Thanks to Clean Sweep for this episode of Tips from the Pros debunking myths about duct and vent cleaning.

When it comes to maintaining a healthy home environment, duct cleaning is one of the most effective ways to reduce allergens around the house. However, many homeowners hear myths about what duct cleaning can and cannot do, which makes it difficult to separate fact from fiction. As a company dedicated to providing top-notch duct cleaning services, we want you to be able to make an informed decision.

Myth 1: Duct Cleaning Is Unnecessary

This is one of the most pervasive myths. Many believe that, because air ducts are out of sight, they don’t require regular cleaning. However, dust, pollen, pet dander, and even mold can accumulate in your ducts over time...

Thanks to L.K. Benson for sharing with us.

Following a strong first quarter, the second quarter of 2024 was more of a mixed bag in the investment markets. The S&P 500 continued to lead the way with a 4% return, leaving it up over 15% for the year. However, US Small-Cap stocks dropped 3%, and REITs fell by about 1%. Outside of the US, developed market stocks were down less than 1%, while emerging market stocks were up almost 5%. 

The bond market was relatively quiet in the second quarter, with the Bloomberg US Aggregate index up about 0.1%. Treasury yields rose for the quarter, but only by about 0.19%. The Federal Reserve declined to cut rates, but economic data continues to show support for potential rate cuts this year.

As can be seen in this graphic, the gains in the S&P ...

Thanks to the University of Maryland/Maryland Grows this informative article on tiny tomatoes.

Just a quick post this month to shout out the virtues of the first tomato plant to produce ripe fruit for me this year: ‘Veranda Red’ patio tomato.

This little cutie is only 18 inches high. In fact, it would be shorter if it was growing in full sun instead of the partial sun on my deck. I have other plants with green fruit ready to turn red that are less than a foot high. The container team at the Derwood Demo Garden has a plant only about six inches high that has ripe fruit.

Patio tomatoes as a group mature at less than two feet. They grow well in smaller containers like window boxes or gallon pots...

This month, I am sharing with you some interesting stats on how owning a home impacts your overall wealth. I also note that there may be other financial advantages, including equity growth and possible tax benefits. Own your space, and build your wealth!

In addition, interested in buying or selling your home? Contact Gigi today.
Oh by the way, I’m never too busy for any of your referrals!

Thanks to Clean Sweep for this episode of Tips from the Pros with a guide to chimney inspections.

Every real estate agent wants to offer their buyers and sellers an excellent experience. One critical aspect of preparing a home that is often overlooked is the chimney inspection. A well-maintained chimney not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a property but also serves a practical heating purpose. What should you know about chimney inspections?

Why Are Chimney Inspections Important?

Chimneys play a critical role in venting smoke and gases coming from fireplaces. Over time, creosote buildup, blockages, structural damage, and wear and tear can stop any chimney from working properly and safely. Unfortunately, most of these problems can’t be seen by the untrained eye.

Regular ...

Thanks to Cindy Bernstein of Aim4Order for this episode of Tips from the Pros on ”beat the heat” ideas.

I regularly hear people tell me about “Snow Day” projects that are waiting for them when they’re stranded at home. Now that it’s topping 100° in the coming days, this is a GREAT time to do some in-home projects that involve letting go of accumulated ‘stuff.’ I would NOT venture into the attic right now. However, I would venture into the basement and closets and drawers throughout your home.

After speaking to a group at the Myerberg Senior Center, I found myself suddenly motivated to tackle my accumulation of stuff. I tore apart my closet and found the willingness to get rid of a lot of sweaters (it’s always easier to get rid of sweaters in the heat, I find)...

Thanks to L.K. Benson for sharing with us.

Tuning into Life: Reflections from an Ed Sheeran Concert Experience

Lyle is a planner by nature so he doesn’t usually make spontaneous decisions. However, he recently did just that to go to a last-minute Ed Sheeran concert in Brooklyn and he is glad he did. He learned a few things from the experience and he shares them here.

Global Diversification Has Disappointed. Don’t Give Up on It.

Stop me if you’ve heard this before – US stocks continue to outperform international stocks but that’s not a reason to give up on them. In this Bloomberg article, Nir Kaissar looks back through history to make another case for global diversification...

Have you ever found yourself in a vacation spot that was ideal? Maybe you thought to yourself, “This is paradise. I never want to leave.” The family loves the place and so do you.

We’ve all had that moment where we wish we could simply stay forever.

But what if I told you that your dream doesn’t have to end when your vacation does? Owning a vacation home or a second home in your slice of paradise might be more attainable than you think! That cabin in the woods, beach house or weekend getaway spot could be just what your family needs to enjoy some down time together.

Does a second home fit into your lifestyle?

Get started on this journey. Do some research, discuss financing options and consider the location.

In my infographic, I’m sharing some practical tips on h...

Thanks to the University of Maryland/Maryland Grows this informative article on how mulch volcanoes kill trees.

I’ve been a bit twitchy lately. I keep seeing mulch piled high around trees and it makes me more than a little baffling. Those mulch volcanoes are so very bad for trees. 

Why? They hold moisture against the bark, inviting rot, pests, rodents, and disease.

With mulch, less is more. One to three inches is all you need. 

Done right, mulch can be a good thing. It suppresses weeds, holds moisture, prevents soil compaction, moderates temperature, and improves soil structure when it breaks down.  

Mulch can be att...