Month: November 2020

Categories
Real estate & moving

7 quick ways to add value to your home

If you’re looking to put your house on the market, or you simply want to update the look of your abode without spending a fortune – rather than thinking big renovation projects and interior design makeovers, it’s useful to think on a more micro level. There are multiple simple and budget-friendly ways to increase the value of your home to have it appear more desirable, with the help of a few experts.

1. A splash of paint

Just like fashion trends, interior wall paint colours can change. Painting the walls can lift the whole mood and atmosphere of your home while appearing in-style and modern. If you’re happy with the colour, but your walls are starting to look tired, a fresh coat can make the world of difference in making your home feel shiny and new.

Source: Ryan Linnegar Photography

Redesigning the colour scheme of your walls, while still keeping in mind your current decor, can completely transform the look and feel of your home without spending a fortune.

2. Update your outdoor space

With summer having just arrived, us Aussies love our outdoor living areas – socialising with mates, Sunday barbeques with family and even to relax by ourselves from time to time. Adding a deck to your outdoor entertaining area can exude a laid-back and modern atmosphere, facilitating any occasion. Hiring the right expert to install and design your decking will certainly increase the value of your home, and the main positive is that decking can sometimes be one of the more budget-friendly options for outdoor living areas.  

Another outdoor aspect is the garden. Arranging a garden clean-up is simple, and it can do wonders to your area. Clean-ups by themselves are effective, but they can also provide a blank canvas for adding any shrubbery or trees, which are definitely expected to lift the overall impression of your home.

3. Clean your carpets

Hiring a professional to deep clean your carpets is a cheaper option than replacing your flooring all together, and it can still increase the value of your home. Most of us tend to vacuum our carpets, without much regard for the hidden dirt that has accumulated over the years that we can’t see. Experts can transform your carpet to appear brand new, which not only makes a difference in the look of your carpet, but also the smell within your home.

4. Kitchen upgrades

Rather than renovating the whole space to increase the attractiveness and value of your house, consider the smaller details that can really lift the design of your kitchen. If you’re on an extremely tight budget, think of replacing cupboard doors or handles. Or perhaps you’re willing to spend a little more on improving your kitchen area; consider replacing kitchen benchtops.

5. Change the light switches

Something so simple as changing the light switches can make a difference in the eyes of potential buyers of your home, or even just the impression of your friends if you’re not looking to sell. The installation or upgrade of light switches is one of the cheaper services that electricians provide. Standard white switches can tend to look yellow over time, usually only noticed when they are replaced. Head to a hardware store and perhaps opt for coloured or metal switch plates instead of a standard white switch to spruce up your home in a subtle way.

6. Bathroom updates

The bathroom is often the easiest room in the house to look dated. Luckily, there are a few simple tweaks you can do to give it a fresh feeling. Firstly, install some new shower screens for an instant lift. If the old one is looking ugly or cloudy from all those years of use, a new shower screen will deliver a fresh, beautiful look. You can go for one that is fully frameless or semi frameless, and you have plenty of different glass options for the screen.

Source: Visualising Interiors

Adding a new vanity is another good option for the bathroom. Putting in a new one could give you more storage, or just make for a fresher look from the older and scarred one that already sits in there. Don’t forget, you need a vanity that’s got plenty of storage and easy access, and one that has enough sink space for everyone who’s going to use it. Figure out what type of material is best for the bench top, and figure out how big it has to be before you construct anything. You can also explore adding in a heated towel rack, new towels and bathmats or a mirror de-mister.

Finally, it’s worth considering resurfacing the bathroom. This is a good, superficial makeover that does a lot of good. If you have chipped, tired or ugly tiles, resurfacing could make for an efficient answer to your problems. Contact a professional and see what they could do. With a little bit of work, your new tiles will give the whole room a fresh, charming look.

Contact local bathroom renovation experts

7. Add a skylight

Skylights bring natural light into your home, reducing the need for artificial light and energy usage. A home that has lots of daylight appeals to home to buyers because it makes the home seem warmer and brighter. It also requires much less energy to keep it attractive and liveable.

Different types of skylights

Skylights come in many different shapes and sizes, from rectangular to circular and diamond-shaped to triangular. They can use either glass or plastic glazing that is: flat, arched, domed or pyramid shaped. Tubular skylights are another option; these can even be funnelled through a building or down to different storeys of a home.

You can have a fixed or openable skylight, depending on your tastes. Fixed skylights have to stay in place and can’t be opened — they serve solely as a source of light. Openable skylights can be opened whenever you like by using either a manual turn or a motorised control to open the pane and help ventilate your home. These can increase your energy efficiency even further by creating a cooling source, which will also increase your home’s value.

Skylights do have to be well-insluated to make sure that they are not letting in extra heat — with the sun beating down directly on them all day, this can be a problem in summer months. It’s a good idea to find ones that offer insulation that surrounds the skylight and that also use glazing to stop heat from penetrating. Blinds are also a good idea so that on extra sunny or hot days you can screen off the light from the skylight.

Categories
Bathroom & laundry

What to look for in a washing machine

One of the biggest bonuses of having your own home is the luxury of having your own washing machine. After all, it will be one of the most used appliances in the whole house. So regular indeed that you’ll want to make sure the washer you choose can not only handle your needs but suit your style as well.

Washing machine features

Whatever type of washing machine you’ll have, they’ll generally have the same type of features. Basic machines have settings for temperature, levels, and wash cycles; electronic machines might boast more options, including precise settings for temperature, items, and washing. You might also find features like fabric softener dispensers, delayed starts, automatic spin balancing and stainless steel tubs in your washing machine.

So, you’ll have to decide if it’s worth spending extra money on a more advanced option. A more expensive machine will be quieter, and will probably save you some on water and energy – but, of course, it will cost more.

Choosing a washing machine

When you go to pick out a washing machine, you’re going to have to select between a top-loading washing machine and a front-loading washing machine. Additionally, there is the option to buy a washer/dryer, which combines both of these appliances in one machine. 

A front loader washing machine / Source: Gerain Group

Front-loaders

The pros 

  • They are energy efficient and use less water than other machines.
  • Front-loaders take up less storage space as the door opens outward.
  • They are gentler on clothing and other fabrics.

The cons 

  • They are more expensive than top loaders.
  • Once the wash cycle has started, front loaders can’t be opened as the water would spill onto the floor. Any changes or additions will have to wait.

Top-loaders

The pros

  • They’re generally the cheapest type of washing machine on the market.
  • They can be opened during the wash cycle, allowing you to add more clothes or fabric cleaner.
  • They remove more water during the spin cycle, meaning that you will have less drying to do. This will save energy if you’re using a tumble dryer or time if you hang your laundry.

The cons

  • They’re not always the most energy-efficient option, which can cost you money.
  • They take up more space than a front loader, as they open from the top, meaning you will need to keep the space above the machine free of obstructions.

Washer/dryers

The pros 

  • You only need one machine for two tasks, saving you money and space.
  • You can set a load of laundry to wash and dry, meaning you can get the whole job done at once.

The cons 

  • These machines can be considerably more expensive than dedicated washers and dryers.
  • The drying capacity is lower than the washing capacity, meaning you’ll either have to do a half load if you want the whole job done at once or load separately for washing and drying.

To install a washing machine under your sink in Australia, you’ll need a drain hose of the correct size and diameter. It’s best to consult a plumbing expert for installation to ensure that the correct hose is fitted correctly and safely and for your unique needs and setup.

Environmentally friendly options

Reusing your washing machine water

According to surveys, 40 per cent of your water use typically comes from using a washing machine. If so, it makes economic sense to find a useful means of diverting and treating this wastewater for reuse in the home. Here is how it would be done:

  • Step 1: Switch to an eco-friendly laundry detergent and obtain a water tank
  • Step 2: Consult with a plumber. This professional will divert the overflow to the grey water tank on your property.
  • Step 3: The water diverted to the tank is filtered and treated.
  • Step 4: The water is made sanitary and can now be reused for the toilet, house and garage cleaning and in designated areas of the garden.

Contact local plumbers

Waterless washing machines

This type of innovative machine uses very little water to clean clothing. That also means it uses much less energy. In one type, a cartridge is positioned at the back of the machine that holds 20kg of plastic chips. These are dispersed into the load when you need to wash. You will then add a cup of water containing the necessary detergent to the machine. The water will dissolve all of the dirt present and the chips absorb the water. There is no spin or rinse cycle involved in the process. Once it is done, the bottom opens and the chips are collected. This type of cleaning method is capable of removing nearly all stains from clothing, even ones that are considered difficult to clean. The chips last a for about 100 loads. That may be about six months on average. 

Another option to consider uses pressurised air as well as deodorants and negative ions to clean clothing. There are no uses of detergents with this product either.

How often do you need to clean the washing machine?

Washing machine maintenance technicians recommend that you clean your washing machine thoroughly every six months. You can remove all of the hard water, detergent, lint, and germ build-up with a thorough cleaning. You should clean your washing machine more often if you use it almost every day, and less often if you only use it once in a while.

You can avoid bacteria and mould growth if you leave the washing machine door open and allow the air to circulate inside after every wash. This will allow the excess moisture to evaporate and prevent odours and germs from developing.

You should also clean your washing machine if it suddenly develops any odours or if it stops cleaning your clothes as efficiently as it used to. Machines that are not cleaned regularly can develop limescale, which can lead to mould and bacterial growth.

A front loader washing machine / Source: Protek Design

Factory seconds washing machines

A factory seconds washing machine doesn’t qualify as new for many reasons, even though it practically is. A factory second is just a model that was used on the floor, as a demonstration model or for advertisements. Sometimes there are a few aesthetic flaws that disqualify it from being sold as new. Functionally, however, it is as good as a brand-new one, and at a greatly reduced price.

Repairing your washing machine

You may think that replacing your washing machine is the easiest and quickest fix, but this shouldn’t be your first thought. Since washing machines are costly, it may be in your best interest to repair it. In most cases, this is the cheaper option. Additionally, it can be a quick fix due to the fact that appliance repair companies carry a majority of common parts and are usually able to repair your washer within a few hours. Plus, repairing it is a more environmentally friendly option.

Categories
Legal

Legal requirements for Owner-Builders

If you’re looking to build your own home or at least be an active participant in the construction, you will have to go through the process of obtaining an Owner-Builder permit. This also means that you’ll have to follow a ton of different legal requirements, many of which change depending on what state and territory you live in. Sound complicated? Don’t worry, we’re here to figure it out for you with this guide to owner-builder legal requirements.

What do you need to know about Owner-Builder legal requirements?

Why is this so important? Well, first, you’ll have to consider what could happen if there weren’t any legal responsibilities for the construction. The possibilities are scary. If you employ an unskilled builder, they could build a poorly-made house on a lousy foundation that could weaken or collapse over time. An unscrupulous owner-builder could employ subcontractors or labourers in a dangerous working environment, potentially causing a lot of physical harm. So, you’ll have to work with legal requirements that ensure that the environment is safe, the owner-builder practices safe building practices and that the owner-builder is properly insured.

Requirements before and during construction 

So, what are the legal requirements before and during construction? First, you’ll have to have detailed plans drawn up by a professional. Those plans then need to be submitted, along with any required governmental forms (like a Bushfire Assessment, a Statement of Environmental Effects or a Building Sustainability Index) to make for a Development Application, or a DA. Make sure you have everything you need before you submit the DA – any missing document can make for a legal nightmare. Once that is approved, you’ll have to apply for an owner-builder permit. You’ll need to be 18 or older and the owner of the property, and you’ll have to confirm that you’ll be living in that home. There will be a fee for the application, and you might have to provide legal proof that you actually can work on the property or take an owner-builder course. Following that, you’ll need a Development Consent or Complying Development Certificate, and you’ll have to schedule appointments with inspectors to check out the building. Don’t forget, all of the legal responsibility during construction is on you. You have to make sure you use only licensed tradespersons and get all the right contracts drawn up, and you’ll have to have all of the right insurances.

Land surveying must be done before construction begins / Source: Statiker

Requirements after construction

Another thing to consider – there are plenty of legal requirements you’ll have to deal with after construction is done. You may have to take out Statutory insurance or a Statutory Warranty, and you’ll need to get council approval before you actually move in.

Does your project need council approval?

You may think that a project is so minute that it doesn’t need council approval; however, most projects do require you to gain approval. Some projects that need approval that you may not be aware of are as follows:

  • If you plan to build decking that stands 60cm or more above the ground, you should seek approval.
  • As a significant building structure, a covered patio may need council approval.
  • A carport might need approval if the floor area is greater than 20 square meters. This is the case if you live in the suburbs or in an urban area.
  • If you plan to build a shed and use it as a house, you need to seek approval first.
  • You may be curious what deems it necessary for a project to require council approval. This is based on various factors such as:
  • Does the structure change the appearance of your home?
  • Will the structure possibly cause damage to the environment or cause soil erosion?
  • How safe is the structure?
  • How hygienic is the building?
  • How does my project affect neighbouring properties?

Contact local builders

These reasons are the main ones that determine depict whether building regulations are established. A council determines the regulations by factoring in what makes for safe construction. This means that even if the deck you plan to build is only 60cm in height, it may still present itself as a threat if it’s not constructed properly or if there is a lack of sturdy fencing around it.

There are instances where the prospective building project may be excused from the process of filling out a development application, also called a DA application. On the contrary, there are other instances where you must fill out an application for a home extension or a new home, but you may be eligible for the “fast track” building application approval. Since inquiring with the council doesn’t cost you, don’t hesitate to ask about council approval for your project. The fee for getting council approval for your building project is typically reasonable and directly relates to the scale of the project and also the cost of it. To avoid problems, you should always consult with your local council prior to beginning a project.

Categories
Bathroom & laundry

Designing the ideal laundry

Do you remember the good ‘ol days when you did laundry in the basement or in a tiny room in the back of the house? Those days are over. Now homes have fully equipped laundry rooms with plenty of amenities, storage, and convenience. If you want to renovate a room in your home into a laundry room, read on for our comprehensive guide below.

Ergonomics for the laundry

While ergonomic principles can be helpful in any room, they are especially handy in the laundry. Think about how much time you spend in the laundry sorting clothes, loading and unloading machines, and folding and ironing clothes. Here are some tips to help you make your laundry more ergonomic.

First, arrange the laundry around the most commonly used items, which are the dryer and washing machine. By placing them close together, you can limit how far you have to carry heavy wet clothes from the washer to the dryer. When deciding on their placement, choose a spot where you won’t have to bend over to use them. 

When designing your laundry, don’t forget to include a surface space, such as a benchtop. It should be installed at a comfortable height, so you will have a spot to sort and fold laundry without straining at an uncomfortable level. Consider installing your ironing board so it folds down. Having it in the laundry will eliminate the need to lug the ironing board around and find a spot to open it every time you need to quickly iron something.

Make sure to include bench-top space where possible / Source: Fast Flow Plumbing & Gas

Organisation

Using hampers properly

One of the first things you can do is use hampers. Most of the time, you may only have one hamper for dirty clothes. However, if this is the case, you likely have dirty clothes that need to be sorted before you can even begin with the washing. It may be better to purchase several hampers and spread them out if you have the room. 

Ironing and folding room organisation

Another common problem is having enough space to handle all of the ironing and folding you need to do. If you do this spread out over a couch because you do not have room to do it in the laundry room, it may be time to make a change. Dedicate a specific location in the room for ironing and folding. 

Using shelving

In most areas, you need shelving because of all of the chemicals and supplies you need to have on hand. You may be able to invest in a small cabinet to store these items. If not, install some overhead shelving so you can keep these items safely put away and out of the reach of children.

Managing the garbage

Finally, to completely ensure that the laundry area is properly maintained, install a waste bin. That way, you can throw away all of your cleaning supplies or lint from the clothing right away. You do not want to have to move this rubbish around your home instead.

Choosing appliances

Washing machine

  • Capacity: Choose the capacity and size of a washing machine depending on the amount of washing you do. A smaller machine costs less, but if you end up doing two loads per day, you are wasting electricity, water and your time. For bigger and more frequent washing loads, front-loading washing machines take up less water and are more gentle on your clothes.
  • Features: Today’s washing machines come with all kinds of frills, but only pay for what you really need. You can set the desired water temperature and wash cycles using electronic controls. Sensors automatically set the machine’s wash cycle depending on how dirty and big the wash load is. Delayed start mechanism, automatic load balancing, and containers for bleach and fabric softener are other good-to-have features.
  • Energy Efficiency: Look for the Energy Star rating on the machine to determine how eco-friendly it is. Washing machines with fast spin cycles reduce the drying time, and are more energy-efficient.

Contact local plumbers

Dryer

Dryers of six-kilogramme capacity are the most popular. To choose the right model for you, consider the features available. Electronic controls give you more flexibility in settings with the push of a button. Sensor systems can shut down the dryer as soon as the clothes are sufficiently dry. Condensers prevent the dryer from expelling moisture into your room, and is required in poorly-ventilated apartment homes. 

Iron

  • Steam and spray: Tough wrinkles are easily taken care of by a spray of steam. Check that the capacity of the water receptacle is sufficient for you. If you use tap water, invest in an anti-calc iron that does not allow mineral deposits to clog the steam holes.
  • Non-stick sole: A non-stick coating over an iron’s stainless steel or aluminium sole facilitates ironing, but it needs good care.
  • Cordless irons: Cordless irons offer convenience, but these are ideal only for a few clothes at a time. Higher wattage irons can retain the heat at a constant level.
  • Automatic shut-off: This safety feature is great if you are forgetful, or you multi-task with chores.
Maximise the space you have with clever storage options and appliances / Source: Alice Bonicelli Interior Design

Eco-friendly tips

Non-chemical washing powders

Natural washing powders are easy on the environment. These are made from non-toxic plant matter and minerals, and are free from chlorine bleach, phosphates, petrochemicals and other harmful substances. Even when cleaning your home, use non-chemical cleaning products. Microfibre rags and mops can be used to effectively clean your tiles, floors and countertops, even without the help of detergents.

Using a rainwater tank

Connect the incoming plumbing line of your washing machine, dishwasher and toilets to your rainwater tank. Besides saving on water fit for human consumption, you will also get grants from the government for such eco-friendly initiatives. Water given out by the washing machine cannot be used for drinking or cooking, but it is safe for watering your plants. 

Ideal laundry location

If you are building a new home, you can plan the location of your laundry such that it helps improve the insulation of the rest of your home, which in turn lowers the electricity bills. Since the laundry doesn’t require a controlled temperature, place it along the side of the home facing west or south, if you live in a hot or cold climate respectively.

FAQ

How can you mount a dryer on the wall? 

To mount a dryer on the wall, you’ll need a strong bracket to hold the weight of the dryer. Attach the bracket to a wall stud using screws, and then hook the dryer onto the bracket. Secure the dryer using additional screws or clamps. Follow all manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines before proceeding, and consult a professional if needed.

Categories
Design & technology

The do’s and don’ts of managing your online reputation

Having a positive reputation online can often mean the difference between winning the job, or losing the customer. Think about your own browsing habits when deciding on buying a product or requesting a service. How often is your decision swayed by the number of stars on an item listing? Do you look at how the product performs in the real world, beyond the advertised? 88 per cent of customers say that they determine the quality of a local business based on their reviews.

Here are the best practices of online reputation management and exactly how you can make your review forums work in your favour. 

The wider your coverage, the stronger your credibility

Firstly, ensure you’re set up on a number of trustworthy review platforms and forums such as:

A good starting point is to check out where your competitors are, chances are you should probably be there too.

Eliminate the barriers

Make it as easy as possible for customers to review your work online. One of the simplest ways to do this is to send clients a direct link to your business’ review page/s via email, SMS or even at the top of your invoice. The review process should be quick and streamlined, not long and tedious. Top-performing Oneflare businesses also suggest a follow-up call to ensure the client was happy with your work might be a good option and, if they are indeed pleased with your performance, it’s the perfect time to ask for a recommendation.

Determine the right timing of the invitation

Ideally, you should engage with your customer and ask them to leave you a review when they’re at their happiest. For example, if you’re a wedding photographer, it might be helpful to ask for a review when you deliver the photos of the big day. Nothing wrong with taking advantage of peak customer satisfaction! If, however, you’re a builder and you’ve been delayed on finishing a project, you may be better off holding off asking until the service is complete.

Make it as easy as possible for customers to leave reviews / Source: Shutterstock

Incentivise

While you are not legally allowed to buy or pay for a review, you can gamify the process by:

  • Placing any one who leaves an honest review (good or bad) in the draw to win something; or
  • Organising a ‘surprise and delight’ for one lucky customer who has left an honest review. 

Find opportunities

If someone sends you a review via email, text message or over the phone, feel free to either send them the direct link to your preferred review platform or ask them if they’d be happy for you to copy and paste/type out the review on their behalf. Alternatively, you can post it as anonymous. 

Include the good, the bad and the brutally honest

A page full of glowing reviews is usually a red flag for prospective customers (fake alert!). Each comment is a useful insight into how your business is performing, so always listen and aim to do better! It is, after all, a valuable learning experience. The aim is to collect as many positive reviews as you can and turn each negative experience into a positive one.

Never reply to a negative review when you’re frustrated

Just like the old adage of never going to bed angry, resist the urge to bite back when you’re upset. Take a breath and take the time to process the comment before responding, you might find you’ll learn some valuable feedback. If you’re certain you’re not in the wrong, make sure to describe what you did to resolve the situation before the review was posted publicly. 

Contact local web design experts

Resist the urge to say, ‘I’m sorry you had a bad experience’

Instead, kill ‘em with kindness. Empathise and get on the front foot by showing prospective customers that you are a professional business willing to fix genuine mistakes and rectify the situation if required. Promptly offering an appropriate solution to their problem will likely eventuate in a return customer.

Avoid using emotion or sarcasm

Sarcasm and tone don’t necessarily translate well online. As an attentive service provider, you’ll need to give the customer the benefit of the doubt, while remaining rational, cool and factual at all times. 

Act fast

A negative review is a ticking time bomb, so ensure you address the complaint respectfully and appropriately in a timely manner. Leaving the review unanswered can turn away potential clients so make sure to prioritise a response. Interested in learning more? Our Oneflare HQ industry leaders in sales, marketing and SEO can tell you all about new technology and how to build trust with potential customers online. Check out the video here.

Categories
Resources

Planning the ultimate autumn wedding

Planning a wedding is a huge deal and can turn even the calmest of women into a so-called Bridezilla! A wedding often takes a good year of planning and preparation, everything from sourcing the right venue, picking the dress, choosing the perfect flowers, deciding on what food will be served and the kind of car you’ll arrive in style in, amongst a whole host of other decisions that have to be made. A great deal of brides-to-be look to take the stress out of the ‘wed-min’ by hiring the services of a wedding planner or coordinator to help them plan their big day.

As the Autumn season comes rolling in we speak to Gillian Hunt of Hunt & Heart Wedding Event Planners to get her expert advice on planning the ultimate Autumn Wedding.

Choosing a venue

For me your venue is your very first consideration.  Research, view and then BOOK as soon as you are clear that you have found your place!  Things to consider again are the style of wedding you are wanting.  For Autumn weddings I usually recommend having an indoor wedding as days are getting cooler and you don’t want your guests to freeze in an icy, windy outdoor setting.  The size of your wedding is probably the biggest determinant of where you should be booking.  There are a few things that I would be including on my list of questions to ask the venues:  

  • Are you allowed to style the venue to your own theme, or is the venue sticky about allowing you to have carte blanche with creating your mood?  
  • Do you have to use their catering and alcohol or can you DIY and choose your own caterers?
  • Is there a minimum spend for the event?  
  • Is the venue size appropriate for your guest numbers?  Too large and your guests will be dwarfed by the size of the room, too small and your dance floor might be sacrificed.

Hiring a photographer

My advice to brides is to book your photographer as soon as you have your venue confirmed.  Once your venue and date is locked in you should start looking for that photographer whose work best reflects the images and mood that you have in mind for your own photos.  Booking too early, before you have your venue confirmed, can mean that your date might change and your photographer may not be available or able to change your date which means you end up losing your security deposit.  Waiting too long may also mean that you don’t have the option of selecting the best photographer for your day.

Source: Toowoomba White Wedding and Event Hire

Which flowers are best for an Autumn wedding?

When choosing flowers for your Autumn wedding I would start with your colour palette and wedding theme.  A good wedding floral designer will work with you to create unique flower arrangements and bouquets that accessorise you the best.  Pinterest is a good place to start to develop an idea of your theme, but nothing beats working with your floral designer to create a unique look designed with you and your wedding in mind.

I always encourage my brides to go for flowers that are hardy, will last and will look stunning even when they are out of water for the day.  That being said, here in Australia we have such an abundance of beautiful native varieties that are guaranteed to make a statement.  I usually encourage my brides to use the old favourites – we can never go wrong with roses!!  And they are available all year round.  In addition I recommend Tulips, my favourite red Amaranthus to create those beautiful soft cascades, Carnations (yes they are definitely back in vogue and SO hardy), Daphne in pink, purple and white, strong and hardy Chrysanthemums in a range of colours, Freesias ( a little bit more expensive) Hyacinth (various colours) and the beautiful soft Snap Dragons.

What about food: Sit down meal or buffet?

There are three things that will keep your guests raving about how amazing your wedding was: great food, enough alcohol, and great entertainment.  So choosing your wedding food is top on your list of priorities.  It really doesn’t matter what you choose, as long as there is enough of it, and it is great quality.  From Brazilian BBQ and Paella pans, to formal seated dining, your budget will determine what you can afford, and your wedding theme will determine whether its canapes and cocktails, or seated and plated.

Hiring a car

Autumn weddings, whilst beautiful for lighting and great mild days, might also mean that the days are a little colder with the possibility of rain.  My advice to all my brides is – NO CONVERTIBLES – they may seem romantic but hey, the wind just messes with your hair and makeup which is not really worth the stress.  I would choose a wedding car style based on the style and theme of your wedding:  wedding combis are a great idea for beach weddings; vintage Rolls Royces are a must if yours is the big formal affair; stretch limos work wonderfully for a large bridal party – you get the idea.  

Source: Amazing Limousines

Your bridal party numbers are also a big consideration – how many of you will there be? Do you all want to have the fun of travelling together, or would you rather multiple cars with the bride travelling in style?

Contact local wedding car hire experts

What are your top money saving tips?

Prioritise those things you absolutely HAVE to have – dress, venue, food, alcohol, photographer, entertainment, flowers – and start to cut costs on items that aren’t essential.  For example – instead of spending thousands of dollars on invitations, use an online print service combined with email invitations.  Most guests will post your invitation on their fridge to remind them of the date, and it’s into the bin after that. Create a budget, rework it and rework it and then … stick to it no matter what!

Advice to brides on staying calm?

Draw up a project plan, understand what you can achieve alone and where you need assistance.  Don’t rely on friends to get the big things done – it usually creates a huge amount of stress the closer you get to the wedding. Hire a wedding planner or day of wedding coordinator.  Don’t sweat the small stuff!!  And take good care of yourself. Probably most importantly – don’t lose sight of the fact that after the wedding there is a beautiful marriage ahead – stay close to your fiancé and share the load.

Categories
Gardening & landscaping

Lawnmowers: Which type is best for you?

Maintaining a lawn involves a lot of work, and one of the most important tools that will help you in keeping your lawn neat and trim is a lawnmower. Buying a lawnmower is a decision that should be made with a lot of thought given to the types of lawn mowers available, the area occupied by your lawn and your budget. 

Different types of lawnmowers

Manual mower:

Manual mowers are not powered and depend on human effort to carry them ahead. Although they do require a sufficient amount of energy, recent improvements in design have rendered manual lawn mowers easier to operate. They are best suited for small, flat areas that need to be mowed. Some of the pros of buying a manual lawn mower are that they are environmentally friendly and inexpensive.

Electric lawn mowers

Electric lawnmowers are powered by electricity, which is supplied through a power cord. They’re relatively lightweight and small, so they’re ideal for those who don’t fancy the idea of pushing a heavy, monster-sized mower. Electric lawnmowers are also better for the environment, as they don’t produce emissions or fumes, so there’s no pollution. In addition, they’re quieter than petrol-powered motors, so you’re cutting down on noise pollution as well. They are incredibly convenient; all you have to do is make sure that there’s a power outlet nearby and then plug the power cord in. You don’t have to keep petrol on hand, and there is no danger of running out of fuel.

On the downside, there is the inconvenience of having to use a power cord. You need to keep it out of the way while you are moving; otherwise, you could cut right through it with the mower blades. Using a cord may also limit how far you can push your mower. If you have several power outlets located outside, this sound not be a problem, but you will probably have to change outlets a few times if you’re mowing the entire lawn. In addition, electric mowers operate more slowly than petrol ones, as they have a smaller cutting diameter. You are also a bit more limited in setting cutting heights.

Most sit-in lawnmowers are petrol lawnmowers / Source: Preferred Property Care

Cordless mower

Cordless electric lawn mowers are the best option if you do not want the hassle of having to attach a long extension cord every time you need to mow your lawn. Powered by batteries, cordless electric lawn mowers are increasing in popularity, as modern technology allows for batteries to produce power that is sufficient to effectively mow a medium-sized lawn. However, this battery generated power is still not adequate enough to effectively mow long grass.

Petrol lawnmowers

Petrol lawnmowers are fueled by the exact same type of petrol that you get at the service station. They are ideal for larger lawns because you don’t have to worry about accessibility to a power outlet. They use a wide cutting diameter, so you will be able to cut the grass faster. They also handle thick, dense areas of grass remarkably well.

On the downside, you will need to have enough petrol on hand to run the mower, and you’ll also need a place to store the extra petrol. In addition, petrol mowers do produce petrol fumes and emissions, so they’re not an environmentally-friendly choice. Added to that, they’re pretty noisy, and they also tend to be significantly heavier to push than electric mowers. As for maintenance, if you’re using a two-stroke mower, you will need to pour some oil into the petrol before you start; otherwise, four-stroke mowers do just fine without the oil.

Tips for mowing the lawn 

The right technique of mowing the lawn is essential to ensure its proper upkeep. An experienced gardener be able to provide expert guidance on how to properly maintain your lawn. However, below we have provided you with some starting tips to make your lawn look beautiful

Contact local gardeners

Check the height

The recommended height of your grass depends on the breed. If you are unsure, try using the internet to research the optimal length of your grass. Cutting the grass too short can result in opportunities for weeds to grow. Leaving the grass too long can result in damage to your lawnmower blades when you do decide to cut your grass. Furthermore, getting the correct grass length for your grass breed makes your lawn look aesthetically appealing. A basic formula is cutting back one-third the length of the grass blade when mowing.

 Add finishing touches

The finishing touches, after mowing, will result in your lawn looking tidier and healthier. Edging and trimming are an essential finishing touch. Edgers help to neatly trim the edge of your lawn, making it look neater when lined up against the pathway or driveway. Trimmers, meanwhile, are more versatile and can be used anywhere to shorten the grass.

Understand basic mowing techniques

The grass will be healthier if the same patch of lawn is not mowed over again repeatedly. Even throughout the same mowing session and every time you mow, try to mow in a different direction. This will help prevent the grass from becoming coarse and dry

Practice safety

Before starting a mowing session check to see if there are any hazards on the lawn. Walk over the lawn and check for objects such as toys that may have been left on your lawn. These objects will get caught in your mower. Wearing protective gear, particularly on your hands and over your eyes will also keep you safe. Always wear close-toed shoes when mowing. If you are susceptible to pollen allergies, take suitable precautions.

Your grass will look healthier when it is mown using these tips / Source: Ken McKay Homes

Help the environment

Instead of using a gas mower, try using an electric or a push mower. In doing this you can cut down your environmental footprint and you will also make less noise. We recommend that the mown grass clippings should be left where they are clipped as they are a form of natural fertiliser and improve the health of your grass.

Mow dry grass

It is best to mow lawns when the grass is dry. Mowing wet grass can increase the chances of your lawn catching diseases. Mowing on wet grass also increases the risk of accidents occurring. Fortunately, it is easier to mow dry grass as the blades do not slip off of the grass. Mowing dry grass will make the cut smoother and cleaner.

Categories
Real estate & moving

Expert advice: Selling a house at auction

If you’re thinking of selling your house at auction, you will need to consider the positives and negatives of choosing this selling method. When you sell at auction, you’ll have a set time to market your home and a set date for the sale of your property. An auction can also generate a great deal of excitement and competition if there are many people interested in your property. But there’s no guarantee that your home will sell for the amount you desire. So here are seven tips to help you increase your chances of success.

1. Find a good real estate agent

Look for an agent who has a proven track record for auctions in your local area. You can compare agents by asking for their results from recent auctions. Have a look at the number of properties that were sold successfully, ie the reserve amount was met. Or you could consider attending an agent’s auctions to get an idea of how your own auction would be handled. You might also want to consider things like the agent’s experience, reputation, negotiation skills, and strategic approach to marketing.

What’s more, you can compare real estate agent fees and commissions to help you choose the right agent. Fees and commissions vary depending on which state or city you live in, but it generally includes negotiating and marketing fees, and the commission is usually between 1% and 5% of your property’s final sale price.

There are several steps to take before putting your home up for auction / Source: Pictures by Sean

2. Create an advertising budget

According to data obtained by LocalAgentFinder, most real estate agencies will charge between $1,000 to $5,000 on marketing costs for a typical individual property, with the majority trending towards a budget under $2,000. Many homes sold by auction are usually scheduled to sell after 30 days. By creating an advertising budget that’ll last for this time period or more, you’ll be able to advertise your home up until auction day. The point is to let buyers know that your home is on the market. And when you have the funds on hand, you can quickly generate interest in your upcoming auction from the start and continue to attract potential buyers until your home’s ready for sale.

3. Hold open house inspections

Another way to attract a lot of qualified and interested buyers to your auction is to conduct open house inspections. Since you only have a limited time to market your home, you need to showcase its best features. Most importantly, the house should be prepared for sale with styling and presentation and an have a strong deep clean before the openings. Here is a list of essentials to prepare your house for the inspections.

4. Pay attention to feedback

If your agent gives you buyer feedback from the open house inspections and inquiries, take these comments into consideration when presenting your property in the future and setting your reserve price. After all, when you cater to the needs and wants of buyers, you’ll have a higher chance of achieving a strong sale price.

5. Choose a realistic reserve price

You should set a reserve price that’s based on recent comparable property sales. You’ll need to compare the asking price of homes similar to yours and the price they sold for, and then decide on a reserve amount. Keep in mind that only you, your agent, and the auctioneer should know about your reserve price before auction day.

Contact local real estate agents

6. Be present on auction day

It’s best to be present on the day your property goes under the hammer. By directly observing the auction process and buyer interest in your property, you’ll be able to make better, more informed decisions in any negotiation after the auction.

7. Negotiate or run another auction when your home is passed in

If your reserve price is reached at auction, your property is considered to be on the market and is sold to the highest bidder. But if your reserve price isn’t met and your property is passed in, you can negotiate with the highest bidder or run an auction again on another day and get a great result.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can improve the likelihood of a successful auction.

Categories
Design & technology

The best apps for small businesses

Running a small business often means doing several jobs at once.

As the business owner, you are simultaneously the employer, employee, accountant and admin as well as anything else that pops up during the course of a job.

If you feel like your time is constantly being pulled in multiple directions, and it is hard to stay on top of your tasks, don’t worry, we have a curated series of apps to help get your time back under control.

General productivity

Google Keep – iOS/Google Play

If you find that you are always misplacing notes, then Google Keep is for you. Keep’s strength comes from its simple design and tagging system. Quickly jot down a note and then either colour code it to the job it is related to or add a label for easy searching at a later date.

Keep also has a handwriting to text feature. Which, while admittedly not perfect, is an excellent way to save your pen and paper notes to the cloud!

You can also add photos, audio files and video to your notes as well, ensuring you have all of your information readily accessible no matter where you are.

Time management

Toggl – iOS/Google Play

With the press of a button, Toggl will track your time down to the second. This app is useful if you have billable hours that you need to account for, as well as getting a measure of how your time is spent. You can track different activities, and, importantly multiple employees which you can then break down into smaller groups as needed.

Ensuring that you are making the most of the time you have on a project is an excellent way to minimise stress and manage your workload.

Toggl is free for up to five users. The paid version, however, allows an unlimited number of users to log time as well adding rates and sub-projects.

Project management

Trello – iOS/Google Play

If you work in a highly visual manner, then Trello is the to-do app for you! Trello is a digital version of the Kanban system. You create a board with a series of cards to move across the different stages of a project. From quoting, to in progress, to complete. You can also assign cards to employees ensuring that everyone knows what part his or her role is in the project and who has dependencies at the different stages.

Having an overview of the project’s progress will give you a much clearer idea of the remaining time and costs involved and ultimately keep you and your staff on task.

Trello is free for personal use but does incur a fee if you are signing up multiple people under the one business.

Accounting

Invoice2go – iOS/Google Play

Invoice2go makes your accounting simple. With a few swipes you can invoice a client on the spot. Either by emailing them or exporting a PDF and printing.

It also keeps all of your accounts in the cloud, meaning wherever you are you can access your invoices, estimates and purchase orders from your office.

Users, reportedly, spend an average of three hours a week less on their accounting, meaning that you can devote more time doing what you do best – helping the customer!

If you are feeling overwhelmed at the thought of all you have to do, being able to keep all your notes in the one place, track your time, plan and manage projects and invoice on the go by downloading a few apps to help streamline your business will ultimately save you both time and money.

Categories
Finance

5 common small business myths

When you start your own business, it can be easy to fall into the trap of believing in myths. From bookkeeping to customer service, there are plenty out there – and some of them seem true enough to take seriously. The problem with this? They can steer your business in the wrong direction.

Put simply, it’s about time SMEs stopped spinning so many plates – especially when some plates aren’t worth the time. Here are five small business myths you need to stop believing.

Myth 1: Bookkeeping is just about the numbers

It’s a common myth that bookkeeping is a numbers game. While it’s true that numbers do have a big part to play, it’s actually much more than this. Essentially, a bookeeper is responsible for organising and storing accounting and financial documents such as statements, income tax records, ledgers and journals.

Source: Conveyancing.com.au NSW

In fact, there are many skills that a good bookkeeper needs to help keep a business afloat that goes beyond being savvy with numbers. Discipline, good communication and a high level of organisation are required. They also need to have a solid understanding of the bigger picture, which means, knowing how expenses or new staff hires will impact the business six or 12 months down the track.

Proper bookkeeping makes it easier to fulfill tax obligations, analyse and manage finances, make plans for the business, and abide by the law. Consult with a local bookkeeper for some professional advice.

Myth 2: Be active on all social media platforms

For small businesses, it’s important to be active on social media. However, it’s equally as important to be active on the right platforms in the right way.

The truth is, being present on every single platform can be overkill. While it might seem easy to use software tools to publish your content automatically across several channels, what works on Facebook doesn’t necessarily work on Twitter or LinkedIn.

Take extra time to optimise your content for each platform. Think about the tone, angle and word length of each post, making sure it’s appropriate for your different audiences. Do your research and find out where your customers are having promising conversations and narrow your presence to where this is happening.

Myth 3: You should be working all the time

Running a small business will certainly keep you busy. It often feels like there is so much to do and so little time to do it. So we overwork ourselves to keep on top of things. However, everyone is human – and everyone needs a break.

Need proof? It’s actually scientifically proven that prioritising your breaks at work will make you happier, more focused and more productive. Taking breaks gives our brains a much-needed rest, allowing us to get back to our tasks with renewed energy and focus. They also relax our brains, helping us retain information and make valuable connections, as well as reevaluate our goals.

Simply put, making time for breaks equals making time for your business.

Myth 4: Voluntary administration is the end of your business

While some people might see it as an extreme action, voluntary administration can be a smart move. The truth is, when your business is in a sticky situation where debts can’t be paid, restructuring your operations, creditors and assets is a way of potentially improving your financial position.

The aim of voluntary administration (VA) is always to get a business back to financial health if possible, or to make sure that creditors get a better return than if the business was liquidated.

If you’re up against the wall, going into VA can give your business breathing space, as an external administrator takes control of your business while its finances can be reviewed. It’s a simple process, and contrary to what some people believe, can help your business get back on track.

Contact local bookkeepers

Myth 5: The customer is always right

There’s no denying that customers are crucial to your business. However, it’s important to balance their needs with yours and your employees’ needs too. Here are three instances when the customer is actually wrong:

  • When they make you or your staff unhappy
    Nobody deserves abuse. Sometimes customers get angry and expect people to be held accountable. However, if you know you or your employee to be right, it’s best to hold your ground. 
  • When they’re bad for business
    If a customer is disrespectful for absolutely no reason – it’s better to let them go. It shouldn’t be a matter of finances, especially if it’s causing you or your staff unnecessary trouble.
  • When they’re not worth it
    Some customers simply aren’t valuable to your business, particularly if they’re giving your staff trouble time and time again. Instead, it’s better to focus on customers that deserve your services and are willing to work with you.

Be a small business myth buster

Sometimes it can be tricky to figure out myth from reality. While busting myths is something you’ll naturally do when running a SME, it’s always helpful to know what to believe and what to dismiss before going in.