You’ve made the decision to live in a downsized home. Whether it’s because you’re an empty-nester, newly retired, or just want to save money, you now live in a smaller place. You may think that a smaller home is automatically energy efficient, but not necessarily. Make your new abode even more energy efficient and save on utility bills. Energy Saving Ideas Whether it’s as simple as turning off the lights as you leave the room or as complex as adding solar panels to the roof, there are many ways to be more energy efficient. Here are just a few: A-Rated […]
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If you’ve ever had the thought, “A house is just a building. Nothing more”- try selling it! You will suddenly be finding sweet memories of special events in every spot, nook, and cranny. When it’s time to downsize your home, don’t let emotions get in the way. There are many benefits to be reaped by downsizing, rest assured. You will however have to overcome those emotions before you can cash in on the benefits. Downsizing Might Be Avoided Due To Emotions It’s a difficult decision to downsize your home. Even once you’ve made up your mind to do so, actually […]
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Inheriting art can be a meaningful and even educational experience. Not only can you learn more about the art world but you can also learn about the family members who previously owned your art collection. However, it can be stressful trying to figure out which pieces you want to sell, keep or give away. Here are a few tips to help you make a good decision regarding inherited art, be it hundreds of pieces or one single piece: What’s Art – What’s Not? The first step in this process is looking realistically at what you’ve inherited. Though a piece’s value […]
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Marble has been used for centuries to create some of the world’s most iconic and beautiful sculptures and statues. From the Venus de Milo to Michelangelo’s “David”, the warmth and glow of natural marble has been used to tell the story of mankind. It’s the same material that homeowners enjoying using for their floors, fireplaces, and countertops. Here are a few classic marble sculptures you’ll recognize. The Venus de Milo The most famous work of ancient Greece is the Venus de Milo. This sculpture of a life-sized, standing woman is considered by many to be the perfect female form and […]
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Do you have a love for traditional Japanese decorative art and would like to learn more? Or do you already have a large collection and are thinking of paring it down? Traditional Japanese artwork is among the world’s greatest treasures. For centuries, Japanese artists have created amazing bronze sculptures, woodblock prints, unique ink painting, calligraphy and interesting ceramics. Nature in Art Forms Nature has always been a central theme to traditional Japanese decorative art. Since its earliest days, Japanese artists have produced exquisite sculptures and paintings featuring landscapes, mountains, animals and beautiful women. Prior to Buddhism, Shinto was the faith […]
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Many things in the world are collected because, over time, they increase in value. Items such as wine, artwork, jewelry, and real estate are sometimes good investments, but what about Hermes Birkin and Kelly bags? Do these well known bags appreciate in value? The short answer is yes. Read on to learn more: Becoming More Expensive As the years have gone by, Hermes bags – especially their signature Kelly and Birkin handbags – have become more expensive and have increased in value. That means if you are looking for a good investment this collector’s item may be worth more even […]
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Are you at a point where you’re ready to move? Have you decided to let go of your spacious digs and downsize to a smaller NYC apartment? Hanging on to unneeded floor space is expensive, especially in NYC. But downsizing can be a difficult transition if you have large furniture, a collection of precious fine art and jewelry, or are used to extra room. Keep these handy tips in mind to make downsizing an easier process – and celebrate the best time of your life as you simplify. Start with Furniture Measure your furniture before you move anything. Be sure […]
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Are you in the process of adding to your jewelry collection? Or are you thinking of selling a few pieces you no longer wear? Do you want to be sure you’re getting what you’re paying for? It’s important to know the differences between three kinds of jewelry: fashion, semi-fine, and fine jewelry. Understanding the various distinctions will assist you in choosing the right pieces. Read on to learn more. Fashion Jewelry Also known as costume jewelry, fashion jewelry is most often made from fake gems and inexpensive metals. The term “costume” jewelry comes from theatre prop departments in the 1930s. […]
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Are you thinking about downsizing, but not sure where to start? Have you heard horror stories from friends that fill you with dread? Are you nervous about making mistakes with your household goods? Here are some ways to make the process much easier. Avoiding these downsizing mistakes will make you wish you had done this years ago! Waiting Too Long The biggest mistake people make when downsizing is waiting too long. Typically, people wait until a spouse dies or someone becomes ill. Then they’re trying to move and make major decisions while fighting poor health or in the midst of […]
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Chances are, you have moved a time or two in your life. The older you are, the better the chance that you’ve moved 10 times or more. Sometimes, those moves mean relocating from a big place to a smaller place. That’s when downsizing and decluttering come in. It’s not always easy to figure out what you need right now, will need in the future, and what you are never going to need again. Chances are, no matter how hard you try down the road somewhere you’re going to realize that you got rid of something that you could’ve used after […]
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