Building Forward

Category: Tips

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
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
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
Reasons to Get a Mortgage Pre-approval
Thinking of buying a new home? You’ve probably heard about getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This important step on your path to homeownership comes with lots of great benefits. When you know what you can afford, budgeting is easier – which is especially crucial if you’re breaking an existing lease. Here’s why getting a mortgage pre-approval is the best thing you can do for your new home search.

What is a mortgage pre-approval?

A pre-approval is an important step in the mortgage application process. It provides potential lenders with evidence that you have already been approved for a loan up to a certain amount. This gives lenders confidence that you are serious about buying a home and have done your due diligence in securing financing. Pre-approvals also give realtors and sellers peace of mind that potential buyers are more likely to close on their purchase.

Here are some reasons why you should consider getting pre-approved before house hunting:

Reason #1: Know your homebuying budget

Buying a home is a major investment and you need to be clear on your finances. Getting pre-approved will give you a clear understanding of the maximum amount you can borrow, estimated interest rate, monthly payment, and closing cost. Knowing this information before you start looking at homes will help narrow down your search and prevent wasted time looking at homes that are out of your price range.

Reason #2: Lock in interest rates

If there’s one thing that’s been consistent with today’s market, it’s how interest rates fluctuate. Getting a pre-approval allows you to lock in an interest rate for a limited time (check with your mortgage broker for the exact length). This protects you from rate increases while you’re still searching for the perfect home.

Reason #3: Strengthen your offer

A pre-approval letter shows sellers that you’re serious about buying their home and have the financial means to do so. This can strengthen your offer and give you an advantage over other buyers who haven’t been preapproved.

Reason #4: Save time

Going through the mortgage process takes time. You will need to gather your financial documents and have your credit history reviewed. With a mortgage preapproval, you’ve already gone through the tedious application process and can skip ahead to finalizing the mortgage, which shortens the time between contract and close and gets you into your new home faster.

Reason #5: Identify potential issues

During the pre-approval process, lenders review your credit history and financial information. This may uncover potential issues that need to be addressed before applying for a mortgage. Addressing these issues early on can save time and prevent headaches down the line.

Now that you know the benefits of getting a mortgage pre-approval, here’s how you can prepare for the process.

Step-by-step guide to getting pre-approved
1. Analyze credit score and history. Before applying, take some time to analyze your credit score and history in order to identify any issues that could affect your ability to secure financing. If necessary, take steps to correct any inaccuracies or address any areas of concern before submitting your application.
2. Gather documentation needed for the application. Before you even begin your loan application, make sure you have all documentation needed to prove your identity, income, and assets such as pay stubs or bank statements. Lenders will need these documents to assess your financial situation before they can approve you for a loan.
3. Submit application. Once you’ve gathered all the necessary documents and assessed your credit score and history, it’s time to submit your application! Your lenders will review it and provide an offer letter with details on the terms of the loan they are offering if approved (e.g., interest rate).
4. Present the offer letter to the realtor or seller. Congratulations, you’ve been preapproved! You can take your offer letter from the lender confirming preapproval of your loan, and present it to the realtor or seller when making an offer on a property so they know you are serious about this purchase and able financially commit at closing.
By taking these steps outlined above, homebuyers can establish themselves as competitive contenders in the market while feeling confident about their financial security throughout the process.

We’re committed to making your home-buying process as simple and worry-free as possible. If you have questions about today’s market, please check out our Financing Solutions page.

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 21, 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
Choosing the Right Size Home for Your Family

When it comes to buying a home, there are many factors to consider, like choosing between new construction or resale home and even the neighborhood. But one of the most important is determining how much home you actually need. You’ll find homes of every size in Central and South-Central Pennsylvania – from cozy bungalows to spacious estates so it’s important to think like Goldilocks to find the home that is just right. Here are some things to keep in mind when figuring out how much house you really need.

The size of your family

Father helping daughter learn to walk at home, side view

A key factor to consider when it comes to deciding on the right home size is the number of people in your family. While a 1,000-square-foot home is cozy and intimate for one or two people, the same home will be tight for larger families. Consider how many people will be living in your home – and if you plan on expanding or may need to make room for aging family members – to figure out how many bedrooms and bathrooms you’ll need. Likewise, if your children are older and will be moving out soon, you may be happy with a smaller home.

How much you can afford

Simply put: larger homes mean larger expenses. Not only are you paying for the extra square footage, but you also need to consider the increased costs from general upkeep and maintenance. Larger homes often come with larger mortgages so you’ll need to do all the math to make sure it comfortably fits your family and budget.

Shot of a family of four cooking together in their kitchen at home

How you spend time at home

How do you live in your home? Do you love to entertain and want to be the hang-out house for your kids and their friends? Or do you host overnight guests often? Do you work from home? Are you a homebody or do you prefer to use your home as a base between adventures? Your lifestyle will impact how much space you need. If you spend a lot of time at home or hosting guests, a larger square footage with flexible living spaces will work. On the other hand, if your home is simply a landing spot between trips, it’ll make more sense to purchase something smaller.

Location, location, location

Home prices vary widely depending on location and amenities such as proximity to schools and entertainment options. If you’re dreaming of a bigger home with a large lot, buying a new home in the suburbs may be more affordable than those in urban areas. Living in the suburbs may mean longer commute times but if you value space, the tradeoffs will be worth it.

Preferred layout and design

Home size is about more than square footage: the design of your potential home can make a world of difference in how roomy it feels. Consider features like tall ceilings, an open floor plan, and plenty of natural light to maximize that spacious feeling. Also, ask yourself if you value livable space over storage options – are walk-in closets or garages something you need?

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a bigger or fancier home than you actually need. Remember: when it comes to finding the right home for your family, size isn’t everything – but it is an important factor. Consider what’s truly valuable to you in a new home so you can feel confident that your next purchase will provide enough space without stretching beyond what’s affordable for your budget.

S&A Homes offers a diverse selection of home designs to accommodate a variety of home buyers throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Ready to make the move to a new construction home? Learn more about new home opportunities from S&A Homes, including quick move-in homes and build on your land opportunities, by calling 1-855-SAHOME1 or visiting www.SAHomeBuilder.com.

March 10, 2023
Protect Your S&A Home During a Move

Moving into a new home is an exciting experience, but it can also be stressful without the right preparation. With some patience and planning, you can make sure that your move goes smoothly and that your new S&A home remains in great condition. Whether you choose to hire professionals or go it alone with family or friends, here are some tips to make your upcoming move smoother.

Downsizing and decluttering

Most people have accumulated more things than they need over the years, so it’s important to go through your belongings before the move-in process begins. Downsizing and decluttering can help reduce your moving costs significantly by eliminating unnecessary items from your packing list.

It can also help make unpacking in your new home much easier since you won’t have to deal with items that don’t fit or that you don’t need anymore. Make sure to purge items that are broken, worn out, outdated, or no longer serve a purpose in your life. You can donate clothing and household items or sell them online if they are still in good condition.

Packing with quality materials

Before beginning the packing process, make sure you have enough high-quality boxes and sturdy packing materials on hand for all of your belongings. You should also label each box clearly so that everything is organized when it comes time to unpack. Avoid overpacking boxes because they will be heavier than necessary and more difficult to lift safely.

When packing heavy items like books or appliances, make sure they are placed at the bottom of boxes so lighter objects won’t be crushed while being transported from one location to another. If you are moving furniture, use furniture pads and dollies to reduce strain on both people and walls during the move-in process.

Protecting floors and walls

Don’t overlook protecting your home during the move-in process. With several people walking around your home, covering the floors and walls with flattened cardboard, plastic covering, or specialized floor covers will prevent scuffs, nicks, and dirt. Be sure to tape any floor coverings to prevent tripping. Pay extra attention to the corners and stairwell. If you need to move heavy furniture, always lift it instead of pushing it across the floor. Use dollies, moving pads, carts, or furniture blankets to move items around. Furniture moving straps are an efficient way to help you lift heavy and bulky items safely (you’ll often see appliance delivery people using these).

Keep walkways clear so that everyone can navigate safely throughout the house without tripping over boxes or other obstacles along the way. If you’re DIYing your move, have someone act as a spotter when moving large items.

Consider professional movers to ensure a safe move-in experience

Most moves can be completed on your own with family members helping out where needed. However, depending on how far away you are going or how many items you have, hiring professional movers may be worth considering, especially if you have specialty items like a piano. It can be hard work to move large items, but professionals have the right equipment and know-how to get the job done quickly and safely. Furthermore, they are insured so if any damage occurs during the move, you won’t have to worry about covering the cost out of pocket.

Moving is hard work but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you plan. With some patience and strategic planning, you can make sure that your move goes smoothly whether you do it yourself or hire professionals. Knowing which items need extra care during transport will ensure that everything arrives at your new home safe and sound!

Now that you’re all moved into your new S&A home, it’s time to start enjoying 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.

February 28, 2023
Get Moving: Tips for Saving for a New Home

Owning a home is the ultimate dream for many people but saving enough can feel impossible. But don’t let that stop you! With some financial planning, saving enough for the down payment is more than possible. And chances are, you’re probably well on the way to reaching that goal. Here are some simple savings strategies to make saving for your down payment attainable.

Set a savings goal

Having an end goal in mind can help motivate you to keep working towards it. So when it comes to saving for your home purchase, set yourself up for success by setting a specific goal—for example, saving $20,000 for a down payment or having enough saved within two years for closing costs. Once you have established this goal, do everything possible to make sure it becomes reality.

Establish a budget

The next step towards saving money for your new home purchase is by establishing a budget. This will help you gain control of your finances, figure out what kind of house you can afford, and identify areas where you might be able to cut back in order to save more money. Start by listing all of your monthly income and expenses so that you know exactly how much money is coming in and going out each month. Once you have that information, create a budget that meets both your current needs and the goal of saving for a home purchase.

Man using calculator and calculate bills in home office.

Automate savings

Once your budget is established and your goals are set, it’s time to start automating those savings so that they happen automatically each month without any extra effort on your part. Set up automatic transfers from checking into savings or invest in an IRA account so that part of every paycheck goes directly into savings without requiring any extra action on your part. This way you won’t be tempted to spend the money instead.

Pay extra toward debt

If you have any outstanding debts such as student loans or credit card debt, consider paying them off as quickly as possible so more of your income can go directly towards saving for a home purchase. Even if it’s just an extra $20 per month toward credit cards or student loans, these small payments add up over time and can result in significant savings once they are paid off completely.

Two businesspeople discussing details of a contract. Concerned Ð¼an asking financial advisor about conditions of mortgage. Getting a new home loan concept.

Shop for savings

Don’t forget about shopping around for the best rates when it comes time to buy a house too! Shopping around means comparing mortgages from different lenders so that you get the best rate possible on the loan with terms most favorable for your situation (e.g., interest rate, length of loan). Doing this could result in thousands of dollars saved over the life of the mortgage!

Owning a home is an exciting journey but one that requires taking some important steps along the way – from establishing a budget and setting goals to automating savings and paying off debts – these are all key components in saving for your new home. With some smart financial planning and dedication toward reaching these goals, achieving this dream is well within reach.

Buying a new home with S&A Homes

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. To learn more about our available inventory and communities, call S&A Homes at 1-855-SAHome1 or contact us online.

February 21, 2023