Home Decor Ideas

Shopping for a new house means looking past that fresh coat of paint and doing a little digging to see if any big repairs or deal breakers are lurking beneath the surface. 

Sure, it’s likely a few issues will surface during your inspection, but it’s smart to check things out before you put in an offer. Finding a problem doesn’t mean you can’t buy the house. It just helps you get a better idea of what to offer, and what you can live with. A new house is a big investment, and you want to make sure that your dream home doesn’t turn into a nightmare.

Knowing the age and condition of your new home’s roof is key to understanding upcoming, potential home maintenance costs. Source: Peter Zimmerman Architects

1. Damaged roof

The first thing you need to know about your potential new home is the age and condition of the roof. The realtor should be able to tell you. Do a visual check of the roof by walking around the house. Look for damaged or missing shingles, rusted flashing, moss or dirt and any other spots that worry you. A damaged roof could seriously impact the interior and exterior of your home. If you have concerns, let your realtor know so they can discuss them with the homeowner when they negotiate your offer.

When you have a home inspection, be sure to have your air Ccnditioner and Furnace are thoroughly evaluated. Source: Superior Living by Design

2. Heating and cooling performance

Few things are worse than needing A/C or heat, and not having it. So make sure you check the heating and cooling system to see if it’s in good working order. Ask the age of the system, turn it on and off, take a look at the ductwork if possible and see if the filters fit snugly. Don’t forget to look outside, too. Listen to how your air conditioning and heating units sound when they’re running. Look for rust and dirt on the equipment. If you’re satisfied with your initial look, pay close attention to the inspection report. Your inspector will test the system and can give you more thorough details.

If you think the system might need replacing, your local HVAC dealer can give you a quote for installation, labor and equipment. If you need to replace any equipment, you may be able to get the homeowner to reduce the selling price by amount of the replacement cost.

Checking for leaking faucets, shower heads or signs of leaks like stains on the ceiling can also be good clues when evaluating the home you are interested in purchasing. Source: Kitchens By Clay

3. Water damage

Inside the house, look for water stains on the ceiling. Check under sinks in the kitchen and bathrooms and test all of the faucets and showers. You’ll also want to check out the basement, garage or crawl space to see if there’s a sump pump. These could all indicate past or future problems with poor water drainage which could lead to flooding. Outside, look for sloping areas in the yard, standing water, french drains, water marks on the foundation. Even if the water issues aren’t active anymore, it’s good to know past problems and what could pop up in the future.

Foundation, or lack there of can really be a good indicator of structural issues you may encounter later down the road. Source: Keuka Studios

4. Foundation faults

If you’re serious about buying a house, be sure to check out the foundation. Walk around the exterior, go into the crawlspace or basement and look for cracks and other red flags. Your inspector will also give you a thorough report on these issues. 

Look beyond the cosmetics of an updated kitchen to make sure your appliances and outlets are updated as well. Source: SOD Builders

5. Working appliances and electrical outlets

Don’t let cosmetic repairs distract you from potential problems, especially in a freshly painted kitchen. Look at all appliances to make sure they’re in good shape. Turn on the stove, run the dishwasher and peek into the refrigerator. Look for grounded GFCI outlets in your kitchen and baths — the ones with the red and black reset buttons. Also, give the circuit breaker a look and flip a few of the breakers. If this is going to be your new home, you want to make sure everything works as it should.

Beyond the beauty windows reflect, be sure that they are all operational in case of an emergency. Source: The Sitting Room Studio

6. Working windows

It’s a simple thing, but check all the windows in the new house to make sure they open properly. This is important for fire safety, as well as for comfort on a warm day. Asking the homeowner to get a handyman to fix the windows is easy.

7. Bugs and pests

You may not see any critters during the day, but look in corners and cabinets for mouse and roach droppings. Again, this is another easy fix. You can ask the homeowner for a pest control treatment as part of your contract.

Understanding potential problems will make you more confident during the home buying experience – and allow you to enjoy your new house rather than worrying about what’s wrong. It’s up to you to decide if any faults you find are deal breakers or an opportunity to get a better deal on your new home.

The post 7 Things to Look for When Buying a New House appeared first on Freshome.com.

Celebrities are just like us, except they have more money, more fame and bigger haunted houses. Just in time for Halloween, we present you with seven celebrity haunted mansions that vary from unsettling to downright horrifying. At these houses, Halloween is an everyday event.

1. Amy Winehouse’s Camden Flat In London

Amy Winehouse’s haunted flat. Image: House Network

Amy moved out of her house because she was scared to death of a little boy that haunted her. In an interview, Amy said that the ghost, named Henry, would scratch her. The night before her death, several witnesses heard screams, drums and animal howls coming from her flat. Since her death, her parents have listed her home.

2. The Benedict Canyon House Where Sharon Tate Was Murdered

The home where Sharon Tate was murdered by Charles Manson’s followers had a long, disturbing history. Image: Pinterest

We all know the horrific story of how Roman Polanski’s pregnant wife, Sharon Tate, was murdered by Charles Manson and his followers while at a party in this home. But this house was disturbing long before this event. It was originally owned in the 1920s by an MGM producer, Paul Bern, who gifted it to his wife, actress Jean Harlow, when they married.

Jean was so disturbed by the home she begged Paul to sell it. He unfortunately shot himself in the home four months later. According to House Crazy, Harlow moved out after her husband’s death but later died, at just 26 years old, from kidney disease.

In the years that followed (and before the horrible Manson massacre), two other people committed suicide in the house and one person drowned in the pool. Several sightings of male ghosts were reported throughout the years, including Paul Bern’s.

3. The New York City Apartment Building Where John Lennon Was Shot And Rosemary’s Baby Was Filmed

The building is surrounded by large, modern high rises and looks rather ominous. Image: NY Post

John Lennon and Yoko Ono lived at the exclusive Dakota on the Upper West Side when he was shot to death outside his door. According to the NY Post, Yoko Ono saw his ghost sitting at his white piano years after his death. She claims John turned to her and said, “Don’t be afraid. I am still with you.”

But it’s not just Lennon’s ghost that haunts the building. Lennon himself claimed there was a “crying lady ghost” wandering the halls. Other residents claim there’s a little girl that roams around.

The Dakota’s original owner had an interest in the paranormal and would often hold seances in the building, perhaps ushering in an array of ghosts that have moved in with the living.

4. Nicolas Cage’s Serial Killer Mansion in New Orleans

The LaLaurie mansion, where slaves were often abused and murdered by Madame LaLaurie. Image: Wikimedia

In an interview with Vanity Fair, Nicholas Cage said, “I once lived in the most haunted house in America. The LaLaurie Mansion in New Orleans used to belong to Madame LaLaurie, a well-known 19th-century socialite and serial killer. I bought it in 2007, figuring it would be a good place in which to write the great American horror novel. I didn’t get too far with the novel.”

Nick sold the mansion less than two years later. Passersby still report hearing screams coming from the house.

5. Jayne Mansfield’s “Pink Palace” In Beverly Hills

Jayne in her pink shag bathroom. Every room, as well as the exterior, was pink. Image: Curbed LA

According to American Hauntings, Jayne Mansfield was cursed. She died in a horrible car accident where reports say she was decapitated. Soon after her death, endless tragic incidents occurred in her beloved Pink Palace:

• Ringo Starr had the home painted white when he moved in but claimed that the pink shade would seep through the new paint.
• Jayne’s friends refused to go back in the house because they felt like they were being watched.
• The son of the next owner of the Pink Palace found Jayne’s pink Honda and took it for a drive. He was killed in an accident the moment he exited the estate. His family moved out the same day.

The house was demolished in 2002.

6. Adele’s Haunted English Mansion

Adele refused to stay a single night alone in her sprawling mansion. Image: Daily Mail

Adele was so creeped out by the noises in her former rental that she hired a female bodyguard to stay with her. She vowed to never spend a night alone in the house and eventually moved out.

In an interview with Anderson Cooper for 60 Minutes, she said, “This bit is quite scary, really,” as they walked through a dark hall.  The 25-acre West Sussex property was a convent before, complete with a chapel.

7. Marylin Monroe Is Still Busy Making Appearances

The home where Marylin Monroe lived and died. Eyewitnesses claim she still makes appearances. Image: Variety

According to several eyewitnesses, Marylin Monroe seems to be busy haunting places. She’s regularly seen in her former home where she died, and in the Roosevelt Hotel.

The Roosevelt Hotel was where she was staying in Hollywood when her modeling career took off. There have been sightings of her in her old suite 1200, her favorite Cabana Room Suite #246 overlooking the pool and in mirrors around the hotel.

The post 7 Celebrity Haunted Mansions Where It Feels Like Halloween Every Day appeared first on Freshome.com.

French Connection – the affordable Brit fashion brand known best for its basic t-shirts sporting their provocative initials, FCUK – has a new home line. Move over, Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters and Zara Home. FCUK may have your wallet captive for now.

Check out the best from the French Connection Homeware collection, priced between $50 and $300.

Fall Bedding Look

The secret to a fashionable and luxurious bed (like the one below by French Connection Homeware) is layering several elements like sheets, pillows, blankets and throws. Choose a cohesive color theme of two or three shades and mix and match patterns or textures. Here are more secrets on how to put together a luxurious bed.

A zen bedroom space featuring bedding and textiles designed with understated texture and patterns. All images: French Connection Homeware

Shop this look:

Decorating An Ordinary Living Room With Pillows And Textiles

Adding a rug, throw pillows and a blanket adds personality and depth to a room. Fall is all about layers and texture, much like the FCUK setting below.

The line features bedding, pillows, throw blankets and rugs that add interesting layers to your rooms.

Shop this look:

The retailer will be adding more to the collection throughout the fall season. You can shop the line here and sign up for arrival updates on coordinating pieces.

The post Here’s The Fab New French Connection Homeware Line You Need To Add Textured Accents To Your Space appeared first on Freshome.com.

Pumpkins are a powerful element in autumn decorating. They pack a colorful punch. Since they’re harvested in the fall, they make everyone think of the autumnal season. They’re also extremely versatile. It’s easy to paint pumpkins, add jeweled accents or buy different types with wild textures. And one way to make the most of pumpkins in your autumn decorating is to go for a whole menagerie of them. That way, you can work with different colors, textures and styles. And a grouping of pumpkins can serve as a whole large focal point in your fall decor. Below, you’ll find several ways to work with pumpkin menageries.

Separate your pumpkin menagerie to create balance. Image: Kirkendall Design

Add Balance to the Doorway

Pumpkin menageries work well on the porch. They add a splash of color to what tends to be a fairly neutral space. And having them on the porch sets an instant fall harvest vibe for any guests coming to your door.

The photo above shows how placing a pumpkin menagerie on either side of the door is a great way to add balance to the space. The style also does a great job of using different pumpkins with multiple sizes, colors and textures. Groups of pumpkins also pair well with other fall colors, like the bold yellow flowers and deep red and orange door wreaths.

Painted pumpkins add style and layers to the design. Image: Sarah Greenman

Use Multiple Colors and Textures

You can also go bolder in your colors and textures. The photo above shows how some white pumpkins combine well with bold metallic painted pumpkins. Little accents like polka dots update the traditional harvest pumpkin, making this style a good choice for chic home designs.

You can even paint one of the pumpkins a less common pumpkin color, like sage green, to add a bit of an accent. You can also use more conceptual pieces, like the twig pumpkins, for added texture. The photo also shows how easy it is to place pumpkins on shelves and in planters to get different heights for each piece.

Add jewel accents for a chic take on the design. Image: Kirkendall Design

Go for Textured Designs

Another idea is to add jeweled designs to natural pumpkins. This is a good way to get a more updated, chic take on the look, too. These pair well with other natural elements, like the yellow flowers and twig pumpkin.

The photo above highlights another good idea for displaying pumpkin menageries. A retro produce cart is a natural choice. You can also prop up some of the elements of the design using classic wooden crates. Overall, it makes you feel like the fall harvest has just come to sell at the fair. It’s a classic country look that goes well with the fall harvest theme.

You can get creative on where you place your pumpkin menagerie. Image: Hunt Laudi Studio

Put Pumpkins in Unexpected Places

Feel free to place pumpkin menageries in creative places around the home. An example from the photo above shows how well a line of pumpkins can go under some stairs. Some accent lighting behind them can draw the eye to your harvest accent.

The photo also shows how a pumpkin menagerie can work in the most modern of spaces. The orange of the pumpkins acts as an attractive accent color in this otherwise clean, white space. The lighting behind the pumpkins keeps the display looking more modern. Yellow flowers on the table also add a complementing fall color accent.

A smaller menagerie makes a great accent in a room. Image: Kirkendall Design

Go for Small Accents

Your pumpkin menagerie doesn’t have to be a giant spectacle. The photo above shows how a few pumpkins and some fall foliage on a counter can add a nice harvest accent to a room. This is an easy, attractive idea that can work on end tables, on a mantel, on a shelf or in the middle of a kitchen island, as a few examples. It’s an easy idea that you can place anywhere.

As in the photo, try to go for pumpkins with different colors and textures. That will add visual interest and help the element pop in the room. It is on the smaller side, so different colors and textures will help draw attention to the display.

Find different pumpkins and gourds for a full-textured display. Image: Julie Ranee

Use Unique Textures in Pumpkin Menageries

Have you ever looked at those weird, misshapen pumpkins in the store and wondered why anyone would ever want them? The photo above shows why. If you’re creating a pumpkin menagerie, the name of the game is texture and color. And the photo above shows how different textures, colors and shapes of pumpkins can make an eye-grabbing display. Unique pumpkins are a good idea if you’re going for a natural display that is not accented with paint or jeweled additions.

The photo above also shows how well pumpkin menageries can work on and around classic items, like the old distressed toolbox. Pumpkins also work well placed on distressed wooden furniture, as you can see in the background. It all combines for a delightfully rustic look.

The post 6 Ways to Get Amazing Pumpkin Menageries This Fall appeared first on Freshome.com.

The Inside is a great source for affordable home accents as well as textiles, similar to what you’d find if you work with a top interior designer. And now you can buy affordable, Mid-Century modern style pieces from one of the busiest interior designers around with the Katherine Carter for Homepolish collection.

Her top clients include Lauren Conrad and Marianna Hewitt. Her first home collection, in collaboration with The Inside, is offered in three custom prints she says were inspired by “natural textures and organic shapes in a reduced, modern palette.”

The Katherine Carter for Homepolish collection at The Inside is perfect for renters as well as apartment dwellers. The collection’s pieces are small-scale and also include removable wallpapers that are perfect for dressing up a wall and taking it down when moving out.

Here’s a look at The Inside’s new Katherine Carter for Homepolish collection:

The  Modern Platform Bed, shown in Black Sybil is $799 & up (depending on size), features brass legs. It’s also available in other Katherine Carter textiles. All images: The Inside

Katherine Carter’s Marble print is available as a 20″ throw pillow with down insert for $49.

Turned legs and tufted buttons give this 48″ Mid-Century Bench in Black Fracture fabric, $345, a vintage modern look.

A perfectly tailored Square Pouf in Marble, $249, would be perfect as an occasional table, extra seat or footstool.

The Modern Bench, shown in White Sybil, $399, features the same 70s-style brass legs as the Modern Platform bed.

The Marble Removable Wallpaper, $129 and Cocktail Chair, $399 make a great pairing in a small sitting area.

What’s your favorite piece and pattern from Katherine Carter’s new collection? Let us know in the comments.

The post Check Out The Inside’s New Katherine Carter for Homepolish Collection appeared first on Freshome.com.

The ultimate gift for your favorite foodie. KitchenAid’s Limited Edition stand mixer with ceramic hobnail bowl is a dream gift. Image: Williams Sonoma

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Finding the perfect foodie gift is a matter of taste. Though your foodie friends may share a love of all things food, their gift needs go way beyond picking up a tray of something at the grocery store on the way to their party. If you truly want to be the best gift-giver, then you’ll need a strategy to find just the right gift. Though foodies do love food, your gift list should also include a several non-food options. If you’re bringing a food gift to a party, your recipient may feel obligated to share it with you and the other guests. We love the idea of a non-food gift, with a delicious treat tucked inside your foodie friend can enjoy once the party is over. Here’s a list of our favorite foodie-friendly gifts:

Practical gifts for foodies

A practical gift for your favorite foodie doesn’t have to be all work and no play. You can choose a gift that serves a useful purpose with a twist on color or design. Look for gifts that make cooking or entertaining easier, but are also fun to open, too. The best practical gifts are the “why didn’t I think of that?”  items that delight the recipient.

A butter bell

The butter bell is the unsung hero of the dining table. Image: Williams Sonoma

A butter bell is one of those kitchen items that you don’t know you need, until you get one. The butter bell keeps butter soft and easy to serve, which is great for entertaining. Today’s butter bells are stylish and perfect for tabletop use. 

The perfect combo cutting boards

Versatile and stylish, these wood and stone boards do double duty. Image: Williams Sonoma

This clever and beautiful board is a must-have at a party. Slice and serve bread on the wood half, then arrange an assortment of cheeses on the cool marble. Give two or three of these boards with cheese knives for a beautiful gift.

Grilled Cheese Kitchen: Bread + Cheese + Everything in Between cookbook

Indulge your love of grilled cheese with a Grilled Cheese Kitchen Cookbook. Image: Barnes & Noble

A cookbook is a great gift idea for any foodie. This simple and delicious cookbook, Grilled Cheese Kitchen: Bread + Cheese + Everything In Between, has a simple goal: to make the most basic sandwich into something special. We say they succeeded.

Gifts for adventurous foodie friends

We know that many foodies are also adventurous. The love of food can bring out the explorer in our friends as they discover new flavors and cultures. The best gifts for adventurous food-lovers celebrate the diverse food around the world. 

Kitchen linens foodies will love

Spice up a foodie kitchen with these colorful towels. Image: World Market

Whimsical and worldly, the Los Muertos kitchen linens add color and fun to any kitchen. Plus, let’s face it, we all could use more kitchen linens. A set of kitchen towels or pot holders is always a welcome gift and are also easily personalized with your recipient’s interests.

Delight your foodie friend with small plate inspiration

Find small plate inspiration in Graze. Image: Barnes & Noble

Serving “small plate” dishes is at the center of most international dining styles. There’s more to this trend than just smaller portions, however. This foodie gift can inspire countless dinners with Graze: Inspiration for Small Plates and Meandering Meals by Suzanne Lenzer.

Let’s make crêpes!

All the tools a foodie needs to create the perfect crêpe. Image: Sur la Table

We love everything about Crêpes, both savory and sweet. Your foodie friends have probably thought  about trying to make crêpes, but without the right tools it won’t be successful. Enter the Staub Cast Iron Crêpe Set with all the tools they’ll need to create crêperie magic.

Food gifts for foodie friends

It’s understandable when you can’t resist gifting food for your foodie friend — after all, that is their passion. Be sure your food gift is special enough to express the care you took in choosing it. These food gifts will not be found in your local grocery store (which makes them even more fun to shop for).

Spanish saffron is the ultimate indulgence for foodies

Spanish saffron is an exotic treat for foodies. Image: Sur la Table

Known as the most-expensive spice in the world, saffron probably isn’t on your foodie friend’s shopping list. This Spanish saffron is a small indulgence that makes a big impact as a gift. Consider pairing it with other exotic spices as a gift. 

Sustainable, beautiful, Bitterman’s craft salt

Specialty salts and spices make excellent gifts. Image: Sur la Table

Craft salt is a culinary star right now. Gift your foodie friend with the Bitterman’s Foundation Salt Set to open up a world of taste. If you’re gifting salt or spices, look for sets to give your foodie friend more options for experimentation.

Specialty vinegar and oil make simple and delicious foodie gifts

Raspberry vinegar is a versatile accent for more than just salads. Image: Crate & Barrel

A gift of specialty vinegar or cooking oil is a favorite for foodies. They can combine the two to create a simple salad dressing, or use either for marinating or roasting vegetables.

Stylish foodie gift ideas

Stylish designs make any gift more special. A unique shape or finish gives your foodie gifts that “wow” factor when opened. Though your stylish foodie gift is meant to be used, strive for gifts that looking amazing on display, too.

A showpiece pitcher that is meant to be displayed

Stylish and practical, the Ona pitcher makes a tabletop statement. Image: Crate & Barrel

The Ona’s signature off-center handle makes it the center of attention. Handmade in crystal-clear glass with a thick, cut and polished rim. This is one pitcher that is meant to be left out every day. 

Stylish cutting board gift ideas

This stylish cutting board brings the popular herringbone pattern home. Image: Crate & Barrel

Herringbone pattern is everything right now. This beautifully-crafted cutting board makes a stunning gift. Pair your foodie gift with specialty cheese and crackers for a party-ready combo.

Shake it up with a gorgeous cocktail shaker

Shake it up with the champagne gold Neil cocktail shaker. Image: CB2

The Neil champagne gold cocktail shaker is a sophisticated take on an already-swanky gift — this is a gift with impact. If your foodie friend enjoys serving cocktails at home, a shaker makes the perfect gift.

Luxury gift ideas for foodies

The best part about giving a luxurious gift is knowing that it is something your foodie friend would not buy for themselves. Your gift doesn’t have to be expensive, just special. Look for cooking and serving tools in unusual finishes, colors, and shapes.

Fondue pots are always in style

Copper fondue pot with gold accents makes a statement. Image: Williams Sonoma

Fondue pots are still wildly popular, and it’s not surprising. One or two fondue pots can liven up any party, and they definitely make excellent gifts for a foodie that loves to entertain. Pair your fondue pot gift with rich chocolate and specialty marshmallows to get the party started.

Metallic serving pieces work with any decorating style

Melt Reactive Gunmetal Grey server is an inexpensive gift that looks luxurious. Image: CB2

Exotic finishes can elevate even the simplest of foodie gifts. Look for serving pieces in unusual colors or textures — they really make a statement on any table. Organic shapes also keep metallic service pieces from looking too modern.

Chargers for the dinner table are back

Brighten a dinner table with the gold Verona Charger. Image: Perigold

Have you heard about chargers? Using a charger under a dinner plate adds color as well as style to a sit-down dinner. Look for chargers with updated textures and metallics for a trendy style that your foodie friends will love.

What is your favorite foodie gift? Let us know in the comments.

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