Are You Ready to Buy a Home?

As Spring approaches, so does the time of the year when prospective home buyers begin looking for an advisor to help them on their buying journey. Buying a home is one of the most important personal and financial decisions that you’ll make in your life, so it is essential that you understand the journey you are about to embark upon. 

Complex and seemingly contradictory economic headlines have led many potential buyers to approach the market cautiously. While it’s easy to prioritize mortgage rates in your decision-making process, the economy is just one factor, but should not be the sole deciding factor. Your personal finances, life journey, and local market trends should all be taken into account and given their own weight.

There are a number of elements that could make this the ideal time for you to buy a home. Engel & Völkers has compiled a list of some of the most important factors to consider.


Finances

Credit. A high credit score will help you lock in a lower interest rate—which could save you substantially over the lifetime of your loan.

Savings. While your down payment should cover 5 – 20% of the listing price, it’s essential to have extra cash—be it in savings or other sources—so you can have a fallback in case of a job loss or need for major repairs.

Debt. Lenders considering your mortgage applications will be sure to look at your debt-to-income ratio. As its name implies, this number gives insight into how much of your monthly income is being used to pay off debts. Most lenders look for a ratio lower than 28%

Market Prices vs. Your Budget: While the economy influences both listing prices and your budget, higher market prices do not necessarily mean your dream home is unattainable. The trick is to evaluate the homes available in your preferred market in your desired price range to see if they meet your needs.


Investing in Your Future

Recently, you’ve probably heard a lot about fluctuating mortgage rates and inflation. While these headlines may make you hesitant to buy a home, there are also more positive aspects to consider in support of your home buying journey. Here are a few:

Pending home sales surging: Despite recent turmoil due to high mortgage rates, pending home sales have seen their biggest increase since 2020. Piggybacking off of stabilizing home prices and decreasing mortgage rates, many anticipate that 2024 will be a positive year for homebuyers. 

Prices are stabilizing: Despite a slowdown in the real estate market, home prices are still stabilizing. Postponing the decision to buy a home in anticipation of price drops may have the opposite effect, leading to a more expensive purchase.

A substantial investment: As prices around the world rise, property values also increase—ensuring that real estate remains a stable investment. A home you purchase today could be worth significantly more in the future.


Timing

Like many others, you’ve probably considered whether today’s environment is conducive to your home buying goals. While mortgage rates and inflation are meaningful considerations, the real question is whether you are ready to buy a home. 

Life events such as starting a family, relocating for a new job, or even finally having enough savings to enter the real estate market can play a role in your decision to buy a home. Don’t delay in taking the next step in your life.


National vs. Local Trends

Finally, most headlines focus on national and international housing trends—not those impacting your local market. It’s important to research local housing conditions, specifically mortgage rates, housing inventory, and listing prices. That’s where I, as one of our local experts, can assist you in this critical part of the process.  Click here to discover markets predicted to have the most home sales in 2024, and why these cities are on the radar.


To properly assess your local market, it’s essential to work with an expert real estate advisor like those at Engel & Völkers—who, first and foremost, are your neighbors. As your local advisor, I have a comprehensive understanding of the trends affecting your market and I’m well-equipped to evaluate how the market looks given your personal circumstances.

Airbnb hosting in the enchanting embrace of Sevierville’s natural beauty.

2253 Lone Ridge Drive, Sevierville, TN 37862
$1,700,000 | 3 Bd | 3.5 Ba | 3,577 sq.ft

Located in the exclusive Golden Leaf Mountain Estates, this Custom- Built Cabin is not only a luxurious private retreat but also a prestigious Airbnb property, offering guests a bespoke-designed experience of elegance in Sevierville.

As you step inside, you will be captivated by the elegant ambiance of the bespoke designed surrounding. Every area of this home is custom designed and built to perfectly complement other high-end finishes. Included are twin hot water heaters and dual zoned heat and air units, ensuring a climate-controlled environment of supreme comfort. The architectural grandeur is evident in every corner, with ceilings including spray foam insulation and walls wrapped in fiberglass, creating an enclave of tranquility and warmth. Each bedroom opens onto its own balcony, offering breathtaking mountain views and a personal haven for relaxation. The conditioned and meticulously sealed crawlspace sets a new luxury standard, while the zoned HVAC system ensures comfort in every space. The robust and aesthetically appealing foundation, constructed with poured walls, is engineered to surpass the county inspection standards.

This cabin is more than a residence; it’s a luxury Airbnb destination where every detail is meticulously crafted for the ultimate guest experience. Situated just minutes from the delightful offerings of Wears Valley, including the popular Wears Valley Social Food Truck Park, guests of this Airbnb enjoy both the seclusion of a mountain getaway and the convenience of nearby attractions. This Golden Leaf Mountain Estates property represents the pinnacle of sophisticated living and profitable Airbnb hosting in the enchanting embrace of Sevierville’s natural beauty. *Projected gross income for 2024. All information provided about the property, including but not limited to square footage, is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be verify by buyer. Call for more information and to schedule a private showing 865-635-6544 MLS#: 1249018

Set Your Real Estate Resolutions: 5 Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home

t Engel & Völkers, we understand the importance of maximizing the potential of your luxury home. As we embrace a brand new year, it’s time to set ambitious real estate resolutions that will not only elevate your living space but also boost its market worth. Here is our list of five strategies that will undoubtedly increase the value of your home, ensuring a prosperous investment for the future.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Embrace Sustainability While Saving on Costs

Embracing energy efficiency upgrades not only serves as a positive step towards fostering a more sustainable environment but also holds the potential to yield substantial reductions in energy bills, making it a win-win proposition for both homeowners and the planet. There are many transformative measures you can adopt, ranging from improving insulation to the installation of energy-efficient windows and the wide selection of appliances that offer an energy-star rating.

These thoughtful modifications not only contribute to the larger goal of creating an eco-friendly living space but also impart tangible benefits by augmenting the overall value of your home. As we transition into a new year, consider making strides towards a greener and more energy-efficient home.

If you’re eager to delve deeper into the realm of sustainable home upgrades, our last blog post is a must-read. Click here to explore comprehensive insights and actionable tips on how to embark on this journey towards an environmentally conscious lifestyle. Your home, your environment, and your wallet will thank you for it.

Kitchen Renovation: Infuse Modern Elegance into Your Culinary Center

The kitchen is the heart of any home. It’s a space where meals are prepared, conversations flow, and memories are created. A well-executed kitchen renovation has the transformative power to breathe new life into your property, elevating not just its aesthetic appeal but also enhancing functionality.

As we step into the new year, now is the perfect time to envision a kitchen that combines modern updates with practical utility. Start by considering updates to key elements such as countertops, cabinets, and fixtures. These foundational components form the backbone of your kitchen’s design and functionality.

Upgrading countertops can introduce a fresh and contemporary feel, providing a stylish backdrop for your culinary adventures. Whether you opt for sleek granite, marble, or durable quartz, the choices are as varied as your personal taste. Similarly, updating cabinets can bring a renewed sense of organization, offering innovative storage solutions that cater to the needs of a modern lifestyle.

Don’t overlook the impact of fixtures – faucets, lighting, and hardware – in tying together the overall aesthetic. From minimalist designs to bold statement pieces, the options are vast, allowing you to tailor your kitchen to match your unique style.

Bathroom Remodel: Transform Your Bath into a Luxurious Sanctuary

Revitalizing your bathroom can have an immediate impact, turning it into a the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate. Consider upgrading fixtures, exploring new flooring options, and perhaps fulfilling that long-held dream of installing a vanity that complements your style. These upgrades not only enhance your daily routine but also elevate the overall ambiance of your home.

What’s more, investing in a bathroom renovation can be a strategic move that significantly boosts your property’s value. A well-designed and luxurious bathroom becomes a standout feature, appealing to potential buyers and setting your home apart in the real estate market. It’s a selling point that not only adds monetary value but also contributes to the overall attractiveness of your property.

Landscape Improvement: Elevate Your Home’s Exterior

Begin the new year with a commitment to enhancing the visual appeal of your outdoor space. Your property’s exterior serves as the initial introduction to your home, making it a key focal point for creating a lasting impression.

Additions such as beautiful planters can be added to your doorstep, creating a welcoming and lively atmosphere. These accents not only contribute to the aesthetics but also offer a sense of hospitality. Additionally, outdoor light fixtures, strategically placed, not only illuminate your property but also accentuate its architectural features.

Bigger projects, such as the installation of a stone path not only introduce a touch of rustic elegance but also invite exploration, allowing others to appreciate the unique character of your home. This year, we want even just the people passing by to say “wow!”.

Smart Home Technology: Embrace the Future with Cutting-Edge Home Automation

Upgrade your living experience with cutting-edge advancements in smart home technology. Incorporating state-of-the-art devices such as smart thermostats, security systems, and innovative lighting solutions allows you to control and monitor various aspects of your home with the touch of a button or a simple voice command.

Picture the comfort of adjusting your home’s temperature remotely with a smart thermostat. Enhance your security measures through advanced surveillance systems that provide real-time monitoring and alerts. The implementation of innovative lighting solutions not only creates ambiance but also allows you to customize and control the lighting in different rooms according to your preferences.

A home equipped with the latest technology becomes an attractive asset in the real estate market, potentially increasing its market value. As you upgrade your living space with these amenities, you not only elevate your lifestyle but also make a strategic investment that could pay dividends when it comes time to sell or rent your property.

Places To Warm Up Your Fall

With fall officially in full force, it’s time to start searching for your warm getaway. If you’re dreaming of a luxurious retreat to embrace the changing scenery, look no further than Engel & Völkers’ exclusive collection of breathtaking escapes. Whether you’re seeking a cozy mountainside cabin, a sandy escape, or a countryside estate, we know the perfect destinations to warm up your fall. 

Cozy Mountainside Escapes

Picture yourself sipping hot cocoa by the crackling fireplace. The calmness of the mountainside surrounds you, as the snow hugs the mountain peaks as the colder months arrive. Wrap yourself in the warmth of plush blankets as you embrace the tranquility and seclusion that your mountain-side escape has to offer. Our properties, whether you are looking for your dream Aspen relaxing getaway or a winter wonderland in McCall, ensure that every moment spent in these secluded havens is nothing short of pure bliss.

Tranquil Beach Escapes

Let’s face it – we don’t all love a chilly breeze or the flavor of pumpkin-spice. If your idea of the perfect fall getaway is escaping the season of change, our exclusive beach properties offer an endless summer escape. Imagine strolling along stretches of sand, basking in the gentle warmth of the sun – except it is fall. Whether you seek a luxurious beachfront villa or a private seaside cottage, our portfolio features a diverse range of coastal paradises that promise unparalleled relaxation. Leave behind colder days, and escape to the calming embrace of the sea this fall season.

Picturesque Countryside Estates

For those drawn to the natural beauty of the countryside, our handpicked collection of estates in rolling hills and verdant landscapes offer the perfect autumn retreat. Experience the beauty of fall foliage as you wander through sprawling gardens and orchards. Imagine yourself strolling through Napa Valley’s beautiful landscape at this secluded sanctuary in St. Helena. Our countryside estates, boasting elegant interiors and expansive outdoor spaces, provide the ideal setting for intimate gatherings, leisurely walks, and tranquil contemplation in the beauty of nature.

At Engel & Völkers, we understand the essence of an unforgettable fall getaway. Whether you’re seeking the warmth of a mountain-side cabin, the tranquility of a beach escape, or the allure of a countryside estate, our properties promise an experience that transcends luxury. Embrace the changing colors of the season with a retreat that reflects your unique style and preferences. 

❄️ Winterize Your Home: A Guide To Help Prepare For The Winter Season ☃️

As the temperature drops, it’s a sign that it’s almost time to prepare your home for the upcoming winter season. Taking proactive steps to protect your home from the harsh winter elements can save you money on energy bills, prevent damage, and ensure a warm and cozy living environment. In this guide, we’ll cover essential tasks to ensure you’re ready for the winter season:

Indoor Winter Preparations

Protect Your Pipes and Insulate 

Insulating your pipes is a critical necessity in home preparation for winter weather. Frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs and water damage. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas of your home, such as the attic, basement, and garage. Use pipe insulation sleeves to keep them warm.

In addition to insulating your pipes, sealing windows and doors is also important. Drafty windows and doors can significantly increase your heating bills. Sealing any gaps or cracks with weatherstripping or caulk can combat this problem. For windows, consider using window film or heavy curtains to improve insulation.

Sealing windows for the winter time.
Prep the Fireplace

A chimney inspection can save you time and hassle when preparing for the winter months. Before lighting the first fire of the season, have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional. Creosote buildup can lead to chimney fires.

Luxury, modern home with fireplace.

Be sure to stock up on firewood. Ensure you have a sufficient supply of seasoned firewood that is stored in a dry place away from the house to prevent pests from making their winter home in your logs.

Lastly, if not tended to properly, fireplaces can pose many safety hazards. Installing or inspecting smoke and carbon monoxide detectors near your fireplace can ensure catching any problems before it is too late. Have a fire extinguisher nearby, and teach your family members how to use it.

Stock Up on Winter Necessities

Preparing for the winter season can mean a whole lot of things – one of the most important being stocking up on necessities to ensure you and your family stay warm, healthy and prepared for any scenario. Swapping out your shorts and bathing suits can create space for new winter apparel. Warm clothing, including coats, hats, gloves, and scarves can keep you warm as temperatures decline. Don’t forget warm socks and boots for extra protection against the cold.

Stocking up on winter emergency kits can also help you to prepare in case of emergency. This includes essentials like flashlights, batteries, blankets, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit. Be ready for power outages and unexpected winter storms.

Outdoor Winter Preparations

Raking leaves in fall time.
Clean out the Gutters

Be sure to clean out the gutters before it gets too cold. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause water damage to your home. Clean out leaves, debris, and make sure downspouts are clear to allow proper drainage.

Prune and Trim Your Outdoor Plants 

Trimming your shrubs, bushes, hedges and pruning trees can prevent various hazardous issues during the cold months. Overgrown branches can become hazardous when weighed down by ice or snow. Prune them back to prevent damage to your home and ensure safety.

Trimming bushes and shrubs to prepare for winter.
Take In Your Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture and appliances are not cheap – but avoidable repairs are even more expensive. Store outdoor furniture, cushions, and grills in a dry, covered area or a garage. This helps extend their lifespan and prevents them from getting damaged by winter weather.

Winter-proofing your home is a proactive approach to ensure your family’s comfort and safety during the cold months. Don’t wait until the first snowfall – start your preparations now for a cozy and stress-free winter season.

What my clients are saying

“My brother and I contacted Lara in June about renovating and selling my late mother’s condo. She was more than willing to help and viewed the property the very next day and gave us her thoughts on the renovation process. Within a couple of days she gave an itemized list of recommendations for improvements on the property. Lara, understanding that I was from out of state took the lead throughout the renovation of the condo. She had great insight and suggestions on what needed to be done within our budget to get it completed. She was always communicating and updating me on progress, she was always available when I contacted her. Her expertise was very valuable to get things done in a timely manner, so we could get the property on the market. Lara went over and above our expectations. I would highly recommend her to anyone.” – Robert Biggs

“Lara Conrad was wonderful to work with from our first meeting to when we finally purchased our dream home and land almost a year later! She was very responsive and offered good advice and suggestions along the way. She even advised caution and further consideration on a property we almost settled for that didn’t check all the boxes of what we wanted. We could tell she wasn’t just in it to simply convince us to buy a house as quick as possible, but that she actually cared about and supported us in being patient and waiting for the right home. She went above and beyond in helping us through the process and unexpected hurdles. I highly recommend her to anyone searching for a home!” – Joy Harris

? Fall Into the New Season: Five Getaways to Discover This Coming Autumn ?

As the leaves start turning, it’s time to think about where your next autumn adventure will take you. Explore these five under-the-radar fall getaways with truly mesmerizing views, cultural experiences, and seasonal harvests that will make this fall a memorable one.

Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley, renowned for its world-class wineries, offers some of the most breath-taking views year-round – but is especially enchanting during the autumn season. As fall arrives, the valley’s vineyards turn into a canvas of red, orange, and gold hues. Visitors of the valley are encouraged to rise with the sun for an unforgettable hot air balloon ride, where the valley’s landscape glistens from the soft glow of morning light. Additionally, take the time to discover the historic towns of St. Helena and Yountville, which offer a look into the rich history of Napa Valley. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy farm-to-table delicacies and browse through artisanal shops. Treat yourself to the finest locally sourced and seasonal offerings while immersing yourself in the fall atmosphere in Napa Valley.

Solvang, California

Wake up to the smell of Solvang’s freshly baked danishes and butter cookies this fall. Known for its Danish influence, Solvang is located in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. During the fall, the location’s old-world windmills, half-timbered architecture, and Danish bakeries create a charming atmosphere lighting up the historic town. Treat yourself to traditional pastries, delve into local museums, and enjoy leisurely strolls along streets as Solvang celebrates its harvest season through the months of September to November.

Montreal, Canada

Escape to Montreal this fall and experience European charm on North American soil. In Montreal, the cobblestone streets and historic architecture set the stage for a perfect fall getaway. Visitors are encouraged to stroll through the Montreal Botanical Garden as leaves change color. Take the time to explore the city’s vibrant arts scene and rich cultural fusion. Don’t forget to stop by one of Montreal’s cozy cafes and for a warm cup of coffee and French pastries this breezy season. 

Seattle, Washington

Despite having a reputation for their rainy weather, Seattle is truly charming during the fall. As a city driven by imagination and creativity, it is the ideal getaway for those who enjoy the urban buzz while still craving a glimpse of the natural world. Seattle’s parks and waterfront streets are showered with autumn leaves while the weather makes it perfect for exploration.  As visitors take in stunning views from the iconic Space Needle and explore diverse neighborhoods, unique culinary experiences influenced by the local art scene are just around the corner. 

Duxbury, Massachusetts

Located along the coastline of Massachusetts, Duxbury is the ideal autumn escape. While some visitors may decide to spend their time enjoying a panoramic view of the coast at the iconic lighthouse, others may decide to tour Duxbury’s oyster farms and catch a glimpse of local marine life. Immerse yourself in nature as you walk along King Phillips Path, where the fallen leaves create a carpet of color along the shore. As home to the nation’s largest shipbuilding centers, Duxbury invites those seeking both a relaxing and historic vacation. 

Gorgeous updated Condo with maintenance free living

Beautifully updated property in the peaceful Griffins Gate community. One level living at its best with 1-car attached garage, additional refrigerator included, and your own private, gated courtyard in back. Impeccably maintained and beautifully updated, this spacious 2 BR 2 bath home opens up to a large inviting great room furnished with new luxury vinyl flooring and a gas fireplace for cozy winter days at home. Enjoy the updated, fully equipped eat-in kitchen for your meals and the convenience of an equipped laundry room with washer and dryer. Refrigerator and washer/dryer stay with property. Split bedroom floor plan offers privacy and also appointed with new luxury vinyl floors; plenty of light and large closets. Other recent updates include new lighting and paint throughout. Quiet, maintenance free living only minutes from downtown, shopping, entertainment, the airport, hospitals and more. **Seller offers 2 year home warranty.Outdoor furniture, flower pots and indoor decor are all excluded from purchase.

https://lara.evknoxville.com/details.php?mls=127&mlsid=1234785

Embrace the Sun | Vacation Homes for the Perfect Summer Getaway

A luxury home with an infinity pool and ocean views.

A wave of excitement and wanderlust is sweeping across the globe: summer is here. With all its promises of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences, it’s the time of year when we yearn to escape the everyday routine and discover all the exciting places the earth has to offer.

Whether you seek pristine beachesvibrant cultural destinations, or anything in between, summer homes are the perfect space to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Come along as we tour five stunning vacation homes—from México to Spain. Grab your sunglasses, pack your suitcase, and get ready to uncover the most captivating homes that will make your summer shine.


Tulum, México

The exterior of a luxury home in Tulum, with outdoor seating and a luxurious pool.

This breathtaking, four-bedroom jungle villa boasts a dramatic contemporary style with Mexican-inspired elements and spaces. Located in the private, and exclusive, gated community of Aldea Zama, Casa Leonardo Tulum was built in 2017 and is perfectly situated between charming downtown Tulum and the beach’s abundant restaurants, boutiques, and bars.

Enjoy captivating jungle views upon entering the villa’s main door, where you are greeted by an expansive dining room and additional outdoor living and dining areas. Soak in the Caribbean sunshine by the pool or have a hydro massage inside the Jacuzzi. Enjoy a BBQ on the exterior grill and relax in the art backyard, where you’ll find the mural masterpiece “More Love” by Mexican artist Jorge Tellaeche.

Additional highlights of the property include its heated pool, private terrace, outside dining area, and rooftop access.

Listed by Carlo Toluzzi of Engel & Völkers Tulum.


Harpswell, Maine

A zoomed out view of a private island with a boat sailing in the foreground.

Long Point Island is an exclusive private island offering endless 360-degree water views, numerous hidden beaches, two meticulously maintained homes, and a park-like setting of meadows, paths, and stunning granite ridges. Eat breakfast watching the sunrise from your ocean-facing screened-in porch; dine with the sunset all around you on your south/west-facing decks; watch sailboats from your living room; and listen to the ocean waves from your sunlight-bathed kitchen. Outside, paths wind through this almost six-acre retreat, and granite ridges provide ample perches for fishing.

A sanctuary perfect for both solo enjoyment and sharing with family and friends, Long Point Island is a rare and wonderful estate with a unique bucolic charm—all located within an easy drive to downtown Brunswick and a short car ride (or boat trip, should you prefer) to Portland.

Listed by Bruce Davis of Engel & Völkers Harpswell.


San Rafael, California

The exterior of a luxury home in San Rafael.

This single-level, mid-century design, custom property offers the best of Marin County vacation homes. Exquisite front yard landscaping includes blossoms and a splashing pool, evoking memories of beach resorts worldwide. The moveable glass door brings the outside in, as the home’s architecture takes advantage of the area’s significant natural beauty. Large windows and an open floor plan make for a spacious, light-filled interior, the perfect place to entertain large gatherings.

Highlights from the property include a bay window overlooking the outdoor dining area, and an expansive chef’s kitchen with storage, stainless appliances, a wine storage closet, and direct access to a 44-foot solar-heated pool. Located in proximity to the highly coveted Andy’s Market, the Marina, and accessible walkways.

Listed by Christine Christiansen of Engel & Völkers Mill Valley.


West Vancouver, British Columbia

The waterfront of a luxury home in West Vancouver.

Good things come to those who wait, and after almost 60 years, this incredible property is finally on the market. Perched above the private and sandy Empire Beach, this lovely 3,800-square-foot home features stunning panoramic ocean, city, and mountain views. The three-bedroom property features a spacious primary suite and a main floor with a freshly renovated kitchen and family room, a formal dining/living room, a den, and a wrap-around patio perfect for summer BBQs.

Spend your weekends playing bocce on the flat, grassy lawn. Take your boat to explore the majestic waterfront, or head out for a peaceful sunset paddleboard.

Listed by Jesse Dean Cook of Engel & Völkers West Vancouver.


Mallorca, Spain

The exterior of a luxury home in Mallorca.

Listed for $69 million (or €65 million), Villa Solitaire was designed by award-winning Italian architect Matteo Thun, who created the striking glass-front home to capitalize on the magnificent views. The abode took nearly eight years to complete and was designed to mimic boat sails floating through the air.

The seven-bedroom, six-bathroom home overlooks the capital, Palma, and the Mediterranean Sea and features multiple living rooms, which open onto the infinity terraces, pools, and lush gardens. The basement surprises visitors with its own video art installation along with a Zen Garden, fitness room with treatment facilities, sauna, Turkish bath, and six spacious parking spaces. Other highlights include open fireplaces, a formal and informal dining room, a main and satellite kitchen, a bar, and a wine cellar.

The property is so stunning, in fact, that Nicole Kidman stayed there earlier this year while filming the spy thriller series “Lioness,” in which she’ll star as CIA Senior Supervisor Kaitlyn Meade. 

Listed by Gabriela Muñoz of Engel & Völkers Mallorca.

The Ultimate Spring 2023 Cleaning Checklist

luxury living room with large white sectional and floor to ceiling windows that look out to a pond and greenery

Whether it’s the blooming flowers, warmer winds, or longer days, spring has always inspired us to tackle the cleaning and tidying that may have been swept under the rug in previous seasons. By reading blogs like this or even visiting a dedicated side of social media users known as “CleanTok,” your library of ideas, tips, and tricks to assist in getting your home refreshed is ever-expanding.

Room by room, here is your complete spring 2023 cleaning checklist.

Kitchen Spring Cleaning Hacks You Need to Know

When it comes to the kitchen, let’s go back to basics. That means removing everything from your cabinets and using a damp microfiber cloth with a little dish soap to remove all the grime that has accrued since your last swipe inside them. Limited on time? Disinfecting wipes can also be an efficient tool to collect dust from the tops of cabinets. 

luxury kitchen with Golden kitchen faucet and white marble countertops

We all know that crumbs from cooking and meals find themselves, someway, somehow, under the kitchen appliances. Ideally, sweeping these up two to three times a year can help prevent any annual back-breaking work. To do so, make sure to first unplug the appliance before carefully shifting it out of its designated home until there is enough room to safely sweep up any rebellious leftovers. 

And, as far as counters go, there are a number of cleaning cocktails that can get the job done. Be it a bleach and water solution* or a standard disinfectant spray, remember that counters are a food-contact surface; no matter your cleaning agent of preference, be sure to finish with a clean water rinse. 

*Note: We would be remiss to mention that this is not suitable for marble countertops.

Viral Kitchen Hack that Works: Cleaning Wooden Spoons

wooden boards and serving utensils on a stone counter

Wooden spoons are gorgeous and on-trend. They bring a bucolic touch to any kitchen; however, cleaning them can be a challenge. While they aren’t supposed to go in a dishwasher, hand-cleaning, even directly after use, just doesn’t seem to cut it. 

We have you covered with this difficult-to-clean utensil. Simply submerge all your spoons in a pot of water. Bring the water to a boil, and watch as the water changes color. Rinse and repeat as needed. 

Bathroom Spring Cleaning Checklist

When it comes time to tackle the bathroom, the best thing you can do is start with a clean slate. From drawers to medicine cabinets to cleaning supplies, take inventory of everything you have. This way you can easily see the essentials that need to stay and the extraneous things you’ve collected or been gifted along the way. If it has reached the end of its shelf life (literally or metaphorically), get rid of it and declutter.

Elegant attic bathroom with stylish bathtub, wooden floor and balcony door

Now, it’s time to get rid of all the dust that will get in the way later in your cleaning process. From the top down, use a dry rag or a vacuum cleaner attachment to first clean the ceiling vents and/or fans, and then move down to ledges, windowsills, and shelves. 

After you finish, you’re ready to go. Wash whatever shower curtains, towels, bath mats, or window currents you have, and be sure not to miss the plastic shower curtain—you should either replace it if you haven’t recently or at the very least, give it a thorough clean on your patio or deck.

Now, it’s time to start scrubbing. Make sure you disinfect all surfaces including any wall hangings, the walls themselves, cabinets, and the shower, tub, sink, and toilet, as well as glass features like mirrors or shower doors. This is also a good time to wipe down your trash can—inside and out. Once you’ve gotten through all of that (we know it’s a lot), all that’s left is sweeping, mopping, and admiring your hard work.

Viral Bathroom Hack That Works: Advertised for Dishes—Best for Showers

luxury modern bathroom and shower with white stone and matte black hardare finishes

Cleaning the shower is hardly anybody’s favorite. Among the myriad of shower-cleaning products available, turning to a dish-cleaning brush and a simple DIY solution (that you already have the ingredients for) could be the answer to all your problems. 

Grab a bristled dish brush that has a compartment for (what is normally) dish soap. Instead, fill it with a solution that is half dish soap and half white vinegar. Before you know it, you will have a sparkling clean shower, no vinegary smell, and the unparalleled relief of time-effective cleaning. Best of all, these brush heads are removable, replaceable, and even reusable should you wish to run them through your dishwasher (after a particularly arduous spring cleaning effort, perhaps). 

The Professional-grade Bedroom Spring Cleaning Guide

Between the baseboards and floors, the mattress, and the closet, there is a lot of ground to cover when it comes to deep-cleaning a bedroom, but when all is said and done, this guide will keep things simple, and quick. 

modern minimalist bedroom with a bed flanked by white bedside tables and hanging pendant light fixtures

Step by Step Bedroom Spring Cleaning Guide

Step One: Get the bedding in the laundry. Grab the pillow covers, sheets, and duvets and toss them into the washer. Once this has started, dust your way from the top down. Use a long-handled feather duster to hit all those hard-to-reach places that don’t regularly get cleaned. Pro Tip: Dust isn’t picky when it comes to its surfaces; run the duster right across the walls, and you may just be surprised by how much was hiding in plain sight. 

Step Two: Get every nook and cranny. Now that the bed is fully stripped, use a powerful vacuum cleaner and its attachments to pick up all the dust and debris that may be lingering on the mattress itself. You can also take this as an opportunity to flip your mattress, which ensures it’s wearing evenly. 

Step Three: Hit the decks. Now that the preliminary dusting has been taken care of, the floors (even if regularly cleaned) are ready for some extra TLC. Use a mop and commercial hardwood floor cleaners for hardwood floors. These are available at most grocery and drug stores. For carpets, sprinkle baking soda across the entire carpet and allow it to sit for about five minutes. Then, vacuum once in each direction. This will also help to remove any odors. 

Step Four: Open the windows, and let the fresh air do some of the hard work for you. This will help handle any chemical smells that may be lingering in the room from earlier steps. 

Step Five: The closet—take everything out of it. Use a disinfectant spray and power towels or a cloth to wipe up any dust hiding under clothes piles. Take your duster and wipe it along any rods as well. Then, neatly put everything back in.

If you have been looking to get rid of some of your clothing but aren’t quite sure where to start, put all hanging clothes back in facing one direction. Then, the next time you go to wear it, face its hanger in the other direction. Come the end of summer, anything that remains oriented in the original direction can be donated. 

Viral Hack that Doesn’t Work: Tennis Balls

luxury laundry room with a washer and dyer and white cabinets over marble countertops and backsplashes

Cleaning the pillows themselves is a long-standing staple of spring cleaning checklists. It has often been suggested that adding a new tennis ball or two to the drying cycle can help soften the pillows and expedite the dying process without the use of chemical fabric softeners. 

With this being said—despite having these recreational accouterments on hand—their chemical dye can often transfer to down items, and further, may not be able to withstand the heat a dryer produces (which, spoiler alert, will lead them to melt into your pillows).  


Caring for your home helps maintain and enhance its value. For any questions about a home’s valuation, Engel & Völkers real estate advisors are experts at helping you understand what factors affect its overall value. From everyone at Engel & Völkers, happy spring.