Posts

Showing posts from December, 2024

Kingston Home Survival Guide: Staying Cozy and Sane This Fall

-
Image
Fall in Kingston is gorgeous — red maples, pumpkin spice everything, and that brief sweet spot before winter arrives and reminds us why snow tires are a thing. But before you curl up with a butter tart and Netflix, it’s time to get your house ready for the season. Here’s how to do it without feeling like you signed up for a second job. 1. Check Your Heating System (Because January is Not the Time for Surprises) Nothing says “romance” like a furnace tune-up. Book a professional inspection now so you’re not shivering under three blankets in February, Googling “DIY furnace repair” at 2 a.m. Pro tip: if you have a fireplace or wood stove, make sure your chimney is clean — squirrels don’t count as insulation. 2. Seal Up Drafts (Your Hydro Bill Will Thank You) Downtown Kingston is full of beautiful old limestone homes… and beautiful old drafts. Walk around with a candle or an incense stick — if the flame flickers or the smoke dances, that’s a draft. A little weather stripping now means fewer...
Post a Comment
Read more

Holiday Movie Homes: What Would They Be Worth Today?

-
Image
As the holiday season approaches, many of us cozy up on the couch to watch classic Christmas movies that bring warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of magic to our lives. From lavish estates to humble homes brimming with charm, these iconic movie houses are often as memorable as the characters themselves. Ever wonder what these famous homes would be worth today? Let’s take a look at some beloved Christmas movie houses and explore their real estate value in today’s market! 1. The McCallister House – Home Alone Location: Winnetka, Illinois The McCallister house, with its red brick façade, spacious interior, and festive charm, is the epitome of suburban luxury. This 4,243-square-foot Georgian-style home was famously featured in Home Alone as the setting for Kevin’s hilarious escapades. In 2012, the home sold for $1.585 million. Adjusting for market trends, its current value could range between $2.5–$3 million . With its cinematic fame and prime location, this home would be a dream for familie...
Post a Comment
Read more

Surviving Holiday Hosting: 7 Tips to Keep Your Sanity Intact

-
Image
Ah, the holidays—a magical time when your home transforms into a bed-and-breakfast for relatives who may or may not respect personal boundaries. Hosting family is a fine balance of holiday cheer and quiet desperation, but with these tips, you might just survive with your sanity (and your furniture) intact. 1. Channel Your Inner Event Planner Think of hosting as running a tiny hotel—one where you’re the concierge, chef, and janitor. Plan meals, sleeping arrangements, and stockpile essentials. Pro tip: Hide the good coffee for yourself. Desperate times call for selfish measures. 2. Deck the Halls (and the Bathroom) A festive vibe makes everything better, even Uncle Bob’s terrible jokes. String lights, light candles, and toss a wreath somewhere. And don’t forget the bathroom—nothing says “holiday spirit” like a pine-scented hand soap and a snowman towel. 3. Have a Loose Schedule (Emphasis on Loose) Plan key events, like when you’ll serve dinner and when to politely suggest everyone goes h...
Post a Comment
Read more