Archives for June 2020

As a pet owner, it’s important to be aware of factors that could create or become health concerns for your pet and then take steps to ensure they’re not in danger. With summer comes all sorts of hazards for dogs and cats, from an increase in the possibility of coming into contact with parasites to poisonous plants and problems associated with heat, just to name a few. Whether you leave your dogs outside all day while you’re at work or even for just a few hours at a time, it’s critical that you provide them with shade throughout the day. If you don’t have any trees, and for whatever reason, you can’t build a DIY sunshade, consider purchasing a portable lanai of sorts.    Puppywalk Green Breezy Ultra If you take a quick visual stroll around Amazon, you can find a few examples of shade-bearing devices with dogs in mind. One of them is called the Puppywalk Green Breezy Ultra, and it’s perfect for creating a cool shady place for dogs. Made from sturdy weather-resistant canvas, the elevated bed or hammock keeps your pet off the ground away from fleas and ticks, while allowing for circulating airflow, and the canvas awning overhead shields them from the sun’s harsh rays. The fabric is quick drying and can be washed easily with a garden hose. At only 24 lbs., it measures 48 x 39 x 39 inches and is strong enough to hold dogs weighing up to 100 lbs. (There’s one bad review for this  product on Amazon here, but the product in so unique, I still thought it  and the next item worthy of highlighting.)   K&H Manufacturing Pet Cot Canopy Another choice along the same lines comes from K&H Manufacturing. Their Pet Cot Canopies follow the same principal as Kittywalk’s, but in this case they more closely resemble a dome tent, and you have to buy the cot and dome separately. You can choose between sizes small, medium and large for both, and the cots are said to hold dogs up to 150 lbs. The domes generally run under $20, but the cots vary considerably. When purchased together, though, depending on the size of the cot, they can still be cheaper than the Kittywalk shade beds, but I can’t attest to equal or lesser quality.   Quik Shade Outdoor Instant Pet Shade with Elevated Mesh Bed Here’s another choice in elevated beds with a sunscreen. Quik Shade’s covered bed is said to have a sturdy frame that locks into place, ensuring your dog can’t collapse it when jumping on it. The bed is mesh, for even more airflow, and it comes in four different colors. It comes in three sizes and even includes a carrying case, if you want to take it with you camping or out of town. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first-class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award-winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

Pool lights are a trend that’s been sweeping the U.S and Europe for quite some time and it’s easy to see why. Adding lights to your pool not only makes it more attractive and has the benefit of giving you the ability to see in low light conditions but it also has a number of other benefits that can prove useful to the pool owner. Some of the benefits of these light include enhancing and defining architectural elements, extending the use of the pool for you and your family into the evening hours, creating a bubble of light that can make the pool area and surrounding yard safer to use, can be used as a mood enhancing element and enhance water effects such as spas and waterfalls. Because these lights have become popular, they now come in a variety of different forms. There are underwater led lights and floating pool lights. There are types of lighting that hang over the pool and there are spotlight lamps which only light up a particular portion of the swimming area. Of course, the more variety you have in pool lighting, the harder it can be to choose a model that fits your needs and your budget. Which is why I’ve decided to write this guide. It will detail the best options you have when it comes to lighting for your pool and will tell you how to find a model that will make you happy every time you go out to swim.

Floating Pool Lights & Underwater Pool Lights

Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first-class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award-winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

Rising temperatures mean pool time! But before your pool area and home is filled with damp towels, use these tips to keep the area clear so you enjoy your swim! Can’t find your kids’ goggles in the sea of floats and noodles surrounding your pool? Having trouble distinguishing the clean towels from the dirty ones? Here are some tips for keeping all your flip flops, towels, pool accessories, and ducks in a row (that is, organized) this summer.

1. Hang a wine rack for clean towels.

It’s easy to find, easy to use, and frankly, a colorful addition to your backyard décor with all your different beach towel designs on display. Yes, consider using a wine rack as a holder for clean, rolled-up towels. You won’t regret it.

2. Utilize a coat rack for wet towels.

And speaking of towels, find an old waterproof coat rack or make one yourself out of PVC pipes to hold all those dripping-wet towels. Just make sure you put it in a spot that provides easy access and cover from any random rain showers (that is, if you want the towels to dry out and stay dry).

3. Use a pallet for noodle storage.

Want to take advantage of one of the hottest trends lately? Consider repurposing a wooden pallet as prime pool storage real estate. Simply sand it (if necessary) and paint it whatever color you decide. Then, prop it up or attach it against a wall, and store all of those pesky pool noodles out of the way. Want to take your storage up a notch? Add hooks for towels and swimsuits, as well as baskets for flip flops and additional pool-necessity storage.

4. Hang dollar-store baskets along the fence for accessories.

When it comes to pool storage ideas, you can’t go wrong with cheap baskets from the local dollar store. They can provide storage for pool toys, storage for all those small accessories or any other type of swimming pool storage you can think of. All you have to do is hang them from the fence, and voila, easy access!

5. Contain your floats in a cargo net.

If you have a large, blank wall close to your pool, then you have the perfect place for pool float storage. Just gather some outdoor-grade hooks with the non-damaging adhesive on the back, place them along the wall and hook the cargo net on each of the hooks. Then you’re all set to add those floats (which, by the way, could also double as a unique and colorful backyard decoration). Be sure to space the hooks out enough to ensure easy retrieval of your floats when you’re ready to use them, though.

6. Create a floating toy box.

For a creative twist on outdoor pool toy storage, consider cutting up a pool noodle and attaching the pieces around one of those cheap, dollar-store laundry baskets. That way, the basket can float in the water with you — making play time and toy cleanup a breeze! Bonus Tip: Use this same concept with a solid, waterproof basket to store snacks, drinks or anything else that you’d like to keep within arms’ reach of you while you’re swimming. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first-class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award-winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.        

To add interest to your book collection, alternate stacking books horizontally and vertically. One of the best ideas for decorating bookcases is to use decor as bookends. Bold-color accessories and picture frames make great bookends and help the decor stand out on shelves.  Mod decor shelves call for a sparse look, so group together a small set of books that are all of fairly uniform size. Accessorize with streamlined vases and metallic decor, leaving lots of open space on shelves to let the accessories shine through. Give the whole shelving unit a pop with a smart-color backdrop. To give office bookshelves an organized feel, gather a wide variety of collectibles. Place your chosen items between books, creating loose symmetry. If you have a picture frame or square shape in one shelf, mirror it with a collectible of a similar shape and size on the opposite side. In a wall of bookshelves such as this, it’s important to scatter books here and there to punctuate the look. Carry your onto your bookshelf to give the room a sense of unity. Here, accessories on the shelves match the light blue of a nearby throw pillow. conceal items like toys and movies that you may not want out in the open. Bookshelves do double duty as storage space for books and display space for accessories. Learn how to decorate bookshelves so they are both fully functional and pleasing to the eye. For picture-perfect bookcase decorating, resist the urge to pack in accessories on every shelf. Keep a clean look by choosing a one-color or tone-on-tone scheme for vases and figurines, and make sure to mix up shapes. Every so often, step back to assess the overall balance of your arrangement. Place items off-center, or try larger or smaller ones until you like what you see. To add interest to your book collection, alternate stacking books horizontally and vertically. One of the best ideas for decorating bookcases is to use decor as bookends. Bold-color accessories and picture frames make great bookends and help the decor stand out on shelves. Mod decor shelves call for a sparse look, so group together a small set of books that are all of fairly uniform size. Accessorize with streamlined vases and metallic decor, leaving lots of open space on shelves to let the accessories shine through. Give the whole shelving unit a pop with a smart-color backdrop. To give office bookshelves an organized feel, gather a wide variety of collectibles. Place your chosen items between books, creating loose symmetry. If you have a picture frame or square shape in one shelf, mirror it with a collectible of a similar shape and size on the opposite side. In a wall of bookshelves such as this, it’s important to scatter books here and there to punctuate the look. Don’t forget the power of bookends when decorating bookcases! Use heavy, sturdy decor as a bookend to keep shelves neat and organized. Bookends especially come in handy for paperbacks and slimmer books, which are less likely to stay upright. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first-class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award-winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

We all worry about the pollution and air quality we face outdoors, but have you ever considered that indoor air quality may be an equally big concern? Did you know that indoor air quality can be from two to five times worse that outdoor air quality? Or that the EPA has ranked indoor air pollution as one of the top five environmental concerns we face? How about that 50% of illnesses are either caused or aggravated by poor indoor air quality? These numbers are  especially disturbing considering that most of us spend around ninety percent of our time indoors between home, school and work. Pollution comes from many sources- cigarette smoke, gas combustion, insulation, paint, pesticides, mold, and even cleaning products. Surfaces Dust bunnies are far from innocent, unsightly annoyances. They are home to all the chemical pollutants and germs from lawns, streets, and anywhere else you venture that you track into your home. In addition to the chemicals, the dust in your home contains other pet dander and allergens. When you move around your home, you move all of it—dust and chemicals alike — into the air you breathe. What Can You Do? Instead of simply sweeping or dusting, vacuum and/or mop your surfaces—remember, dust gathers on more than just your floors. To combat the dust on your floors specifically, placemats at all entrances to your home. They’ll reduce the amount of dirt, pesticides, and other pollutants being tracked into your home. Humidity During the summer, the humidity can be inescapable. What you may not realize is that humidity is a factor all year long. Maintaining a healthy level of humidity is critical for maintaining a healthy level of indoor air quality—dust mites and mold thrive in moist conditions. When you keep your home’s humidity level between 30 and 50 percent, you greatly reduce the risk of mites, molds, and other allergens sharing your home. Options? Firstly, you can make sure that there are no significant leaks in any of your homes plumbing, or in your ceilings, walls, or floors. In addition to ensuring your home is leak-free, another way to combat humidity is, of course, with a dehumidifier. This can help you control your home’s humidity level and protect your family from the dangers of mold and allergens. For more information on dehumidifiers, click here. Chemical Pollutants Chemical pollutants don’t just come from pesticides and factories. Many things you use every day—e.g.  perfume, hairspray, candles, gas stoves, bleach—can cause poor air quality, especially when used in enclosed spaces. Cigarette smoke is another major source of indoor air pollution, as cigarettes contain over 4000 chemicals. Even secondhand smoke can cause serious respiratory and internal health problems in children and adults alike. Fresh Air It’s important to keep fresh air in the house, no matter how cool it is outside. Most HVAC systems do not automatically bring fresh air in, so remember to crack a window or invest in filtration systems. Try to never use any chemical household products in spaces without ventilation. For instance, if you’re cleaning the bathroom, if you can’t open a window, at least turn on the fan.  It’s also a good idea to keep your home a smoke-free zone, to avoid all of the chemical pollutants cigarette smoke (first and second hand) produce altogether. In addition to fresh air, an air purifier can vastly improve your home’s air quality by absorbing many of the airborne allergens, chemicals, and dust mites. For more information on air filtration systems, click here. Poor Ventilation Sometimes you can’t avoid air pollutants—such as those that come from your HVAC system, dryer, fridge, or any other large appliance. Fortunately, most of these have elaborate venting systems that absorb most, if not all of the potential air pollutants. Unfortunately, these systems are not without fault. Any vent, after a while, produces up more junk than its ability to catch. This is true for both ducts and filters. Dirty ducts and vents provide a breeding ground for a variety of microbial growth such as mold and bacteria. Vacuum Once again, a vacuum is your friend. You can use a vacuum to suck up a lot of the dirt, debris, and dust that builds in and around your appliances before it blows out into the air. Also, remember to change all filters regularly. You can also schedule to have your ducts cleaned. This doesn’t need to be done very often, but if you haven’t had it done since you’ve been in your home, it’s a good idea to check into it. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first-class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award-winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

Because of the current pandemic, an increasing number of residents are now concerned about their home’s air quality. The reality is, we are now spending more time indoors and are aware of new dangers. The air we are breathing inside our homes must also be conducive to keeping us healthy. If you are seeking an air purification system that can destroy airborne contaminants like mold, bacteria, allergens, and viruses, then it’s worth investing in a UV-based solution. What Exactly is UV Air Purification? UV air treatment uses a highly concentrated ultraviolet (UV) light to kill a wide array of indoor air pollutants. These types of UV systems can provide further protection against airborne dust, microorganisms, and other unpleasant particles. UV-V light systems can greatly reduce other pollutants like allergens and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). What Kinds of Pollutants Can UV Kill? Fortunately, ultraviolet light is highly effective for several types of microorganisms. These include mold, fungi, mildew, bacteria, and even viruses. UV light works by breaking down the molecular bonds in their DNA that holds them together –boom! This process will either kill them outright or render them unable to reproduce and spread., This means it will prevent them from infecting your home. Can You Explain How These Systems Work? A UV system is quite simple and works in conjunction with your existing HVAC system. One of our skilled installers will mount the UV lights inside of your ductwork near the main unit. Once installed, the air circulating through the ducts will pass through the UV rays destroying the pollutants. What Kinds of Pollutants Can UV Kill? Fortunately, ultraviolet light is highly effective for several types of microorganisms. These include mold, fungi, mildew, bacteria, and even viruses. UV light works by breaking down the molecular bonds in their DNA that holds them together –boom! This process will either kill them outright or render them unable to reproduce and spread., This means it will prevent them from infecting your home. Can You Explain How These Systems Work? A UV system is quite simple and works in conjunction with your existing HVAC system. A skilled installer will mount the UV lights inside of your ductwork near the main unit. Once installed, the air circulating through the ducts will pass through the UV rays destroying the pollutants. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first-class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award-winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

Although it’s a necessary evil, doing the laundry is often ranked as one of everyone’s least favorite chores. There are so many different brands, styles, and features available, too. Should you go with a front-load or top-load washing machine? High-efficiency (HE) or regular washer? Gas or electric dryer? And which brand of washer and dryer should you choose? We’ll advise you on how to buy a washer and dryer, including features to favor and which model is best for your needs. The type of washer and dryer you get will depend largely on the space in your home. For example, laundry might be allocated to a narrow closet in your home, making your only option a stackable washer and dryer set. These units tend to be smaller, meaning you might not be able to fit your large comforters in your machine, though they are convenient for limited spaces. Compact dryers are also ideal for smaller spaces and those who need specific features. Dryers are available as gas or electric, so which you purchase will be a result of what your house supports. Standard washers are often (but not always) 27 or 27.5 inches wide, with a capacity from 3.1 to 6.2 cubic feet. How much laundry they hold will depend on the style: A front-load washer will handle more clothes and bulky items, such as comforters, than top-loaders with agitators. Though, on average, you’ll usually fit between 5 and 10 pounds of clothes at one time. Compact machines are typically 24 inches wide and have up to 3.0 cubic feet of capacity, though they’re often closer to 2.2 or 2.4 cubic feet. You can generally fit between 4 and 8 pounds of clothes in their drums. Washer and dryers are big appliances. You might be wondering if you’ll be able to get them into your home easily. Doorways and hallways in most homes can handle items that can fit through a space 30 to 31 inches wide. Regardless of the type of machines you end up purchasing, be sure to account for an extra 4 to 6 inches behind the washer and dryer for the hook-ups, plus an inch or so around the sides and top for airflow and making them easier to remove. There aren’t standard measurements for height or depth, either, so you’ll want to make note of those. Don’t forget that your top-loader will need around 20 inches to lift, while a front-loader’s door needs 20 to 25 inches of clearance. Double-check that your choice of front-loaders are stackable, as not all of them are. Capacity is important when choosing an accompanying dryer as well. The first thing you’ll notice is that dryers hold more than washers. That’s because your clothes fluff up and take up more space as they dry. What you don’t want is a dryer that holds less laundry than your washer — otherwise, you’ll be drying in shifts. To avoid this, just look for a dryer with about double the capacity of your washer. That might not be strictly possible with compact models: Bosch’s compact washers have 2.2 cubic feet of space, while their dryers have 4 cubic feet. As long as you’re pretty close to double the size, you shouldn’t have to overload your dryer. The washing bins on top-loaders are so deep that it may be hard for shorter people to reach the bottom to retrieve clothes unless you choose a shallow dryer. When perusing them in the store, open the top and see if you can touch the bottom comfortably. If you have to lean in too much and you find yourself on your tippy-toes, a top-loader probably isn’t for you. Do you really want to stand on your toes to do laundry for the next 10 years? Many top-load models today have foregone the inner agitator (the big spinning rod inside the machine) for a hollow bin. Some even have a stainless steel tub. The benefit of these is that they can handle higher spin speeds. Ultimately, this means it will take less time for your clothes to dry. Front-loaders still have greater maximum spin speeds, so they’ll make drying even more efficient. Front-loading machines tend to be more expensive and have a ton of features, even on the most basic models. It can be hard to find one for under $500. Front-loaders require regular maintenance on the sensors — wiping down once in a while to keep them in good working order. Some models could potentially attract mold. This is an easy fix: Either occasionally wipe the front area where water can accumulate or leave the door open after use. Yes, the light may stay on for a minute or two if the door is left open, but it may shut off, or you can turn the washer off. The other issue to consider is bending down to open the doors. Of course, the manufacturers took this into consideration and offer pedestals that the washer and dryer can be placed upon, making them taller and much easier to use. Though, if you struggle to bend down, you’ll want to address this before purchasing one. Some also have drawers underneath for storing detergent and fabric softener. Unfortunately, these aren’t included in the price and generally cost a few hundred bucks extra. Occasionally, some deals offer a discount on the pedestals when buying the washer and dryer, but don’t count on it. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first-class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award-winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

Replace Old Hardware House numbers, the entry door lockset, a wall-mounted mailbox, and an overhead light fixture are all elements that can add style and interest to your home’s exterior curb appeal. If they’re out of date or dingy, your home may not be conveying the aesthetic you think it is. These elements add the most appeal when they function collectively, rather than as mix-and-match pieces. Oiled-bronze finishes suit traditional homes, while brushed nickel suits more contemporary ones. Dress Up the Front Door Your home’s front entry is the focal point of its curb appeal. Make a statement by giving your front door a coat of color with paint or by installing a custom wood door. Clean off any dirty spots around the knob, and use metal polish on the door fixtures. Your entry should also reflect the home’s interior, so choose a swag, flag, or wreath that reflects your personal style. Install Outdoor Lighting Low-voltage landscape lighting makes a huge impact on your home’s curb appeal while also providing safety and security. Fixtures can add accent lighting to trees or the house or can illuminate a walking path. For the best landscape lighting, plan to incorporate a variety of fixtures and lighting types. If you aren’t able to use lights that require wiring, install solar fixtures (but understand that their light levels are not as bright or as reliable). Add an Instant Garden Container gardens add a welcoming feel and colorful curb appeal to any home exterior quickly and affordably. You can buy ready-made containers from garden centers or create your own with your favorite plants. Pots come in a variety of materials, such as terra-cotta, ceramic, wood, and plastic. For most landscapes, a staggered, asymmetrical arrangement works best to create a dynamic setting. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first-class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award-winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

Make Your Entrance Inviting A cheery front-door color and a touch of landscaping can do wonders for your home’s curb appeal and make a lasting impression on guests. Dress the door with new hardware, and add potted plants near the entrance. Consider installing outdoor lighting to enhance your home’s architecture and illuminate the walkway. Replace your worn-out welcome mat with a bold statement mat to create a warm and welcoming persona for your home.   Install a New Faucet Inject elegance into your daily life with a faucet that ups the ante in looks and quality. Just make sure the configuration matches your existing sink, or you might end up replacing that, too. If you’re planning on buying a new sink, it’s easiest to install a faucet and other hardware on a new sink before the sink is put in place. Buying a new sink allows you to customize the number of holes to fit your preferred faucet.   Add a New Light Fixture Dress up an eating area with a fresh light fixture. Replacing an existing fixture is your easiest option: Just turn off the power at the breaker box and connect the wires. Hanging a new light fixture is a simple way to change the look of your room, and it’s a project you can do yourself. Consider the design, as well as function, when choosing the right light fixtures for your kitchen.   Add Storage to Your Entryway If a traditional entry closet or a built-in shelving system isn’t an option in your home, refashioned furniture can achieve a look that’s equally stylish and storage-savvy. This small-scale table is a perfect size for beside the front door. Though compact, the table’s lower shelf makes the piece super functional for drop-zone items. Hang a wall-mount shelf above the table to keep keys, hats, and sunglasses within easy reach.   Paper or Paint a Wall Select the perfect self-adhesive wallpaper to create an accent that’s easy to apply, remove, and reuse. Like a giant sticker, peel the decorative paper off the backing and adhere it to a primed and painted wall. To create a curvy top edge, use your mirror to inspire the outline of your design. Cut the shape from kraft paper and test the look. Tape the pattern on the decorative paper applied to the wall; use a crafts knife to cut around the template and peel away the paper above the cut. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first-class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award-winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.