Forget the Open Floor Plan--It's Time to Bring Back Walls

  1. A Comfy Seating Area, Dining Spot or Both The amount of space you dedicate to seating will depend on how you want to use your yard and, of course, how much room you have to play with. Will you eat outdoors frequently? If so, a permanent table and chairs will probably be a must. Do you entertain a lot? Consider a dining table, a lounging area and several places where people can perch with a plate or a drink. Or perhaps you’re simply after a couple of comfy chairs where you can read the papers and relax? Next, consider seating locations: Some shade would be nicer for mealtimes than full sun, while a spot that gets early or late rays can be lovely for relaxing or having evening meals. Soft or scented planting nearby can enhance the ambiance. NatureWorks Landscape Services, Inc. 2. Lush Beds and Borders Traditionally, garden beds and borders run between a lawn and the boundaries of a yard, but the standard thin, uniform planting strip is only one approach. Browsing  photos on...

  Energy-Efficient Upgrades Homeowners can potentially qualify for an  Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit (link is external)  of up to $3,200 for energy-efficient improvements made after Jan. 1, 2023. The credit for 2024 is 30% of qualified expenses, but it has certain limits depending on the type of improvement. Energy efficient upgrades can help reduce energy usage and strain on a home’s critical systems. Upgrades can include structural improvements to the home and the installation of new systems. Here are some sample projects: A  home energy audit  may be eligible for a tax credit of up to $150. An auditor will help your clients understand where they’re losing energy and identify health and safety issues in their home. A home energy audit could help save up to 30% on energy bills, according to the Department of Energy. To qualify for the credit, the audit must be conducted by a  qualified home energy auditor (link is external)  or someone who...

  Clothing and Accessories Clothing for all ages and sizes can be reused or repurposed. The same is true for accessories, such as shoes, bags, and hats. Local shelters, religious sites, and community outreach centers are good places to start if you want to donate directly to individuals in your area. Non-profit organizations like  Goodwill Industries  and  The Salvation Army  will accept clothes and accessories for resale at their thrift stores. They use the proceeds to fulfill their missions, including Goodwill’s training and career programs. Both provide tax receipts if you drop items off with their staff. If you leave items in their overnight bins or donation boxes, you won’t be able to get a tax receipt. The  Vietnam Veterans of America  will pick up clothing (as well as appliances, furniture, kitchen items, and more) from your doorstep and leave a tax-deductible receipt behind.For gently used professional clothes such as suits, blouses, blazers, a...