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S&A Homes Rolls Out the Pawsitively Building Forward Pet Photo Contest
S&A Homes is delighted to present a fur-tastic event to celebrate the 2023 spring season – the Pawsitively Building Forward: S&A Homes Pet Photo Contest! One fortunate winner will receive a $50 gift card to Petco, BarkBox or Chewy after the contest concludes on June 2, 2023.*

Please note that participants do not have to be an S&A Homes owner to enter the photo contest.

The Contest Rules

This is your opportunity to showcase the best furry friend in your life! Every participant must post a photo of their pet using the hashtag #SAPetContest. Participants are encouraged to submit photos of multiple pets for additional chances to win! Be aware, one image with multiple pets only counts as one submission. For consideration, all photos must be submitted via Facebook or Instagram by 11:59 p.m. ET on May 26, 2023.

Our team is eager to see all your adorable pet poses! To ensure our team can view your submission, please make certain the following:
- Your submission is a public post. S&A Homes will not be able to view or count your submission as an entry if your privacy settings are not set to public.
- Your photo is clear and adheres to Facebook and Instagram community guidelines.
- Your caption includes the #SAPetContest hashtag!
Please note that if your submission is not posted by 11:59 p.m. ET on May 26 using #SAPetContest on Facebook or Instagram, it will not be considered for the contest prize. Participants are encouraged to share their submissions to Facebook and Instagram stories, but these will not be considered entries.

The Voting Process

Once the submission period ends, the S&A Homes team will compile all photos into an album on Facebook to begin the voting process. All participants and page followers are encouraged to review the contest’s submissions and “like” their favorite pets! The submission with the most likes will be declared the winner. Voting will take place between May 30 and June 2, 2023, ending at 11:59 p.m. ET.

The winner of the Pawsitively Building Forward: S&A Homes Pet Photo Contest will be chosen and announced on June 5, 2023, via social media.

Visit the S&A Homes Blog and stay updated on social media for more contest updates.

*This contest is open to those who interact with the S&A Homes Facebook and Instagram pages. This promotion is in no way endorsed, sponsored or associated with Facebook, Instagram or Meta. Entrants are permitted to submit multiple #SAPetContest submissions as long as they feature different pets. If you are a selected winner, you give S&A Homes and its affiliate Denim Marketing the right to announce your name in various blog posts, social media features and news releases regarding the promotion. By entering this contest, you also give S&A Homes and its affiliates the rights to your photo submission for promotional purposes. Information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted. Subject to errors, changes, omissions and withdrawals without notice.
May 2, 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
Starter vs. Forever Home: Making the Right Choice

Buying a home is a major investment, and it’s one of the most important decisions you will make in your lifetime. It’s important to choose a home that fits your needs and lifestyle, but it can be tough to decide how much space you really need. Should you choose a starter home, or invest in a forever home? Let’s explore the important considerations you’ll need to think over so you can make the best decision for you.

What is a starter home?

Starter homes are typically modest homes that first-time home buyers can afford but expect to outgrow. Most home buyers looking for starter homes prioritize a more affordable mortgage over finding a home that has everything they need and want right now. They look for entry-level homes that meet their basic needs and are okay that they don’t feature every dream amenity.

Homebuyers with limited budgets may choose to invest in a starter home to build equity as a homeowner they can eventually use to purchase their forever home.

What is a forever home?

A forever home is a home you plan on living in for a long time, possibly for the rest of your life. These homes tend to be larger to accommodate a growing family with more amenities or have potential for improvements to make it just right. Since these homes are larger and have more amenities, they tend to be more expensive than starter homes.

Starter Home vs Forever Home: Top Considerations

Still not sure which style is right for you? Here are some considerations you make to decide which one is right for you now.

Review your finances

Price, down payment size, and loan terms are all important factors to consider when deciding between a starter and forever home. A starter home is typically more affordable, which can be a major advantage for first-time homeowners. However, you may outgrow a starter home more quickly and need to move sooner than you would with a forever home. A forever home, on the other hand, requires a larger down payment and often comes with a larger mortgage payment. However, in the long run, it could save you money as you won’t need to move again.

Assess your lifestyle

Assessing your current lifestyle and needs is an important step to making the right choice when it comes to starter versus forever homes. If you have a growing family or plan to have children in the future, a forever home might be a better choice. On the other hand, if you’re single or newlyweds, a starter home could be the perfect fit. It’s important to consider your current and future needs in terms of space, flexibility, and overall lifestyle.

Evaluate your future plans

While it can be tough to predict the future, it’s important to consider potential changes in your life that could impact your home buying decision. Will you be changing jobs, having children, or starting a business? If so, a forever home might be a better choice, as it provides more space and flexibility. On the other hand, if you plan to downsize in the future, a starter home might be more practical.

Keep ‘forever’ in perspective

Remember that forever is an elusive target. Even with a well-conceived plan, life brings changes. Families grow and shrink, jobs change, unexpected opportunities appear. Don’t stress too much about finding the perfect home and look for one that’s good enough to meet your needs for the long-term.

A starter home can also be a forever home. Some buyers purchase starter homes with the intent of upgrading to a larger home sometime in the future while others may end up happily living in their ‘starter homes’ forever.

Which home is right for your life now?

Choosing between a starter and forever home can be a tough decision, but ultimately it comes down to your lifestyle, future plans, and financial considerations. A starter home can be a great option for first-time homebuyers, while a forever home may be more practical for growing families or those who plan to live in the same home for many years. No matter which option you choose, it’s important to consider all of the factors involved and make a decision that works for you.

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 1-855-SAHOME1 or visiting us online at SAHomeBuilder.com.

April 18, 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
Important Questions to Ask Partner Before Buying a Home

Purchasing a home with a partner is one of the biggest milestones you can reach in life. After all, a home is not just a physical space, but also a reflection of your lifestyle and aspirations. Whether you’re buying your first or second home, or maybe just making an investment purchase, it’s not something to take lightly. Here are some important questions to ask to make sure everyone is on the same page and has the same expectations so the home buying process is both enjoyable and successful.

Why are we buying a home?

What is your motivation for buying a new home? Is it because that’s the next step? Because everyone else you know is buying? A mortgage is a long-term financial commitment. There should be a lot of careful consideration made before taking this step. Be honest with your reasons for wanting to buy and be prepared to talk it through with your partner.

How are our finances?

Discussing money can get tricky. Since there are a lot of financial responsibilities that come with buying a home, this conversation is unavoidable. You want to make sure your finances can manage a major expense. You will need to be upfront and lay out all the details: discuss your income, current expenses, credit score, and all of your debt. This is the same information mortgage companies will assess when reviewing your mortgage application so it’s worth being candid now to avoid any unpleasant surprises later on.

What can we afford and how will we pay for it?

When it comes to buying a home, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what you can afford. Mortgage pre-approvals are helpful but base your buying budget on just that. Owning a home is more than just the mortgage payment: there are also utility bills, maintenance and repairs, property tax, and insurance. Carefully review your income and expenses (including any debt) and calculate how much you can comfortably afford, including how you’ll save for the down payment.

You should also discuss how housing expenses will be split. There isn’t one right way to split expenses – whether it’s 50-50 or a proportion based on income. Just make it clear from the beginning and have ongoing conversations to make adjustments as financial circumstances change.

Where do we want to live?

As you start building a life with someone, an important question to consider is where you both see yourselves being the happiest. This conversation can reveal a lot about your priorities and values as a couple. Perhaps you both love the bustling lifestyle of the city and can’t imagine living anywhere else or maybe you’re both drawn to the calmness and greenery of the suburbs. It’s important to uncover these preferences early on, even if it causes a slight contention.

What do we want in our new home?

When searching for a new home, it’s important to recognize that you and your partner may have vastly different priorities when it comes to what you want in a home. You may be dreaming of a spacious living room that can comfortably host all of your friends and family, while your partner might have their heart set on a luxurious, state-of-the-art kitchen. Taking the time to sit down and separately list out what each of you values in a home can be a great exercise in compromise. By comparing your lists and boiling them down to the essentials, you can identify deal-breakers and areas where you’re willing to compromise. Ultimately, this process can help you find a home that truly meets both your needs and desires.

What happens if we break up?

Talking about the end of a relationship can be uncomfortable and emotional, but it is an important conversation to have if you are considering purchasing a home together. Life is unpredictable, and even the strongest relationships can face unexpected challenges. It is essential to speak with a legal advisor to understand the complexities and potential consequences if you are unmarried, but married couples shouldn’t ignore this step either. Developing a house ownership agreement can help you address crucial details upfront, such as how you will split costs, allocate ownership percentages, deal with disputes, or handle a breakup or death. While you may never need to use this agreement, it’s reassuring to know that you have a plan in place.

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments that you will make with your partner, so it’s important to navigate the process with mutual respect and open communication. We hope you’ll consider S&A Homes when you’re ready to buy a new construction home. To learn more about our amazing new home opportunities where we build in Central and South-Central Pennsylvania, including build on your lot and quick-move in homes, call 1-855-SAHOME1 or visit SAHomeBuilder.com.

April 4, 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