Brian Sells Chicago · Barbecue Tips

Grilled food is a true treat, especially when you don’t want to cook inside during the warm summer months. Grills should always be used outside, in a well-ventilated area. To ensure safety, grills should be stationed away from the home, deck railings and away from any low hanging tree.The most important thing to remember is to never leave the grill unattended, especially if you have children and pets. The second most important safety item is to remember to keep the grill clean by removing grease and fat buildup. You can also clean or replace any trays that sit below the grill and collect food waste, oil and other grill debris. Uncategorized
from bitly http://bit.ly/1Iu83fu
via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Barbecue and Fire Pit Safety for the Summer

Throughout the United States, the summer months are those months where millions of Americans find themselves enjoying the outdoors or chilling in the backyard. With summer comes barbecues and evenings outside, sitting beside the fire pit. It’s important to remember that barbecues and fire pits require a certain amount of safety when in use. To help you in your summer celebrations, keep these upcoming safety tips close by when using a barbecue or fire pit this summer. Uncategorized
from bitly http://bit.ly/1SciJpJ
via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Curb Appeal Summary

You have to center your attention on your home’s curb appeal if you want to have your dwelling place to be as elegant as possible. Though the above-mentioned need is essential as you are showing your house to prospective buyers, it is imperative to give attention to whether you have an interested buyer looking at it or not currently. As you admire your house with its new appearance in your thoughts, then you are constantly looking at it through a set of new eyes and you will frequently see the adjustments and places that can use some improvements that you hadn’t noticed previously. To see my previous eight tips, see the links below: Budget Friendly Curb Appeal Ideas Done in a Day – What you need to know Glam the Front Door Makeover the Mailbox Add Outdoor Lighting Patch Up the Grass Install Window Boxes Renew Planters and Beds Pressure Washing Uncategorized
from bitly http://bit.ly/1I6YVsU
via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Pressure Washing

Another budget friendly fix you can do in less than a day is pressure washing any dirty siding, decks, patios, driveway or sidewalks. A pressure washer can be rented at any home improvement store for a small amount, and freshly washed pavement and siding can help make a home look revitalized. If you’re limited on outdoor space or have no yard, add some color by creating a container garden. These small gardens are easy to maintain and can easily be transported to your new residence once the sale is finalized. As a seller your top priority is getting the most out of your house — concentrating on small and easy fixes that are budget friendly can really help give your house that pop so many buyers look for. Call me now for more. Uncategorized
from bitly http://bit.ly/1TJ1IRi
via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Renew Planters and Beds

Poorly maintained planters and flower beds can be a big letdown to potential buyers – especially when many view poor upkeep as an indication of what a house may look like inside. Be sure to prune overgrowth, pull weeds, plant extra flowers and add new mulch to restore life and color depleted by the sun and harsh weather. Adding a border around flower beds or along paths can be a great addition, and budget friendly. If your yard already has a border, clean and restore pieces that are worn or upgrade the stone altogether. Going all out on a full landscaping job can cost you thousands of dollars, and many homeowners know that even buying a few small, specialty plants can quickly blow your budget without making much impact. Hanging plants, however, are inexpensive and create a warm and welcoming entry for your guests. You can do a hanging plant on each side of your front door, or create maybe a string of three or four across your front patio. They look great when your front lawn is somewhat barren since they at
from bitly http://bit.ly/1Jkb52w
via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Install Window Boxes and House Numbers

Window boxes can be a really budget friendly way to liven up the outside of a house. They help play up windows, and they can add a pop of color by way of plants or flowers. For a traditional look, choose boxes made of copper or iron, and pick painted wood for more of a cottage feel. Use a window box to play with flowers that will suit the lighting in the yard and the color scheme of the outside. House Numbers – An old or outdated house number can make your home look old and outdated, simple as that. If you’re looking for a quick and easy facelift, consider switching out the house number for a more modern version. They have all kinds of numbers to choose from, and you can decide where you think it will be the most noticeable, like above the garage, the front door or maybe in a large dormer. Find me on Instagram for more visual ideas. Uncategorized
from bitly http://bit.ly/1Oa5S1q
via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Patch Up the Grass and put some swings

Pets, animals, weather and other events at your house can take a toll on your yard’s grass, and most buyers will notice a lawn that looks like it’s on its last leg. Cut out any dead spots and replace with sod, or, if you have time, replant with seed. If you live in a non-drought area, turn on the sprinklers: a lawn needs at least 1″ to 1 ½” of water per week and should be watered deeply 2-3 times per week. Swings or Seating – Swings are a great addition to any home, and can add a country touch to even the most suburban of homes. If you’re looking for the casual and welcoming look of a swing, but worry about children or animals getting injured, a few rocking chairs will do the trick as well. Make sure to coat your seating in a glaze or exterior coat, so it can last for years instead of months. Call me with any questions. Uncategorized
from bitly http://bit.ly/1fA3CoU
via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Add Outdoor Lighting

A quick, easy, and budget friendly way of adding appeal to the outside of your house is to add outdoor lighting. Outdoor lighting adds a little something extra, and it can also provide safety and security. Homeowners have many options for lighting, from wired to solar, and lights can be purchased at many retailers and hardware stores. Install landscape lighting along paths and trees. One of the simplest and best ways to add character and function to your curb is to add some lighting. The lighting can depend entirely on your style and the home’s style, as you can use hanging lights, small lanterns around the doors or even light posts guiding guests up to your front walkway. The added lighting helps to welcome any guests after hours, and can help detract any unwelcome visitors. You can even get the lights set on a timer when you’re traveling or home alone. Connect to share with me through my Facebook page. Uncategorized
from bitly http://bit.ly/1JZ2XqN
via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Makeover the Mailbox

Is your mailbox falling apart? Does your mailman dread stopping by your home because he worries about breaking it or getting tetanus from the rust? If you have a mailbox, it can be a great way to accent your house and add a little touch of personality. If you’re going to replace the box, pick one that mimics the style and trim of the house. You also have the option of dressing up a mailbox by painting the post to match the house’s exterior color, or you can surround it with flowers or other plants. Whether your mailbox is attached to your home or out on your lawn, it makes a big statement about your home. A new mailbox may be just the thing to spruce up your front yard. It shows that you welcome the communication with friends and family, and guests are always welcome. Tweet me @BrianTWolf today for more ideas! Uncategorized
from bitly http://bit.ly/1JP3deT
via IFTTT