Have you ever walked into someone’s home and instantly felt calm and relaxed, but you couldn’t put your finger on why it felt so good? I remember going home from college after a long semester and feeling the weight of the world lift as I entered my childhood home. Was it the smell of chicken soup? Or the television turned up loud with the Detroit Lions winning? Most likely, it was neither. It simply was home.
What makes a house a home? As an agent, I’ve walked through hundreds of houses. Each one has a certain feel to it. After being inside so many, I’ve noticed a couple of simple things that can make any space calm, relaxing and inviting. Try these suggestions this month, and show your home some love!
- Clean the sink. When you have a clean kitchen sink, it makes your entire kitchen feel better. Let’s face it, a full sink is like a
to-do list that never gets done. - Make your bed. There is a reason luxury linens exist. Fancy hotels have fluffy sheets and towels that make you feel special. Why not spoil yourself and get new sheets and pillows for your bed? You are worth it.
- Bring nature inside. Be your own valentine and best friend, and buy yourself some fresh flowers. Get your favorite blooms, and put them on your cleared, tidy counters next to your empty sink.
- Clear the clutter. We all have too much stuff. Take time to clear countertops and surfaces. Clutter can drain your energy.
- Add your favorite scent. What makes you feel like you are on vacation? The beach? Light that beachy-smelling coconut candle.
- Do the maintenance. When something breaks, be kind to your home, and fix it the right way. Not doing so can cause significant expenses and damage to your property value.
- Honor the memories. Fill your home with meaningful framed art. I took old wallpaper from a home my client was gutting. We wanted to remember the history and remind ourselves of the hard work put into the renovation. We signed the wallpaper — contractors, plumbers, all of us. It still hangs in her kitchen.
Loving your home is like loving yourself. It matters. Your home is not just a place to lay your head. It’s your safe space. Take care of it and love it, and it will love you back.
– Joannie Bates is a Realtor for Keller Williams Signature Partners. She works with clients in the surrounding area, with a focus on luxury and investment properties.
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