Wednesday, December 28, 2022

Iconic Christmas Trends That Are Making a Comeback in 2022 - #5

 

Ceramic Christmas
Trees

If you grew up before the 2000s, you likely remember having a porcelain or ceramic Christmas tree in your home, or maybe you associate them with Grandma’s annual holiday decor.

The tabletop trees with built-in lights and a star on top were a Christmas decor staple for decades, and now the delicate figures are back. The iconic trees gained popularity in the 1970s, and now, more than 40 years later, they’re making a major comeback.

Since there was a several-decades-long lapse in the production of the trees, original creations can sell for hundreds of dollars now. But plenty of companies have jumped on the trend and started producing new versions of the ceramic figures for a fraction of the price.

Thursday, December 22, 2022

Iconic Christmas Trends That Are Making a Comeback in 2022 - #4

 

Vintage Santa Mugs

Many of the popular vintage Christmas pieces that are back in style aren’t used for their original purpose. Rather than serving hot cocoa or apple cider in these old-fashioned Santa mugs, they’re primarily used for decor now. (A smart move, since true vintage pieces can often contain lead elements.)

In 1949, the iconic Santa face mug was produced by the Hold Howard Company and became a holiday staple for several decades. Now, reproductions of the old-fashioned mugs are flooding store shelves as the vintage Christmas look makes a comeback. 

Tuesday, December 20, 2022

Iconic Christmas Trends That Are Making a Comeback in 2022 - #3

 

Holiday Villages

Christmas villages were popular back in December 1966, but the trend became increasingly popular throughout the 1970s and ‘80s.

What first started as small cardboard or ceramic figurines turned into full-blown villages with moving parts, tiny people, and hundreds of collectible pieces. While you’ll certainly see plenty of these vintage pieces resurfacing this year, there are also hundreds of simple, modern versions on the market. 

Friday, December 16, 2022

Iconic Christmas Trends That Are Making a Comeback in 2022 - #1 & #2

These once-popular holiday decorating ideas are back again... As the saying goes, everything old becomes new again—and that’s certainly true of holiday decor trends. 

As we look back at the last century of Christmas decorations, there are certain looks that have returned decades after they were first introduced. Flocked Christmas trees arrived in the 1950s, and recently covered the white tree trend more than six decades later. Some holiday classics, like Shiny Brite ornaments and vintage Santa mugs, are back in style thanks to a recent resurgence of nostalgic Christmas decorations.

So check your attic for vintage mercury glass ornaments or pull inspiration from Christmases past as you decorate this season. Here are the top retro holiday decorating trends making a comeback.

Flocked Christmas Trees

White Christmas trees are the top Christmas decorating trend of 2022, no matter how you decorate your flocked fir. 

“Flocked is back! Everything vintage is new again.” And while these white Christmas trees certainly lend themselves well to the mod colors currently in fashion, the faux-snow-covered branches also blend seamlessly with the farmhouse Christmas looks that are everywhere these days.

Shiny Brite Ornaments

Made popular in the late 1940s and early 1950s, Shiny Brite Ornaments are one of the most recognizable vintage Christmas trends thanks to their bright colors and sparkly finishes. The original Shiny Brite ornaments were first handmade in New Jersey in 1939, and they’ve been an American decor staple for centuries. The ornaments were machine-blown by Corning Glass Works before being hand-decorated and sold at F.W. Woolworth stores for a few pennies each.

They quickly became the hottest Christmas ornaments on the market in the ‘50s after WWII ended and families could afford to buy new holiday decor items again.

And with the recent resurgence of jewel tones paired with the popularity of vintage holiday decor, the iconic baubles are decidedly back in style—whether true originals or not.

“New or old, their bright colors and metallic finishes look so right now. Like the originals, the reproductions come in a spectrum of colors decorated with stripes, flocking, and glitter. And, of course, the interiors are still silvered, which makes them, well, shiny and bright.”

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

15 Festive Christmas Front Porch Ideas

 

Welcome the most wonderful time of the year by giving your front porch a festive makeover.

There’s no better time to deck the (outdoor) halls with fresh greenery, a soft glow of twinkle lights, and a holly jolly wreath on the front door to greet your guests.

Whether you love a traditional red and green color scheme for Christmas or want to stick with farmhouse neutrals this holiday season, our collection of Christmas front porch ideas has a little bit of everything to give you inspiration for your seasonal decor.

READ MORE

Thursday, December 8, 2022

The We Energies Cookie Book 2022


We look forward to sharing the 2022 Cookie Book with you this holiday season.

The Cookie Book is a holiday tradition dating back to 1928 when it promoted use of electric appliances for baking.

The books were produced every year until 1974. The next edition wasn’t produced until 1984, and subsequent editions were produced in 1991, 1998 and 2002.

Since 2006, the book has been printed each year, restoring the annual tradition. 

Download a digital copy of the 2022 We Energies Cookie Book and make sweet memories with this Wisconsin Holiday Tradition.

Tuesday, December 6, 2022

60K real estate deals called off in September 2022

 


Red-hot mortgage rates are giving home buyers and sellers cold feet. About 17% of homes that went under contract with real estate brokerage Redfin last month were called off.

The technology-powered real estate firm reported that approximately 60,000 deals fell through in September, marking the "highest share on record aside from March 2020," the same month the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus pandemic.

Redfin Economics Research Lead Chen Zhao said the housing market is at "another standstill" although it's completely different from the early days of the pandemic. READ MORE

Thursday, December 1, 2022

MILWAUKEE HOLIDAY LIGHTS FESTIVAL

 

MILWAUKEE HOLIDAY LIGHTS FESTIVAL

NOW thru January 1, 2023

Make it back to explore the lights and sights around Downtown Milwaukee. With sparkling interactive displays at Pere Marquette Park, Zeidler Union Square and Cathedral Square, it’s the perfect chance to capture a memory that ignites joy for everyone, no matter their age. Read more

Monday, November 28, 2022

Here's How Far and Fast You Need to Walk to Boost Longevity

 

There's an easy way to reduce your risk for dementia, heart disease and cancer: Start walking.

Getting in those recommended 10,000 steps a day makes a real difference, new research affirms, but even fewer will pay big dividends. No matter how many you log, however, step up your pace for the biggest benefit.

Read more

Thursday, November 24, 2022

Happy Thanksgiving from Team Hoffmann - RE/MAX Realty Pros

 


Team Hoffmann wishes you and your family a Very Happy Thanksgiving.

And once the feast is complete, CLICK HERE for fantastic recipes using all the leftovers.

Wednesday, November 23, 2022

6 Home Improvement Projects to Invest In This Fall - #6 Gutter Trouble


6. Gutter Trouble - 50% to 90% ROI

Last but not least, make sure to get up there and clean or replace, if necessary, your home’s gutters this season (or hire someone who can)! The ROI for this home improvement project is PRICELESS because a simple cleaning can prevent major gutter trouble – leading to potentially thousands of dollars of damage.

Monday, November 21, 2022

6 Home Improvement Projects to Invest In This Fall - #5 Garage Organization



5. Garage Organization - 50% to 90% ROI


With winter weather coming, you want to make sure your garage isn’t overflowing so you can actually store and protect your car. 

Organization can go a long way – with the addition of cabinets, shelving or hooks, everything can get its own proper place. Checking the functioning of your winter equipment while cleaning your garage can save money, too, because it’s often less costly to buy replacements in the fall for snowblowers, snowmobiles and other equipment.

Friday, November 18, 2022

6 Home Improvement Projects to Invest In This Fall - #4 Bathroom Update



4. Bathroom Update - 100% + ROI


Minor, low-cost bathroom updates can get you the highest ROI this season.

For the biggest bathroom ROI, opt for projects like new tile, updated cabinets or new fixtures. Updating fixtures and hardware, re-grouting or retiling, and updating the look of your vanity are all great ways to elevate the style of your bathroom, without the expense of a complete remodel. If you have cabinets that are in good shape, it can save you money to reface or paint them for a fresh new look.

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

6 Home Improvement Projects to Invest In This Fall - #3 Kitchen Boost


3. Kitchen Boost - 90% to 95% ROI


Often the first thing guests and potential home buyers look at is the kitchen when evaluating the appearance and value of a home.

Since costs can be more in the late spring and early summer due to a contractor’s busy schedule, fall can be a great and less expensive time to start a kitchen remodel. And with minor kitchen renovation projects, expect to earn a great return on all money invested. A full kitchen remodel does a lot more than enhance the style of the heart of your home!

Monday, November 14, 2022

6 Home Improvement Projects to Invest In This Fall - #2 - Deck Refresh


 2. Deck Refresh - 80% to 120% ROI


For a deck that has seen better days, repairing or refreshing its appearance is also a great fall project.

If you’re trying to sell your house soon or simply want to add to your forever home’s curb-appeal, invest in the deck by replacing rotted, splintering or broken wood. Plus, giving it a fresh coat of stain and sealer.

Thursday, November 10, 2022

6 Home Improvement Projects to Invest In This Fall - #1 - Statement Door

Before the holidays and the new year comes along with the full force of winter weather, make sure your home is ready with some simple home improvement projects.

Take your home improvement ideas to the next level with these tips that can give homeowners the highest ROI.


1. Statement Door - 80% to 140% ROI

The easiest project of all is applying a fresh coat of paint to your front door this season. Not only can winter weather cause old paint to chip further and look less than appealing under your pretty wreath, fall is a good time to paint because it is advised that exterior painting is done when the temps are at least 50 degrees or so and aren’t dipping below the 40s at night.

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

Experts Say... You're Raking Leave Wrong...

 

HERE’S HOW TO DO IT RIGHT

What could be simpler than raking leaves? A lot of things, it turns out—especially if you’re dealing with a big yard and mature trees. The almost-endless supply of leaves can be overwhelming.

If you're a new homeowner and wondering how to rake leaves, we have the answers. With some basic tools and techniques, you can rake up fall leaves in no time and have a pristine fall lawn. Read more

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

Make a Visit to APPLE HOLLER FAMILY FARM A Fall Tradition

 

Apple Holler is a farm to table restaurant, bakery, gift shop, orchard and family farm, with pick your own apples, peaches, pears, and pumpkins.

Visitors will enjoy four seasons of family fun and activities including: Orchard and farm tours, Hayrides, sleigh rides and barnyard animals. 

Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily in the rustic and charming Red Barn restaurant.

Apple Holler is a perfect indoor/outdoor wedding venue and agritourism destination. Apple Holler’s ag-venture is for the kid in all of us!

Monday, October 31, 2022


Are Expired Listings or For-Sale-By-Owner (FSBO) Properties Starting to Impact Your Neighborhood Home Values?

As we wrap up October and head into the holiday season... Remember, Team Hoffmann offers a wide variety of programs designed to work with any home owner's good, bad or even ugly situation. So, please confidently refer "any" home owner in need.

Happy Halloween!


 

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

Halloween Safety Tips for Homeowners from Team Hoffmann - RE/MAX Realty Pros

Halloween safety may be the last thing on your radar. After all, you're either out trick-or-treating, at home handing out candy, or hosting a spooky party. So, is there really anything that scary to consider? 

Actually there is. And it's not ghosts, goblins, ghouls, or things that go bump in the night.  When a homeowner takes the necessary steps for safety, then the worst that can happen is they contribute to the massive consumption of sugar!

Here's a list of tips for homeowners...

Keep it Clear – Clear steps and lawns of any tripping hazards (electric cords, hoses, etc.).

Lights On – While the temptation for Halloween is to make everything a little darker or more mysterious than usual, think again... Keep your sidewalks and paths clearly lit. This can reduce the likelihood of vandalism to your home, as well as increase visibility for costumed visitors who may have difficulty seeing where they are going.

Pet Protection – Put any pets away. The sights and sounds of Halloween may be frightening to them too, which could lead to aggressive behavior.

Store Bought Candy – Save the homemade treats and hand-out store bought sealed candy.

Neighborhood Watch - You know your neighborhood and what type of plan is needed. Talk to neighbors and have a plan to watch your block. Assign times and map out potential trouble spots. Invite law enforcement to your meeting to get additional advice, especially if your neighborhood sees an influx of trick-or-treaters from out of the area.

Monday, October 17, 2022

THE ELEGANT FARMER Autumn Harvest Fest 2022

 


Autumn Harvest Fest 2022
Sept 10 – Oct 23
10am - 5pm Sat & Sun Only

The Elegant Farmer's Apple Pie Baked in a Paper Bag- has been its signature item for decades. The Elegant Farmer provides a wonderful shopping experience and simply the best foods from its Farm Kitchen Bakery, Deli & Market.

The pick-your-own currently includes apples, pumpkins, and squash. Other additions include its Spring Garden Center featuring everything for the home gardener -- seeds, vegetable plants, flowers, small fruit trees and more under the tent. Other specialty items include Cider-Baked Ham, Fruity Applesauces, Fruit Crisps, Jumbo Muffins & Cookies, Fruit Breads, Gourmet Sauces & Seasonings, Blue Ribbon Cheeses and Old Fashioned Gourmet Popcorn.


Thursday, October 13, 2022

Griddle vs. Grill Summary



Griddle vs. Grill: Cooking Surface Sizes

Most grills offer a decent amount of real estate for cooking. Griddles like our Blackstone Griddle offer an excellent, large cooking surface ideal for cooking up a big meal. Because of the flat surfaces, you have more freedom to get different kinds of food going at once while keeping everything from overcooking and falling through the grill grates. A traditional grill isn't nearly as versatile as a griddle for outdoor cooking.

Summary

The differences between grills and griddles are extensive. Not only are they used differently, but you'll find that you get different results cooking on one surface over another. Having an excellent griddle is like having a great big frying pan that you can cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner on without hassle. The different cooking surfaces between grills and griddles also present opportunities for different flavors. A charcoal grill in particular is going to be a better choice if you want smokey, fire-cooked flavor, while a griddle is going to offer you the opportunity to make fried eggs on the patio, something that is nearly impossible on a grill.

The ease of cleaning and maintenance you'll get with a Blackstone Griddle makes it one of our favorite options for cooking large meals for our friends and family, and we think that you'll enjoy using your griddle so much, you'll find all sorts of excuses to fire it up all year long!

Tuesday, October 11, 2022

What Kind of Food is Appropriate for Cooking on Each?


Most of the things you'll cook on a grill can also be cooked on a griddle, but not the other way around.

For instance, frying eggs and making pancakes is easy on a griddle, but it's not going to happen on a grill. We like to use the grill when we are making steaks because of the added smoke flavor, but cooking a steak on a griddle is just as easy as cooking one in a cast iron frying pan on the stove top.

In particular, a griddle makes for a fun and efficient way to make larger meals. We love using our Blackstone Griddle for breakfast foods because you can sizzle bacon, fry eggs, crisp hash browns, and cook pancakes all at once. A griddle is an epic way to make some of the best hamburgers you'll ever try and you can use neat accessories like a burger press to get excellent results easily.

One of the best reasons to have a griddle is if you like to eat fish. Flaky, tender fish is notoriously problematic on a grill -the fish tends to fall apart and end up in the burners rather than on your plate. A griddle solves the problem since the fish can flake apart when it is fully cooked without worrying about losing the best parts. We even have A Post Here where we share some of our favorite recipes for cooking on the Blackstone Griddle.

Some things we like to use the grill over the griddle for include hot dogs that benefit from the direct heat and smoke, vegetables, and cuts of meat that need to sear a little for the perfect texture and final results. A grill is the best way to get perfect grill marks on meat, veggies, and fish. Pan searing and grill searing are similar, but the results are noticeably different. A griddle makes an all-over sear rather than grill marks.

Differences in Cooking Temperature

A grill can offer a little more flexibility in the temperature you are cooking at over a griddle. Most often, a griddle is going to be hot – as hot as the gas burner will get it – when you cook. It is more of a challenge to get an indirect heat source with a griddle as the metal tends to retain heat and there is no way to prevent heat from soaking into your cooking area.

Friday, October 7, 2022

Cleaning and Seasoning a Griddle vs a Grill

 

When your grill is used, you typically will burn off the little bits of meat stuck to the grill grates, then use a scouring pad or a wire brush and dish soap to clean the remainder of the stuck-on stuff. When it comes to cleaning a griddle, you'll have to use different tools and techniques to prevent damage and to ensure you have a good surface for cooking that is free of burnt grease.

When you have a brand-new griddle, you will need to season the surface before you can use it. There are several ways to season the surface and a few products specially-designed to make the process easier. At a minimum, you'll need paper towels or a lint-free rag and an oil with a high smoke point. Avocado oil, grapeseed oil, and peanut oil are good choices. There are also products designed for seasoning a griddle. One of our favorites is the Seasoning Oil From Blackstone. It works great, doesn't leave an odor, and produces a durable finish that makes griddle cooking easier.

Eventually, you'll need to re-season a griddle, particularly when the surface begins to blister or crack. The way seasoning works is that oil is burned into the surface of the metal and builds a layer that protects the metal and provides a nonstick surface. There are lots of ways the seasoning can have problems from overheating items on the griddle to scratches from using metal tools. The good news is that cleaning and seasoning a griddle is fairly easy to do.

Cleaning a Griddle to Apply New Seasoning Oil

Getting the surface of the griddle cleaned of old seasoning doesn't have to be a hard process. Sometimes, you'll be able to use a paint scraper to get loose bits of seasoning removed. A grinder with a wire wheel or a sander with heavy-duty sanding pads makes the cleanup quick and easy, if not a little on the messy side. Once the griddle surface is cleaned, you'll have to go through the seasoning process again.

Cleaning a grill may be a simpler process, but it can also be just as time-consuming and messy. We've found that once a griddle is well-seasoned, it is substantially easier to keep clean than a charcoal grill.

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

The Type of Metal Makes a Difference

One of the key factors in how well a griddle works is the type of metal used to construct the cooking surface.

The most common material for home-use grills is cold rolled steel. Thicker griddle surfaces retain heat better and are more even, but they are also heavy, making moving a griddle around somewhat of a challenge. Professional griddles like you find in a restaurant are typically much heavier duty than their home-use counterparts as they are expected to be used daily.

If you think of a griddle surface like a cast iron pan, you will understand why thicker and smoother metal surfaces are ideal. Seasoning a griddle is a very similar process to that of seasoning a cast iron skillet and you'll get similar results when you correctly season a griddle.


Thursday, September 29, 2022

How a Grill is Different from a Griddle

 


The main difference between a grill and a griddle is the cooking surface. A grill uses metal grates that are typically spread about a half inch apart. This allows the heat from the flame to cook the food directly while the grease drips to the tray without making a mess or starting a fire. A griddle is a heated, flat surface with evenly distributed heat that allows for even cooking of thinner foods that should be cooked quickly (like eggs or fried rice). Charcoal grills are popular for barbecue cooking because of the extra flavor that comes from the smoke of the burning wood. Gas grills are a convenient alternative that makes lighting and cooking on the grill faster and easier at the expense of some of the natural smoke flavor.

Lower-priced grills often use chromed steel for the metal grates. Higher-cost options use cast iron or porcelain enameled steel for the grills. You'll also find solid grills that are similar to a griddle but usually have ridges to allow for grease to drain away while leaving beautiful sear marks on the meat.


Monday, September 26, 2022

What is a Griddle?


 A griddle is defined primarily by the use of a heavy-gauge metal plate that acts as the cooking surface. 

Most griddles are heated using natural gas while some are also heated by electricity. Typical outdoor freestanding griddles use propane that is commonly stored in portable tanks. A griddle can also be plumbed to use natural gas from the house supply.

A griddle will typically have a trough around at least one edge to catch excess oil and grease that then flows into a catch can for easier cleanup. In order for a griddle to work well, The Cooking Surface Must Be Seasoned And Maintained, which can take a bit of effort and time, but it's essential for producing a non-stick surface that is healthy and clean to cook food on.


Thursday, September 22, 2022

The Official Start of Autumn Season!

 


Here are Three (3) Reasons to Change Your Decor in the Fall

As the season changes and we move from summer into fall, we are often inspired to change our decor. But why? Are there any good reasons to do it?

YES, there are several. And they are all good for us!  READ MORE


Tuesday, September 20, 2022

Do You Need a Grill if You Have a Griddle?


 Grill - Griddle Combo

Because the two cooking instruments are so different, you'll probably want both a grill and a griddle to get the cooking results you want. With a griddle, you won't get direct exposure to flame that allows for the surface of your meat to get a beautiful sear, but instead you'll have a more uniform surface. This is because of the design and construction of a griddle. READ MORE

Thursday, September 15, 2022

What's Better: A Grill or a Griddle?

 


A good griddle is better than a bad grill, but all things equal, the two cooking tools are significantly different and it's difficult to say which is actually better.

Cooking on a grill and a griddle is a different experience, too. You'll use different techniques and tools to get the kinds of results you hope for from a griddle versus a gas or charcoal grill. If you are thinking about picking up a griddle, we'll walk through some of the things you should look for and how a griddle can improve your cooking experiences.

Some people will find that they prefer cooking on a griddle over a grill while others find the smell and flavor of a charcoal grill to be an essential part of the cooking process.

Comparing the two cooking tools isn't easy to do because of the significant differences in materials, cooking fuels, and results.

Monday, September 12, 2022

Grills vs Griddles (Flat Tops): What You need to Know Series


Grills are one of the most iconic American cooking instruments that are practically a requirement for outdoor get-togethers. 

Most people are more familiar with griddles at diners and restaurants where the flat surface sizzles and sears in the background all day long rather than a tool for cooking up some steaks at the next holiday barbecue.

But a griddle can unlock opportunities to prepare a wide variety of food items with an easy-to-clean cooking surface. Our next blog series will do a "deep dive" into the pros/cons of grills and griddles. ENJOY!


Thursday, September 8, 2022

20 Vegetables You Can Re-Grow From Scraps

 

Sure, you’ve heard that buying organic food over the genetically modified or pesticide exposed versions is ideal for your health, but it can get costly.

Due to the limited supply of organic foods as well as the additional labor and maintenance required to produce them, you may be paying 20-100% more for an organic banana!

Fortunately, here are 20 vegetables and herbs you can grow indoors using parts of the produce you would throw away anyways, and this can save you a pretty penny the next time you go grocery shopping.

Click Here for all the details

Monday, September 5, 2022

Happy Labor Day From Team Hoffmann

 

As we reach the official end of summer...

Team Hoffmann wants to wish everyone a Happy Labor Day... Enjoy The Weekend with Friends and Family!

Wednesday, August 31, 2022

TRIMBORN FARM HARVEST OF ARTS & CRAFTS

 


TRIMBORN FARM HARVEST OF ARTS & CRAFTS

The 39th Annual Harvest of Arts & Crafts is a fundraiser for the historic Trimborn Farm park. The event promotes local artisans and attracts thousands of visitors during its annual two day event.

September 10, 2022 - September 11, 2022

 This beautiful, 1800's setting provides a great backdrop for the high quality work the artists create. The Harvest of Arts & Crafts attracts more than 100 artists who are juried for this show. From jewelry to soaps and woodcrafts to sculpture, there is no limit to what you will find.

In addition to lots of shopping, guests can get in on the raffle, enjoy tasty food from local businesses, music, and a children's art and activity area. Free local parking and shuttles from Southridge Mall helps guests get to the event. Shop local, have fun, and support Trimborn Farm!


Thursday, August 25, 2022

2022 Outdoor Living Trends - #7 Work From Home Spaces


 7. Work From Home Spaces

The working from home trend is expected to continue into 2022 as we adjust to our new normal. Those of us who work remotely are transforming our patios, balconies, and terraces into outdoor offices. 

To make an outdoor workspace, you’ll need access to a strong  WIFI connection and a quiet spot.

Fill this space with comfortable outdoor furniture and an outdoor umbrella, if needed, for shade. Go for accessories that help you stay relaxed and focused, such as subtle water features or wireless weather-resistant speakers that play soft music while you work.

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

2022 Outdoor Living Trends - #6 Outdoor Kitchens


 6. Outdoor Kitchens

There’s nothing better than alfresco dining, and it looks like 2022 will be seeing a surge in outdoor kitchens. 

To build the ideal outdoor kitchen: 

Make a layout that handles the local climate. Connect a pergola or similar covering to your house, then consider adding bushes for wind barriers, wall-mounted heaters, and ceiling fans to control the climate. 

Fill your outdoor kitchen with all the appliances you want, such as a mini fridge, grill, or portable outdoor pizza oven. Add comfortable outdoor furniture, such as a dining table and coordinating chairs.


Friday, August 19, 2022

2022 Outdoor Living Trends - #5 Outdoor Living Rooms

 

5. Outdoor Living Rooms

We want to relax in the fresh air while still having creature comforts within reach, so outdoor living rooms are coming to life in our backyards.

Outdoor living rooms are welcoming, easy to move through, and have strategically-placed modern conveniences — just like the living rooms inside our homes.

To create an outdoor living room:

Start by designing how you want the space to work for you, your family and your entertainment style. Choose a shaded area like a covered patio and style it with inviting comfortable outdoor furniture sets. 

Mount an outdoor TV on the wall and install outdoor fans on the ceiling, add a few potted plants for natural ambiance and pick out coordinating blankets and pillows for added comfort and color.

Monday, August 15, 2022

2022 Outdoor Living Trends - #4 Plants, plants and more plants

 

#4 - Plants, Plants and more Plants

Plants of all kinds fill homes across the country.

These living decorations are the perfect at-home hobby because they keep us busy, and can even be a great stress reducer.

Perennials are great ideas because you only need to plant them once, and they come back year after year.

Think Hostas lining pathways — soft greens , a 2022 color.  Durable side and coffee tables are excellent outdoor furniture ideas for places to display potted plants.

Thursday, August 11, 2022

2022 Outdoor Living Trends - #3 Outdoor Climate Control


3. Outdoor Climate Control

Bad weather isn’t keeping anyone inside these days.

Focus on comfort climate control, an up-and-coming trend in 2022, and you’ll be relaxing on your patio all year long.

When it’s cold, hang overhead heating lamps in your outdoor dining area, or use a fire pit table on your deck with coordinating lounge chairs.

In the summer months, install ceiling fans on your covered porch. If you want to really take it serious, look into energy-efficient outdoor evaporative/swamp coolers.

Tuesday, August 9, 2022

2022 Outdoor Living Trends - #2 Calm, Cool Colors with a Bohemian Vibe

 2. Calm, Cool Colors with a Bohemian Vibe

The consensus is that soft, earthy shades of green will be the go-to colors, followed by relaxing blues and chill neutrals.

EDGE 4-Piece Modular Deep Seating Set

These colorways point to tranquility and renewal being significant themes for 2022, so if you want to try this trend, choose patio furniture in calm colors that’s easy on the eyes as well as the mind, and look for coordinating décor offering clean, fresh hues.

Bohemian style is back! This fun, eclectic style is a fantastic way to find joy in your surroundings and express yourself.

Bring this vibe to your outdoor space by mixing and matching, layering, and using a variety of colors and textures. Don't forget the outdoor rug and pillows! Be sure to display unique items, invest in plants of varying sizes and choose comfortable outdoor furniture.

Wednesday, August 3, 2022

2022 Outdoor Living Trends - #1 Sustainability is Here to Stay


Ready to tap into the vast amount of potential your outdoor space has to offer? 

Here's 10 up-and-coming outdoor living trends for 2022.





1. Sustainability is Here to Stay

You can expect recycled plastic outdoor furniture, eco-friendly decor, and natural materials for building projects like reclaimed wood and bamboo.

Bring enduring style to your home by selecting outdoor furniture designs made from ocean-bound and landfill-bound plastic materials for your outdoor living area. A quick online search will help you find businesses that sell upcycled and eco-friendly décor as well as sustainable building materials.

Thursday, July 28, 2022

Team Hoffmann's Instant Cash Offer!

 




Team Hoffmann's Instant Cash Offer!

Selling Your Home Has Never Been Easier!

As multiple conventional and cash offers continue to be received for nearly every listing, contingency offers are simply no longer a competitive option. So, if you (or some one you know) need to sell your home before you buy the "dream home" you just found... What can you do?

Team Hoffman is making it easy for home sellers and buyers who need to sell first... Introducing, Instant Cash Offer.

Click here for more information

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

2022 Trending Flooring Textures

 

Another top trend this year is texture: scrapes, knots, wire brushed. People want flooring that looks and feels authentic.

Rustic Floor Textures

Handscraped looks instantly make your home look timeless and expensive. These are perfect for rustic decor with plenty of character. They’re also a great backdrop for farmhouse and industrial kitchens.

Wirebrushed

Wirebrushed looks add character to your floor without looking unfinished. While still popular, handscraped and distressed looks are overtaking this trend pretty quickly.

Distressed

With intentional scrapes, knotholes, and even burns, distressed floor textures are meant to give your floor character, like it’s much older than it is.

Setting the tone with a floor that looks almost historic instantly gives you an envy-inducing style.

Smooth Flooring

Smooth floors are chic, elegant, and classic. They won’t ever be completely out of style. While still incredibly popular, textured finishes are starting to steal the spotlight.


Trending Carpet Textures

Frieze/Shag Carpet

Frieze is also known as “twist” carpet and it refers to carpet fibers that are twisted many times, making them look almost curly. 

Inspired by shag carpet texture, this look is casual and comfortable.

Berber Carpet

This trend is practical as well as stylish. Berber carpet is popular in commercial areas because it lasts so long. You’ll also see it a lot in homes, especially busy residences with lots of traffic and pets.

Cut and Loop Carpet

Cuts and loops can create unique, stylish patterns and textures. This look can be subtle or bold, so it fits every look.

Patterns are popular right now across all floor types, and these cut and loop patterned carpets have been going strong for several years now.

Conclusion

There are many unique styles trending that will likely stick around for years to come, which means your possibilities are endless.

If you want something hot that will last for the long haul, we recommend going for large planks, blonde or gray wood look.

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Friday, July 22, 2022

2022 Trending Floor Patterns and Layouts

 

This year will feature larger planks, parquet patterns, and creative layout options.

Wide Plank Flooring

This is one trend you can expect to see every year in every style for the foreseeable future. Longer, wider planks make your rooms look larger, more open, and less busy.


Parquet Wood Flooring

Parquet pattern floors like herringbone and chevron are a big trend in wood. These more detailed patterns will make your floor the centerpiece of the room.

Checkered Flooring

As trends move more toward unique and vintage styles, checkerboard floors are making a comeback. 

You can find checkerboard patterns in a huge variety of colors, and even designer printed tile. This look is especially popular in kitchens and bathrooms.

Trickled tile flooring

This is where you slowly blend two contrasting flooring types (like tiles and planks) so they “trickle” into each other. 

This pattern is often achieved with hexagons, but any tile shape will work to create a one-of-a-kind look as you transition to other rooms in your home.