What You Should Do Right After Moving Into a New Home

It can be very exciting to buy a new home. But a new home also brings many new responsibilities. Becoming a new homeowner will put a lot on your plate from additional financial responsibilities to ongoing maintenance. While you may hope to live in your home for years to come, when you move into your new home, there are a few things you should do right. Consider completing these simple tasks during homeownership's first few days. 

Test Safety Alarms

Your fire alarms and detectors of carbon monoxide are essential safety devices that need to be operational. Make sure every alarm works properly before you move into your home. Simply press the "test" button to test these alarms. The alarm works if it beeps. Try replacing the batteries and testing again if you don't hear a beep. Fire departments recommend testing this devices once a month.

Deep Clean 

Starting with a clean slate is the best way to ensure your home stays clean while you're living in it. Before you move your furniture and other belongings inside, take the time to give the whole house a deep cleaning. It's also a great idea to call an exterminator to spray the home for pests before you move in.

As you clean your home deeply, make sure you also clean the appliances. Besides cleaning your oven and refrigerator, do not forget to pull the refrigerator off the wall to clean the coils on the back of the appliance as well. Then clean the dryer vent, lint screen, and dryer duct to the laundry room. Finally, replace the filter from the furnace and clean the outdoor HVAC unit outside. 

Change All The Locks 

It's a good idea to change all the locks on the house to make sure your family is safe in your new home. While previous homeowners may have given up their keys, you have no idea how many duplicates are in the hands of strangers from the keys of your home. It's a simple DIY project you can tackle in a few hours to install new locks on each door.

Look at the Attic & Crawlspace

It's important to get to know every inch of your home as a homeowner. This means entering the crawl space and attic to ensure that there are no leaks, bugs or molds in those spaces.

Find the Main Shutoff Valve

Start by finding your main water and gas shut-off valves, enabling you to shut down water or gas to the entire home in an emergency situation. This valve is located right after your meter near your home on most homes. Then check for isolated shut-off valves for those areas under each sink.

Find & Inspect the Electrical Panel

The electrical panel in your home will allow you to cut power to the entire house as well as various sections easily. This will be handy when you do home repairs or an emergency that requires you to shut down the power of your home. The main circuit breaker panel of the home is typically a gray metal box in the garage, basement, or closet of a utility room. Open the door to enter the panel. You will find the main breaker at the top of the panel. Rows of other breakers that control individual circuits are below the main breaker. The breakers often have labels telling you which section of the home they are controlling. If there are no labels, add each breaker to your own by shutting off to determine which part of the house they turn off and then make sure to label it for your own and future homeowners’ sanity!

Inspect the Condition of Your Water Heater

It is essential to inspect the water heater to ensure that it is in proper functioning order. Make sure that the heating element heats the unit and that the pipes entering and leaving the appliance are secure. Finally, take the time to drain the unit to avoid buildup of sediments, which may cause problems later.

Check & Test Your Sump Pump

If you have a basement in your home, it is important to check your sump pump. To ensure that your sump pump works well, pour a bucket of water into the hole and wait until the pump turns on. Older sump pumps can rust and seize, so make sure that your sump pump works before a major rainstorm can prevent future flooding.

Keep an Emergency Fund

Homeownership means that you must be prepared for anything. If your hot water heater leaks or your refrigerator stops working, you need to repair or replace those appliances. And that's not going to be cheap. For instances like this, having an emergency fund will enable you to have money set aside to take care of the issue immediately. Buying a home is a big investment, so it's a good idea to take small steps to increase your emergency fund. Simply open a separate savings account to create an emergency fund that will only be used in case of emergency, then add as much money as you can to that account with a goal of keeping $2,000 to $3,000 in the fund.

Choosing The Right Contractor for Your Remodeling Project

On a new home, the day you close is an exciting one. One of the greatest experiences of adulthood is the thrill of owning a home and making it your own. However, there are also many responsibilities with all the great advantages of homeownership. Keeping your home in good repair is important as it grows older to avoid more expensive repairs in the future and to ensure that the value of your home is maintained or even increased.

Finding the right contractor is important for all home improvement projects. While finding, vetting, and then hiring a contractor may seem overwhelming, it doesn't have to be. Taking time to do your research and finding the best contractor for the job will produce better results and fewer headaches.

Prepping for the Project

First, set up a budget that is comfortable for your family with each home improvement project. If it is possible to split the project into stages, set a budget and plan for each stage. Consider also the project's timing as it relates to weather, family schedules and demands. A total kitchen remodel, for example, may not be the best project to plan for the same month as the graduation of your child.

 Get Referrals

Ask contractors who do the work you need for referrals. Poll friends, neighbors and members of the family who have completed similar projects and ask who they have hired. Consider asking for recommendations from friends or community groups on social media or links on neighborhood apps such as NextDoor. Ask the people who made the referral key questions about the contractor they used after narrowing down the top vote getters, including:

·      How did they work with them?

·      Do they do a good job?

·      Did they stay within budget and schedule?

·      Have they been communicating well?

·      Have they kept the area of work clean?

·      Was your family and neighbors respected?

·      Any worries?

·      Are you going to hire them again?

 Selecting the Top Options

The next step is to make direct contact with each of them after determining the top three contractors’ options. Call them and schedule an appointment on the work you need to do for a complimentary quote. Pay attention to how your questions were answered by each contractor and how eager they seemed to schedule an appointment. Evaluate how prompt they were during the meeting, their evaluation of what needs to be done, the materials / supplier suggested for the job and the quoted price.

Recall that you get what you pay for is a good rule of thumb; price often reflects quality. Ask what permits the job requires and if they have the right insurance. Knowing the credentials of the contractor is also important. Finally, ask for all details in writing before starting the work. Always carefully review contracts and make sure that everything stated, including the fine print, is comfortable.

Evaluate the Products and Materials Recommended

Discuss the specific products required for the job after selecting a contractor for your home improvement project. Whether the project is large or small— whether you're in need of new flooring, painting and minor repairs, or adding to a new room or whole floor, take time to discuss details. For example, if you replace appliances as part of a kitchen renovation, ask the contractor what appliances they would recommend and why, as well as the ratings for energy efficiency. Find out if buying appliances directly from a retailer is more economical for you or if it is better for the contractor to buy them at cost from a supplier. Learn about factory warranties and if the remaining warranties are valid if the contractor purchases appliances.

 Also, if you replace your water heater and other plumbing, the details matter. Determine first whether you want a conventional water heater, either gas or electric, or a tankless system. Learn about the pros and cons of the transfer as well as the pros and cons of the proposed new system if you are transferring from one type of system to another. Get information about manufacturers, their reputation, how often they have to serve their systems and the lifespan they expect. Find out about warranties, replacement parts and recommended ways of cleaning / protecting to keep "like new" condition with plumbing fixtures. Make sure all types work in the desired space with toilets and sinks and if the space has the necessary ventilation. Make sure that all pipes are made of high-quality materials that last for many years and are installed in a way that ensures proper drainage.

 Home enhancement projects well done can make a big difference in the quality of your home as well as the living conditions. Taking steps to find the right contractor for the job will ensure that projects are done well and that you can be proud of the results.

Photo by Milivoj Kuhar on Unsplash

4 Ways to Make an LA Commute More Comfortable

In a survey of 2700 workers from 27 different cities, Los Angeles was found to have the most stressful commute in the US. Having a raging commute is not necessarily a proud title to hold but it’s definitely something that’s become synonymous with Los Angeles. It’s noted that the average LA resident spends around 140 hours sitting in traffic each year. We wanted to take a look at different ways to make the most stressful commute in America a bit more palatable (besides just getting a nicer car):

Changing The Time You Commute

What tends to be the most congested part of the traffic consists of bumping into the load of cars that comes with rush hour. Although it could be more convenient to your sleep schedule to leave the house at 8, many other people agree with you and that becomes the issue. Try waking up a bit earlier and see if you can manage shifting your schedule in a way that allows you to commute during less congested times. Sometimes specific companies require services that must remain open during specific hours (think financial) but employers can sometimes be open to negotiating hours that will result in an overall happier and more productive employee. Maybe you can be relocated to a different office or if your commute is really wearing on you, consider looking for a new job closer to where you live. Changing where you live can be an option as well.

The Drive Itself

The reason that a long commute starts to wear on us is because we view the time as lost. As we’re sitting in traffic we begin to feel the opportunity cost of the things we could be doing instead of staring at someone’s bumper. Fortunately, technology is allowing us to start taking advantage of lost time with podcasts and other audio forms of entertainment and learning. There are countless podcasts out there that fit any niche that you can think of. Audiobooks are exploding as well. Maybe you’re a music fan. Take some time (before you’re in your car) and create or download some playlists of music that you’re looking to explore. Many family friendly cars come equipped with features such as CarPlay which allow you to connect your smartphone for ease of interaction.

Make Use of the Time

Apart from taking advantage of different entertainment options, use the time to focus on yourself. Maybe you could set up an arrangement to call a loved one or catch up with an old friend during the time spent commuting. Hands free phones in cars make things easier than ever. In addition to this you can use the time to center yourself and focus on the day ahead. You might not be able to eliminate the traffic itself but you can try and distract yourself from an inevitable annoyance that could potentially ruin your day.

Carpooling

Carpooling has the potential to affect your commute on a couple levels. Having someone on the drive with you can make things a bit more manageable. You could also switch the driving responsibilities every couple days or week if the act of driving itself is the part that’s driving you crazy. It also opens up the opportunity to take advantage of the HOV lane which can be a big time saver in certain scenarios. Sometimes change can be a good thing and if you like having someone else along for the ride to share the frustration, it can help lighten the load a bit.

Hopefully you don’t let your morning commute bring you down. In trying to optimize your time and keep your stress levels above water you can manage to make things a little better for yourself. Traffic might be something inevitable but it’s important to do what you can to limit its negative effects on your life.

Don’t want to fight traffic? Find a home close to your job or that has great transit lines. Start your search now: www.KeyCaliforniaHomes.com

Quick Road Trips From LA Worth Taking

There’s nothing quite like loading up the back of your car, and taking a break from life for a few days. Road trips are always a great solution to a stressful everyday life. And driving from LA, there quite a few short trips that you can take that will not only give you the scenery change that you need but also reinvigorate you. Here are a few quick road trips from LA that you can take that are within a day’s drive.

San Francisco

This lovely city is about 382 miles away from downtown LA and only takes a few hours to reach (between five to six depending on traffic). However, if you want to draw the trip out over the course of a few days, there are plenty of stops you can make on the way.

Sometimes, taking a road trip is not about the destination, but the journey. Highway 1, Pacific Coast Highway, was recognized by National Geographic as one of the Best American Road Trips. Judging by the picturesque scenery offered on this route, it’s definitely one road you need to cruise down in a sporty car.

Stop by Santa Monica for a short beach trip, where you can also visit the famous Santa Monica Pier. The pier is a popular destination both during the day and night.

If you’re looking for something a little more interesting on the way to San Francisco, check out Solvang. Approximately two hours from LA through 101 North is this Historic Danish village in Santa Barbara county. The village is a quaint little town, where you can enjoy the local culture. Solvang is the perfect place to stop for a bite, as there are plenty of local eateries to enjoy.

The trip to San Francisco is perfect for ocean lovers, as there are gorgeous waterside spots dotted along the coast where you can stop en route to your destination.

Joshua Tree

If you aren’t interested in the beach, try going away from the coast. 2-3 hours east from LA lies the ecological marvel Joshua Tree. Affectionately dubbed J-Tree by many locals, this town sits where the high Mojave Desert meets the low Colorado desert. Joshua Tree is rich with gorgeous desert flora, majestic mountains, gold mine ruins, and plenty of boulders. The picturesque desert backdrop offers visitors and residents alike stunning views, where colorful sunsets melt into night skies that are brilliantly dotted with stars.

If you’re looking for choice destinations to stop by on the way, try Palm Springs and Coachella Valley first. Palm Springs is a premiere desert resort destination that’s teeming with personality. Here you can stop for a bite to eat, check out the local attractions, or if you’re really into stopping and smelling the roses, going for a hike. Make sure you fill up your gas tank and restock on snacks before driving off again.

Las Vegas

At first glance, you wouldn’t really consider skipping state lines but let this sink in: Las Vegas is an average of 4 hours away from LA. That’s a perfect weekend trip for a variety of occasions like birthdays or if you really need to get out of the city for a few days. There are also plenty of cool and eclectic attractions for you to check out as well. Some stops include Palm Springs and Joshua Tree!

However, if you have time for it, take exit 153a near D Street and take the historic Route 66 from Victorville to Barstow. On this leg of the trip, you’ll encounter a variety of cool stops like vintage diners, an ostrich farm, and even the Bottletree Ranch. The Bottletree Ranch is a fabulous collection of metal trees embellished with glass bottles; it makes for an interesting addition to your trip. Some other stops include the Route 66 Museum, Train Car McDonald’s, and Calico Ghost Town.

Regardless of where your destination is, these journeys are guaranteed to offer you a great time with unforgettable memories.

6 Unique Fitness Facilities & Gyms Near San Pedro, CA

San Pedro, California is a gorgeous, sun kissed town that demands energy and athleticism to experience it in all its glory. While going to the gym and lifting your standard weights is healthy, it can be boring for some. Finding a unique way to break a sweat will always help keep your commitment strong and will also keep the workouts more interesting.

The big question is — where can you find these unique fitness facilities? Good news, you came to the right place! Here are some of the top unique places you can get your workout on in San Pedro, California:

1. All Fit

If you want to see results fast, All Fit is your place. They have created many success stories for a lot of people that need to find the self discipline to get to the gym. They even offer a secret 6-week challenge that cultivates positive and healthy changes in participants lives. If that doesn’t spark interest, than I don’t know what does! Their deals are kept up-to-date here, so take a peek at their site if you are interested in joining.

2. Casa Ayurveda & Yoga

Finding zen and getting fit go hand in hand. Having your time to meditate and relax daily is crucial and yoga provides that and more; yoga simultaneously enhances your flexibility, athleticism, and clarity of thinking.

At Casa Ayurveda & Yoga, you can expect to find those fitness yoga classes that keep and maintain your attention. These workouts will be centered around your body so the only requirement you will need will be your own yoga mat and you.

If you are on the fence about trying yoga, try doing a day session. Take note how you feel at the end of class until the end of the day. Most likely, you will enjoy the feeling of clarity and come back for more!

3. Elite Training Fitness

If you’re looking to get a personal trainer or participate in group training workouts, look no further than Elite Training Fitness. From dance to crossfit to athletic training and flexibility, their friendly and professional personal trainers have the expertise to offer unique training programs for every customer.

With no contracts, no sign up fees, and no cancelation fees, it’s a unique San Pedro fitness facility that you should definitely try. Try a bootcamp class or a fitness class and see if this Elite Training Fitness is a good fit for you.

4. San Pedro Fight Club

Adrenaline can be addicting. That slow motion, heart pounding feeling is something you don’t get to experience very often. This is the feeling you get when you learn how to defend yourself against both armed and unarmed opponents at the San Pedro Fight Club. Learning how to defend yourself correctly requires great amounts of self discipline and hard work, but will have you feeling confident and healthy as ever.

The workouts will mostly consist of using your body to learn takedowns, ground grappling, and conditioning. From Jiu-Jitsu to Judo to Marine Corps Martial Arts, this mix will keep you coming back for more and keep you in prime shape for any sort of self defense.

5. Heyday Elite Fitness & CrossFit

Crossfit is the workout to rule them all. Once you get going, it is hard to pull the reins and stop! This especially applies to HeyDay Elite Fitness & CrossFit. What makes this gym unique is the outdoor training on beautiful days, and the family like environment to keep people coming back and feeling apart of a group. The training is more on the crossfit side. No need to fear though, their beginner class in non intimidating and perfect for people ready to develop a fit lifestyle! It is always a fantastic feeling when you get to work out and have a feeling of belonging.

6. Haley Clark Dance Company

Nothing can get your blood flowing quite like some good music can. You put that rhythm in with a few steps, jumps, pops, twirls, and waves and then you have a recipe for a fantastic workout! Dancing is such a good way to get just about every muscle in your body exercising. At Haley Clark Dance Company, you can expect to learn a few moves of your own that will keep you in rhythm and exercising. You can choose from hip hop, fitness classes, all around classes, and even pole dancing! Get the exercise you were looking for while having the time of your life!

San Pedro has Plenty of Fitness Options

Finding a good gym experience requires taking a good look at yourself. What exercises do you like? Do you want to workout alone or with others? What kind of exercise helps you keep going without giving up? Asking yourself these simple questions can help you to narrow down options to your exact choice. Most importantly, it is about execution.

It’s time to throw on your favorite fleece sweatpants, get yourself into one of these facilities and get to work! Taking care of your health through fitness and eating clean, nutritious foods will go a long way to ensuring you get the most out of living life in beautiful San Pedro.

If you’re looking to move anywhere in the San Pedro area, contact Laura Key at 310-866-8422 today!

Top 8 Fall Activities for Kids Near San Pedro, CA

San Pedro is a great place to take the kids for a fall adventure. What was once its own city, San Pedro is now a community within Los Angeles with strong ties to the fishing industry. It has plenty of places to explore, such as its lighthouses and various museums, and it was recently named “Neighborhood of the Year.”

There are plenty of family fall activities near Los Angeles for everyone to enjoy. From spooky amusement park fun to pumpkin patch games, here are the best things to do as a family in around San Pedro in the fall.

1. Go whale watching

Fall is the best time to catch humpback whales, blue whales and dolphins as they travel through the area. San Pedro has many cruises to choose from, with some costing as low as $20 to view the animals. People who have yet to get their sea legs can stay ashore and watch whales from the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. The center is located next to the Point Vicente Lighthouse, and they have volunteers on site to help point out the whales in the water.

2. See the Korean Friendship Bell

San Pedro’s Korean Friendship Bell is a gift from South Korea to the U.S. in celebration of its 200th birthday in 1976. The massive bell is 12 feet tall and weighs 17 tons, and it was modeled after the Bronze Bell of King Sondok from 771 AD. The bell hangs in a pretty pagoda designed by Korean craftsmen. It is rung four times a year, with one happening every September during Constitution Week.

3. Shop at the Old Town Farmers Market

Head to the farmers market to find a pumpkin or other fall goods and tasty treats. The farmers market takes place every Friday from 9am to 2pm, and it attracts many local musicians who perform while you shop. Many of the items are Certified California Grown, and there are also vendors who sell fresh flowers to brighten the day.

4. Explore Historic Downtown San Pedro

This part of the city is just steps from the waterfront and perfect for taking the family for a nice stroll. The area is especially nice in the evenings when the Tivoli Lights strung across the streets come alight. Historic downtown has several restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, with foods from Japan, Greece and the Caribbean. It also has multiple family-owned businesses where visitors can buy clothing or unique jewelry.

Take the family to visit Old City during First Thursdays when the art galleries open their doors to the public. Many restaurants offer specials during this time, and the event attracts musicians, dancers and other entertainment to the area.

5. Enjoy spooky thrills at Knott’s Berry Farm

Located just outside of San Pedro is Knott’s Berry Farm, an amusement park that traces its origins to the original berry seller Walter Knott. Every fall, the theme park turns into Knott’s Scary Farm with scares and thrills around every corner. The park has special scare zones and haunted mazes, and it has thousands of costumed people hiding throughout the park to give visitors a jump. The theme park offers a family-friendly version called Knott’s Spooky Farm where children can wear their costumes and go trick-or-treating. The Spooky Farm offers a special Halloween show at Camp Snoopy Theatre, and it has a pumpkin patch for children to decorate their own pumpkin.

6. Dia de Los Muertos Activities

Dia de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is an annual Mexican tradition honoring friends and family members who have died. The event is a celebratory affair, and San Pedro will host its own Dia de Los Muertos Festival downtown. The event takes place Oct. 28, and it is free to attend. Artists performing this year include Latin Folk group Cuñao, “prom rock” band Cutty Flam and soul group Cuicani. A variety of tasty food options will be on site, as well as different vendors selling Dia de Los Muertos wares.

7. Take a trip to Catalina Island

Located only an hour away by ferry, Catalina Island offers a fall festival that is fun for the whole family. Fall Fest takes place Oct. 18 in Avalon from 5-9 p.m. The event includes hayrides, live music, games and a pumpkin patch. Money raised during the festival helps support local charities. Other fun activities in Catalina Island include going snorkeling or hiking along the Trans-Catalina trail. End the day with a visit to Knabe Park, which has a pirate-themed playground to entertain little ones.

8. Explore a lighthouse

San Pedro has two historic lighthouses, Angel’s Gate and Point Fermin. While Angel’s Gate is only viewable from a boat or on the shore, visitors can tour the inside of Point Fermin Tuesday-Sunday. This lighthouse was built in 1874, and its rich history includes its use as a military lookout post during World War II. General admission is free, however donations are encouraged.

4 Steps to Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal

If you’re hoping to sell your home in the near future, you’ve probably been running around the interior, applying fresh coats of paint and steaming the carpets. But what about the exterior — the first thing a potential buyer would see when they show up for a tour?

Fueled by high demand, the housing market is hot this year. Rents are on the rise all across the country. For example, prices for popular Denver apartments are at record highs, while the one-bedroom units in Los Angeles are creeping up to top-5 national levels.

Home sales have risen quite a bit lately, despite a purported short supply. Even in a buyer’s market, it’s crucial to make your home stand out among the rest to ensure you get top dollar for your years of investment.

There are a few simple changes you can make to your home’s exterior to give it years of new life and enhanced curb appeal without dropping thousands. Here are 4 steps to improve your home’s curb appeal:

Step 1: Refresh Your Front Door

First things first: Pretend you’re a potential buyer showing up to tour the property. Is your front door welcoming? Or does it look like it holds a decade of future repairs and refurbishments? Clean and repaint your front door to make a good impression, and fix any tears that might be in the screen. If the hardware is looking a little worn, consider buying a new lock and knob set to make the door feel brand-new again.

Step 2: Wash or Repaint Siding and Windows

This simple measure is largely overlooked. Many homes these days have vinyl siding, which is easy to wash and never requires painting. Pressure washers are affordable to rent and can make an enormous impact on the appearance of your siding in just an afternoon. As an added bonus, you can use it to clean your sidewalks and driveway and remove years of salt and dirt. But be warned: Pressure washers can be very dangerous to use if you’re not properly trained or following the appropriate safety measures. If you have wood siding, it might be wise to repaint the exterior to enhance the value of your home.

Step 3: Replace Exterior Accessories & Lighting

If you splurge for a new handle and lock for your front door, make sure it still matches the other accessories surrounding the entrance — the doorbell, lighting fixtures, house numbers, and mailbox. All of those home features are affordable to replace, and the switch from tarnished, patchy gold-tone to brushed steel or bronze will instantly give your home a new look and feel.

Step 4: Add Greenery

Home-seekers are going to have their own visions for landscaping, so don’t spend a lot of time and money making significant changes or planting trees that the new owner might very well yank out. Instead, try potted plants and add life and greenery to a porch, entryway, or window.

Selling your home can be a long, arduous process. And finding buyers with adequate financing — especially first-time buyers eager to make a deal — can be difficult in certain markets. But by being proactive and working to make your home as beautiful as it can be, you can significantly shorten your home’s time on the market and increase the purchase price. In a market like Los Angeles, a little work can go a long way.

Greenify Your Home

Want to save some green while going green for the environment? Thankfully, going green has become much more economically viable in recent years. With developments in technology and science even things such as solar panels have become not only more efficient, but the cost has gone down as well. Not to mention that acceptance of climate change is at all-time high, it’s no longer strange to be concerned about your carbon footprint and what you can do to change it. In this post I will outline some easy, medium and harder difficulty changes based on either time involved or upfront costs. These changes will help lower your impact on the environment and save you cash long term.

Easy:

• Buying Organic Fibers: When you need to replace your sheets, curtains, jackets or blankets look to buy organic cotton or fleece models. Organic cotton and fleece production has much lower impact on the environment than their non-organic counterparts.
• Changing Light Bulbs: Changing your light bulbs from incandescent bulbs to CFL’s (compact fluorescent lamp) or LED’s can lead to quite the energy savings. CFL’s and LED’s use approximately one quarter of the energy that an incandescent bulb does, and they last much longer. The upfront cost of these bulbs is higher, but check with your local energy company, often times they will send you a package of 10 or so to get you started.
• Axe Paper Towels: Paper towels while incredibly convenient are horrible for the environment. In the United States two percent of total landfill waste are paper towels. Consider making the switch to reusable wipes that you must wash periodically. You can always take t-shirts or other clothing items you don’t use any more to cut up into rags that can be used for much of the same tasks as paper towels.

Medium:

• Changing Shower Head: Water can be an incredibly scare resource for many people throughout the world. By changing your shower head to a low flow model, you can save up to $145 each year on electricity costs! That’s an insane amount to save for a minor change.
• Programmable thermostat: Programmable thermostats optimize your heating and cooling to only when you are home, you prevent the HVAC system from using unnecessary energy which in turn saves you money!
• Fix Leaky Faucets: A leaky faucet can waste about 140 gallons of water a week! That’s 7,280 gallons a year, a huge amount of water waste. Most leaky faucets are easy to diagnose and fix, with some common tools and a little YouTube research you can most likely fix them!

Harder:

• Add Insulation: Adding insulation to your home boosts your homes ability to retain heat and cold air. It’s a little bit more expensive than the other fixes listed here but it is one of the highest return home improvement projects out there!
• Replace Older Appliances: By replacing old appliances one by one you can ensure that your energy costs are being reduced by the new technology in new appliances. Modern water heaters are much more efficient and considering it’s the second largest energy expense in your home it might want to be on the top of your list to replace!
• Replace Windows: Old and leaky windows can cause drafts throughout your home and let cool or heated air out of your home. Modern more efficient models can make a big difference and could be a big boon to the value when it comes time to sell!

Top Reasons to Consider a Laundry Room Remodel

Laundry rooms can be rooms that some of us just dread going into. Most of the time, when we enter a laundry room, we’re probably doing some sort of chore. What if instead of dread, the laundry room made you feel comfortable every time you stepped into it?

A laundry room remodel is a great way to add value and comfort to your home. Once you rejuvenate the life in your laundry room, you will be looking forward to ironing shirts and doing laundry all of the time! Let’s look at how you can turn the dreadful corner of the house into a place of organized zen and relaxation.

Layout improvements

In its current state, your laundry room might be nothing more than an ordinary room with a washer and dryer. Why not add a corner desk, some corner shelves, or even a reading nook with a chair? If you have the space for it, you can consolidate space and turn your laundry room into a room that you’ll actually enjoy spending time in.

Stackable washers and dryers means you can save space; corner shelves, utility sinks or pull-out bins can make smart use of otherwise wasted space. Understanding how to properly layout your appliances and storage space can give you a little bit more room to play around with.

Accessibility = usability

Accessibility is the key word when it comes to remodeling your laundry room. At its current state, your laundry room may not be as organized as you’d like it to be. Instead of wasting time fumbling around a messy laundry room, add organized drawers or contemporary full overlay cabinets to neatly stow away your detergents, stain removers, and dryer sheets.

Not only can cabinets be incredibly gorgeous storage options, but they can serve you in your accessibility needs throughout the entire laundry room. Add a rack to hang clothes and some counter space to fold and treat your clothes on, and you’ll have a highly organized laundry room.

Improved look and feel

How does your laundry room look and feel? Most laundry rooms are not incredibly appealing. In fact, it’s the main reason why many don’t spend time in them. Why must we torture ourselves with a constant eyesore when we can make it a comfortable environment to do chores?

Giving your laundry room a fresh paint of color can make the world of a difference. Start by picking out a main color that you can then pair with all of your appliances, flooring, and laundry room decor.

A room for pets

While you’re remodeling your laundry room, why not make it pet-friendly? Laundry rooms are perfect places to store dog and cat bowls, litter boxes and beds or crates.

If you do plan on having your furry friends access this room frequently, you’ll likely want to replace the floor with damage resistant tile or vinyl. This will make it much easier to sweep away cat litter or clean up any “surprises” your pets leave for you to find.

If you want to get really creative, you can even turn portion of your laundry room into a cat house or a doggy den.

Upgrade to smart appliances

Homes are slowly becoming “smart homes” as technology is integrated into everyday devices. In the laundry room, a smart washer and dryer can really help you get the job done right and efficiently.

You’ll never need to worry about forgetting to put your clothes in the dryer again. Wifi-enabled washers and dryers can automatically update you with a notification on your phone to let you know when the cycle is complete.

This doesn’t have to be the only smart device you have in your laundry room. Try adding a smart assistant like Google Home, Apple Homepod, or Amazon Echo. You can set up these smart speakers to control laundry room lighting with your voice, reorder laundry detergent, or play your favorite playlist.

Kitchen Trends: Top Dark Kitchen Remodel Ideas

The kitchen is the heart of the home. This is where traditions are born, cravings are satisfied, and where a majority of company will discuss their daily lives. Sometimes, it is good to add some flavor to your kitchen.

Design tastes are constantly changing and there may be some in particular that you have been thinking about using in your own kitchen. Perhaps, you may be thinking about dark kitchen remodel ideas! Adding some dark accents to your kitchen can be a great look in modern kitchens, so let’s go ahead and dive in!

Dark Kitchen Cabinets

Anytime you do a big change or remodel in the kitchen, you will want to take a look at the color of your cabinets. Consider staining your cabinets or upgrading them to match your new appliances, countertops, or floors. Dark mission style kitchen cabinets, for example, are popular for contemporary looks and are a timeless cabinet style. Keep in mind that dark kitchen cabinets will look best with lighter countertops, lighter floors, or lighter paint on the walls to contrast with the dark cabinets.

Once you have a good idea of what your cabinets will look like, you can move to other elements that bring the kitchen together.

Black Stainless Steel Appliances

After you handle the cabinets, you can move right along to the appliances. In most cases, you will want all these to be matching in color.

Pairing cabinets or countertops with dark appliances is a great look, and black stainless steel appliances are popular in modern kitchen trends. They look great with both light and dark cabinets and countertops. Opt for light colored countertops or cabinets to make the contrasting dark appliances pop, or dark cabinets and counters to make the appliances blend in.

Dark Kitchen Flooring

Darker flooring can add to the cool and modern style you aim to create. It is also a massive element that can change the way the whole kitchen feels. Take your time with this one and choose a flooring that pairs well with the cabinets. If you prefer, you can choose a light flooring that can still match the dark theme you are going for. Light floors can even accentuate the dark theme if done correctly. If you do not want to do a complete remodel for your kitchen floor, you can stain the wood floors a darker color.

Kitchen Backsplash Colors

The backsplash of the kitchen is a fun way to accent the entire remodel. This is also an opportunity for you to get creative without making a drastic change to your kitchen.

Solid colors can be a great option to accentuate a dark kitchen theme. You can also look into tile patterns; with plenty of patterns to choose from, you’ll be able to match the rest of your kitchen perfectly.

If you have dark countertops, appliances, or cabinets, it might look best to choose a contrasting, lighter color or pattern for your backsplash.

Kitchen Lighting Options

What’s the point of remodeling a dark kitchen if you can’t see it well enough to appreciate it? Even though the colors are dark, you want to ensure that the area is lit adequately so you can enjoy the space.

Add enough lighting to properly light up your entire kitchen, but add light dimmers so you can have more control over it. Installing smart light bulbs in your kitchen and dining room can give you more control over your kitchen design; simply change the kelvin temperature to be cool or warm, and change the entire color altogether to set the mood for dinner parties.

Plumbing Fundamentals for the First Time Homeowner

Owning a home for the first time can be exciting and incredibly daunting at the same time. Previously if your water wasn’t hot, or your refrigerator took a crap you could call your landlord and they would get it fixed in a timely manner. Now, this is all your domain and responsibility. That being said, there are a few basics that virtually anyone can learn that will give you a great head start to become a handy homeowner. 

Toilets 

Thankfully, the mechanisms that allow a toilet to function are fairly simple. You have the tank, the bowl, the handle and the components inside the tank. Inside the tank, there is usually a chain connected to the arm of the handle, and the other side of the chain is connected to the flapper. Often toilet running problems are solved with a quick chain adjustment or a new flapper. Try to take care of your running toilets as quick as possible as they can cost you up to two hundred dollars a year in water costs. If your toilet is really old you might want to consider upgrading to a low flow toilet, it can save you quite a bit in yearly water consumption. This youtube channel has some great lessons on how to repair your toilet for a variety of issues. 

Drains 

Most people are aware that grease, bones and other things cannot go down your garbage disposal, but did you know citrus fruit peels can cause major build up or damage as well? It’s a good idea when you get into your new home to keep an eye out for drains that may take longer than usual to take away the water. Usually, you can fix these by getting a cheap drain snake at your local hardware store or using a bit of draino. If these methods don't take care of your issue, consider handing it off to a professional. 

Water Heaters 

The second largest energy expense in your home is water heating. Water heaters are something most homeowners and/or residents don’t often think about until it goes out and you get a frigid shower. When moving into your new place take some time to inspect the current water heater and get an idea of the shape that it’s in. You can cross reference the serial number to determine the age of the unit, if it’s north of 12 years old it might be a good idea to start looking at newer units. Choosing an energy star rated water heater can save you up to 300 dollars a year in water heating costs. There are many options even if the space you pick is limited, for example, tankless water heaters are often more efficient than their tank-style brothers and last almost twice as long. 

Faucets 

Got a leaky faucet in your new home? Thankfully, diagnosing and fixing faucet problems are relatively simple. Most of the time it just needs a new rubber washer which is a cheap and quick fix. Other issues may occur and can typically be solved by disassembling the faucet and removing all the minerals and other build-ups with a wire brush. 

The 4 Biggest Reasons to Live Tiny

Tiny trends are taking over, from microapartments to decked-out homes that can be towed behind a midsize truck. In some ways, living in these close quarters can cramp your style. For example, you’ll need to pare down your personal belongings and carefully consider what you choose to keep on-hand, and you can kiss hosting social events goodbye (unless they’re in the yard).  But living tiny also comes with some big benefits, especially in Los Angeles, where prices for homes and rent are absolutely out of this world!

Whether it’s a Los Angeles house or a Chicago apartment, living tiny in the big city can be very underrated, and here is why:

1. Mobile

If you hate feeling tied down, tiny houses are the way to go. They’re almost always on wheels, so you can take them with you if you decide to go on vacation, or get a sudden urge to relocate entirely. Since you’re taking your home with you, there’s no harried home search or urgent property sale. And forget packing: Just batten down the window hatches and hit the road. (However, many areas have restrictions on minimum sizes for dwellings, as well as where you can park your house, so research your destination before showing up.)

2. Private

Microapartments are a hugely popular trend for those seeking the simplicity that accompanies small living. But microapartments come with full-sized neighbors, whom — if the walls aren’t soundproof — you’ll likely be able to hear from every corner of your place. With a tiny home, you’ll have only privacy, peace, and quiet for neighbors.

3. Cheaper

Building a house that’s a fraction of the size of most homes also comes with a fraction of the price. Tiny homes typically are around 400 square feet, sometimes as little as 100 square feet for the more mobile models, while the typical median home size is just under 2,500 square feet. Since the median home value in the U.S. is just shy of $200,000, you might expect that a tiny home would cost about $40,000, since they’re roughly a fifth of the size. You’d be just about right. Depending on whether you’re looking for a little piece of luxury or a small Spartan dwelling, and if you’re looking for a custom build, prices vary widely. But regardless, you can expect to pay this mortgage off years ahead of a traditional home mortgage.

4. Efficient

The efficiency gains of tiny homes are multifaceted. The first gain comes with your initial move-in: all of your unnecessary belongings are left at the door. There’s no basement to store those old shirts you might or might not ever want to wear again, and that pool table you use only twice a year just won’t fit. And after you whittle down your belongings to just the essentials, you’ll have to organize them and keep them organized. There’s no room in a tiny home for a messy Bessie.

More tangibly, small living spaces have smaller energy needs, meaning your utilities bill will decrease, and a solar panel could provide a large chunk — if not the entirety — of your electricity.

Moving into a tiny home is an extreme lifestyle change, but can save you the money, time, and stress that traditional homes often bring. If you’re tempted by the lifestyle, think about what parts of your current home are most important to you, and how you could translate them into a smaller home. It could be the perfect fit. 

The Best Los Angeles Neighborhoods with the Most Personality

Los Angeles is a seemingly eternal expanse of concrete and asphalt. This urban environment retains a rich, diverse culture that stretches back hundreds of eventful years. It’s beauty in the form of beaches, bricks, colors, and people combines to create a spectacular mosaic.

It is undoubtedly a city, but LA’s sheer openness differentiates itself from places like Seattle, Chicago, and New York. Those places are built tall and centralized, while LA is vast and largely open. The many neighborhoods that make up LA all have their own personality, here is a guide to the best of them:

Find Everything You Need Downtown

Although LA is not known for its skyline, skyscrapers can be found in the downtown area. But the real beauty of Los Angeles is the expansive nature of the city.

However, while you’re in the area, you have to see Walt Disney Concert Hall in the heart of downtown. Spanning over three and a half acres, the stainless steel exterior speaks to the creative spirit that is so evident in this city. The venue is an iconic Los Angeles landmark and a dream to play in for musicians all over the world.

If you prefer to sip cocktails while reliving your childhood, head on over to EightyTwo. This massive arcade bar has over 50 rotating classic games and offers quality drinks at a reasonable price. Sushi lovers should be sure to swing through Little Tokyo just around the block for rotary sushi on the way home.

Find Out the Local’s Version of Hollywood in WeHo and NoHo

Hollywood is normally depicted as the haven for the world’s stars and a place where paparazzi prey. However, the reality is that it’s a tourist trap and entirely underwhelming. Get away from the crowds and experience Los Angeles’ true Hollywood in WeHo (West Hollywood) and NoHo (North Hollywood).

The trimmed palms and well manicured lawns of WeHo reflect the polished nature that the area embraces so well. It is the home luxury shopping, high-end clubs, and the largest LGBTQ community in LA. It is almost impossible to not have a good time here, the atmosphere is entirely friendly and constantly upbeat. While in the area, try to control your laughter at the Comedy Store, both Jim Carrey and Robin Williams got their start performing here.

NoHo is the artistic hub of LA. It’s here that you’ll find writers, actors, directors, and dancers all congregated around indie theaters talking about their last performance or audition. The night scene here is also fun and diverse. The Federal Bar, a gourmet gastro pub converted from an old bank, is a must see. Tasting the Latino flavors of street vendors around the neighborhood is also a great idea.

Experience the Radiating Energy of Venice Beach

Venice Beach is home to the world famous Muscle Beach and possibly the most exciting boardwalk on the West Coast. It also has canals designed to mimic the Italian waterways from where it derives its name. Loud and vibrant, Venice Beach is capable of broadcasting its energy across the city.

The walk-up beach bars, hundreds of murals, and surf shops are emblematic of the carefree SoCal attitude that so many visitors wish to immerse themselves. The area’s energy is unique and extremely infective. It’s one of those places that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.

Fall in Love With the Santa Monica Pier

Just up the beach you’ll find Santa Monica. It stands in fairly stark contrast to Venice, boasting a quieter lifestyle and a picturesque California beach. But how could we forget about the world famous Santa Monica Pier?

The pier is the thing to see while visiting. You’ll want to get here with an empty stomach as it has restaurants offering everything from seafood that was caught that day and authentic Italian food. You’ll forget all about the gorgeous beach below as you continue to indulge in the succulent samples of fresh, buttery lobster and the refreshing tastes of tequila margaritas offered at the pier. There’s even an amusement park located right above the crashing surf.

As you can see, this city is comprised of many different neighborhoods all with their own unique personality. Whether you’re looking for a gut busting laugh, delicious seafood, or beautiful beaches, Los Angeles has all you could ask for. The only question left to ask is, when are you coming out to experience everything the City of Angels has to offer?

3 Forgotten Spring Cleaning Tips

It’s nearly here, the splendid season of spring. For the majority within the US, spring brings about a welcome change in temperature as well as climate. Hopefully no more snow, the days get longer, and the colors of the trees begin to change back to green. This frequently means getting your own home ready and bringing out some warmer climate gadgets like patio furnishings, grills and hammocks so you can experience the outside. Spring cleaning has grown to be a ritual for maximum people, frequently going through and eliminating junk accrued from summertime through to winter and giving the residence a terrific deep clean. However, it can be easy to miss a few items that don’t frequently get attention. So, in this post I will walk through often forgotten items on home owner’s spring cleaning checklist.

Curtains, Throw Pillows and Trash Cans

These 3 items are frequently touched used or otherwise manipulated on a consistent foundation in any home. Meaning they will choose up dirt, dirt, and filth and want to be cleaned no less than every year. For throw pillows it’s as easy as removing the covers and throwing them within the washing machine. Some curtains can be washed but many suggest vacuuming with an attachment, so it might be a good idea to check the label first on yours that way you don’t damage your preferred set. Trash cans may be washed with Clorox or any other antibacterial scrub. Might be a good idea to let the trash can soak in hot water with the scrubbing method to get the specifically sticky matters off.

Home Appliances

Cleaning most of the house during in your spring cleaning usually means wiping down the stove and oven, throwing out old stuff and wiping down the refrigerator as well as the microwave. Aside from the normal cleaning it’s a terrific idea to check up on your trusty home appliances. Washing machines benefit from a mixture of bleach and vinegar allowing the bleach to take care of mold and microorganisms and the vinegar to dissolve the soap scum and mineral deposits. We recommend cleaning your washing system as a minimum two times a year. if you have a tank style water heater, it’s a good idea to check the anode rod to see if it has disintegrated. Anode rods sacrifice themselves to protect the internal lining of your water heater which in turn makes your water heater last longer and saves you treasured coin. Not always a cleaning essential, but a good thing to check on once a year if your bathroom has an exhaust fan it’s a great concept to uninstall it from the ceiling, disconnect the fan and wipe the entirety down with a damp cloth.

Mattresses

Often cleaning the bedroom means a good wash for the sheets, pillowcases and comforters. However, the mattress may be easily neglected. They gather up crumbs and dirt even with clean and new sets of sheets so it’s a good idea to vacuum with an attachment to ensure all that stuff gets picked up. If there are stains some baking soda and hydrogen peroxide do wonders at getting them out or at the very least making them less visible.

What is Happening to Los Angeles Home and Rent Prices?

Home prices in Los Angeles are quickly getting out of reach for many residents, according to a new report from the California Association of Realtors. It finds that just one in four residents of LA County make enough to afford a median-priced home in the area.

The association’s Housing Affordability Index shows that a typical LA County home cost $553,330 in the fourth quarter of 2017. With property taxes and insurance factored in, that comes out to a monthly payment of $2,790 for buyers (assuming they put down a 20 percent down payment).

Given those figures, prospective homebuyers need a salary of $111,730 (based on household income) to make those payments without becoming cost-burdened—meaning that more than 30 percent of income goes toward housing. Unfortunately for most people, 75 percent of LA County residents don’t earn that much.

Historic data shows it’s gotten much harder to afford an LA home in recent years. As recently as the first quarter of 2012, more than half of residents took home the required income to purchase a home in the area. Since then, though, prices have risen dramatically and incomes haven’t quite caught up.

In the wider Los Angeles metropolitan area, a salary of $53,780 was required to buy a median-priced home in 2012—compared to $100,210 today.

The outlook is a little better if you’re a first time buyer looking for a starter house. With a median price of $470,330, starter homes in LA County are affordable to 43 percent of residents. Of course, they’ll first have to save up for a hefty $94,066 down payment (after that, payments are $2,400 per month).

Not surprisingly, the report finds that homes in LA are far less affordable than they are nationwide. Across the country, buyers need a yearly income of $50,040 to purchase a typical home (median price: $247,800). That means that buying is still within reach for 56 percent of Americans.

If only more of those affordable homes were in LA.

But what about apartments for rent in LA and the rest of the country? If you can’t afford in LA, should you look at other options in smaller cities, maybe even the Midwest? According to ABODO, a city like Minneapolis shows apartments that are renting for almost $1,200. So, how is that any better than LA, when the same company shows rents are for just a few hundred dollars more.

Renting or owning, it’s all expensive, especially in the City of Angels.

Remodeling and Optimizing Your Space

You’ve been picturing the perfect remodel in your head for some time. But whether you’ve been saving for years, or received that anticipated bonus check from work, you’ve got to make sure your money is spent wisely. When it comes to remodeling any part of your home, optimizing the space you have is perhaps the most important factor. Simple techniques can ensure that even a small area can be transformed into an open and airy space. So, here are a few tips to get you started and moving forward towards that perfect picture in your head.

Creative Storage Solutions

One easy way to be sure that you get your money’s worth is investing in cabinets, drawers and other spaces for storage purposes. Nothing clutters up a space like excess storage. Simply having multiple options can clear up an area to make it feel more open. So, when you’re purchasing cabinets and such, be sure that you have an idea of how much you will need to put into those spaces. And for cabinets specifically, installing them vertically is the best bet. If you have a few tight spaces that seemed to get too cramped, consider open shelving to maximize storage potential. Not only will you open up a room, but you’ll save a lot of money in the process without having to extend the actual physical space.

Lighting

Believe it or not, lighting plays a big role in the feel of a room. Out of date, low-power lighting can make a room feel dark and cramped. Before you even get too far, update the lighting fixtures in the space and see if that doesn’t brighten up the area. You might be surprised, and you might just save a lot of money.

Sectioning

With modern homes being built with an open layout, it is important to section of different zones of each room. This may sound trivial, but when appliances and furniture spill over from one room to the next, it can create a sense of clutter. So, when remodeling a room or area, be sure to create explicit zones for each part of the room to ensure the maximum space possible. When there is established areas for each appliance (especially in the kitchen) you can be sure that the room will look the way you want it to at all times.

Energy-Efficient Additions

Though some additions can cost more initially, government credits and lower electricity bills make these types of additions more than worthwhile. For example, installing a tankless water heater in the basement not only saves space, but saves money. When deciding on new purchase for a room or space, consider some energy efficient additions!

At the end of the day, a remodel will only be as good as you wish it to be. Trust yourself and be creative. Plan ahead for the best result, and try a few quick rearrangements of furniture and appliances to get an idea of what may be best for you. Remember, home is where the heart is, so keep your heart and your love in it, and you cannot go wrong!

Homeownership Rates In Los Angeles: How Does It Look?

New data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows the rate of homeownership in the Los Angeles metro area (which includes LA and Orange counties) rose considerably in the first few months of the year—enough that homeowners may once again outnumber renters in the region.

Statistics from the first quarter of 2017 indicate that 50.1 percent of homes in the area are owned by the residents who live in them. That’s the first time the region’s homeownership rate has eclipsed 50 percent since the first quarter of 2015, census data shows.

The margin of error on that figure point is 2.8 percent, so it’s possible renters still constitute a slim majority of residents in the area. But the number of homeowners has grown considerably since the third quarter of 2016, when only 44.7 percent of homes were owner-occupied.

Strong sales in recent months may have helped spur the increase. A recent report from CoreLogic indicated that the number of homes sold in LA County during the month of March was nearly 10 percent higher than the amount sold in March of 2016.

The same report also revealed that the median home price in the LA metro area has swelled to $480,000—the highest level since the Recession. Even as the prospect of new interest rate hikes drives buyers to the market, those rising prices could convince some home shoppers to stay on their lease.

In spite of the recent upswing, LA’s homeownership rate is still one of the lowest in the nation. Of the country’s 75 largest metro areas, only New York and San Jose have a higher percentage of renters.

Another report by ABODO Apartments shows that L.A. minorities are owning homes at a rate of 41.6 percent while minorities in the Los Angeles area are renting at a clip of 58.4 percent. Many experts have suggested that non-traditional financing is a big reason that many minority owners are finally getting the homes they deserve. For example, in Minnesota, minorities are utilizing a “contract for deed financing method” to get financed. And others across the country are starting to do more “rent to own” financing agreements.

It will be interesting to see how the housing market reacts to this trend throughout the entirety of 2018.

Finding A Doctor After a Move to a Big City

Finding a doctor you trust with you and your family’s health can be a daunting task, especially after a big move. However, there are resources and solutions that make this search much easier. Numerous websites assist this search with reviews and broad lists to narrow searches based on what you are looking for. Using one or all of these resources will give you the names of several doctors, reviews and ratings can refine this list of names and the selection of a doctor in your area becomes much easier.

Lifescript has a feature on their website that allows you to find doctors in your area.

A fairly accessible website, it is easy to find the names of doctors near your new home. Select your state, your city, and your zip code. From there, pick the type of care you are looking for. The list of doctors in the search area will come onto your screen. You can click on their names to learn more about them, such as their experience and where you can make an appointment. Overall this website is helpful, but not the most accessible. It is effective in finding the names of doctors and how many years they have worked in their field. Lifescript can assist your search for a doctor in your new home and make this process painless.

Finding a doctor is made easy by Vitals, this website strives to allow patients to help other patients with reviews and helpful feedback. Additionally, it provides education that assists the search for the best health care in your area. This site is incredibly easy to use and very up to date. After hitting “Find A Doctor”, you choose the type of doctor you are in search of and the state and city you are looking to find the health care provider in. A list of names comes up. This list can be incredibly lengthy so further refinement allows you to find the doctor you are looking for at a much faster rate. You can choose the condition or procedure you are in search of, the sex of the doctor, the languages they speak, and the insurance plans accepted. Once you are looking at the profiles of each doctor, you are able to see the specialties of that doctor, the years of experience, any awards they have won, the education received, and the reviews this doctor has received. If you like some, but not all aspects of this doctor, the website displays doctors with similar profiles. Vitals is an extremely effective website that will greatly assist your search for a doctor in this new area.

RateMds is a website, much like the other two, that effectively displays options for doctors in certain areas, with detailed descriptions and reviews. Searchers can select a gender preference to refine the results. Once the search has begun, you can select the doctors that are accepting new patients. With a five star rating, there is a broken down score of categories desirable in a doctor. These scores include punctuality, helpfulness, and knowledge. The unique feature allows prospective patients to more precisely find a doctor that meets your needs. RateMds is an accessible website and can assist your search for a doctor in a new area, significantly.

Using the suggested websites, compile a list of potential doctors in your area and refine that search by comparing their profiles and reviews. Pay attention to the small details, be specific and pick the doctor that meets most or all of the qualities you are in search of. Once you have a smaller list of potential doctors, use the American Board of Medical Specialties to ensure the doctor you are considering is Board Certified. You can also Google the name of the care provider to see if there are any positive or negative results. Refine your list once more and then make an appointment. Show up to your appointment prepared, with a list of questions and pay attention to your overall experience. This should be positive, since you spent time searching for the doctor that will meet your needs. Once you have found the doctor that is best for you and your family, go back to the method you found that doctor and give them a positive rating. Doing this assists those who are looking for a care provider.

Additional resources such as ICD-10 Code Look-up you can quickly and easily gain access to the code set you use frequently. This site is dedicated to the learning and exploration of ICD-10 codes that will make this switch smooth and comfortable for you.

The search for a doctor in an area you are unfamiliar with can be exhausting and frustrating. Using various tools, this process can be made much simpler. Each website has beneficial features that set them apart, when paired the search for a doctor in a new city becomes a task easily accomplished. With the use of one or more of these websites, finding a doctor in a new city will be an easier task.

Yoga Classes to Try After Moving to LA

Yoga classes offer a first-class ticket to peace and blissfulness. Regular practice can help you lose yourself and forget about the world. In a city like Los Angeles, the ability to step away from the hustle and bustle is invaluable. On the other hand, LA is home to hundreds of different yoga instructors, so it can be hard to find a place that settle down. Get rid of the gamble with our guide to the five best yoga studios in LA.

Hot 8 Yoga

Hot 8 Yoga is among the most popular yoga studios on the list. On Google reviews, Hot 8 Yoga has 4.9 stars from 73 people. First and foremost, their free two-hour parking can be very convenient in Los Angeles. Once you get inside, you’ll find a retail store full of everything you could possibly need for a yoga class. Next, join in for the excellent yoga classes they offer. If you are a beginner, do not worry! Hot 8 Yoga has created a foundation of beginner classes for new and inspiring yogis. They also accommodate for the more experienced and they even have classes to teach you how to become a yoga instructor! Once you wrap up with your class, hit the showers. The best part is that shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion is all provided! All of their products are eco-friendly, so you can feel good and confident about what you put on yourself. The customer service and convenience is enough to give this place five stars in my book.

Liberation

Liberation yoga studio is a family owned place and aims to relieve your stress, improve your health, and tap into your natural reservoir of unlimited vitality and wellbeing. The interior is one thing that makes this place stand out from most others. They go for a homey feeling with vintage accessories and wood theme located all around. The indoor sauna will transport you straight to bliss with its rich dark wood floors and twinkling lights. You also have the garden studio that has tall trees, bubbling fountains, and ancient Chinese wood carvings that release your senses and shroud you in peace. If you are looking for a feeling of peace and comfort, this might be the perfect spot for you.

exhale

exhale takes a newer spin on yoga. Full of youth, anybody will find themselves soaking in vitality while experiencing their diverse selection of yoga classes. For example, have you ever heard of power yoga? Push your body to the limit by conquering these athletically and mentally challenging classes to shape your body, burn those calories, and clear your mind. You can find Exhale Spa in Santa Monica for yoga classes, spa therapies, and great experiences with friends!

Set & Flow Yoga

This is a yoga studio as modern as its name. Awarded for being the best yoga studio in Los Angeles 2017, Set & Flow Yoga takes the traditional practice and updates it with modern expression. People admire this because maybe they are not looking for wood and nature. Maybe modern makes you comfortable and sends you into your mind. They believe in growing and setting the body with multiple disciplines that will enhance your breath, alignment, dedication, edge, balance, strength and flexibility. All of their teachers are highly experienced and are great at accommodating beginners and experts. With over 150 classes a week, Set & Flow Yoga is ready to take you under their wing if you are ready for a modern feel.

Namaste Studios

The divine in me bows to the divine in you. This is what is meant when you greet someone with namaste. At Namaste Studios, you can really feel the humbleness when you enter. They are all about teaching you self-care and respect for your mind and body. You might also find a few other things than just yoga. There is meditation, massage, chiropractic care, energy healing, and steam sessions. In other words, if you are looking for a one stop shop, Namaste Studios is your place. If you like the one-on-one approach to yoga, you can book an appointment with an instructor for private yoga, yoga therapy, and most other commodities they offer. Some people find themselves in a bad back situation. Namaste recognizes this and has a class specifically for getting your back into shape. If you fall into that category, this could be your first step towards natural healing! No matter, Namaste Studios is compassionate and very empathetic in making sure you have the best possible yoga experience there is.

-----

There you have it! Some of the best places to find to practice your yoga around Los Angeles, California. The best part is this only scratches the surface of how many yoga classes there are. You can find a lot of new yoga places popping up all the time! This is good for those who want to experiment and hopefully find a yoga class that caters directly to your personal preferences. Once you become a part of a community, there will be no going back! Good luck on your search and Namaste!

Top Day Trips Near Los Angeles

The city of angels is loved by many. However, just as any town, the people who live their might need a little escape. What better way to enjoy a free day than to hop in your favorite vehicle and ride off to all of the glorious places near Los Angeles - and return the very same day? These day trips will preserve your sanity and expand your creativity. In fact, most people that live in the Los Angeles area recommend that you escape every once in a while. Here are the top places for your day trip out of LA.

Santa Monica Pier

Of course, the beach is one of the first options that pop up for a day trip. Call your buddies, get the ride (I recommend a comfortable hatchback so you can have enough space to lug around the cooler), and make way on this easy going 25-35 minute trip to Santa Monica Pier. Santa Monica pier is one of the more interesting beaches. You can enjoy the sand and water comfortably with some friends. You can also walk closer to the pier and enjoy some of the awesome memorials that they have on the sand. If you are looking for even more entertainment, try walking the pier itself! On the left side of the pier, guests can enjoy themselves with some awesome roller coaster rides that feel like you are flying high above the pier and the water. As people walk further down, they can be amused by the peculiar yet interesting choices of entertainment. Just be sure to tip if you see something you like.

Temecula Valley

With the weather being gorgeous, and Temecula being about 90 minutes away from LA, you are going to want to put the top down and blast the music with your best friends. This means the trip should be taken with your favorite muscle car. Upon arrival, be prepared to have a little fun in wine country because Temecula houses 40 plus wineries. While you’re at it, bring a camera. You will want to capture the rolling greens and beautiful hills, which make Temecula one of the most gorgeous spots in California. If you’re feeling especially lucky, try your hand at California’s top casino.

Catalina Island

Not all day trips need to be taken by car. How about by boat? Or, if you can swing it, by helicopter? That is what you will require to reach Catalina Island, which is located 25 miles off the coast of California. There are three Catalina Express boats each located in San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point. The guests will be taken to Avalon. There are many food shops that prove to be great places to gain some energy before you go on an adventure. One of the most popular places around Avalon is the Avalon Theatre. This place houses the largest circular ballroom in the world. There are also many other incredible places to go. Places like the Wrigley Botanical Gardens, where you can experience nature in its best form. Or Lovers Cove, where you can enjoy some snorkeling and the beautiful ocean.

Big Bear

If one is looking for an outdoor/adventurous kind of day, then Big Bear is one of the best spots! Located about 90 miles away from Los Angeles, and around 7,000 feet high in the San Bernardino Mountains, you will find all different sorts of activities to do all year long. Not to worry, if it snows, there is still an abundance of activities to do as well, such as snowboarding or skiing. Just keep in mind to take your best 4 wheel vehicle so you can get up the mountain, haul your equipment, and bring your pals. During other months, visitors can take on the hiking trails, hipline tours, and tree rope climbing. If you are a fan of the water, you can hit Big Bear Lake and canoe or kayak with your best friends to soak in the views of the wilderness that surround the lake. Can you hear that? The wilderness is calling you.

Glen Ivy Hot Springs

One of these trips should be a real relaxing getaway. How about the Glen Ivy Hot Springs? Just imagine, after a long week that demanded all of your hard work and attention, you have the warm, natural mineral spring to look forward to. For most, just floating in the water would be exceptional. However, the place has some of the best therapy treatments around. Have them pencil you in for a massage or a facial. Perhaps a water aerobics class. No matter, you will find yourself relaxed and free of stress when you are finished here. You can then enjoy the one hour ride back in your favorite sedan while listening to your favorite tunes. It will be a relief forgetting about your problems for a day.

For when the going gets tough in Los Angeles, there are many places to relieve yourself of your duties. Just take a nice day trip with your friends, family, or yourself, and leave the troubles of the city behind!