Starting a Backyard Garden

Not every homeowner is willing or able to dedicate backyard space to a big garden, but the size of your garden shouldn’t deter you from looking into options for a very rewarding hobby.

Whether through simply growing a few herbs or flowers in containers, or by tilling a plot for bountiful harvests, gardening is known to improve physical activity and help reduce stress. Furthermore, tending to plants can help us develop personal resilience and learn to embrace acceptance on a psychological level. If you are a beginner, do not dismay — you will be surprised at the advice you can easily gather just by researching online or at a garden center.

Start with a plan based on the time you want to invest and the results you want to achieve, such as abundant foliage or luscious fruits and vegetables. Although each type requires specific care, native plants tend to be hardiest. After determining growing schedules and sunlight requirements, you need to decide when and where to plant. Make sure taller species do not overshadow neighboring plants that need sunlight, but also avoid overexposing those that require shade. Before planting seeds or transplanting slips, condition the soil with recommended nutrients, and ensure water is readily accessible.

Selling Your Home When You’re “Crazy-Busy”

Let’s face it. We all get busy at times. Sometimes we get “crazy-busy.” The trouble is, if you’re thinking of selling your property, having a jam-packed schedule might make you want to put off listing until a later date.

And, who knows what the market will be like later in the year?

The good news is, you can sell your home, even if you’re busy. There are plenty of ways to reduce the time, effort and stress involved.

The first step is to find out what needs to be done. Make a list. Turn that list into a plan and get that plan down on paper. That way, the process won’t just live in your imagination — where it might seem much bigger and more intimidating than it really is. Instead, it will be realistic and practical.

The next step is to see what can be done by others. If your schedule is already hectic, you want to minimize what you do on your own and outsource where possible. For example, you could hire a cleaning company, junk removal service, professional stager, and/or tradesperson. Of course, you’ll need to weigh that expense against the time you’d save, but it is often worth it.

Staying organized is also essential. When you’re busy, effective organization tools — to-do lists, calendar, scheduling app, etc. — will be your best friends. The more organized you are, the more you’ll feel on top of things.

Finally, get talking to professionals who are going to be able to help you — and even shoulder some of the heavy lifting.

The bottom line? Don’t let being “crazy-busy” prevent you from taking advantage of the opportunity to sell your home.