you’re downsizing for an upcoming retirement, a change of lifestyle, or simply need a smaller space, downsizing your home offers a unique opportunity to start fresh and find joy in a simpler, more manageable way of living. If you are considering downsizing your home, take some time to weigh the pros and cons, and consider how it could benefit you and your family in the long term.

S&A Homes new construction homes

Whether you’re looking for a new home for retirement or simply prefer one with smaller square footage, we offer a variety of floorplan designs to fit every lifestyle. Contact S&A Homes at 1-855-SAHome1 or visit SAHomeBuilder.com to learn more about our new home communities and available quick move in homes throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania.

Do you already have land in the area you’d like to build on? Check out our Build on Your Land program to learn about our building process.

July 25, 2023
Home Warranty vs. Home Insurance: What’s the Difference?

Your home is your haven, the place where you and your loved ones feel safe and secure. However, disasters can strike at any time and cause damage that sometimes can be quite expensive to repair. Luckily, you can protect your home by getting the right insurance and warranty policies. Although you may have heard these terms before, do you know the difference between them?

Many homeowners tend to mix up these policies. While they both protect your home in their respective ways, they serve different purposes. We’ll explain the key differences between home insurance and warranty and why getting both can be essential for your peace of mind and financial security.

What is home insurance?

Home insurance is a type of coverage that pays for damage to your home or belongings due to unexpected events such as fire, storms, and theft. It’s required by mortgage lenders and can also provide liability protection in case someone gets injured on your property.

Home insurance policies cover damages to the physical structure of your home and your personal property like furniture, appliances, electronics, and other items. Depending on the policy, you may also be covered for loss of use or additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable due to covered damage. It’s important to note that not all types of damage are covered by home insurance and some exclusions or limitations may apply.

What is a home warranty?

A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of home appliances and systems that fail due to normal wear and tear. Commonly covered items include heating and cooling systems, plumbing, electrical, kitchen appliances, and water heaters.

Unlike insurance, which covers unexpected events, a home warranty is designed to cover the costs of repairing or replacing items that are likely to break down over time due to regular use. Home warranty plans require an annual fee and may also require a service fee or deductible for each service call.

Why you may need both home insurance and home warranty

Home insurance and home warranty are different types of protection, but are complementary and can provide a comprehensive insurance plan for your home. Your insurance covers the structure and contents of your home, including any liability to any guests on your property. Your warranty helps manage the high costs of repairing or replacing appliances and systems that aren’t usually covered by insurance.

Suppose a severe storm hits your home, causing flooding and damage to some of your belongings. In that case, your home insurance policy will step in to cover the damage, replacement, and repair costs.

On the other hand, if your air conditioner or refrigerator suddenly breaks down due to normal wear and tear, the cost of repairs or replacement may be expensive. With a home warranty, you can get it fixed or replaced without paying the high cost out of pocket.

Taking care of your home is essential for your comfort, safety, and financial stability. By understanding the differences, you can make informed decisions about the types of protection you need and ensure that your home is adequately covered. Keep in mind that every home and homeowner is different, so it’s important to compare policies and speak with a knowledgeable insurance agent or warranty provider to find the best options for your unique situation. With the right protection, you can relax and enjoy your home without worrying about unexpected repairs or damages.

Customer Care from S&A Homes

At S&A Homes, we provide an unbeatable, fully transferable 10-year warranty for our homebuyers’ convenience and peace of mind. We have a dedicated Customer Care Department available to simplify the claims process and make sure nothing goes unnoticed. It’s one of the many reasons why we have one of the highest customer satisfaction rates in the homebuilding industry!

Find Your New Home with S&A Homes

We hope you’ll consider S&A Homes when you’re ready to make the move into a new construction home. We invite you to learn more about new home opportunities from S&A Homes throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Call 1-855-SAHome1 or visit SAHomeBuilder.com to learn more about our new home communities, build on your lot opportunities, floorplans, and more.

July 18, 2023
How to Create a Multipurpose Space

Do you have a spare room in your home that you’re not quite sure how to utilize? Maybe it’s become a catch-all for miscellaneous household items or a neglected space that rarely sees any activity. Or perhaps you’re just not sure how to make the most of it. Fear not, because, with a little planning and creativity, you can easily transform that empty room into a functional, multipurpose space that meets all of your needs. Check out these top tips for creating a multipurpose room that works for you.

Start with a plan

Before diving headfirst into your project, take the time to create a plan. Create a list of all the potential uses and prioritize them based on their frequency. This will help you determine the most important features and furniture pieces you need to incorporate into the room. Will it be a home office, a workout room, a guest room, or all of the above? Consider the size of the room and how it can be divided to meet your needs.

Choose versatile furniture

When shopping for furniture for your new space, opt for versatile items that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a Murphy bed can transform a guest room into a functional office space. A storage ottoman can double as seating and stow away extra linens. And a large sectional sofa can be split into smaller pieces for a more flexible seating arrangement.

Opt for neutral color palettes

Unlike specific room designs like a baby’s room or a home theater, multipurpose rooms should have a neutral color palette. Neutral colors like beige, grey, or white allow you to switch things up in the future when you want to change the room’s functionality. Muted colors provide a calm and relaxing atmosphere that works well with many room designs. You can add accent colors to make the space more vibrant, but make sure they complement each other.

Select the right lighting

The right lighting can make a big difference in the functionality and comfort of your multipurpose room. Make sure to invest in a variety of lighting options including overhead fixtures, table lamps, and floor lamps. Consider installing dimmers for flexible lighting options that can adjust the mood according to the activity.

Create zones

While a multipurpose room has many uses, one of the main ways to keep it organized and functional is by creating zones. This means dividing the room into separate areas based on their purpose, such as a workspace or a sleeping area. Use furniture arrangements, like area rugs to delineate these zones. Creating zones also helps to reduce clutter and keeps the space tidy.

Don’t skimp on storage

With a multipurpose room, it’s important to have plenty of storage options to keep everything organized and clutter-free. Consider built-in cabinetry, floating shelves, and storage benches to maximize the space. And don’t forget about creative storage solutions, like hidden storage compartments or under-bed storage boxes. This will make it easy to transform the room into something else when it is time for a change.

Make it personal

Your new multipurpose room should reflect your lifestyle and personality. Incorporate décor that you love and that inspires you, from throw pillows and wall art to rugs and curtains. And don’t shy away from adding personal touches, like family photos or mementos from your travels.

Test drive your space

Once your new multipurpose room is complete, take the time to test drive it. Live in the space for a few weeks and evaluate how it’s working for you. Do you need additional lighting? More storage? A different seating arrangement? Tweak the details until you find the perfect balance of function and style.

Creating a multipurpose room can be a daunting task, but with a little planning and effort, it’s possible to create a space that works for you and your family. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a functional and stylish multipurpose room that you’ll love spending time in.

Multipurpose spaces are a great way to customize your home to fit your family’s needs. Do you simply need more room? S&A Homes has several floorplans that offer offers flexible spaces so you can customize it to fit how you live. Visit us at SAHomebuilder.com or call 1-855-SAHome1 to learn about our new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania.

July 11, 2023
Budgeting for New Homeowners: What to Expect

Becoming a homeowner is such a rewarding moment, but it’s also a significant financial responsibility. Apart from paying for your mortgage, several expenses need to be factored into your budget to maintain and protect your property.

We’ll discuss some often-overlooked expenses you should include in your budget for the first year of homeownership. By understanding these costs, you can start planning and budgeting accordingly, ensuring you maintain your property and successfully navigate your first year as a homeowner.

Mortgage Payment

The first bill you’ll need to budget for is your mortgage payment. A mortgage payment is made up of four main parts: principal, interest, taxes, and insurance. The principal pays down your loan amount while interest covers the cost of borrowing, including your interest rate and remaining balance. The amount of interest you pay is determined by your interest rate and your loan balance.

Taxes and Insurance

The third component of your mortgage payment is taxes. Property taxes is one of the significant expenses that come with owning a home. Taxes are usually based on your home’s value, location, and local tax rates. These taxes can be due quarterly or annually, depending on where you live.

The final part of your mortgage payment includes insurance. Homeowners insurance is required to protect your property in case of theft, natural disasters, or accidents. The cost of your premium will vary depending on factors such as your location, the age of your home, and the level of coverage you want. Remember that insurance policies cover different types of losses, so make sure to read and understand the terms of your policy.

If your down payment was less than 20%, your lender may require private mortgage insurance (PMI). This insurance protects your lender in case you are unable to repay your mortgage. This amount is typically added to your mortgage payment.

You have two options for paying your property taxes and home insurance. The first option is to pay them yourself directly. You will need to figure out how much to set aside each month to cover these costs. The second option is to establish an escrow account with your lender to manage these payments. Each mortgage payment will add 1/12th of the total annual bill to cover these costs and will issue payment when they’re due.

Utilities

Utility bills such as electricity, water, and gas make up a significant portion of homeownership expenses. You should anticipate higher utility costs than when renting, especially if you have a larger home or more family members. When budgeting for your first year, take note of the average utility bills in your area and leave some cushion for fluctuations.

Home Maintenance and Repairs

As a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to keep your property in good condition. This means setting aside money for routine maintenance and repairs like cleaning gutters, mowing the lawn, fixing a leaky faucet, and so on. You should also be prepared for unexpected repairs like a damaged roof or plumbing issues. A general rule of thumb is to set aside 1-2% of your home’s value for maintenance costs.

When you purchase a new home with S&A Homes, we provide our buyers an express 10-year limited warranty on their new home so you can enjoy peace of mind.

Homeowners Association Fees

If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowner’s association (HOA), you will likely be required to pay a monthly or annual fee. These fees are used to maintain shared community areas, such as parks, playgrounds, and pools.

Home Improvement

Finally, while it may not be necessary in the first year, any home improvements, such as remodeling your kitchen or adding an extra bathroom, need to be included in your budget for the long term. These types of projects can be costly, so consider the costs, benefits, and long-term goals before making any home improvements. Setting aside money over time will make sure you have the funds available when it’s time for updates.

The first year of homeownership can be both exciting and challenging. However, it’s essential to understand that homeownership comes with financial responsibilities and costs. As a homeowner, you should be prepared to budget for the full cost of homeownership. These expenses can add up quickly, so it’s vital to plan accordingly and avoid financial surprises. With careful budgeting, you can manage these expenses stress-free and enjoy the benefits of homeownership.

New Construction Homes by S&A Homes

S&A Homes is proud to build affordable new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. We invite you to learn more about our new home opportunities, whether building on your lot or buying a home in one of our new home communities. Call S&A Homes at 1-855-SAHome1 or contact us online to learn more about our available inventory and communities.

July 3, 2023
Summer Grilling Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

Summer barbecues are a time-honored tradition and the perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends. There’s nothing quite like the sizzle of meat on a hot grill during summer barbecue season. But it’s important to prioritize safety when it comes to outdoor cooking. From flare-ups to food poisoning, there are lots of potential hazards to avoid. To keep your grilling game strong and everyone safe, here are some essential barbeque safety tips to keep in mind this summer.

Choose the Right Spot to Grill

When setting up your grill, choose a level surface that’s at least 10 feet away from your home, trees, and low-hanging branches. Make sure your grill is stable and won’t tip over easily. Keep nearby flammable materials, such as gasoline or lighter fluid, safely stored and away from the area of the grill. Also, make sure to surround the grill with plenty of space to ensure that everyone is safe when visiting your barbecue.

Clean the Grill Thoroughly

A clean grill is a safer and more enjoyable grill. Before firing up the grill, make sure it is clean of old grease and residue, which can ignite and cause a fire. Inspect the grill grates, the drip pan, and the grease tray for any clogs or debris. Use a brush or scraper to clean the grates, and wipe the exterior with a damp cloth if necessary.

After each use, scrape off any leftovers to prevent grease buildup that can cause a fire. This cleaning process can be done using scouring pads or a professional brush.

Stay by the Grill at All Times

Turn on the grill only when someone is present. Never leave the grill unattended, even for a moment. A kiddo, pet, or inattentive friend can accidentally touch the hot grill and burn themselves or start a fire.

Keep an Eye on Flare-Ups

Flare-ups can happen at any time with a hot grill, so stay vigilant. If you see flames or excessive smoke occur, turn off the gas or move the meat to a cooler area of the grill. Use a spray bottle of water to put out minor flare-ups, but be careful not to douse the flames with water, which can make the flare-up worse. If flare-ups are frequent, clean the grates to remove excess grease from your last cookout.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

Don’t be caught off guard in case of an emergency. Have a fire extinguisher on hand in case flames get out of control. Learn how to operate the fire extinguisher before the barbecue; you don’t want to figure it out when the time comes.

Practice Safe Cooking Methods

When cooking meat and poultry, use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the recommended temperature. This will kill any harmful bacteria, preventing food poisoning. Keep foods refrigerated until ready to cook to avoid cross-contamination. Cook smaller pieces of meat over high heat, while larger pieces should be cooked over medium heat to avoid burning the outside while undercooking the inside.

Close Up Shop Properly

Once the cooking is done, properly shut down the grill. Turn off the fuel source and let the coals or grill grate cool down completely. Once the grill cools down, you can safely start to dissemble, clean, and put away any accessories you may have used.

Barbequeing can be a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone but following these essential safety tips will make all the difference in having a great cookout and staying safe. Keeping these safety tips in mind, you’ll be a grill master in no time and can impress all your guests with your safe and delicious summer barbecues!

If you’re planning on moving this summer, consider buying a new construction home from S&A Homes. Whether you purchase a home in one of our new home communities or build on your lot, you can rest assured that your home is built to the highest standards.

To learn more about new home opportunities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania, call 1-855-SAHOME1 or visit SAHomeBuilder.com.

June 27, 2023
Wedding or New Home? Savings Tips for Both

Are you dreaming of both a perfect wedding and a new house to start your lives together, but feel overwhelmed by the idea of saving for both at the same time? Fear not! It’s completely possible, and we’re here to help you achieve both of those goals without sacrificing your financial stability. Read along as we guide you through some tips on how to save for both your dreams simultaneously.

Choose a priority

Planning a wedding and buying a house are both exciting, but before you start saving, it’s important to figure out what matters most to you and your partner. What’s your top priority? Are you both more excited about saying “I do” or putting down roots in a new home? And what percentage of your income are you willing to put towards these goals? If you both want a big blow out wedding, you should consider a longer timeline for buying a new home. If buying a new home is your priority, consider planning for a smaller, more intimate wedding or hosting a larger celebration later.

Start Saving Early

The key to successful money management for a home and a wedding is starting early. The earlier you begin, the longer you have to save for both dreams. Have a conversation with your partner about the timeline of your goals and how you both will achieve them together. How much house can you actually afford? And how much can you budget for the big day? Once you’re both are on the same page, you can make a plan to save for both dreams.

Work Out a Budget

It’s essential to be smart and realistic with your budget when saving for a new home and wedding. Determine how much you want to spend for each, and stick with it. Review your monthly expenses carefully and cut out the expenses that you can live without. Small changes like eating out less often or curbing your online shopping habit can add up over time and give you the extra savings that you need.

Maintain Separate Savings Accounts

Instead of having a single savings account, create a separate account for your wedding and home savings. This will allow you to track your progress towards each goal more effectively and prevent you from accidentally using money intended for one for the other.

Reduce Your Debt

While saving for a down payment and your upcoming wedding, it’s essential to keep a check on your outstanding debts. Work on paying off as much debt as possible and avoid taking on any new debts. Any outstanding monthly debts can hinder your savings aims, making money management for your upcoming wedding and home much more difficult.

Look for Savings Opportunities

Start looking into various cost-saving approaches that you can use to reduce your expenses. Consider having a smaller, more intimate wedding day or choosing a home in a more affordable location or with fewer amenities or bedrooms. Work with reputable vendors that fall within your budget and keep a lookout for sales on decor, wedding dresses, and suits that fit your budget.

Calculate Your Total Cost of Ownership

When it comes to purchasing a home, it’s vital to calculate your total cost of ownership. This includes the home price, mortgage interest, insurance, taxes, maintenance, utilities, and any other potential expenses that come with homeownership. This way, you can make an informed decision on how much house you can afford and avoid incurring unmanageable debt.

Saving for both a wedding and a home might seem like a daunting task, but it’s completely possible with some planning and budgeting. Remember, in several years, you’ll be looking back on your big day, and the day you bought your first home and any extra effort will be worth it.

New Construction Homes by S&A Homes

We hope you’ll consider S&A Homes when you’re ready to make the move into a new construction home. S&A Homes has a long history of building quality new construction homes in new home communities located in desirable neighborhoods throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Call 1-855-SAHome1 or visit SAHomeBuilder.com to learn more about our new home communities, floorplans, and more.

June 20, 2023
Tips for a Truly Relaxing Staycation

Whether you’re looking for a way to recharge your batteries or just need a break without the hassle of traveling, a staycation may be the perfect solution. Staycations have become increasingly popular over the past few years, but planning the perfect one can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together an ultimate guide to help you build the perfect staycation. So, kick back, relax, and get ready to learn how to make the most out of your time off.

Plan Ahead

Before your staycation begins, it’s important to make a plan. Start by creating an itinerary that includes nearby neighborhoods, local attractions, and activities. Take the time to research places that you’ve always wanted to visit but never had the chance. Consider taking a walking or hiking tour, visiting a nearby museum or art gallery, or taking a cooking class. Don’t forget to include some downtime in your itinerary too.

Treat Your Home as an Adventure Destination

It’s often possible to have an adventure experience right from your own home. Flea markets, thrift shops, and farmer’s markets can all be great places to start. You can also take a walk or bike ride in a nearby park or reserve. Get creative and think outside the box. Maybe you can try to learn a new skill like gardening or home improvement, or simply indulge yourself with some quality alone time.

Disconnect from Work

To truly relax and enjoy your time off, you’ll need to disconnect from work. Turn off all work notifications and establish some boundaries to avoid checking emails or messages until you return to work. Let your colleagues know that you won’t be available during this time, so you can be fully present and enjoy yourself.

Plan Easy Meals

Hassle-free meals are the way to go during a staycation. You can plan to order takeout from your favorite restaurants or make meals ahead of time and freeze them for quick and easy meal prep. Plan your meals according to what you enjoy and what the entire family loves. Or try something new that you have always wanted to make but did not have the chance.

Make it a Chore Free Weekend

Try to avoid doing any random tasks or chores during your staycation. With some preparation, you can get your house in order beforehand. Clean your house, take care of laundry, and make your beds with fresh linens so you can be stress-free and concentrate only on relaxing and having quality time with your family.

Schedule Downtime

Scheduling downtime is imperative to make sure that you’re not overwhelming your stay-at-home days. It may include reading, watching your favorite shows or movies, or just sitting outside and enjoying nature. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to unwind so you can go back to work feeling recharged and rejuvenated.

Creating the perfect staycation doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. By following our guide and incorporating some creativity into your plan, you can build a customized staycation experience that will leave you feeling relaxed and recharged. Remember that the point of a staycation is to enjoy time at home or nearby and to take full advantage of the free time you have. So, make sure to plan ahead, disconnect from work, and seize the moment!

S&A Homes is proud to build affordable new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. We can also build on buyer-owned land through our Build on Your Own Land program. To learn more about our available inventory and communities, call S&A Homes at 855-SAHOME1 or contact us now.

June 13, 2023
Helpful Tips for Selling a Home When You Have Pets

If you’re a pet-loving homeowner planning to sell your house, you might think that having your furry companions around would attract more buyers. However, having a pet isn’t actually a selling point. While the majority of buyers and sellers are pet owners, buyers want to envision themselves and their own furry friends in the home, not someone else’s.

So how can you showcase your home in the best possible way while still keeping your pets out of the picture? Check out these helpful tips for presenting your home in its most appealing light.

Declutter

One of the most crucial steps in preparing your home for sale as a pet owner is decluttering and deep cleaning. Get your home ready for potential buyers by decluttering and hiding any evidence of your pets. Put away litter boxes and half-chewed toys, move crates and beds out of sight, and stash food and water bowls in the back of your pantry. And don’t forget to ask your real estate photographer to do the same – you don’t want potential buyers to get distracted by pet accessories in your listing photos. Let your home shine and attract the right buyer by keeping it pet-free during showings.

Deep Clean

Whether you have pets or not, your home deserves a good deep clean. Over time, floors, baseboards, walls, and upholstery can be neglected. If you’re busy or need a little help, consider hiring a house cleaning service. Or, if you’re feeling industrious, roll up your sleeves and tackle pet stains and odors yourself. The Humane Society has some great pet-safe tips for removing pet odors and stains.

Be sure to give all your soft furnishings a thorough wash, including slipcovers, quilts, comforters, curtains, and throw pillows. And if you have carpets, invest in a professional steam clean before you start showing your home to remove any stains, hair, or lingering smells.

Eliminate Odors

Because we become used to how our homes smell, we may not notice a pet smell like someone walking into your home for the first time will. A dirty or smelly home is not very appealing to potential buyers. This isn’t something you should try “fixing” with just scented candles or fragranced air fresheners. Deep cleaning can remove a lot of unpleasant odors in soft textiles that could turn off a potential buyer. Replace furnace air filters and consider using an air purifier with HEPA filters to absorb particles that can lead to odors like pet dander and allergens. Between showings, use pet-specific deodorizers or enzyme cleaners to neutralize smells.

Repair Pet Damage

While pets bring joy and comfort, you may not notice the wear and tear they can leave behind. However, when it’s time to sell, even small damage can turn off potential buyers and make them question your property’s upkeep. Give your home a critical eye and seek out any damage your pet may have caused. Whether scratched floors or chewed curtains, it’s important to either repair or conceal these blemishes before opening your doors to visitors.

Check Your Backyard

If you have a dog, chances are you spend some time in your backyard. You should also assess your yard for damage. Fill any holes, repair garden damage, and get rid of any pet waste. This will boost your curb appeal and make your home a welcoming sight for potential buyers. If you have a fenced-in pet area, highlight it as a selling point to pet lovers. Just ensure it’s cleaned and safe for your furry friends and visitors alike.

Get Away on Showing Days

If you can, try to have a sitter or friend take your pets for the day when you have an open house or showing. This will ensure that your pets are safe and make your home more welcoming to potential buyers who may not be pet owners. You can take a walk with your dog and enjoy a day out and away from home, which can relax both you and your pets.

Selling a home as a pet owner can seem overwhelming but with these simple steps, it doesn’t have to be. By preparing your home for sale in advance, it is possible to minimize stress while keeping your furry friends happy. Remember that a clean, decluttered, and pet-proof home is more attractive to potential buyers. By following these tips, you can showcase your home’s best assets and ensure a smooth selling process.

We hope you’ll consider S&A Homes when you’re ready to make the move into a new construction home. We’re proud to build affordable new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. We have floorplans for every stage in life, whether you purchase a home in one of our new home communities or build on your lot. To learn more about our available inventory and communities, call S&A Homes at 1-855-SAHome1 or contact us online.

June 6, 2023