A mortgage calculator can be very helpful when you’re deciding how to approach the financial side of buying a home. It can give you a ballpark figure of what your monthly mortgage payment may be so you can estimate expenses. It can also help you decide if you might prefer a fixed-rate or an adjustable-rate loan, or a 15- or 30-year loan term. Experiment by entering the numbers for one home price and interest rate—and then alter the figures to see different scenarios. Want to…
Wondering if it’s time to start childproofing your home? Here’s a good rule of thumb: If your kiddo’s about to crawl, you’d better get on the ball! There are literally hundreds of products aimed at making your home a child-friendly zone. Following are some popular ways to childproof the rooms in your home. Please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point, and is by no means exhaustive. The kitchen. Child safety locks, latches and covers can help protect tiny fingers from…
What wistful afternoon spent outdoors isn’t made better by a picnic? While you can always get by with some of the old standbys—e.g., PB&Js, watermelon, potato chips, lemonade—it’s always fun to approach your empty basket with a wild sense of adventure. We are venturing into nature, after all. For inspiration, check out our themed picnic packages below—and get packing! THE FRENCH BASKET Don your finest beret, toss a Parisian-knotted scarf over your shoulder and add a certain je ne sais quois to your next picnic outing…
You’re not imagining it. American couples are waiting longer and longer to get married. These delayed “I do’s” pose a very serious question: Just what do you get a couple that set up house—either independently or together—years ago? Some of these happy couples may still register for traditional home goods as gifts. After all, it’s a great opportunity to start a new chapter of their lives with refreshed and updated décor. But, for those with plenty to feather their nests (or even too much, if…
Today’s new homes are chock-full of modern conveniences and technologies that make life easier and more enjoyable. But why draw the line at your central vacuum, home theater and security system? Doesn’t your dog or cat deserve a taste of the high-tech high life, too? If you’re thinking about pampering your four-legged family member in an innovative way, check out these popular pet gadgets for the home! Chat with your dog or cat. Ever wonder what your Weimaraner is up to all day when you’re…
