As published in Around Kennesaw magazine:

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 instantly feeling the weight of the world lift as I entered my childhood home. Was it the smell of chicken soup? Or was it the television up loud with the Detroit Lions winning? Most likely it was not that, but because it was HOME.

What makes a house a home? As an agent, I walk through hundreds of houses.  Each one has a certain feel to it. After being in so many, there are a couple of simple things I’ve noticed that can make any space calm, relaxing, and inviting. Give these suggestions a try this month and show your home some love!

Clear the Clutter.  We all have too much stuff. Take the time to clear countertops and surfaces. Visual clutter can drain your energy.

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 so special.  Why not spoil yourself and get new sheets and pillows for your bed?  You are so worth it.

Bring nature inside. Be your own valentine and best friend and buy yourself some fresh flowers.  Get your favorite flowers and put them on your cleared tidy counters next to your empty sink.

Add your favorite scent. What makes you feel like you are on a vacation… is it the beach?  Light that beachy coconut-smelling 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.  Frame and fill your home with meaningful art.  I took old wallpaper from a client’s home that she was gutting.  We wanted to remember the history and remind ourselves of the hard work in the renovation.  We all 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 is your safe space.  Take care of it, love it, and it will love you back.