I’ve already told you how the wife and I weed out our closets every summer and have a yard sale with the results. Last weekend, we did some big off-season pruning because — in a little more than a month — we’re moving to a smaller house (though it’s way cooler, closer to work, and in a better school district). Consequently, we have to get rid of a good bit of furniture.
Here’s the evolution of my furniture-buying history:
Stage of Life
Type of Furniture
College student
Dorm fare, boxes
Single college grad
Goodwill castoffs, sturdier boxes
Newlywed
Wedding gifts, furniture relatives no longer use
Up-and-coming professional
Begin to buy “nice” furniture because we’ll keep it forever
Family man moving to a different house
Sell “nice” furniture on Craigslist
Okay, so we have bought furniture that we’re likely keep for a very, very long time. But we’re also selling items that we thought we’d keep for much longer than we did — and getting a fraction of the price we paid. One example: I always wanted a roll-top desk, but I thought I didn’t deserve one until I became a real writer. So when I wrote my first book for The Motley Fool, I rewarded myself by using part of the money I earned to buy a swell-looking cherry roll-top desk, designed specifically to be used with computers. And I loved it…for a while.
But then I outgrew it. I don’t know why exactly, except that I now prefer to sit in a comfy chair with a laptop in my (guess!) lap rather than sitting at a desk — perhaps because I sit at a desk all day at work. I don’t want to come home and do it for another few hours. And the desk also takes up a lot of space, which we don’t want to devote to a desk in our new home.
So here’s my new thinking about furniture: Like clothes, furniture can wear out its style and usefulness. Our tastes in homes and the accompanying contents change; it just doesn’t make sense to pay up for something we may no longer want or have space for a few years later.
The flip side is that cheaper furniture may not last even a few years. That’s been our experience with the dressers we bought from Target and IKEA. So, for now, I think our best strategy is to buy high-quality stuff used. Or go back to eating off sturdy boxes.
Adventures on Craigslist
Obviously, other people agree, because within 48 hours of our listing seven items on Craigslist, we’ve sold three (including the roll-top desk). I assure you, they’re getting good deals. And we’re raising cash to buy furniture more appropriate for our new place — off Craigslist, of course.
That said, I’ve been the target of two attempted scams and possibly a third. Here’s how one went down: I received identical emails from “Mr J Benson” at [email protected], regarding two of the items we were selling. He asked if they were still available. I replied that they were, and again received two identical emails, as follows:
Thanks for the prompt response. I have instructed my account officer to mail (overnight) a certified check, while you hold this item for me. Let me know when you receive the check and I will have my mover will come pick up at your place. Please forward me the following info so I can issue your check . . .
1.Your full name 2.Your mailing address(Physical as Ups does not deliver to P.O.Box} 3.Your phone number.
** Please note that I will overnight the payment,and you should receive it tomorrow. I appreciate you holding this for me. Please delete the posting as I am definitely buying it from you and it would be sad for me to have the payment in the mail only to be informed of the its sale also am deaf and will like to be contacted via email.*
This immediately smelled stinky to me, and a quick Google search showed that plenty of other people have received this identical offer. From what I can tell, here’s how the scam works: The check that gets delivered is for more than the item being sold. The “buyer” instructs the seller to deposit the check anyhow, and just wire back the difference.
Perhaps you can guess how this ends. If not, here’s how it ended for a woman in Hawaii, according to a news story:
The buyer agreed to purchase the furniture for $230. She said she would send a check for $2,452 and asked the seller to deposit the check in the bank, deduct $230 and then send back the balance via Western Union. She said she would send a male friend to Western Union to pick up the check because she couldn’t leave the house. The seller agreed with the arrangement. After sending a check for the balance through Western Union, she learned that the original check was bogus.
The second scam attempt was similar — a woman saying she wanted to buy our couch as a Christmas gift for her father-in-law, and she’d send a check. I replied that I only deal in cash, and face-to-face. Her reply: “Cash on exchange is my preffered means of payment but i dont have the time .I believe you know how hard it is to get a job these days.Pls bear with me.” I don’t think we’ll be selling this person our couch.
The third interaction may be a scam or not. I’m selling my PlayStation 2 (including a bunch of games), and here’s the email I received:
I wanted to ask if you could help my son he really want a system but i lost my job last month and i couldn’t do thanksgiving good and he was sad and now he thinks christmas is going to be the same but i dont have money i was hoping i could work something out with you to help him im a good handyman i just dont like seeing him like this can you help and put a little smile on him for christmas if you can thank you and god bless if not that ok i just wanna to try to make it better for him
The only possible scam here is that he wants a free PlayStation when he could afford to pay the $90 I’m asking for it. Or maybe his story is legit. If it is, I’d be willing to help him out. Not sure what to do about this one. What do you think?
To sum up…What have I learned over the weekend?
You may not keep furniture as long as you think, so it may not be worthwhile to pay a lot or buy it new.
Accept only cash. Experienced sellers tell me that transacting through PayPal has worked for them, though I don’t have any personal experience on the seller side with it.
There are a lot of people on Craigslist who should be shopping for books or software that will improve their spelling and grammar.
If you want to get rid of stuff, Craigslist works — but you have to be careful of scambags. Though I’ve never sold anything on other sites — such as eBay or Amazon — they might work as well. If you’ve used them, let us know about your experience in the comments are below.
J.D.’s note: I’m a huge Craigslist fan, but you absolutely have to watch out for scambags, as Robert calls them. In my younger naive days, I’d let “buyers” talk me into all sorts of things. For example, I traded my Nintendo Gamecube for an obsolete digital camera instead of getting cash. And I also let somebody trade me a computer that ended up being on death’s door. I’ve learned that as the seller, you can’t put up with any monkey business.
For more than a decade, Jay Shafer of Tumbleweed Tiny House Company has lived in an 89 square-foot home.
His decision to live in a tiny house came from concerns about the effects a larger house would have on the environment, and his desire to not maintain a lot of unused or unusable space.
Obviously Jay’s home is at the extreme low end of how small one can go with living space, but it meets his needs and allows him to live the simple lifestyle he was seeking. While it may seem impossibly small to the majority of people, 89 square feet is Jay’s right-sized home.
Contrast this with the average American home, which in 2004, was 2349 square feet, up from 1695 square feet in 1974. In 30 years, the size of kitchens doubled, ground-floor ceilings grew by more than a foot, and bedrooms increased by 54 square feet. In 2004, the average family size was 2.6 people. Thirty years ago, it was 3.1 people. Our homes have been getting larger while our families are getting smaller.
But earlier this year USA TODAY reported a change in that trend:
New homes, after doubling in size since 1960, are shrinking. Last year, for the first time in at least 10 years, the average square footage of single-family homes under construction fell dramatically, from 2,629 in the second quarter to 2,343 in the fourth quarter, Census data show.
The average size of a new home is approximately 15 percent smaller than it was just a year ago. Architects and designers believe this trend toward smaller homes was caused by the economic meltdown — but they expect it to be a lasting change.
Too Big, Too Small
I’ve mentioned that my husband and I will be building a home soon, and we’ve gone back and forth with our architect on several sketches, trying to find our right-sized home. Most of the designs have been appealing, but some have been bigger than we need, and others smaller.
Buying or building too much home has a lot of drawbacks, including:
Environmental effects
Higher mortgage payment means more energy goes into paying for housing
Higher taxes and insurance
Requires more time and money to maintain and clean
Higher utility bills
More rooms to furnish
Buying or building too small is economical, but can cost in other ways. If your house is too small, you might face some of the following challenges:
No room to expand if you have kids.
Lack of storage space, even for basic household items.
Not enough room to entertain friends and family. (If you enjoy entertaining, that is!)
Lack of space for an office (if you work from home) or hobbies.
Feeling like you’re living on top of your family members, with no personal space.
Finding a Size that is Just Right
Too big is a waste, and too small is a headache. How does one find a Goldilocks house — sized just right? There are many considerations, such as the following:
Lifestyle. Do you work from home and need office space? Do you travel a lot? How often do you entertain?
Family. Do you have children? If not, do you plan to have kids (and plan to stay in the same home)? Are there elderly relatives who live with you or might need to in the future?
Hobbies. Some hobbies require a bit of room, even if it’s just a sewing cabinet or a dedicated space for a piano.
Future goals. Do you plan to live in the house for a long time? Do you want to travel? What are your savings goals?
Calculating the Size of your Goldilocks Home
Once you have an idea of what you need your house to do, you can calculate your magic number. In the article “Square Feat: Foot Steps”, architect Dan Maginn recommends starting with your current home and following these five steps:
Measure and record each of the rooms in your current home, thinking in terms of the functions of each room. Include cooking, dining, bedrooms, closets, bathrooms, living, storage, circulation, and mechanical/utility space.
Note whether each space feels too big or too small.
Write down how your needs for each function might change in the future. For example, if you plan to stay in the house and have kids, bedroom space is a consideration.
Given how the spaces currently feel and your future needs, adjust the sizes until the spaces feel right.
Add up the adjusted numbers.
Right now our number is around 1800 square feet, with a loft that can be built out later if and when our needs change. That number sounds big to me, but looking at the plans, spaces, and considering our future needs (we don’t plan to move from this house), it might just be our right-sized house.
What is the square footage of your right-sized living space? Do you currently live in more space than you need, or could you use some more room?
J.D.’s note: I love the Tumbleweed Homes. I want one.
Moving to the D.C. area after my twins were born, we transformed from a family of three living comfortably, to a family of five struggling to make ends meet on one income. I had to get creative with our family budget, and one of the biggest line items to tackle was clothing. Four years later, I finally have a handle on it. Shopping for clothes for my three kids has been fine tuned into a system that keeps us humming along season by season. How?
I get the best quality I can within my budget.
I take good care of what we have (and teach my children to do the same).
I resell my kids’ clothing in good condition to recoup my costs.
Buy Quality Clothes — For Less
You can save on sturdy kids’ clothing — I get great longevity from Lands’ End and Gymboree — by only shopping sales and clearance. In her article about the best time to buy almost everything, April mentioned which days are best to shop the clothing stores, but knowing the seasonal clearance schedule is helpful as well. For example, I send my kids to their first month of school in shorts and wait for the jeans/pants/leggings to go on sale in late September and October. Winter coats are on clearance in February; be ready to shop ahead for next year.
You can shop online, but do it wisely. I never shop online without coupon codes, and I always shop through a cashback site like Ebates. Shopping online gives me a larger selection of clearance items than local stores. Additionally, shopping online helps me stick to my list and budget, whereas in a store I am tempted to make impulse buys. Finally, most online retailers allow you to return clothing to the store for free if they don’t work out.
Another way to save is with used clothing, especially in the early years (infant to age four). Considering the amount of wear, tear, and washing these clothes go through, you’re better off saving the “good” clothes for church, holidays, and photo opportunities and dressing little ones in used clothing for everyday wear. Whether purchased at yard sales, thrift stores or consignment sales, look for those high-quality brands, the ones that hold their shape and color for years. (J.D. has shared his 18 tips for thrift-store shopping.) I’ve also found new-with-tag clothes at yard sales. The ultimate way to save? Get kids’ clothing for free through Freecycle or handed down from family and friends (don’t be shy about asking!).
Take Care of What You’ve Got
When you take care of the clothes you have, you stretch your dollars by giving items a longer life and better value. I’ve taught my children to care for their clothes by returning to the old-fashioned notion of “playclothes”. My son has learned to come home from school and change from his khaki pants (bought on sale with a coupon, of course) into sweats or other playclothes. These clothes are for running around outside, getting muddy, doing art projects, and the rest of childhood life. We all wear jeans at least twice before washing, and I tackle stains early so they don’t set in. If long-sleeved tees become stained or too worn, they become undershirts for layering.
Resell Clothing When You’re Done With It
I choose my best-quality items to resell at my multiples club’s consignment sale or eBay, sell some at yard sales, and donate or Freecycle the rest. By doing so, I not only recoup some of my initial cost, I also avoid the expense of storage space and keep my kids’ closets clutter-free. The only clothing I keep from my son are those I’ve bought with my twin girls in mind — raincoats, pajamas and other unisex items in neutral colors like red and blue (which my girls prefer to pink, anyway). I even resell my children’s shoes, though that phase is almost over; older children’s shoes get worn out before they’re outgrown.
While I’m sure I’ll have to adjust my system a bit as my kids reach the tween years, adding their opinions and peer pressure to the mix, I’ve set the groundwork for reasonable clothing expenses. My 6-year-old knows we have a budget set aside for clothing and we discuss why a Pokemon T-shirt costs more than a plain one. Already, I see him making choices with his allowance that come from our discussions about wants vs. needs.
An elegant new offering from famed architect William Hefner has hit the market for a cool $39.9 million. Located at 1000 Laurel Way, the Laurel House boasts a modernist, resort-like design that perfectly encapsulates the best of Beverly Hills living.
The 16,000-square-foot estate features a total of 9 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms spread across three floors. Completed in 2020, this mansion has a lot more than stunning architecture to be proud of.
On top of being a Hefner masterpiece, another prominent name is attached to the property.
It was developed by real estate mogul Adnan Sen, owner of Sen Properties, who is known for creating ultra-luxurious mansions. Per their website, Sen’s company is “dedicated to reclaiming Beverly Hills as the most exciting and glamorous city in the world.”
That name may sound familiar if you are a fan of Netflix’s Selling Sunset.
The wealthy developer (and his Laurel House property) briefly appeared on the popular real estate reality show. Let us refresh your memory…
Adnan Sen’s $75 million listing on ‘Selling Sunset’
In season 2, episode 2 of Selling Sunset, Oppenheim agent Davina Potratz introduced Adnan Sen to viewers. The property developer was looking to sell his stunning property for $100 million but was advised to lower it to $75 million.
The 16,000-square-foot megamansion came with a massive commission, which was potentially “life-changing” for the ambitious agent.
The overpriced mansion proved to be a major challenge for Potratz. Despite great efforts, she never managed to get a buyer for the house, causing a rift in her relationship with her long-time client.
Adnan and Davina faced off once again in season 5 when the latter asked for a “last chance”.
“I’m asking for a third chance, because no disrespect but it was a little bit overpriced for the area based on the cost. Three-month agreement off market, that was very limited, and I didn’t have a lot of support from Jason and that was tough,” Davina explained.
Related: What happened to Jason Oppenheim’s penthouses from Season 6 of ‘Selling Sunset’?
After expressing his disappointment, Adnan spoke of a newly developed property — the Laurel House — keeping Davina on her toes but later giving her a much smaller listing because “the bigger ones are a little out of your league”.
While the house didn’t get much screentime on the series, the listing went to another prestigious brokerage (one that has its own reality show on Netflix, no less), The Agency, with Pate Stevens acting as agent.
The Laurel House, a $39.9M stunner now up for grabs in Beverly Hills
Given its impressive builder credits, the mansion would undoubtedly attract a lot of discerning buyers.
The inside of the Laurel House is just as stunning as its exteriors. Boasting a modern, minimalist-yet-sophisticated design, and airy spaces, it is both elegant and inviting.
The main level has an open floor plan, featuring hardwood floors, stately columns, and floor-to-ceiling arched windows. The chef’s kitchen is well-equipped with state-of-the-art appliances, a large island, and marble-topped counters.
The primary suite upstairs has its own fireplace, his-and-her bathrooms with soaking tubs, dual walk-in closets, and two large balconies overlooking the expansive grounds.
The basement is decked out with entertainment options, ranging from a 12-seat screening room to a wine cellar, a gym, a glam room, and two ensuite bedrooms.
Additional amenities include a one-bedroom detached guest house, an oversized pool with built-in seating, an outdoor kitchen, a standalone resort-style cabana, and a gallery garage that can accommodate up to 10 cars.
The combination of exceptional architecture, well-thought-out design, and luxurious finishes make the Laurel House a truly unique property. On top of that, its quick cameo in one of Netflix’s most popular shows also adds prestige and gives potential buyers extra bragging rights.
More stories you might like
ALL the houses featured in Season 6 of Selling Sunset and what happened to them
What happened to Hillside, the $40 million house from ‘Selling Sunset’?
Chrishell Stause’s House is a $3.3 Million Midcentury Ranch in Hollywood Hills
So, we promised a big announcement last Friday… did you happen to guess what we were up to?? Today we’re thrilled to launch the Apartment 34 Online Holiday Shop!! Months in the making, we’ve been dying to give you, dear readers, the first look at the it!
So why a holiday shop? The idea came to us over the summer when inevitably, we were forced to start thinking about Christmas… in July yup, that’s how this gig rolls!. For some reason, thinking about boughs of holly in the summer sun just wasn’t getting us as excited for the season as it had in years past. We realized it came down to what we feel has become an overly saturated sea of gift guides. Then there’s the dominance by the usual suspects that pop up again and again and again. Although all great resources, we wanted to attempt something a little different this year – and see if we could actually make it happen!
So we decided to have a little fun with some of our favorite makers! Teaming up with 10 crazy-talented artisans, we co-designed exclusive limited edition pieces. Our hope is to inspire you to support emerging designers & small businesses this holiday season while perhaps finding a gift for a special someone, or a gift for yourself!
Over the past few months we’ve been working directly with each maker to design a very tailored 10-piece collection that has everything from jewelry and clothing to home accents and art – all of which we’d gladly welcome to the Apartment 34 world a few pieces may already be gracing the office or hanging in our closets!. With quantities as small as 15, we wanted to give you the chance to snag something truly unique.
Here’s a quick description of our collection to whet your whistle!
> Hackwith Design out of Minneapolis made the most gorge, extra large grey scarf in a limited edition of 20!
> Julia Kostreva solved all of our problems of finding a iPhone 6 case with this ombre beauty inspired by one of her personal photographs.
> Vrai and Oro, one of our favorite new jewelry makers, created our dream everyday piece: a 14k gold cuff with diamonds!
> Rebecca Atwood handmade a very limited number of a super sweet navy shibori zip pouches!
> Emily Johnston, NYC photographer with an insanely good eye, brought Europe to us with a limited edition diptych print set.
> Chapman at Sea designed the cutest grey leather and rope dog leash you ever did see.
> Sarah Sherman Samuel from A Sunny Afternoon put her modern spin on handcrafted with a octagonal modern cutting board that is to die for.
> My Trick Pony has got norm-core down with an exclusively designed sporty-chic printed t-shirt available in black or white.
> The Citizenry designed an ombre grey Alpaca throw with their makers in Peru that is just heaven.
> And last, but certainly not least, Sketchbook Crafts brought our idea to life with a waxed canvas cross-body bag, perfect for traveling or for everyday on-the-go fashionistas!
All of these items are available in VERY small quantities, so you don’t want to miss out. Start your holiday shopping now and gift one of these truly special designs to someone you love. We’ll be breaking down a little bit of the design process and profiling each of the makers in the weeks ahead. You won’t want to miss hearing their stories. It just might inspire you to get to makin’ yourself!
In the meantime, check out the shop HERE, fill up your cart and then come back- we’re so excited to read in the comments which items you love most! Here’s to a fabulously chic holiday season!!
original photography for apartment 34 by Aubrie Pick // shot on location at LUX-SF // styling by Apartment 34
As some of you know, Courtney and I recently spent just under a year traveling abroad with our two-year-old daughter. A couple of months ago, we returned home to Indiana and decided that we’d take a six month break from our mobile lifestyle. Our decision meant we needed to start looking for short-term rentals that would meet our temporary needs.
When we started to browse rental options, we created a list divided into Wants and Needs. Some of the Needs included things like two bedrooms, a safe neighborhood, flexible lease terms, and some sort of yard or grass.
Note: Technically, these aren’t raw Needs. While traveling we spent weeks in a tent, months in a spare bedroom of another family’s house, and dozens of nights in 100-square-foot single rooms. But these few items were basic enough conveniences that we felt comfortable labeling them Needs for our situation.
Under Wants we placed criteria like a standalone house, a fenced-in back yard, a one-car garage, and proximity to decent sidewalks or paths. Remember, we weren’t buying a permanent home: We were searching for a quick six-month stop.
As we started to comb through different properties on the market, I said to Courtney, “You know, it would be so nice to have a separate work area where I could go to write. I don’t need it, but it would be nice.”
This wasn’t the first time I’d voiced this desire. Courtney had to put up with my complaining for the last year about not having designated work space. It was primarily an excuse for procrastination or lack of motivation, but there was a part of me that wanted to see what it would be like to have a specific space for my work.
A Want Becomes a Need
After mentioning it a couple of more times, we agreed to expand our search to two bedrooms with bonus rooms, offices, or even large closets (yes, I’m serious). In general, a two bedroom home with a bonus room or office will be cheaper rent than a comparable three-bedroom place.
Even with a background in real estate, it can be hard to search for houses with extra rooms. Each owner, agent, or listing may refer to the space in a different way. Often these homes have unique floor plans, and it’s nearly impossible to understand them unless you visit each home individually. Finding matches was difficult.
Out of frustration at the lack of two-bedroom options that also included a bonus room, I allowed myself to do something that changed everything: I expanded our search to three-bedroom rentals. Suddenly, the flood gates were opened.
After a couple of days searching all of the new options, I called my friend/ex-partner in real estate and gave him several listings. I remember saying something like, “I know we could fit into two bedrooms, but we really need three bedrooms these days.”
It had happened. Of the five listings I sent to him to schedule showings, not a single one of them had only two bedrooms. Somehow over the course of just a few weeks, I’d managed to shift our Needs from two bedrooms to three bedrooms. My attitude had changed.
In our market, we could have easily found a two-bedroom rental in the $600/month range. Our current rent (on the three-bedroom rental we selected) is $900/month. For those of you counting, that’s a 50% increase — or around $300/month.
An Indulgence
For me, the issue isn’t the extra money per month. It’s a matter of perspective. We aren’t going to be financially ruined by this choice, and we’re paying for other benefits in that increase. But, I want to be sure that I view our rental for what it is: a Want. Heck, we could even label it a luxury for us.
If I continue to view this as a Need, it’s easy to focus on the negatives. For example, the air conditioner takes hours to cool anything, the lighting is terrible in the home, and the garage doesn’t have an automatic opener. If I were to take the situation for granted and focus on the negatives, it would be easy for my standard of living to creep even higher and higher.
In retrospect, if I see this home for what it really is — an indulgence — those little things lose their importance. I appreciate my little workspace so much more. I appreciate the fact the my daughter Milligan can play out back, and that we have space to host guests.
The truth is, for our family of three, anything more than a safe, one-bedroom home with a roof, heat, and simple kitchen is a luxury. It’s a Want, not a Need. By realizing that, we can stop taking things for granted, and start being thankful for what we have.
But shelter is just one area of our budget where this shift in thinking can happen. Luckily, this experience has helped me become more aware in other areas, such as Food, Clothing, and Transportation, where my definition of Need can easily grow beyond what is truly needed.
Indulgences in life are great. I’ve met very few people who want to live at the bare minimum level of their Needs. But taking steps to ensure we recognize our indulgences as indulgences allows us to appreciate how lucky we truly are!
Imagination and kids go hand-in-hand. And when it’s playtime, children should have a room filled with toys that spark their imagination and creativity. Whether it’s a kitchen play set for an aspiring chef or a crafting table for all sorts of creations, the options are endless. If you’re looking for a way to highlight your child’s creative mind in your home, this Redfin article is for you.
So, whether you live in a house in Duluth, MN, or a Wilmington, NC, apartment, read on for 12 expert-backed kids’ playroom decor ideas to help spruce up your kids’ spaces.
1. Make sure every item has a dedicated place
First, focus on design and organization. It’s important to design a playroom with purpose so kids can learn valuable skills and make the most out of their space. “A great way to do this is to make sure that there is a place for each of their items,” says Adriano Tori, founder & CEO of RexMont Real Estate. “This not only makes the room less cluttered, but it also teaches kids about organization and respecting their belongings.”
2. Include an organizing system
No matter the space, make sure to include an organizing system. Bins are a great way to do this. “Bins are perfect for filing, categorizing, and storing different things,” says the team at Biltmore Design Galleria. “Use a variety of sizes filled with similar items to make your organized system work best,” they suggest. “You can also bring this system to many areas of your home, including bathrooms, closets, and even small spaces.”
3. Label storage with pictures and words
When using storage bins, take photos of the contents and label them with both the picture and the words. “Not only does this help keep toys organized, but it also promotes literacy skills as children connect the written words to the image,” comments Stacey Grumet, founder & CEO of Paper Pinecone. “And don’t forget to make books easily accessible.”
4. Choose a fun theme
Consider designing a playroom around a theme that reflects your child’s interests, like travel, outer space, or under the sea. “Incorporate fun wallpapers, murals, stencils, and decals, while adding small on-theme decorative touches throughout,” notes the team at GTC Design. “Once you establish your overall theme, complement them with cozy cushions, accessible bookshelves, art supplies, and anything else your kid desires.”
Regardless of your theme or decor, prioritize safety by choosing child-friendly furniture, securing heavy items, using non-toxic materials, and adding soft foam mats as necessary.
5. Use playful colors
One of the first items on your kids’ playroom decor list should be invigorating, playful paint colors for the playroom’s walls. “Options include sky blues, sunshine yellows, or warm greens,” says Heather Sheridan, owner of Decorating Den Interiors. “If you decide to go with a specific theme, such as a jungle theme or princess theme, use wall decals that are easy to peel off the walls,” she suggests. “Regardless, make sure your kid likes the colors and that they will stand the test of time.”
6. Create an engaging art room
Build a colorful art space that will evoke creativity and help kids be naturally attracted to it. “When you’re designing an art room, first, figure out what your kids like to do, what development stage they’re in, and how you want the room to look,” suggests Ann Cox, owner of Ann Cox Design. “Then, display enough art items that encourage without feeling too cluttered,” she says. “If you have room, try to fit some of your kids’ original artwork in the design as well.”
7. Invest in fun, transitional furniture
Furniture should grow with your kids, so it’s important to choose quality items that are safe and fun for your kids’ playrooms. “Instead of getting cutesy tiny chairs, choose a couple of great armchairs or a sectional that you can use solo or for family time,” notes the team at Mecc Interiors. “If you want them to be cleanable, get some custom washable slipcovers that will allow you to clean and swap out simply and easily.”
8. Include ways for kids to get their energy out
Kids need to move, so their playrooms should encourage it. “Incorporate items like a toddler trampoline, nugget play couch, and wood climber that take the place of small toys and get all that toddler energy out,” suggest Kyle and Kim Griffiths from State of Play Kids.
9. Create zones for maximum efficiency
Since kids tend to get bored with the same toys each day, use zones to create an area where items can be rotated out every day. “This way, you don’t have to have each and every toy organized and out on display all of the time,” advises Jess Klein, owner of Jess Klein Studio. “For toy storage, consider getting a bunch in one color, since toys can already be visually overwhelming.”
10. Carve out a hideaway underneath the stairs
A fun, space-saving option is to create a secret hideout by adding some fun, festive lights and shelves to the nook area under your stairs. “This is a great area to build towering block castles, do puzzles and experiment with science kits,” says the team at Green Piñata Toys. “Plus, a monthly subscription to a toy or science rental service keeps your hideout freshly stocked and clutter-free.”
11. Stock the playroom with open-ended, age-appropriate materials
Toys should have multiple uses, especially if they’re going to last for more than a year. “Examples include wooden blocks, art supplies like play dough, and even things from nature like sand, water, rocks or sticks,” notes Lauren Besack, Ducklings Early Learning Franchise Director of Curriculum Development. “These toys encourage creativity, experimentation, trial and error, problem-solving, and critical thinking.”
12. Incorporate custom millwork to maximize space
No matter the room, custom millwork is great for tailoring a space to your kids’ specific needs. “You can add multi-use, custom-crafted built-in furniture to fit a variety of play styles,” says Genevieve Chambliss from Vieve Interiors. “Options include bunk beds with lots of cozy features, a built-in desk, a reading nook, or a custom closet,” she suggests. “These options will maximize space and give your kids more floor space to spread out and play.”
Welcome to San Diego, a city known for its stunning coastline, year-round sunshine, and vibrant lifestyle. If you’re in the market to buy a luxury home in this captivating city, you’re in for a treat. San Diego’s luxury real estate market offers an array of remarkable features and amenities that cater to the discerning tastes of potential homebuyers.
From breathtaking oceanfront properties with panoramic views to state-of-the-art smart home technologies and exquisite outdoor living spaces, this Redfin article explores the extraordinary features that make luxury homes in San Diego truly stand out. Whether you seek a serene retreat overlooking the Pacific or a modern oasis with the latest in luxury living, join us as we dive into the world of luxury home features in the San Diego housing market, where your dream residence awaits.
Top neighborhoods with luxury home features in San Diego
There are several neighborhoods renowned for their luxury homes and exceptional features in San Diego where homebuyers are willing to pay premium prices. With a median sale price of $4.2 million in May 2023, Rancho Santa Fe offers exclusive estates and sprawling properties, and is highly regarded for its privacy, elegance, and upscale amenities. Del Mar, known for its stunning coastal location, offers luxurious properties that provide breathtaking ocean views and beach access, and a vibrant lifestyle. Homes in Del Mar are also set at premium prices, with a median sale price of nearly $3 million. Lastly, homes in the La Jolla neighborhood, a prestigious coastal community, saw a median sale price of almost $2 million in May 2023. This neighborhood is celebrated for its cliffside estates, panoramic ocean vistas, and proximity to upscale dining and shopping.
6 popular luxury home features in San Diego
1. Seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces
You can expect a seamless fusion of indoor and outdoor spaces in luxury homes in San Diego, creating a harmonious connection with the picturesque surroundings. These homes often feature expansive walls of glass, retractable doors, or large sliders that effortlessly blend interior and exterior areas.
The inviting outdoor spaces are thoughtfully designed with spacious patios, lush landscaping, and resort-style amenities such as swimming pools, outdoor kitchens, and fire pits. Homeowners can enjoy the year-round pleasant climate, hosting gatherings that flow seamlessly from the indoor living areas to the outdoor oasis. Breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills, or manicured gardens provide a captivating backdrop, further enhancing the indoor-outdoor living experience. These homes redefine luxury living in San Diego, embracing the region’s natural beauty and offering an unparalleled lifestyle that seamlessly integrates with the outdoors.
2. Luxury living on expansive property
Homebuyers exploring expansive properties in San Diego can expect to find an array of luxurious amenities that elevate the living experience to new heights. These properties often boast meticulously landscaped grounds, including sprawling gardens, lush lawns, and serene water features such as fountains or ponds.
Outdoor living spaces are a common highlight, featuring resort-style swimming pools, expansive patios for al fresco dining, and fully equipped outdoor kitchens for entertaining guests. Sports enthusiasts may discover private tennis or basketball courts, while those seeking relaxation might find tranquil spa areas or meditation gardens. Additionally, expansive properties often offer ample space for guesthouses, home gyms, or home offices, providing versatility and room to customize the living space according to individual needs. With their abundant amenities and room for personalization, these properties exemplify the epitome of luxury living in San Diego.
3. Exquisite touches in the primary suite
An updated bathroom is an essential luxury home feature in San Diego, particularly the primary bath, where meticulous attention is paid to luxurious finishes and impeccable details to create a spa-like experience. Spacious walk-in showers with multiple shower heads, soaking tubs, heated floors, and smart technology for lighting and temperature control are common features that enhance the overall bathing experience. In the primary bathroom, it’s common to find both a soaking tub and a shower, providing residents with a serene spa-like experience to unwind and indulge in relaxation.
Separate walk-in closets in the primary suite have become an increasingly sought-after addition in luxury homes. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, these closets are tailored to maximize personal space and organization, offering an abundance of storage for clothing, accessories, and personal belongings. With dedicated sections for each partner, these closets go beyond functionality, creating a sense of luxury and harmony in the home. They provide convenience and ease during daily routines, eliminating the need to share or compromise on storage space. These thoughtfully designed closets often feature built-in shelving, specialized compartments, and ample hanging space, ensuring that every item has its designated place.
4. Sustainable features to minimize carbon footprint
Luxury homes today have evolved to encompass not only opulence and comfort but also sustainability and self-sufficiency to help minimize carbon footprint. These modern residences prioritize eco-conscious living by integrating features like solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and systems.
By harnessing solar power, homeowners can reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources, and with energy-efficient appliances, including water heaters and HVAC systems, optimize energy usage while maintaining a comfortable living environment. Luxury homes also cater to the growing popularity of electric vehicles by offering car chargers for convenient at-home charging. This integration of self-sufficiency and sustainability has become a highly sought-after feature among potential homebuyers in San Diego, reflecting their increasing awareness and desire for residences that align with their eco-conscious values.
5. Picturesque view of San Diego’s beautiful landscape
Luxury properties in San Diego are often strategically positioned to maximize the beauty of the natural landscape, boasting breathtaking views that encompass the picturesque surroundings of the ocean, mountains, canyons, and open spaces. With expansive windows and thoughtfully designed floor plans, these homes ensure that the captivating scenery is always in view, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
6. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
In the luxury market of San Diego, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have become a sought-after home feature due to their versatility and investment potential. ADUs offer flexibility for guest accommodations, home offices, or rental income opportunities, enhancing a property’s appeal. They maximize land usage while preserving privacy and independence, contributing to the trend of sustainable living. This additional space can also significantly impact the sale price of a listing in San Diego, reflecting high demand. For example, a recent Redfin Premier listing showcased a captivating compound-like setting, including a main residence, ADU, studio, pool, deck, and manicured garden. Buyers were drawn to the potential for multi-generational living, guest accommodations, home offices, and entertainment, creating a resort-like lifestyle within a private retreat.
As you embark on your search for the perfect home in San Diego, working with a Redfin Premier agent is essential. They’re equipped with the expertise and knowledge to guide you through the process, navigate the San Diego housing market, and buy your dream home.
True to its brand, Virgin Voyages does things a little differently than other cruise lines, and this ethos extends to its accommodations. Virgin Voyages’ cabins sport a minimalist look with futuristic touches, and its suites exude a rock-n-roll vibe with in-room turntables and peekaboo showers.
While these cruise rooms may be unique in the cruise industry, you won’t have trouble choosing your cabin or suite. Virgin offers a reasonable three styles of standard cabin and eight categories of suites, so your choice will be guided by your requirements around space, price and light.
Virgin also does not use standard cruise industry lingo to refer to its rooms. Inside cabins are Insider rooms, ocean views are Sea Views, and balconies are Sea Terrace cabins. Suites are RockStar Quarters. Many rooms can accommodate one to four guests, often in slightly unusual bed layouts, so pay attention if you’re traveling in a pack and looking to save a few bucks on your cruise fare.
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Whether this is your first cruise ever or your first with this cruise line, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with Virgin Voyages’ cabins and suites before you make that booking. Here’s everything you need to know.
A Virgin Voyages cabin primer
Virgin Voyages sails three identical ships, with one more on the way by the end of 2023. Cabin categories and design are standard across the fleet, so if you’re familiar with one ship, you’re familiar with them all.
Here is a breakdown of the cabin types on Scarlet Lady, which should be the same across all the sister ships:
Insider inside cabins: 105 (8%)
Sea view outside cabins: 96 (7%)
Sea Terrace balcony cabins: 1,051 (79%)
RockStar Quarters suites: 78 (6%)
The cruise line caters to adults only; all passengers must be 18 years old. That means you won’t find any family-focused accommodations. However, you will find Insider and Sea View cabins designed for solo passengers, with a 3/4 size bed (larger than a twin but smaller than a full.)
Other cabins and suites in all categories can sleep three or four guests. Groups who don’t want to squeeze four into a room (and we wouldn’t recommend it, given Virgin’s tiny bathrooms and limited storage) can take advantage of connecting rooms.
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Balcony cabins are designated either regular, extra-large, centrally located or limited-view, and your cruise fare will change depending on which you choose. Cheeky Corner and Suite Aft Suites are also divided into Pretty Big Terrace, Even Bigger Terrace and Biggest Terrace classes.
Related: The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
Accessible cabins are available in Insider, Sea View, Central Sea Terrace, Extra-Large Sea Terrace and Seriously Suite categories.
All Virgin Voyages cabins mix a hip yet minimalist design (think IKEA or micro hotel) with tech-forward accessories (such as an iPad that controls the A/C, curtains and mood lighting). The look is more spare than you’ll find on other cruise lines that feature thick mattresses, fluffy duvets and faux-wood cabinetry in their cabins.
In standard cabins, the bed is modular – not only transforming from a queen bed to twins but also turning from a bed into an L-shaped lounging couch. In some quad layouts, a queen bed and an extra twin share the same headboard with a bunk overhead. The mattresses are rearranged on a long platform to form various arrangements; any uncovered portion of the platform serves as a nightstand or low table.
A triangular-with-rounded-edges odd-shaped white table serves as a desk and vanity in most standard cabins, with a round vegan leather stool beneath. It partially overlaps the shelving unit beneath that houses a mini-fridge and small shelves. Above is a round mirror and a shelf holding the room-controlling tablet.
Sea View and Sea Terrace cabins trade out the typical cruise ship cabin couch or love seat for a spare director’s style chair with a faux leather partial back and a padded seat.
Virgin also skips a full wardrobe for a more minimalist closet area where a hanging rod and a two-shelf luggage rack with storage baskets are hidden behind a curtain. A narrow floor-to-ceiling wardrobe contains four slim drawers, shelves housing the safe, life jackets and extra linens and a full-length mirror.
It’s not a lot of storage space — perfect for one, manageable for two and likely impossible for three or four.
Standard bathrooms are also tiny and lacking in storage space. The shower has one measly shelf and pump bottles of Red Flower shampoo, conditioner and body wash. It offers both a rain shower head and a wand. The rest of the tiny bathroom features a bowl sink and a small vanity where you can store toiletries if you move the hand towels somewhere else (possibly the shelf below with the garbage can).
The entire space is tight, even for average-sized people. If you need spacious loos, you will need to book a suite.
Virgin Voyages ships have eight types of suites, ranging from 352-square-foot Seriously Suites (which are essentially extra-spacious regular cabins with slightly nicer furnishings and a much larger bathroom) to the 2,147-square-foot Massive Suite with separate living and sleeping areas, a music room, and a gigantic terrace with a dining table (with steps up in case you want to pull a Richard Branson and dance on it) and hot tub.
Related: Why you should splurge for a suite on your next cruise
Suites are split into two categories — RockStar Quarters and Mega RockStar Quarters — which determine which additional perks come with your booking.
Virgin claims that 86% of its cabins feature private balconies, and if you can, you want to book one of these. Why? Because each Sea Terrace comes with a sustainably sourced hammock that is extremely comfortable and unusual in the cruise industry — and for us, was the best part of the entire Virgin accommodation experience.
Inside cabins on Virgin Voyages cruise ships
Insider cabins are Virgin’s name for windowless interior rooms. They measure 105 to 177 square feet and can sleep one (Solo Insiders) to four people (Social Insiders). As we mentioned above, the Solo Insiders have a 3/4-sized bed. The four-person arrangement is two twin beds arranged in an L shape head to head, with two bunkbeds also in L shape right above. The intent is for the lower beds to be made up as couches during the day and transformed into beds at night.
The room is laid out like a standard Scarlet Lady cabin, but on the far wall, where a window would be, there’s a red, round art piece evocative of a porthole.
Ocean-view cabins on Virgin Voyages cruise ships
Sea View cabins are slightly bigger at 130 to 190 square feet and can sleep one to three people, with one pull-down bunk and beds that convert from a queen to two twins. They are arranged identically to the Insider cabins, except they have a large round porthole window with a window seat on the exterior wall.
Some Sea View cabins come in slightly different configurations, especially the rooms located where the ship’s superstructure juts out at an angle. We toured one of these practically V-shaped rooms, which had one rectangular window rather than a full porthole. The window was on the same wall as the bed and chair, and the opposite wall had the desk, mini-fridge and mirror. The converging angle of the two walls made it a tight squeeze between the bed and the desk.
Related: Inside vs. outside cabin: Which affordable cruise room is best for you?
The bottom of the V, if you will, had a tall wardrobe and full-length mirror. The top of the V was the wall with the entry door, the bathroom and the closet hidden away in a tight corner by the window.
Balcony cabins on Virgin Voyages cruise ships
Virgin calls its balcony cabins Sea Terraces. They measure 185 to 225 square feet, including the 45-square-foot terrace. They can sleep two to four people, but there’s only one bunkbed. To sleep four, two people will need to share a bed, the third bed will be perpendicular in an L shape (so three heads in close proximity) and the fourth is a bunk flush with the cabin wall above.
Sea Terraces share the layout of the other standard cabins. Note that cabins numbers on the port or A side of the ship have the beds by the bathroom and the desk by the balcony, and cabin numbers on the starboard or Z side of the ship have the reverse layout, with beds by the balcony and desks by the bathroom.
Balconies are outfitted with two upright not-that-comfortable metal chairs and a circular drinks table just big enough for two glasses. The real attraction here is the full-size red hammock hung from the ceiling. A grown adult can easily lay out or simply sit and swing in the hammock. Be prepared to come to blows with your cabinmate over who gets the hammock first and for how long.
Related: Why it pays to upgrade your cruise ship cabin
If you love your hammock so much you can’t live without it, you can buy one on board. The custom-designed hammocks are handwoven by women in rural Thailand and sold by Yellow Leaf, an organization focused on community transformation and female empowerment.
Suites on Virgin Voyages cruise ships
Virgin Voyages’ 78 RockStar Quarters are broken down as follows (based on Scarlet Lady’s deck plans):
Two Massive Suites
Two Fab Suites
Two Posh Suites
nine Gorgeous Suites
18 Brilliant Suites
14 Cheeky Corner Suites (six Biggest Terrace, four Even Bigger Terrace and four Pretty Big Terrace suites)
24 Seriously Suites
Seven Sweet Aft Suites (three Biggest Terrace, two Even Bigger Terrace and two Pretty Big Terrace suites)
The Sweet Aft, Seriously, Cheeky Corner and Brilliant suites are considered RockStar Quarters. They come with the following perks:
Access to Richard’s Rooftop sun deck with hot tubs and a bar
Complimentary in-room bar setup (no refills)
Priority access to dinner and event reservations, plus shore excursion signups
RockStar agents (i.e. concierges) who can help you 24/7
Priority embarkation
Gorgeous, Posh, Fab and Massive Suites are considered Mega RockStar Quarters. They come with all the RockStar perks plus additional benefits:
A daily bar tab for complimentary drinks and bottles of wine throughout the ship
Complimentary Thermal Suite access at the Redemption Spa
Private transfers to the ship or free parking (depending on the departure port)
A personal RockStar Agent
Limitless in-room bar
Premium Wi-Fi on Caribbean cruises, allowing streaming on up to two devices
The suite that’s right for you will depend on your budget, the perks you value and where on the ship you wish to stay.
Related: How to snag cruise ship suites for less
Among the RockStar Quarters, the Seriously Suite is the most common suite type on board. It measures 352 square feet, including the balcony. It features a European king bed facing the floor-to-ceiling glass balcony doors, tall closet wardrobes, a brass vanity, a shelving unit with a turntable and bar setup and a window behind the bed looking into the extra-large shower. The bathroom is spacious with a marble tile look, and the terrace is only slightly larger than a standard one, with the same furnishings.
The Sweet Aft Suite ranges in size from 416 to 661 square feet, depending on the deck and the size of the balcony. The higher the deck, the bigger the suite and terrace. There’s one Sweet Aft Suite on each deck between decks 8 and 14, and each is located smack in the center of the back of each deck.
These suites also have a bed facing the windows, but the bathroom is to the side with a shower porthole looking onto the oversized balcony. In addition to the standard hammock, the terrace features two padded lounge chairs, a couch and a round metal table (meant for Champagne) and chairs.
The Brilliant Suite measures 482 square feet and looks like an expanded version of the Seriously Suite. The extra space allows for a modular couch that can double as a bed; this suite can sleep up to four. Its balcony is slightly longer than the Seriously Suite’s, meaning it can offer the larger Champagne table of the Brilliant Suite.
The Cheeky Corner Suite also comes in a range of sizes, 615 to 857 square feet, based on deck and balcony size. The 14 suites are at the back corners of the ship on decks 8 – 14, on either side of the Sweet Aft Suites.
Balconies wrap around the back and sides of the ships, and offer the same furnishings as the Sweet Afts but with the hammock tucked away in the side corner. Inside, the room has a corner sofa area and a large wardrobe.
Related: What not to do on a cruise balcony
All of the Mega RockStar Quarters are on Deck 15, directly beneath Richard’s Rooftop, for easy access.
The Gorgeous Suite is the smallest at 570 square feet, and can sleep up to four. Its interior is similar to the Brilliant Suite, but the difference is in the balcony. The suite has a double-depth balcony with an outdoor shower and lounge chairs.
The Posh Suite measures 833 square feet, with living and sleeping areas divided by a wall. It can sleep four (the living room sofa can convert to a bed) and has a bath and a half (the master with a peekaboo shower looking into the bedroom and out the balcony doors beyond). The balcony is similar to the other suite terraces with lounge chairs, a hammock, Champagne table and chairs and a small couch.
The Fab Suite, at 950 square feet, is essentially an oversized version of the Posh Suite. The extra space allows for additional seating areas in both the living room and bedroom. It can also sleep four.
All the way forward on Deck 15, each of the two Massive Suites lives up to its name, coming in at a whopping 2,147 square feet. You enter the main living area with a circular couch seating area and a full bar. To one side is the music room, which can double as an extra bedroom; the suite sleeps up to four — that is if you don’t stay up rocking out on the provided guitars all night. An adjacent guest bathroom is ideal for hosting parties.
On the other side, the master bedroom has privacy behind sliding doors and floor-to-ceiling windows. Just behind, the marble-tiled dressing area features two closets and a soaking tub; turn the corner to find the rest of the bathroom, complete with the signature windowed shower.
The also-massive terrace is your own private backyard with a hot tub, outdoor shower, dining table for six, two hammocks, circular couch seating and padded lounge chairs.
Bottom line
Virgin Voyages’ cabins get the job done. However, its standard rooms won’t keep you inside when the real fun is found in the ships’ public areas. Their best feature is the hammock on every balcony.
For more spacious bathrooms, tricked-out terraces, lounge and seating spaces, and extra perks, upgrade to the RockStar Quarters. While you might want to bring the after-party back to your social living quarters, you miss out if you hide out in your upper-deck digs rather than immerse yourself in the entertainment and cozy hangouts found around Virgin Voyages’ ships.
Doors can be a portal to another world, or maybe just a great first impression when you walk through a home. But when they don’t look their best, a dated or damaged door can make an entire space feel off.
The doors inside your home come in a wide variety of styles, and can be updated in just as many ways. Some updates can be done on the cheap, while replacing doors entirely will likely come at a higher cost. What follows are key things to know about updating your interior doors, including options and costs.
What Are the Different Types of Interior Doors?
Interior doors come in many styles and price points. Here’s a look at some of the most popular options, plus estimated costs (including materials, labor, and equipment).
• Traditional Standard doors, such as a bedroom door, swing in or out to open and close. This type of door can be either hollow core, solid composite, or solid wood. Cost to replace: $50 to $600.
• Pocket These space-saving doors slide “into” the wall when they’re open. Pocket doors hang from the top and slide along a track mounted in a space inside the wall and across the top of the door opening. Cost to replace: $140 to $1,000
• French The door with a certain je ne sais quoi, French doors can be either single or paired, and can have either a full (single) glass pane or a number of divided panes. French doors are often used as exterior doors to porches or patios, but they can also be a great way to let light diffuse inside a home. Cost to replace: $200 to $4,000
• Sliding A cousin to the pocket door, sliding doors save space by sliding in tracks at the top and bottom of the door frame. Unlike a pocket door, however, they don’t disappear into the wall. Glass sliding doors are typically used as exterior doors to a patio or deck, but can be used indoors to separate rooms while maintaining visibility between them. Cost to replace: $400 to $4,500
• Bifold Also called folding doors or concertina doors, bifolds are made of panels that fold next to each other when opened, sliding on tracks both on top of and below the door. Single bifold doors are sometimes used as doors to smaller closets, and a pair of bifold doors might divide a large room. Cost to replace: $35 to $70
• Barn A sliding barn door in the home takes rustic farmhouse trends to the next level. These doors slide on a track mounted on the wall above the door. Barn doors have a low profile, as they do not swing out. Cost to replace: $150 to $4,000
• Saloon Head straight to the wild west with these doors. Sometimes called cafe doors, saloon doors hang on a pivot hinge, meaning they can easily swing in and out with a nudge. Because they swing in both directions, they’re commonly used as kitchen doors or in cafes where traffic goes both in and out. Cost to replace: $100 to $500
• Murphy You may have encountered a murphy door before without even knowing it. Often custom made, murphy doors are typically bookcases that swing out, turning a door into storage space. Cost to replace: $700 to $2,500
Recommended: How Do Home Improvement Loans Work?
Signs You May Need New Interior Doors
Interior doors in a home can take quite a beating. They’re slammed, kicked, scuffed, and may have been pounded on a few times. Depending on their quality and age, there’s a chance your doors may simply have seen better days.
If these signs sound familiar, it may be time to buy some new doors for your home:
1. The door is stuck and has trouble staying open or closed. The more someone struggles to open and close a door that doesn’t budge, the more damage they’ll do. If a door’s always sticking or never manages to stay closed, it may be time to replace it.
2. The door is warped or cracked. Age will affect the quality of any door, and if the frame or hinges are visibly cracked or peeling, it’s time to think about replacing them.
3. The door’s style is dated. If your kitchen’s classic saloon-style doors feel decidedly old school — not in a good way — it might be time to consider replacing them. Even if they still work, dated styles can negatively impact a home’s value at the time of sale.
Depending on the style of door and the complexity of the installation, swapping out an interior door can cost anywhere between $150 to $2,000, with an average of $750. A good portion of the cost is professional labor.
While hanging a door might sound simple, doing it wrong can lead to improper closure or a door that just won’t close at all, which leaves you back at the drawing board. It could be worth asking for estimates from a few professional contractors if you decide to replace several interior doors at once.
A door can make an impression — good or bad — when someone enters a room. That first impression might become very important when considering home value. This kind of home improvement project could pay off when you eventually sell your home.
Recommended: Tips for Maintaining the Value of Your Home
DIY Ways to Update Your Interior Doors
Replacing interior doors altogether can be expensive, and is not always necessary. If your door is in good shape, an inexpensive DIY can update your interior doors to look more modern or trendy.
Here are some interior door upgrades you might consider before ditching a door altogether.
• Swapping out door knobs and hardware Sometimes dated brass or an ornate finish might make a standard swing door feel out of place. For between $75 and $150, you can update a door’s knobs and hinges.
• Trying a new hue A fresh coat of paint might transform a door’s entire vibe. Instead of a standard white, you might opt for a neutral shade, make a statement with a black door, or choose a rich, deep tone that complements other colors in your home. You can even switch things up by painting the frame and the door different colors. Although you have to remove the door from its frame, this project is DIYable, and can typically be done within a day or two.
• Updating hollow core doors Hollow core doors are the standard type of door installed in many homes when they’re built. It’s a swing door with a flat surface. These are basic doors that can be a blank slate for your personal taste. For example, you might use molding and beadboard panels to create a paneled look on standard doors. This can make a builder-grade, hollow-core door look custom-made. This DIY project is a small investment for a big payoff.
Recommended: What Are the Most Common Home Repair Costs?
The Takeaway
Doors inside your home don’t just provide privacy, they’re a feature of the property. If your interior doors are in poor shape, replacing and updating them could help increase the value of your home, making the upgrade well worth the upfront outlay of money.
If you don’t have enough cash on hand to cover the cost of upgrading your doors (or any other part of your home), you might consider using a personal loan for financing. This is an unsecured loan that can be used for virtually any purpose, including a home renovation or upgrade. Once approved, you get a lump sum of cash up front you then pay back (plus interest) in monthly installments over time. Rates are typically fixed and lower than credit cards.
Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.
SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2023 winner for Best Online Personal Loan overall.
SoFi Loan Products SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.