Building Forward

Category: Life at Home

Turning Your House into a Home

Moving into a new house can be one of the most exciting moments of a homeowner’s life. On one hand, you get to start fresh in a new space, but on the other hand, it can be challenging to create a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar place. Whether you’re a seasoned mover or a first-time homeowner, it’s essential to make your new space feel like home. Here are some practical tips on how to create a sense of belonging in your new home.

Unpack and assess

Unpacking is the first step in making your new space feel like home. However, it’s crucial to prioritize essential items like toiletries, clothes, and kitchen essentials. Start by unpacking these items first so that you can have the basic necessities in your new space. After that, focus on arranging your furniture. Setting up your bed, sofa, and dining table can help in creating a sense of familiarity and comfort. Once the furniture is in place, start utilizing the space efficiently. Invest in storage solutions for closets, kitchen cabinets, and shelves to keep your new space tidy.

Personalize your space

Personalizing a space can make it feel more comfortable, especially when it comes to incorporating items that reflect your personality. That’s why it’s such a crucial step in creating a sense of home. Consider ways to make a space reflect your style and tastes, like adding decorative items such as throw pillows, curtains, and plants that complement the color scheme of your new place. Incorporating sentimental items like family photos, heirlooms, and souvenirs that remind you of happy moments can create a warm and nostalgic feeling. This is a great opportunity to mix and match items and create a unique space that feels like you.

Hang meaningful artwork

Artwork can add life and meaning to your space and make it feel more like home. Choose pieces that resonate with you or have personal meaning. It doesn’t have to be expensive. You can find beautiful artwork online or at local stores.

Create cozy places

Creating cozy areas where you can relax and unwind after a long day can help make your home feel warm and inviting. A great way to create a cozy atmosphere is to incorporate soft textures such as blankets, rugs, and pillows. Consider designating an area in your house for activities like reading, meditation, or even game nights. You can also set the mood with ambient lighting, scented candles, and music to create a cozy and inviting ambiance.

Establish a daily routine

Establishing a daily routine can help create a sense of normalcy in your new space. Routines can make your home feel more comfortable and reduce stress levels. You don’t need to make it complicated. It can be as simple as making your bed every morning and brewing a cup of coffee or tea to start the day.

Invite friends and family

Social connections can make your home feel warmer and more social. One of the best ways to make the most of your new place is to invite friends and family over, whether for a small gathering or a big celebration. Spending time with loved ones will create memories that will help your new space feel like an essential part of your life.

Making your new house feel like home is a journey. It takes time, effort, and creativity to achieve a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar place. However, by following the steps mentioned above, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere that will make your new house feel like home. Settling into a new home is a journey, not a destination. Be patient, enjoy the process, and soon you’ll be feeling cozy, relaxed, and happy in your new home.

Find your new home with S&A Homes

S&A Homes offers a variety of new home communities and floorplans in the most sought-after locations 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.

May 23, 2023
Simple Ways to Create a Happier Home

Most people want a happier home: a place that feels comfortable, inviting, and cozy. Creating a happier home environment is not only beneficial for you, but also for everyone who spends time in your home. Here are five ways to make your home feel happier.

Use natural light

Natural light has been found to have numerous benefits and can help to boost your mood. Open curtains and blinds to let natural light into your home throughout the day, and consider adding mirrors to rooms that don’t receive enough natural light. Using natural light can also reduce your energy bills by cutting down on the amount of artificial lighting you use.

Declutter

Do you have mail, random tchotchkes, and more covering every surface in your home? Does the thought of that make your shoulders tense? There’s a reason why! Our physical environment can significantly impact our mental state. A cluttered home can cause anxiety, stress, and unease, making it challenging to find a calmer state of mind. Decluttering not only reduces stress but also helps improve the clarity of thought, giving you space to breathe and think more clearly.

Add greenery

Adding plants to your home can significantly boost your mood and make your home feel more welcoming. Plants purify the air, remove toxins, and release oxygen, which can improve your overall well-being. Consider adding plants to your living room, bedroom, and bathroom, and watch as your home transforms into a lush, tranquil haven.

Play with colors

With the right mix of colors, you can make your home feel more cheerful and inviting. Choose colors that you love and that make you feel happy. Color influences mood, so consider incorporating bright colors like yellow or orange for a more cheerful environment or calming colors like green or blue for a more tranquil feel. You can also experiment by adding pops of color with throw pillows, rugs, or artwork.

Make space for hobbies

Your hobbies and interests can provide an escape from the stress of daily life. By making space for your hobbies at home, you can make your home feel more welcoming and personal. Set up an art studio, carve out space for a music room, or create a reading nook. Having a designated space for your hobbies can help you focus and enjoy your time at home.

Use relaxing scents

Scent can be a powerful mood changer. The right scent can make your home feel more inviting and relaxing. Consider using essential oils, candles, and incense to fill your home with pleasant scents like lavender, peppermint, or lemon. Scented candles can also create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for evenings at home.

Show gratitude for your space

Taking a moment to be thankful for our homes can bring a positive perspective and an attitude of contentment. Gratitude for life’s little moments and having a cozy place to land can help increase our overall level of satisfaction.

Making your home feel happier can help improve your overall wellness and create a place you look forward to spending time in. With a few small changes, you can transform your home into an inviting and warm space for everyone to enjoy. Remember, a happy home means a happy life.

If you’re looking for a new home in Central or South-Central Pennsylvania, visit us at SAHomeBuilder.com or call 1-855-SAHome1 to learn more about our new home communities and available quick move-in homes.

May 9, 2023
Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal with These Quick Fixes

They say first impressions last, and this holds true for your home’s curb appeal. Curb appeal refers to the attractiveness of your property when viewed from the street. It’s what makes a passerby turn their head and take a closer look or continue on their way. Curb appeal is about creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere that enhances the beauty and value of your home.

Thankfully you don’t need to invest a lot of money to boost your home’s curb appeal. Here are some quick fixes you can make to help improve your home’s curb appeal, the benefits of doing so, and why it’s important to maintain your property’s curb appeal.

Replacing old hardware

Replacing old hardware such as house numbers, mailbox, and door handles is an affordable and effective way to give your home a facelift. The hardware may seem small, but they’re noticeable details that can make a big difference in the overall look of your home. Rusty, tarnished, or outdated hardware can appear uninviting and give the impression of an aged home. Upgrading to stylish hardware can add character and charm to your exterior.

Cleaning siding and windows

One of the simplest ways to improve your home’s curb appeal is to clean your siding and windows. Dirt and grime accumulate on these surfaces, making your home appear dull and unattractive. A good pressure wash can remove dirt, stains, and other debris that have built up on your siding. Similarly, washing your windows inside and out will allow more natural light into your home and give it a brighter and more modern look.

Adding plants to the landscape

Plants can change the whole ambiance of your front yard. A little greenery can go a long way in terms of boosting your curb appeal’s attractiveness. The key is to choose plants and flowers that complement your home’s color, texture, and style. You can add color and dimension with vibrant annuals or using larger plants and trees to add balance and structure. Plus, adding plants can also provide environmental benefits such creating habitats for insects and wildlife.

Installing hardscaping features

Hardscaping features are permanent fixtures in your front yard and can add visual interest to your landscape. These include walkways, retaining walls, fire pits, and patios. Hardscaping features can define your outdoor living space, add structure to your property, and create focal points that immediately draw the attention of the viewer.

Refreshing outdoor furniture

Even with the most attentive care, outdoor furniture can weather and fray over time. But don’t worry, upgrading its appearance doesn’t have to break the bank. A quick clean and a coat of exterior paint can do wonders. And if you’re feeling a bit crafty, consider replacing the fabric on your cushions and pillows. It’s surprising how much a small change like this can update the overall look of your outdoor space.

Refinishing the driveway

An unsightly driveway can make or break how people first perceive your home. A quick and easy fix for an unkempt drive? Reach for the weed spray! Tackling weeds that have overgrown with a few simple steps could go a long way in making sure you’re leaving the best impression possible – plus, it’s budget-friendly too; just focus on those seriously troubled spots to get started.

Benefits of improving curb appeal

Improving your home’s curb appeal comes with many benefits, even if you’re not selling your home. Here are some reasons why you should consider improving your curb appeal.

Increases the value of your home:

The most significant benefit of having great curb appeal is that it can significantly enhance your home’s value. A well-maintained and attractive exterior increases your home’s market appeal, which can translate to a higher resale value. According to a study conducted by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), curb appeal can add up to 10% to the value of your property.

Enhancing aesthetic appeal of property:

Great curb appeal gives you a sense of pride and joy every time you come home after a long day. As the saying goes, “home is where the heart is,” and having a beautiful home that you can’t wait to go back to every day has immense emotional value. Moreover, enhancing your home’s aesthetic appeal can also inspire your neighbors to improve their properties, making your entire neighborhood more attractive.

Creating an inviting atmosphere for family and visitors:

Curb appeal can create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for both family and guests. With a beautiful and well-maintained exterior, your home is warm and inviting, which can make visitors feel welcome even before they step inside. A well-designed landscape can add to the overall charm and ambiance of your home, providing a visual treat for all.

Improves home safety

A well-maintained front yard not only looks great, but can also boost your home’s security. Neat pathways, secure gates, and clear driveways help to protect you from slips or trips around the house and possible theft. Improved curb appeal also increases your privacy and creates an overall sense of security for you and your family.

Your home’s curb appeal is an extension of your personal style and taste. Investing in your home’s exterior is a smart move that can help boost its value, enhance its aesthetics and create an inviting atmosphere for family and visitors. Small and budget-friendly improvements such as replacing old hardware, adding plants or cleaning your windows can make a significant difference in your property’s curb appeal. Taking care of your home’s curb appeal is a great way to show your pride of ownership, and you’ll reap the benefits of a beautiful home for years to come.

S&A Homes offers a variety of new home communities and floorplans in the most sought-after locations in Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. To learn more about our new home opportunities, call 1-855-SAHOME1 or visit www.SAHomeBuilder.com.

April 25, 2023
Easy Ways to Spruce Up Your Home for Spring

With the warmer weather drawing nearer, it’s time to start thinking about ways to welcome spring into our homes. Making small updates to your home decor can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your space. From changing up color palettes, switching out upholstery pieces, adding accent pieces, and refreshing existing artwork with seasonal pieces, these small changes can make all the difference. To help welcome this season into your home, here are some easy ways to spruce up your home for spring.

Refreshing color palette with lighter and brighter colors

When it comes to welcoming springtime into your home, one of the best places to start is by refreshing your color palette with lighter and brighter colors. Pastels such as pinks and blues are ideal for this time of year as they evoke a sense of lightness and optimism. Neutrals also work well in creating a calming atmosphere that allows other elements like artwork or accent pieces to take center stage.

Renew upholstery and add accent pieces

Another great way to spruce up your home for spring is by renewing upholstery items such as couches or chairs with new accent pillows or throws in fresh designs and colors that reflect the season. This will instantly add a touch of warmth and brightness to any room without having to do major renovations or invest in new furniture pieces. Adding seasonal florals throughout your house is also a great way to bring in some pops of color while still keeping things cozy—think wreaths for the front door or flower arrangements for tablescapes or mantelpieces.

Incorporate natural elements into the design

Adding natural elements like branches, stones, and driftwood can help create an inviting atmosphere while also bringing a bit of nature inside your home. These elements are especially perfect for outdoor spaces like patios or decks where you can create mini oases filled with greenery and warm lighting for evenings spent relaxing outdoors.

Swap heavy curtains for sheer panels

Replacing heavy curtains with sheer panels is another great way to bring more light into a room while creating a fresh springtime look. The beauty of sheer panels is that you can tie them back during the day when you want more natural light streaming in but then tie them closed at night when you want more privacy—plus they’re much easier on the eyes than heavy curtains!

Replace existing artwork with pieces reflecting spring themes

Swapping out existing artwork with prints reflecting spring themes such as fields of flowers or seascapes with sunrise or sunset hues will instantly give any room an airy feel that says “spring has arrived!” Look for art pieces that incorporate bright colors like yellow, pink, and blue—colors typically found during this time of year—and hang them up where they will be easily seen from every angle in order to maximize their impact on the overall design aesthetic.

Creating a spring-inspired atmosphere in your home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive; even small updates can go a long way toward refreshing your living space! From introducing color through brightly-hued pillows and accessories to bringing in fresh flowers or new plants, there are plenty of ways to spruce up your home and bring those spring vibes in.

Buy a new home with S&A Homes this spring

S&A Homes is proud to build affordable new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Whether you choose to purchase a home in one of our new home communities or build on your lot, we have floorplans for every stage in life. Looking to move sooner? Check out our many quick move-in homes available right now. Call S&A Homes at 1-855-SAHome1 or contact us online today.

April 11, 2023
How to Create a Relaxing Bedroom Sanctuary

Are you looking to make your bedroom a more relaxing sanctuary? Creating a calming atmosphere in the bedroom is essential for promoting relaxation and getting a good night’s sleep. It should be a place of rest and relaxation after a long day, and there plenty of ways to make your bedroom oasis a haven of tranquility. Here’s what you need to do to turn your bedroom into a relaxing sanctuary.

Declutter and keep things organized

Clutter should always be kept at bay in order to create an atmosphere free from distractions so that you can focus on unwinding before bedtime. Removing excess items and having everything organized will not only keep your bedroom looking neat but it’ll also help banish feelings that create feelings of being overwhelmed, like piles of unfolded laundry or unfinished projects left lying around on tables or shelves. Give everything its own spot then stick with designated places so you can always find what you’re looking for quickly when needed.

Neutral Colors

Neutral colors such as whites, beiges, tans, grays and other muted shades have proven to be effective in creating a calming atmosphere in the bedroom. These colors exude elegance and can be paired with almost any other color for added flair. Plus, these neutral tones tend to reflect light more easily than darker hues which can help make any room appear larger and brighter.

Comfortable Bedding and Linens

Investing in quality bed linens and mattresses makes it easier to stay comfortable through the night but also helps you drift off to sleep faster. From mattress types like memory foam or hybrid mattresses (which combine springs and foam layers) to pillows made from materials such as latex or down feathers that provide support without being too firm or too soft – there are plenty of options available to make it easy to relax at the end of long days. Additionally, choosing high-quality linens such as 100% cotton sheets will help ensure you stay cool while sleeping while providing maximum comfort throughout the night.

Lighting

Achieve the perfect atmosphere in your bedroom with the right lighting. For a more calming vibe, opt for softer lighting that helps you wind down before bed. Want to make it even cozier? Use warm-tone LED bulbs and dim them as needed. But if modernity is more your style, don’t worry: connect a dimmer switch so you can adjust the brightness whenever desired while also saving energy in an eco-friendly way.

Bring nature into the room

Not only are plants appealing, they are also known to reduce stress and boost overall wellness. Place some potted plants around the room in strategic places to bring life into your bedroom sanctuary. You can also hang macramé planters from the ceiling or on walls to add texture to the space while providing additional air purification benefits as well.

Introduce aromatherapy

Encourage mental and physical relaxation through aromatherapy. Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, and rosemary are known for their ability to reduce stress. You can use candles or diffusers to spread the scent around the room. Putting drops of oil on your pillow as you sleep or adding them to cleaners when cleaning furniture is another option. Find the scent combination you enjoy by exploring different scents until you find one perfect just for your space. And here’s a pro tip: try limiting this special scent exclusively to your bedroom for optimal relaxation benefits.

Making your bedroom an oasis doesn’t have to be difficult. All it takes is some careful planning to create a relaxing atmosphere where you can rest easy. Your bedroom will become a comfortable sanctuary where you can relax after long days.

S&A Homes offers a variety of new home communities and floorplans in the most sought-after neighborhoods in Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. For more details, visit www.sahomebuilder.com or call 1-855-SAHOME1.

March 28, 2023
How to Meet Your New Neighbors After a Move

Moving into a new neighborhood can be both exciting and overwhelming. While you may be eager to settle in, it’s important to take the time to introduce yourself to your new neighbors. Not only will this help you feel more connected within your community, but it can also lay the groundwork for future friendships.

Here are some tips on how you can meet your new neighbors and build a stronger community.

Say hello

Sometimes all it takes is saying hello! When settling into your home sweet home, take the time and energy to introduce yourself. Even if it’s brief – just say hello with a smile – that small gesture goes a long way in making sure your neighbors get off on the right foot. So go ahead and make sure those moving boxes don’t get in between building important connections near home – even if there are some hiccups setting up your internet connection afterward.

Ask questions

Getting to know your new neighbors can also be a great way to learn more about the local community. Asking them for advice is the perfect way to start a dialogue. From discovering the best restaurants and coffee shops, unearthing hidden gems, or finding top-notch service providers, you get multiple benefits in one conversation: getting sound advice plus connecting on something meaningful. Who knows: maybe your chat about favorite live music venues could lead to fun times out together enjoying shows!

Break the ice with your kids or pets

Having kids or pets can be a great way to build friendships in your neighborhood. Introduce yourself to the neighborhood parents while letting your children build relationships, and get to know other pet owners as soon as you move in. Not only will it make a great bond between everyone involved but also help create familiarity for both two-legged family members and four-legged friends too!

Attend local events

One of the easiest ways to connect with your neighbors is by attending local events. Check out community calendars for events like block parties, barbecues, holiday celebrations, and festivals. You’ll have the opportunity to meet people who live nearby and share common interests with you.

Volunteer

Volunteering is another way to connect with your neighbors while giving back to your community. Taking part in activities like these not only allows you to meet other people in the area, but it also shows that you care about where you live and want to be an active part of it. Consider joining a local organization or charity that aligns with your values and interests so you’re able to meet like-minded individuals who care about making a positive impact in their community.

Join social media groups

Social media platforms like Facebook and Nextdoor offer groups specifically designed for different neighborhoods. Joining these groups will allow you to stay up-to-date on local news, events, and discussions happening in your area. You can also use these groups as an opportunity to introduce yourself and connect with other members of your community.

Living in a neighborhood can be more than just sharing the same street or building. It can also mean having a community of people who you can rely on, socialize with, and build lasting relationships with.

S&A Homes offers a variety of new home communities and floorplans in the most sought-after locations in Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. We can also build your dream home on your own land! For more details, visit www.sahomebuilder.com or call 1-855-SAHOME1.

March 14, 2023
Designing a Nursery You’ll Love

As a new parent, designing a nursery can be an intimidating task. There are many things to consider and decisions to make like color schemes, furniture selection, and safety concerns. To help make the process easier, we’ve outlined some tips and tricks that you can use to create a nursery that is both inviting and practical for everyday use.

Plan the layout and furniture

The first step in designing any room is determining the size of the space you have to work with. Measure the square footage of the room and decide on the type of layout you would like to have in the nursery. The nursery should be sectioned into zones for sleeping, nursing, changing, and playing so you can easily take care of the baby. Find the best placement for the essential furniture like the crib, changing table, and rocking chair you’ll use for nursing based on the available space. Here are some layout options if you need some ideas.

When it comes to planning what furniture to include in the nursery, size matters. Make sure whatever furniture you choose will fit in the room comfortably with enough room left over for your little one to explore. Don’t feel pressured to buy new or baby-specific furniture. You can get creative and use furniture your child can grow into so it doesn’t need to be replaced as they grow.

Choose colors, fabrics, and accessories

Now it’s time for the fun part: choosing colors, fabrics, and accessories! Try not to overload with too much color or too many patterns – this can make the space feel overwhelming. Go for a simple but stylish look to create an inviting atmosphere while still being practical. Bed linens are also important when creating a safe sleeping environment for your baby. Look for organic materials that are soft and cozy yet breathable such as cotton muslin or jersey knit sheets.

Adding wall decorations helps bring life into the nursery while still keeping a calm atmosphere. Think about hanging artwork such as prints or framed photographs of family members that can become part of special memories later on in life with your little one.

Lighting options

The nursery’s primary purpose is for sleeping. It’ll be important to control the light and noise in the space. Blackout shades will reduce light and make it easier for your little one to sleep during the day and thick pile rugs and drapes can dampen the noise from around the house.

In addition, you’ll need adequate lighting in the room. Layer overhead lights with task lighting to provide bright illumination during diaper changes but also a cozy ambiance during nighttime feedings or lullabies.

Pillows and toy in white wooden crib with pastel pink blanket in bright nursery

Storage solutions

Storage solutions are essential for any nursery design plan because they provide easy access to all of the baby’s essentials without taking up too much space. Look for storage options that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing; shelves with decorative baskets or drawers with colorful knobs can add character while still providing ample storage space for toys or clothing items.

Safety considerations

When designing your nursery, it is important to consider potential hazards such as electrical outlets or sharp edges on furniture pieces. Make sure that all electrical outlets are covered and all furniture pieces are securely attached to walls or floors (if necessary). Keep any small items away from curious little hands by using secure storage solutions or hiding them in cabinets or drawers with childproof locks.

Designing a nursery doesn’t have to be stressful; by following our tips and tricks outlined above you should have no trouble creating a warm, inviting atmosphere with plenty of practical storage solutions thrown into the mix too.

Whether you’re looking for more space to grow your family or need extra room for a new arrival, we hope you’ll consider us. S&A Homes offers a variety of new home communities and floorplans in the most sought-after locations in Pennsylvania. We can also build your dream home on your own land! For more details, visit us at SAHomebuilder.com.

February 7, 2023