Archive for the 'Home Improvement' Category

What Plants Work Best for the Indoors?

By Vance Stevens
Special to Relocation.com

While commercial settings typically offer an atmosphere of large, indoor plants, they don’t have to be limited to dentists’ offices and malls. In fact, indoor plants add beauty and function to any indoor space and can be a perfect addition to brighten up your home during those chilly winter months. Green plants also help filter the air, creating a healthier environment for work or play. And with a few strategically placed indoor plants, you can transform an ordinary space into a stress-free zone. Here are a few indoor plants that will help you brighten up your favorite room.

Palm – Coming in a wide variety of sizes and leaf shapes, palms range from just a few feet to over 20-feet tall. A few of the most popular pines are the Sentry and Bamboo palms, which can reach an average height of 9 to 10 feet, and the Areca and Chinese Fan palms, which average 5 to 6 feet in height. There are many different type palms to will meet your style needs.

Chinese Evergreen – The Chinese evergreen is an excellent selection for indoor gardening and decoration. With its low lighting needs and low maintenance, the plant is an aesthetic addition as well as a healthy one that is listed as a natural indoor air purifier.

Norfolk Island Pine – If you are looking to add a touch of the tropics indoors, Norfolk Island pines can reach a height of more than 10-feet and bring with them a rich aroma of the great outdoors. The plant’s resemblance to another type pine has made it a popular holiday decoration. Norfolks can survive in only household incandescent or fluorescent lighting if they receive a minimum of 16 hours of light each day.

Chrysanthemums – Chrysanthemums are resilient, colorful flowers that are grown indoors in any climate and outdoors. The plant is easy to care for and thrives with given exposure to at least a half-day of sunlight, moist soil and room to breathe. Chrysanthemums come in a wide variety of shapes and colors.

Ficus – There are several types of Ficus (also known as figs), and a large majority of them come well-suited for the role of large, indoor plant. Ficus Alii, (a type of Ficus characterized by deep green, long, narrow leaves) rubber plants and fiddle leaf figs are some of the most popular, and grow from 4 to 12 feet tall. The Ficus requires daily sunlight, ample humidity and water every 1-2 days.

Spider Plant – Spider plants are fast-growing, attractive perennials that feature slim, elegant leaves and small white flowers. A plant able to tolerate low-light conditions well, the spider plants can grow in the shade if given continually moist soil. If left in extended dry conditions, the tips of the long leaves will turn brown until water resumes. The spider plant is also excellent for filtering airborne toxins.

Wandering Jew – The wandering jew is a popular indoor plant that good for cleaning the air in the room. It is often grown in a hanging basket due to its sprawling tendencies. The plant’s 3-inch-long leaves are charmingly spotted and covered with a fine layer of soft fuzz. Place the plant in rich, loose soil in a dimly lit spot; remember to keep the soil moist for optimal growth.

Succulent/Cactus – There are several types of succulents and cacti that make impressive large, indoor plants. Milk Stripe euphorbia often exceed four feet in height and are nearly as wide. There are a number of tall, upright cactuses perfect for the indoors, such as Snowball, Silver Torch and the Column cactus.

If you have any questions, comments or inquires, please contact me at editorial@relocation.com.

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

Grandiose properties – in both price and size – are on this week’s Beat. Although this is no different from any week on the Beat, we were particularity intrigued by Val Kilmer’s massive Rowe, New Mexico ranch that encompasses 5,328-acres and 11, 573-square-feet of living space. The new property owners (whomever they may be) will also enjoy seven bedrooms and eight bedrooms as well as 10 springs and 10 miles of hiking and biking trails. This is, of course, for the reduce price of $23 million – guess a luxury ranch isn’t in our future. The Donald is also selling one of his many properties. This one, located in Rancho Palos, California, includes a 18-hole golf course, ocean views, five bedrooms and 11,000-square-feet of living space. We also heard that Bill and Giulania Rancic purchased a luxurious Chicago mansion this week as did Toni Collette who purchased a Spanish-style home in California for $1,300,000. Until next week…

•    Donald Trumps Puts California Estate on the Market
Real estate maven, Donald Trump, recently placed one of his zillion-plus properties on the market. A bit of an overstatement, but as we all know the name Trump equals real estate. This latest property on the market, located in Rancho Palos, California (a community outside of Los Angeles) is situated on 300 acres of land and includes 11,000-square-feet of living space. Listed for sale at $12 million, the Mediterranean-style property was purchased for $27 million and includes five bedrooms, several fireplaces, a 18-hole golf course an outdoor area with an infinity pool and gorgeous views of the ocean due to its location on the bluffs of the Pacific Ocean. The house also includes a glass wine room, a game room and a master bath with a spa and a double shower.

•    Bill and Giulania Rancic Purchase Mansion for $1,560,000
Bill Rancic, winner of the first season of “The Apprentice” and his wife, Giuliana Rancic,  recently purchased a mansion in Hinsdale – a suburb outside Chicago – for $1,560,000. As a seasoned real estate flipper, Bill Rancic is no stranger to real estate purchases with homes in both Chicago and Los Angeles. This latest home, calculating at 12,000-square-feet, includes seven bedrooms, 9.5 bathrooms, a 1.5 car garage and a state-of-the art security system.

•    Toni Collette Buys a Hollywood Home for $1,330,000
Actress Toni Collette, “United States of Tara” and her partner recently purchased a new home in Los Angeles for $1,330,000. Encompassing 2,236-square-feet, the home also includes three bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms (including one bathroom in the pool house) and a wide front porch. The Spanish-style home is also gated and fenced and features walnut-flooring, a fireplace, an arched doorway, and a modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Collette and her partner also own properties in Australia and Ireland.

•    Actress Amanda Seyfried Buys at Devonshire House
Mean Girl Amanda Seyfried recently purchased a luxury condo in NYC for $1.875 million. Located in Central Village’s Devonshire House, a pre-war condominium designed by architect Emery Roth, Seyfried’s unit includes two-bedrooms, two-bathrooms and 1,585-square-feet of living space. The building itself also includes interesting amenities such as a 24-hour doorman, a courtyard garden, a rooftop terrace, an on-site gym and storage, a children’s play room and a cold storage unit for groceries.

•    Val Kilmer Re-lists Rowe, New Mexico Ranch
Much as been publicized about Val Kilmer and his attempts to sell his 5,328-acre ranch located in Rowe, New Mexico. Originally listed for $33 million, the price was recently reduced to $22 million (a substantial price jump) that Kilmer, at one point, wanted to turn into a lodge. According to the listing, the property, located in the the wilderness, is situated near 10 natural springs with six miles of the Pecos River and 10 miles of hiking and biking trails. The house itself includes seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms and 11,573-square-feet of living space.

How to Get to Know Your New Town

By Vance Stevens
Special to Relocation.com

Whether you are moving across town or across the country, relocating can quickly become a trying and overwhelming task. Luckily, the difficult part is behind you: the furniture is in place, boxes are unpacked and all the pictures hung. All that is left now is to settle in and get acquainted with your new community. Here are a few tips to help you do just that.

Get lost.
One of the best ways to learn a new town is simply to get lost. Hop in the car (or grab a bike) and hit the streets. There is no need to map out the trip or worry about how long you will be gone – just go. Explore the area, stopping at interesting spots and taking in the local scenery. Keep your eyes peeled for landmarks and even take a note or two on places you may want to visit later. Getting lost will bring you closer to your new home, while getting you familiar with the town’s layout and street names.

Shop locally.
Maybe the most enjoyable way to get to know the people in your community is to do a little shopping. Visit a few local shopping areas and talk with local sales reps and small business owners. This is a wonderful to get the pulse of your community as well as an opportunity to meet people who reliable on the local economy for employment. Ask for suggestions on best places to visit and where in town to go for the best cheeseburger.

Join a club.
Look around town for different clubs or organizations to join. My communities have neighborhood watch programs, offering the opportunity to meet new people and to do your part in keeping the neighborhood safe. Health clubs or gyms are another way to meet people in your town with similar interest. Look for local sport clubs such as walking, yoga or hiking groups and be sure to check the local paper for community events looking for volunteers.

Have a yard sale.
If you were not able to bring yourself to get rid of unneeded possessions before your move, here the perfect opportunity to make some additional room in your new home and meet a few neighbors while you’re at it. Putting together a yard sale is the perfect way to bring the neighborhood to you. Gather the things you won’t be using at your new home, pick a Saturday or Sunday (or both) and spend the day with your family getting to know your neighbors and ridding yourself of all those excess possessions.

Classes.
Sign up for a class at a local university or community college. Many schools offer night or weekend classes for those who work or have other obligations during the day. This is the perfect way to get know people in your area that share similar interest and, most likely, share in a similar schedule as you do.  Take this opportunity to make new contacts through group projects and to connect with local professional who may be able to suggest popular social gatherings. Take a glance at campus message boards where students and facility will post information on upcoming community events.

If you have any questions, comments or inquires, please contact me at editorial@relocation.com.

The Haunted Beat: Relocation.com's List of Famous Haunted Houses

By Serena Norr

It’s a spooky edition of The Celebrity Beat. These famous haunted houses will thrill and shock you with their ghastly tales. Don’t be too scared, after all these are just homes, right?

1. The Amityville Horror House
Location: 108 Ocean Avenue, Amityville, New York

This haunted abode inspired by a book of the same name and five movies is often considered one of the scariest houses in America. Though we can’t say if it is haunted or not, the home located in Amityville, New York, was the scene of the horrific murder where Ronald DeFeo Jr. shot his parents and four siblings in 1974. Later sold to the Lutz family in 1975 who left after only living in the house for 28 days citing that they saw “slime oozing down walls, furniture moving, swarms of flies in the dead of winter and slamming doors,” as stated on Zillow.com. It was recently sold again (after only being on the market for 70 days!) for $1.15 million to a retired couple who states that the scariest thing about the house is the onlookers that visit it.

2. The Haunting in Connecticut House
Location: 208 Meriden Ave, Southington, Connecticut

Dubbed the Amityville of Connecticut, this former funeral parlor, located in Southington, was converted into multiple family apartments in the 1980s. In 1986, a New York family called the Snedeker’s moved into the house and began seeing demons — “one with high cheekbones, long black hair and pitch black eyes and another that wore a pinstriped tuxedo whose feet were constantly in motion,” according to the Daily Beast. The family also reportedly noticed foul smells, heard unexplained noises and personality changes in their eldest son, Philip, who started dressing and talking differently. The Snedeker’s later recruited Ed and Lorraine Warren (also involved in researching the Amityville). They reportedly had an exorcism that cleared the home of its ghosts in 1988. This story was later adapted into a movie in 2009 called The Haunting in Connecticut.

3. The Kreischer Mansion
Location: 4500 Arthur Kill Road, Staten Island, New York

A prolific brick-supplier in the 1800s, the Kreischer family built two Victorian-style homes in Staten Island for the family- one home for the parents and the second, located on a secluded hilltop, was for their son. Shortly after the second home was built, the son, Edward Kreischer, shot himself and the house later mysteriously buried down. It is believed that the home is haunted by the son and his wife where guests have heard noises and doors banging. In 1996, the home was converted into a restaurant where guests and workers heard noises and doors slamming.

4. The Franklin Castle
Location: 4308 Franklin Boulevard, Cleveland, Ohio

Considered the most haunted house in Ohio, the Franklin Castle, the home was built in 1865 by Hannes Tiedemann for his family. Over three years in the house, three of Tiedemann’s children died as well as well as his mother. Since his wife, Luise, was haunted by the family tragedies Tiedemann decided to expand the home to take her mind of the strange deaths. The additions included secret passageways, secret rooms, and hidden doors. Following Tiedemann’s death in 1908, it was reported that these secret rooms were not only a clever construction project. Here, he reportedly killed his niece by hanging her and is believed to have murdered a young servant girl. Additionally, a future homeowner found dozens of human baby skeletons in some of the secret rooms. Those that have lived or stayed in the home reported that they have heard strange sounds in the home like a women chocking, babies crying, organ music and footsteps. Currently, the home is dormant but it is reportedly being converted into a tourist attraction.

5. Bell Witch House
Location: Adams, Tennessee

It is reported that the Bell family resided in this home in the early 1800s and started to hear strange noises. The youngest daughter, Betsy, also began to feel a gnawing like an invisible rat and the parents said they started having their blankets pulled over their heads. The Bell children also woke up with bruises on their face when the father decided to seek help. The community soon learned about the haunting and wanted to talk to the “witch” where it was reported that something from the house spoke in a husky whisper who said she was Kate Batts. As the years went on the Bell family continued to live at the house – where the witch apparently continuously beat and caused havoc to the Bell’s. Charles Bell, one of the brothers, even wrote a record of the haunting called in 1935 The Bell Witch: A Mysterious Spirit, or Our Family Troubles.

If you have any questions, comments or inquires, please contact me at editorial@relocation.com.

Relocation.com's Fun and Easy Home Decorating Ideas for Halloween

By Faith Teel
Special to Relocation.com

Halloween isn’t just a time for people to dress up… houses like costumes, too! This year, why not try a few spooky decorating ideas that will scare your friends and flex your crafty muscles, without putting too many holes in your pocketbook.

Pumpkin Alternatives

Carved pumpkins are the classic Halloween decoration, but who has the time and really, who wants to clean up that mess? Luckily, there are lots of easy alternatives that won’t require you to threaten an innocent pumpkin with a huge, serial-killer-style knife.

Painted Pumpkins – All you need is a little bit of black paint to make silly or spooky faces… or get a can of glittery spray paint and paint the whole pumpkin to make the ultimate statement in Halloween glam. This is great for small kids, too, who can use as much paint or as little as possible and go wild with their Halloween pumpkin.

Squash – Next time you’re in the supermarket, look for a few pumpkin alternatives. Painted butternut squashes make fantastic ghosts and goblins… and if you keep them in a cool, dry place, they could last until it’s time to make squash casserole for Thanksgiving.

Lumpkins – Many supermarkets offer pumpkins and squashes that are so strange that they don’t need carving. Look for “peanut pumpkins,” which are covered in funny “warts” resembling peanut hulls.

Balloons – Your local card store, gift shop or florist probably sells helium balloons. Skip the pricey, shiny Mylar balloons and opt for inexpensive orange, white or green rubber balloons instead. Take them home and draw faces on them: jack-o-lantern faces for the orange ones, mummies or ghosts for the white ones and witches for the green ones.

Scarecrows – Creating a crafty scarecrow is a great way to showcase your decor skills, while also enhancing your front lawn.

Subtle Scares

One of the best kinds of Halloween decorations are the subtle ones that take a minute to notice, but really creep your friends out when they finally see them.

Things Under Glass – Save your old spaghetti jars, wash them out and remove the labels. Now fill them with mysterious-looking things and add a stick-on label with a scary name on it. For example, you could put an old rubber mask in a large jar and label it “Granny’s Pickled Heads.” Or try spiny chestnuts labeled “Poison Urchins” or dried leaves labeled “Deadly Nightshade.”

Are You Going to Eat That? – Try the same trick with jars still full of food. Tomato pesto, black olives and pickled garlic take on new meanings when labeled “Frog Hearts,” “Eye of Newt” and “Werewolf Teeth.”

Apple Crones – Peel a few apples and carve them to look like an old woman, with slits for eyes, a big nose, and a straight line for a mouth. Let the apples wither for a few days, and soon you’ll have a row of little witch faces.

Weird Family Photos – Scour the internet for old film stills of Dracula, the Mummy or Frankenstein. (Try to get high-resolution pictures.) Print them out in black and white and slip them in with other family photos. You can even make a game out of this where the first person to notice will receive a Halloween treat.

Mysterious Bloodstains – Fake blood aren’t just for costumes anymore. Squirt it on old pillowcase and then pull the pillowcase over a throw pillow. Put it on your couch for a scary touch. Just be sure to use fabric that you don’t mind putting a few stains onto!

Graveyard Trees – Now that your container garden is dying back, why not pull out a few dead annual plants and replace them with bare branches stuck into the soil like trees? You can use them as-is or drape them with cobwebs and plastic spiders.

Big Statements

Subtle can be fun, but if you’re hosting a party, you’ll want to make big changes that affect the whole atmosphere of your home. Here are a few ways to make the whole room look delightfully spooky.

Orange or Red Christmas Lights – Now is a good time to raid your bucket of Christmas lights. Orange, red or white lights all make great lighting for haunted Halloween homes.

Paint It Black – Need to make a major statement? Raid your attic, closet, garage or local yard sale for anything that you can spray paint black. Old chandeliers are great for this, and so are candlesticks and artificial flowers.

Black Bed Sheets – Are you planning to buy more bed linens soon? Why not get black or red bed sheets? They can double as quick covers for chairs and small sofas whose floral prints or bright colors might otherwise distract from your scary décor.

Cheesecloth, Cheesecloth, Cheesecloth – Cheesecloth is another inexpensive alternative for covering large furniture. It has a white, ghostlike color and an open weave that makes it look like a shroud. It’s also good for covering a Halloween table, wrapping over a mop head for an improvised ghost, or bandaging over an old hat form to make a mummy head.

Silhouettes – Black paper is your friend! Your local craft store may offer it in sheets or even big rolls. Use it to make silhouettes of mice, bats and cats, or cut larger shapes such as witches, werewolves, vampires or ghouls. Don’t limit yourself to the wall; try putting them in your baseboards, climbing up your steps or peering out of the windows.

In the Bathroom – Why not write something scary on the mirror in red lipstick, or use your spooky silhouettes or fake blood to make a great effect behind a translucent shower curtain?

Invitations – For inexpensive (yet scary) invitations, pick up some parchment paper from the same craft store and use a scary font to make your invite. (Or try a handwriting font and make your invitations look like a letter from Dracula!) Seal them up with the stick-on red wax seals used for wedding invitations.

Food Centerpieces – Halloween food is another subject entirely, but we couldn’t resist mentioning a few of our favorites. For a great centerpiece on the food table, try a mysterious green punch labeled “Love Potion.” If you’ve got a little time on your hands, adapt the classic gingerbread house with black frosting, licorice, candy corn, pumpkin candies and gummy worms to make a “haunted house.”

There’s no holiday like Halloween to bring out your inner decorator. Give a few of these tips a try… you’re sure to have a screaming good time!

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

Mr. Sexy Back aka Justin Timberlake seems to have no real estate or financial issues in sight. Before the sale of his current NYC loft-style condo was completed (listed at $5.25)  Timberlake purchased a new NYC penthouse for $7.65 (at the Soho Mews). Citing lack of privacy as the reason for the move, the new penthouse includes three-bedrooms, an ultra-luxe 4,000-square-foot shared courtyard and private parking. We’re not sure how much privacy Timerlake will get – especially since the address has been published — but the new building does have a 24-hour security team as opposed to his current pad that only had a part-time security team. The Beat also reported that Patricia Cornwell (the crime novelist) recently purchased a luxurious two-floor penthouse at the Fairmont Battery Wharf for $6.5 million. A quasi-hotel – the condo features 24-hour cleaning services and an on-site gym and restaurant.  Stay tuned for next week’s Beat — we have a special haunted house edition in the works…

•    Lenny Kravitz’s New Orleans Cottage for Sale
Lenny Kravitz recently placed his New Orleans cottage on the market. Purchased in 1994, the 220-year-old French Quarter cottage with its weathered exterior was originally purchased for $360,000 that is now listed at $775,000. Many of the design elements are created by Kravitz including an enhanced and dramatic main living space with gleaming hardwood floors and silvered wallpaper. The modestly-sized and narrow 1,725-square-foot home also includes sleeping loft for guests, sleek marble counters, central air, a small courtyard that is described as “metro chic,” two bathrooms and one bedroom. Kravitz likely did not live solely in this property since he owns properties in the Bahamas, Paris and Brazil.

•    Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones Purchase a Colonial Mansion
Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones recently purchased a Colonial mansion in Bedford, New York. Sold to the couple for $5.25 million, the Westchester mansion includes five-bedrooms, 5½-bathrooms, a pond, pool, guesthouse and three-car garage that is situated on 5.7 acres. The couple reportedly rented out the 6,300-square-foot home before they decided to purchase it.

•    Justin Timberlake Lists NYC Apartment and Buys Another
Justin Timberlake recently purchased a new penthouse from the new building Soho Mews – a pair of buildings designed by architects Gwathmey Siegel & Associates – before he completed the sale on his Tribeca loft. Located in the heart of Soho, the 2,598-square-foot penthouse, purchased for $7.65 million, includes three-bedrooms, parking and a 4,000-square-foot private garden. The reason for the quick sale? Timberlake reportedly wanted more privacy from the paparazzi that frequently set up camp outside of his home. The Tribeca 3,000-square-foot loft still on the market is located in the Pearline Soap Factory and is listed at $5.25 million. The listing through the Modlin Group states the loft has 11-foot ceilings, plenty of light and an open kitchen with “restaurant quality appliances by Wolf, Sub-Zero, and Miele.” The Pearline Soap Factory is also noted for having one apartment per floor and key-locked elevators.

•    Author Patricia Cornwell Buys Boston Penthouse for $6.5 Million
Crime novelist Patricia Cornwell recently purchased a 4,553-square-foot penthouse in the North End area of Boston. The modern four bedroom, 4.5 bathroom condo, located at the Fairmont Battery Wharf development includes on-site security, 24-hour housekeeping services, valet parking, an on-site gym and a restaurant located on the lower level of the complex. The duplex-style penthouse itself has a circular staircase, fireplace, hardwood flooring, large windows, stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. The property was sold to Cornwell and her partner for $6,500,000. It was also reported that Cornwell purchased another two-bedroom property for $1,650,000 in another area in Boston.

•    Jesse James Reduces Price of Condo
In June, we reported on this Sunset Beach home that Jesse James placed on the market following his quickie divorce from Sandra Bullock. And now it seems that property is still on the market but for a reduced price. This three-bedroom, 3.5-bath condo was originally listed for $1,290,000 – that is now listed for a little under a million for $999,999. The Mediterranean home itself, encompassing 2,634-square feet and two floors, is actually quite gorgeous. There an elevator, a rooftop deck, a quaint kitchen with modern appliances, a media/game room, an office, a guest room, a fireplace, a modern kitchen, an island bar and a three-car garage with a built-in space for tools and storage – not to mention being located right next to the beach!

If you have any questions, comments or inquires, please contact me at editorial@relocation.com.

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

We never know what to expect when we research the celebrity housing market for the Beat. This week we were excited to learn that Steve Jobs was finally given the go-head to start the demolition of the historic property he owns called the Jackling House. The demolition, which took six years to approve, will involve the construction of a smaller and more contemporary space — simplifying the home and tearing down its 30 rooms that will reportedly cost Jobs $8.45 million to complete. This week, we also discovered that Larry the Cable Guy’s home was placed on the market. Listed for $1.55 million and developed by the “Git-r-done” comedian, the Florida log-style home includes a “man cave” with a pool table, TV, mini-bar and bar signs as well as a pool and a spa. Acting couple, Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber are also on the Beat this week. They placed their 4,410-square-foot Los Angeles home on the market that includes an on-site gym, a two-story guest house and six-bedrooms. We look forward to what next week brings…and the (unexpected) real estate news that follows.

•    Steve Jobs’ Construction Plans Revealed
Steve Jobs, the multi-billionaire and CEO of Apple finally received the go-ahead to renovate the historic Jackling House. The 17,000-square foot, 30-room Spanish Colonial home, built for copper baron Daniel Jackling, is owned by Jobs but he has been unable to complete or even start his plans for a full-on demolition and remodel. Architectural preservationists stated that the home was an historic piece of real estate and shouldn’t be demolished. Finally in July of 2010, the preservationists’ dropped their case but some elements of the house such as an organ, flag pole and decorative tiles are being removed and preserved. The newer and more contemporary home plans was reveled on Gizmodo – showing the elaborate floor plan created by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson – the design firm responsible for several Apple stores. The new floor plan indicates a smaller home – measuring at 4,190-square-feet – that will include five bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. The new design also indicates that there are plans to build a three-car garage, a pool with a pool house and a third building for an office. Additionally, among the six acres of land there are plans to add various plants and flowers, stone walkways and a private vegetable garden – a diminutively simpler home than the former grandiose estate. It is estimated that the home will be completed in 22 months.

•    Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber List Brentwood Home
Actor couple Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber recently placed their Los Angeles home on the market for $5,995,000. The 4,410-square-foot, two-story home includes six bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms; a two-story guest room; an on-site gym; a two-car garage and a gated and secured entry way. The European-inspired home also includes several fireplaces, an eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, a swimming pool and circular spa. The couple also owns a 2,900-square- foot condo in New York.

•    Larry the Cable Guy Places Florida Home on the Market
Comedian Dan Whitney aka Larry the Cable Guy known for the catchphrase “Git-r-done” recently placed his Sanford, Florida home on the market for $1.55 million. The five-bedroom home, situated on 18.79 acres, includes a lot of interesting details that Whitney himself renovated. There is a “man cave” that includes a poker and pool table, mini-bar, TV and bar signs as well as an outdoor movie theater, a pool with a waterfall, an outdoor spa, detached gym and two children’s rooms with personal murals. Whitney sited outgrowing the home as the reason for the sale.

•    Scott Baio Sells Encino, California Home
Actor Scott Baio recently sold his “Spectacular Celebrity Owned Estate!” to an undisclosed buyer for $2.5 million. Built in 1964, the new buyer can look forward to enjoying 4,400-square-feet of living space, three fireplaces, four bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. The Encino, California home also includes a swimming pool with a hot tub, a tennis court, a koi pond, a formal living and dining room and a sprawling back yard with luscious greenery and gardens.

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

Pricey real estate listings seem to be theme  in this edition of “the Celebrity Beat.” Starting with Candy Spelling’s mega-mansion — a 14-bedroom, 27-bathroom home that has been on the market since 2009 and recently placed on the multiple listing services (MLS). Asking price? A cool $150 million, which her lawyer recently stated “is not a lot for the home.” Another expensive property we noticed this week was the sale of the Olsen twins’ NYC penthouse. On the market since 2005, the home was listed for $11 million in 2007 that was finally sold to a property developer for $8.4 million. Meg Ryan is also in city, but as a renter. She is reportedly leasing an apartment in Soho for $25,000 a month while her home in California is on the market. Well, all of these millions are making us realize that we have a lot to save in our piggy banks before we can purchase a home – much less a million-dollar one. Until next week…

•    Katy Perry and Russell Brand Purchase Home in NYC for $2.9 Million
Pop singer Katy Perry and her fiancé comedian Russell Brand (of “Take Him to the Greek”)  recently purchased a 1,500-square-foot duplex in TriBeCa. This luxurious and renovated two-bedroom, two-bathroom penthouse cost the pair $2.9 million that RealEstalker describes as an “oddly shaped.” The modern penthouse includes the standard real estate amenities like built-in bookcases, stainless steel appliances, large windows, exposed beams and high ceilings. The penthouse also includes a gorgeous cherry wood staircase that leads up to the master suite — that is lacking a closest. The lack of storage space probably doesn’t bother the couple that will spend most of their time in their recently purchased 4,706-square-foot house in Los Angeles.

•    Angie Harmon and Jason Sehron List Home for $3.9 Million
Actress Angie Harmon and her husband Jason Sehorn have recently placed their Hidden Hills, California home on the market for $3.9 million. The real estate listing describes this Cape-Cod style home as a “pastoral setting with no nearby sidewalks and street lights” that is also located near equestrian trails. Purchased in 2005, the 6,872-square-foot home sits on 1.5 acres of land that includes a pool, an office, hardwood flooring, five bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. To match its natural setting, the home includes a barn, a sprawling lawn and a tree-lined driveway.

•    Olsen Twins Sell West Village Penthouse for $8.45 Million
Michelle Tanner better known as Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen recently sold their five-bedroom NYC penthouse for $8.45 million (that “Full House” franchise sure did them well.) The 5,700-square-foot penthouse – located at 1 Morton Square – has been on the market since 2005 that was listed in 2007 for $11,995,000 that has finally found a buyer with property developer Bruce Eichner for a lowered, but still expensive price tag.

•    Meg Ryan Renting NYC Apartment for $25,000 a Month
According to Housing Watch, America’s former sweetheart, Meg Ryan, is now renting an apartment in Soho. This rental agreement will have Ryan paying $25,000 a month for a three-bedroom, 3.5 bathroom unit. This place, though, isn’t a typical rental – it includes 2,500-square-feet of living space, a private bar and lounge, an on-site pool, sauna that is housed in a glass building.

•    Candy Spelling Places Home on the Market for $150 Million
Candy Spelling, wife of the late Aaron Spelling, recently placed her California mega-mansion on the MLS for $150 million. Dubbed “the Manor,” the four-floor home, located in the posh Holmby Hills, includes 14 bedrooms, 27 bathrooms (!) and 56,500-square-feet of living space. On the market since 2009, Spelling recently placed it on MLS in hopes of a sale but did not lower the price — with a response from her lawyer stating that “this is not a lot for the home” [Wall Street Journal]. Of course for a $150 million-dollar home there has to be extras and this estate has plenty. Amenities like a billiard room, arcade room, doll museum, a bowling alley, an art studio, a tennis court, a personal gym and a 16-car garage are just some of the extras found in this mega mansion. Spelling also reportedly purchased a-yet-to-be-completed penthouse in Century City where she is looking to downsize, which to Spelling is a $47 million dollar condo with 16,500-square-feet of living space. Spelling will customize the condo with her own architects and designers that is expected to be completed in two years.

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

Part gossip report part real estate news, this week on the Beat we are reporting on Tiger Woods and his search for real estate in NYC as well as Alex Rodriguez and Cameron Diaz who are looking for a pad in the same city that never sleeps. In California, T.R. Knight (of “Grey’s Anatomy”) is also looking to relocate to NYC, but first he has to sell his 4,160-square-foot Los Angeles home. Amy Adams, though, is staying in LA and recently purchased a 3.5 bedroom home in Beverly Hills that is the perfect size for her and her new baby.

•    A-Rod and Diaz Looking for a Pad in NYC
Alex Rodriguez and his main squeeze of the moment, Cameron Diaz, are currently looking for a luxurious apartment in NYC. According to the NY Post, Rodriguez and Diaz were reportedly spotted checking out a 5,600-square-foot duplex called the Aldyn. Situated along the West Side Highway, the six-bedroom condo includes a huge terrace overlooking the Hudson River, a private swimming pool, a hot tub,  a squash court, bowling alley and climbing wall and a Kidsville, an indoor playground for children.

•    Ricky Martin’s Home on the Market
Ricky Martin, the 90’s pop sensation, has been trying to sell his this 9,882-square-foot Mediterranean-style estate since 2007 that is now back on the market for $18.9 million. This two-story Golden Beach, Florida estate is located on a private and secure beach community – about 12 miles north of Miami Beach – that includes five bedrooms with a master suite, seven bathrooms, a walk-in closet, a five-car garage, a media room and a terrace with views of the ocean.

•   Tiger Woods Looking to Score (A New Apartment)
Infamous for his skills as a pro golfer and most recently for his well-publicized divorce, Tiger Woods is back in the news but this time it involves his search for an apartment in NYC. Woods is currently scouting out a condo on Hudson Street called the Printing House — a 19th-century commercial building that was converted into condos in the late 1970s. Described as an “Italian-Renaissance-palazzo-style” reports have been unclear as to which unit Woods is interested in, but a $5,200/month two bedroom, two bath unit was recently sold where reports have speculated that Woods was the buyer. This unit includes hardwood flooring, high ceilings, a walk-in closet, dishwasher, central air and a personal gym. Woods can also look forward to having a building with a doorman, a concierge, a pool, a sundeck, video security and valet service.

•    T.R. Knight’s Home on the Market for $3.9 Million
T.R. Knight of “Grey’s Anatomy” fame recently placed his 4,160-square-foot Los Angeles home on the market. The four-bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home has been T.R’s home since 2007, but now that he ended his stint on that show he is looking to relocate to NYC. The 1930s Tudor-style home is listed at $3,995,000 that includes gothic furnishings, exposed beams, parquet flooring and an outdoor area with a covered fireplace, terrace and landscaped grounds.

•    Amy Adams Buys Home in Beverly Hills
Two-time Oscar nominee Amy Adams recently purchased a home in Beverly Hills for $3,165.000. The four-bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home, described as a “Cape Cod estate,” includes 4,311-square-feet of living space, hardwood flooring, a fireplace, walk-in closets and a private patio with views of the ocean. The property is also protected by a secured gate and features contemporary glass panels, a den, built-in bookcases and French doors.

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

Sometimes it takes awhile for a home to be sold and a few of the celebrities on this week’s Celebrity Beat certainly know about this. Take Christina Aguilera and the late Leona Helmsley (Queen of Mean to some) whose homes have been listed on the market since 2008 and 2007, respectively. Aguilera has recently reduced the price of her home by $2 million bucks in hopes to garner a sale while Helmsley’s estate has reportedly sold the property, but for less than $55 million dollars (almost half of the $125 asking price). But then again, sometimes home sales are quick. Liam Neeson recently listed his co-op for $1.375 million and it was sold only five days later for $1.352. Here’s hoping other celebs on the Beat — Andrew Dice Clay and DeShawn Snow (Real Housewife) — don’t have to wait that long to sell their recently listed properties.

•    Liam Neeson Sells NYC Co-Op for $1.352 Million
Liam Nesson recently sold his Central Park West two-bedroom co-op that was only listed on the market for five days. Originally listed for $1.375, the co-op was sold for $1.352 to Alan Holtz, a corporate restructuring expert at Alix Partners. In addition to being right across the street from Central Park, the 2,300-square-foot corner apartment also includes two bathrooms, high-beamed ceilings and oversized windows that Nesson and his late wife Natasha Richardson lived in since 1994.  Wouldn’t it be nice if all home sales were this easy?

•    Christina Aguilera Drops Price of Home by $2 Million
Then again sometimes it takes time for a home to be sold. Take pop star Christina Aguilera who has been trying to sell her Hollywood Hills home since 2008. In an attempt to get it sold, she recently lowered her asking price to $5.995 million (a full $2 million dollar drop from the original asking price of $7.995). Purchased by Aguilera in 2003 for $5 million, the 1,200-square-foot home includes a master bedroom suite, four bedrooms, seven bathrooms, a professional screening room that seats 18, a personal gym, an outdoor pool, a spa fit for 12, a fireplace and gorgeous views of the beach and downtown Los Angeles. Currently, Aguilera resides in a Beverly Hills home that was once owned by Ozzy Osbourne.

•    Leona Helmsley’s Mansion Sold for Less Than $55 Million
According to the NY Post, Leona Helmsley’s 40-acre mansion is rumored to have been sold this week for $55 million or less. Located in Greenwich, Connecticut, the home referred to as “Dullenellen Hall” has been on the market for three years following Helmsley’s death in 2007. It is reported that an undisclosed buyer was able to lower the price from $125 million, which is most likely due to its extensive repairs and damages ranging from leaky faucets to bad plumbing. The home, built in 1918, also comes with 26 rooms, an outdoor and outdoor pool, a koi pool, a wine cellar, a theater, tennis courts and two guest cottages. Proceeds of the sale will go to a Helmsley’s charitable trust.

•    Andrew Dice Clay Lists LA Home for $1,399,000
Long Island’s raunchiest insult comedian, Andrew Dice Clay, has recently placed his Los Angeles home on the market for $1,399,000. This 2,720-square-foot abode includes three bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a fireplace, huge windows, a garden room and an eat-in kitchen with modern appliances. The exterior of the house is painted in mint green and is located on a huge luscious landscape.  Clay also owns a home in Las Vegas.

•    DeShawn Snow (Former Real Housewife of Atlanta) Selling Home for $4,998,000
While we are not so sure who this real housewife is, one thing is for certain: DeShawn Snow certainly know how to live large.  Listed for $4.9 million, the 10,317-square-foot estate home, which was recently renovated in 2008, includes six bedrooms with a master bedroom, nine bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen, central air, seven fireplaces, a six-car garage, landscaped grounds and an outdoor pool with a fire pit. Located in Alpharetta, Georgia, the home also includes a “billiards room, card room, wine cellar, full bar, family room, dry sauna, exercise room and an on-site salon,” according to Zillow.com.

How to Get Organized and Have an End of Season Garage Sale

By Serena Norr

Maybe you’re in the process of moving and need to get rid of some junk or you’ve been living in your home for awhile and notice that you surrounded by stuff you never use. You know exactly what we mean: old knickknacks, clothes with tags on them and your old blender from the 1970s. Clearing up the junk in your life is one way to declutter your home; not to mention it will make you feel better. But before you drop off your stuff to your local Salvation Army or pass your items along to a friend, consider squeezing one last dollar (or two) out of them by having a garage sale. As the summer is winding down (sad, but true), garage sales are a great way to get rid of your unwanted baggage aka junk and make a small profit in the process.  Here’s how to get organized and throw one this weekend.

1.    What to Sell. Before you create the buzz about your garage sale, you will need to know exactly what you are selling. Going from room-to-room, make a list and collect the items you no longer need or want (most likely you know what these are). You can also make a list of items that you are thinking of selling but aren’t 100 percent sure of. If possible, pack the ‘to be sold’ items together in boxes or garbage bags for the big day.

2.   Signage. If you have a sale, you will need to tell people about it. Word-of-mouth may work in small communities, but to really get the word out you will need signs. Enlist a crafty friend to help you create colorful posters stating the date, time and your address as well as alternative date should it rain (after all, Mother Nature can be a fickle one.)  Don’t leave any of these details out – or people will not know where to go. Your sign should also list (briefly) what you will be selling such as books, antiques, baby clothes, etc. You don’t want to make the list too long, but if you have a rare or valuable item such as a 1950s Mickey Mouse doll or a slightly used Mac laptop definitely list them. Hot items like that are sure to draw in an excited crowd.

3.    Post. You should post your sign one week before your sale. Any earlier and people will likely forget about it, not to mention your sign may be torn down. Post your signs everywhere in your neighborhood and think outside of the box. Ask your local coffee house, library, theater, grocery store or community garden if you can post your sign there. You may also want to place an ad in your local newspaper to get the word out.

4.   Internet. The internet is yet another useful way to get the word out about your sale. Post the information from your sign on a local list serve or on Craiglist. Be careful about posting your address and phone number on Craigslist, though, but rather, write your email address so that interested parties can contact you directly.

5.    Get Organized. Now that your neighbors are counting down the days to your sale; it’s time to solidify your list. If there are items that you are questioning such as sentimental items that you want to keep but is taking up space, then consider storage. Do one more assessment of your home and really try to get rid of your old stuff, consider them useful, but no longer useful to you. Two-three days before the sale, get all of the items together and start labeling. [We would advise labeling before a sale because many people are die-hard garage sale enthusiasts who will show up right when your sale begins (if not earlier).] This will also enable you to have your pricing figured out so that there is no uncertainty the day of. This is also helpful if someone is helping you with your sale – enabling you both to be on the same page and not making up prices throughout the day.

6.   Check it Twice. The day before your sale, make sure everything that you want sold is packed away and that everything is labeled and ready to go. Also, make sure that you have your table ready and food for the day of your sale. Trust us, standing outside exchanging bucks will surely make you hungry.

7.    Take Care of Yourself. Make sure to get enough rest the day before since you will likely be on your feet and outside for five or more hours. On the day of your sale have a hearty breakfast and begin setting up your items at least 30 minutes before the sale – like we said before, people will come early and they will be ready to shop.

8.   Be Flexible. Try not to be too firm on your price (unless there is a reason) and be open to negotiating. Sometimes taking five bucks off your asking price will enable you to get rid of more stuff.

9.    Enjoy Yourself! You worked hard to make this day happen, take it all in and be happy that your old items are now finding their way to a new home.

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

The biggest home sale this week on the Beat – in both price and size – was the massive mansion purchased by Tyler Perry aka the man behind the sassy Madea. The mansion, called Dean Gardens, was created in the early 90s by software developer Larry Dean and his wife, Lynda, who certainly had their wild imagination come to life in this overly done 58-acre mansion. From a carousel-themed nursery to art deco-inspired bedrooms, the Deans personal taste is not for everyone, and some may even say that the home is more famous for the time it has been on the market. Listed on the market since 1993 (following the couples split), Perry plans to remodel and tear several rooms in order to create an environmentally-friendly home made out of concrete. To shift from extreme homes to an aesthetically pleasing one,  Bradley Whitford and Jane Kaczmarek have placed their 6,769-square-foot Italian-inspired villa on the market. The couple, who also separated, is seeking $6.7 million for their six bath, six-bedroom home.  Courtney Love’s public real estate plight has been reported on Curbed NY, the New York Post, and even here on Relocation.com.  Searching for a home next to Anna Wintour proved unsuccessful (Love was rejected by the condo board) and we guess living in Soho’s posh Mercer Hotel had its days numbered as Love is now leasing Milla Jovovich’s townhouse (which has been on the market since 2008). We’re interested to see how that living arrangement plays out…From extreme homes to peaceful abodes, we have you covered on the Celebrity Beat.

•    Tyler Perry Buys Georgia Mansion for $7.6 Million
Entertainment maven (comedian/actor/director/producer/playwright), Tyler Perry recently purchased the massive Dean Gardens estate in the suburban outskirts of Georgia for $7.6 million. The 58-acre estate, located along the Chattahoochee River, has been on the market for 17 years (Michael Jackson was once an interested buyer), which was conceptualized by software developer Larry Dean and his wife, Lynda. The 32,000 square foot mansion was designed by the Dean’s 21-year-old that took four years to create a massive wonderland of themed-bedrooms and grandiose chandeliers. The Deans, though, never did enjoy their overactive mansion. Shortly after the construction of the home (in 1993) the couple separated and placed it on the market, which it has been on for 17 years. It was recently listed for $13,900,000 for the home and its furnishings (carousels, an entry way with massive-sized Italian paintings, custom murals and a room with Peacock décor were some features); however, Perry declined that offer and paid $7.6 million solely for the home. The home has been recognized (both praised and scoffed) for its unique décor options, formal gardens, outdoor band shell, 18-hole golf course, 12-car garage, 12 fireplaces, eight themed-bedrooms, nine bathrooms and on-site wedding chapel. We’re not sure what to make of some of these odd features and perhaps Perry wasn’t either as he plans to tear down the house and “… build one that is environmentally friendly and made of concrete,” according to Zillow.com. Zillow broke down even further, “this will include paying $25 million to build it, $18 million to pay for staff, taxes and utilities over the years and $1 million in annual maintenance.” Perry also owns homes in Los Angeles, an 11.4 acre home in Fairburn, Georgia and a mansion in Atlanta, Georgia. It sure pays to be a quadruple threat…

•    Jane Kaczmarek, Bradley Whitford Place San Marino Villa on Market for $6.7 Million
Jane Kaczmarek and Bradley Whitford filed for a divorce in 2009, and sadly selling their gorgeous San Marino Villa was also involved in their separation. Located in San Marino (near Pasadena, California), the 6,769-square-foot home is described as an “Italian Renaissance Revival estate.” Designed in 1924, the home is situated on more than an acre of land that includes an outdoor swimming pool, original formal gardens, a spa, six bedrooms and six bathrooms, a library, hardwood flooring and a private guesthouse. The home, which underwent a massive renovation in 1997, was originally purchased for $5.9 million in 2004.

•    Emeril Lagasse Sells Midtown Loft for $4.6 Million
Emeril Lagasse, famous for the catch phrases (“Bam” and “Lets Kick it Up a Notch), and of course for his Cajun cooking, recently sold his loft at the Beekman Regent NYC condo for $4.6 million. Located in Midtown Manhattan, the 4,000-square-foot apartment is a combination of two adjacent apartments that includes two kitchens – both of which have modern and stainless steel appliances, a formal dining room, a media room and two master suites. The apartment also features views of the skyline and the East River whose building’s interior includes 24-karat gold hardware and mahogany wood. According to the New York Post, Emeril won’t have to worry about his living situation that much longer since he reportedly just closed on a 6,900-square-foot Upper East Side townhouse. His new $11.5 million pad is recently renovated and includes two terraces, six fireplaces and a chef’s kitchen.

•    Courtney Love to Lease Milla Jovovich’s NYC Townhouse
Much has been reported about adventurous tales of grunge rocker Courtney Love and her search for an apartment in NYC. Seems this tale has a happy ending, at least temporarily, as it was reported that Love is leasing a townhouse from actress/model Milla Jovovich. Love has been living in the luxurious Mercer Hotel in Soho for the past year while searching for a home in the West Village. Love has been looking to live next to Anna Wintour whose board rejected her request. Seems like a perfect situation for both parties as Jovovich has been trying to sell her Greenwich Village townhouse since 2008. Listed for sale at $7.5 million, the four-floor home includes four bedrooms, a private garden, a dining room and a rooftop deck. Curbed NY reported that Jovovich was seeking $24,000/month for rent. However, there was no word if this is what Love will be paying.

•    Max Weinberg Asking $3.3 Million for Flipped Home
Max Weinberg, resident drummer on the “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” and former member of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band recently listed a Hollywood Hills home for sale. Purchased in February 2009 for $2,888,000, Weinberg and his wife, Rebecca, renovated the home and is now looking to make a profit by listing it for $3,399,000. The contemporary five bedrooms, three bathroom home – previously owned by the parents of Maggie and Jake Gyllenhaal – includes views of the city, a swimming pool among a lush garden and angled stairs and 2,916-square-feet of living space. An infamous house flipper, Weinberg has been purchasing homes in California and New York, renovating them and selling them since the early 2000s.

Which home sparks your interest?

The Great De-Clutter: Getting Rid of Your Belongings While Packing for a Move

By Kathy Woodard

So, you finally found the perfect home, congratulations! The next step is planning for your big moving day, and the first thing you need to think about is packing. While packing for a move, getting rid of unneeded or unwanted belongings can save you time, money and a whole lot of aggravation. Here are some great ideas for The Great De-Clutter!

Room by room:
Most of us have a whole houseful of clutter that we don’t even realize we move! It can feel overwhelming to consider everything you need to go through, so start by breaking it down into smaller jobs.  Sort through each room one at a time; don’t try to tackle the whole house in a weekend. Plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to decide what’s worth keeping, and what needs a new home. Have three piles; one for trash, one for give away, and one for packing. When you finally get through all the rooms, move all your give away piles into a garage or empty floor space, and begin the de-cluttering! Here’s what to do with all that stuff…

Sell it:
Lots of the things you no longer want may be old for you, but may be a great find for someone else. And guess what; they may be willing to pay you for it. Items often in demand are electronic equipment, furniture, books, entertainment and items of value, such as jewelry. You may even sell enough stuff to help pay for your move! Great ways to find buyers for your unneeded belongings:

• Craigslist.com
• Local classified newspaper
• Bulletin boards at apartments, churches, and health clubs
• Social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter
• Friends and family

Speaking of friends and family…
Many times the people you love the most have similar tastes and needs as you. They may have had their eye on that dog painting above your fireplace for years, and now is their chance! Host a “Moving On” party. Move all your give away items to a garage space, a yard, or an unused room. Now invite all your friends and family for pot luck, inviting them to bring both a dish, and plenty of extra space in the car for the ride home A good time to be had by all, and everyone gets to pick and choose what they would like. Everyone wins!

In the case that not all your treasures are snapped up by those who know you best…

Give it away
There are many benefits to donating items you no longer need, or just plain don’t want to pack. Donating so items can be reused is environmentally responsible, can give you a tax savings and most of all, will help you to accomplish the main objective… de-cluttering! Many charities will even come to your door and pick up for free. When you have sold all you can sell, and given away as much as you can to family and friends, this is your next step. Make sure to get (and save) a receipt from the charity you choose to donate to so you can deduct the value from your taxes. You might want to call several weeks in advance of your move if you want to get a pick up; some charities book far in advance for those services. Here are some great ideas for charities to donate to, but there are many more. Check your local phone book, or ask at a local church for more ideas.

• Goodwill
• Purple Heart
• Salvation Army

Also, consider the website Freecycle.com. You can post your items to give away in your local area, just like on Craigslist. Things tend to get snatched up pretty quickly, so it’s a good place to try if you can’t wait for a charity pick up.

Getting rid of your belongings while packing for a move is a necessity not only for the packing process, but to help you enjoy your new home as well. After all, why start over in a new home with all your old stuff? On top of all that, having a little less stuff is sure to save you on some money when using movers.

Want free home and garden ideas? Kathy Woodard, is an author, columnist and home decorating expert. Visit her at her website  www.TheBudgetDecorator.com and also at www.DecoratingYourSmallSpace.com.

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

The spectrum of ridiculousness and luxury real estate just took a turn to the extreme on this week’s edition of the Celebrity Beat. To start things off with a bang, it was reported that the most expensive home was sold in London by an undisclosed buyer – insert your speculations here – for $220 million. Located in a building called One Hyde Park, the new owner will have six bedrooms, bulletproof windows and a panic room — perhaps these are standard amenities when you purchase a home of this nature. On a smaller scale (but not by much), there were many other homes shuffled through sales and placed on the market. In NYC, Rachel Maddow purchased a two-bedroom West Village apartment for $1.25 million that was once owned by the lead singer of R.E.M. Nicole Kidman and her hubs Keith Urban  are also on the Beat for reportedly buying a three-bedroom home in West Chelsea. This newly designed home is being touted for its modern amenities, in particular, a sky garage that transports cars to its resident’s homes and back to the garage – seems to us that Jetson-like living isn’t that far away.

• The Most Expensive Home Recently Purchased in the UK for $220 Million

An undisclosed buyer recently purchased the most expensive homes in the world, according to Housing Watch.com. The new development called One Hyde Park was purchased for a whopping $220 million. Beginning construction in 2006 — the building with 86 properties – is still undergoing development with plans to complete the landscaping by December 2010. The unit purchased by the mystery buyer is reported to be a two-story, six-bedroom place with view of nearby Hyde Park. The London home also includes bulletproof windows and a panic room — for what we could imagine is needed the homes hefty price tag

• Nicole Kidman Buys New Penthouse for $10 Million

The starchitecture district, located in West Chelsea will soon have new residents. The New York Post and Curbed NY are reporting that Nicole Kidman and her husband Keith Urban have purchased at new penthouse at the posh 200 Eleventh Avenue for $10 million. Originally listed for $12.5 million, the super luxurious pad features amazing views of the Hudson, a private elevator opening to their foyer and access to  Sky Garage, an automatic car elevator that will take Kidman directly to her apartment (see picture). The penthouse – featuring 3,248 square feet – includes three bedrooms and a master suite with a walk-in closest, 3.5 bathrooms, a large study and a modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances. According to the building’s website, Kidman and Urban can also enjoy several on-site amenities such as a 24/7 attended lobby and a fitness center with a spa.

• Scarlett Johansson and Ryan Reynolds Purchase New Home in L.A.

Super couple Scarlett Johansson and Ryan Reynolds recently purchased a new 2,835-square-foot home in Los Angeles for $2.9 million. The home, located in the hills of Los Feliz, includes two bedrooms, three bathrooms, a guest room with hardwood flooring and high ceilings. The small home also includes a two-car garage, a state-of-the-art security system and an outdoor area with a swimming pool and small garden. It is also reported by the RealEstalker that Johansson and Reynolds are looking for another home in Louisiana with eco-friendly amenities.

•    Elvis Presley’s Honeymoon House for Rent

According to Zillow.com, the Palm Springs, California home where Priscella and Elvis Presley stayed during their honeymoon is currently listed for rent. According to the estate’s website, ElvisHoneymoon.com, you can also have a corporate seminar, tour, film or have your own wedding/honeymoon at the home. Once considered “the House of Tomorrow” for its art deco design concepts, the home has been preserved with furnishings from the 1960s that also includes two bedrooms, four bathrooms and 4,695 square feet of living space.

•    Rachel Maddow Buys Michael Stipe’s West Village Apartment
Rachel Maddow, host of “MSNBC,” recently purchased a West Village apartment that was once owned by R.E.M’s front man, Michael Stipe. Purchased for $1.25 million, the luxurious loft is quite the step up for Maddow who was formerly living in a 275-square-foot NYC apartment, according to Curbed NY. Her new digs – on Jane Street – include two bedrooms, gorgeous view of the Hudson and 1,325 square feet of living space.  A former paper warehouse, the building was turned into condos in 1976.

Urban Gardening: How to Garden in Your Small Space

By Kathy Woodard

Urban gardening can seem to be a paradox; how can one garden in a small space especially in places like NYC that are renowned for their cramped apartments? The fact is, it can be done and it is a fast growing trend amongst city dwellers. There are a few guidelines that can help get you started if you too are determined to grow your own piece of paradise, no matter how small your outdoor space.

Grow-in:
The fact is, for most city dwellers you are going to be doing your gardening in containers. The choices in containers are larger now than it’s ever been, including lightweight choices for those of us with balconies and rooftops. Many containers are made to look like expensive pottery or stone, but are in fact easy maintenance foam or other lightweight material. These pots are tough, beautiful and practical, and come in large sizes.

What you put inside the pot is important also. When growing on patios, terraces or balconies, it’s critical to make sure your pots are not too heavy. Using a soil less potting mixture will ensure you have healthy plants without the extra pounds. Many potting mixes even have time release fertilizer right in the mix, eliminating one more aspect of container gardening maintenance.

Grow-up:
When space is limited as it is in an urban garden, think up. Many plants can be grown in pots up trellises, tepees or poles. This is a great way to utilize your small space garden effectively to ensure you have room for a variety of plants. Think easy colorful vines, fresh pole beans, even roses!

Grow-down:
Growing down simply means using hanging pots to create space where there is none! Trailing plants are perfect for this, but shorter upright plants can be used in these designs as well.

What makes your garden grow?
An urban container garden in a small space needs the same things any garden does… water, nutrients and sunlight. Make sure you water regularly, as containers have a tendency to dry out quickly, especially during hot weather. Make sure each container has adequate drainage so the roots don’t sit in water and rot.

Nutrients get washed out of the soil in container plants quickly. Make sure there is a time released fertilizer in your potting soil, and every other watering consider adding a water soluble fertilizer to your watering can at half strength for an added boost.

You may be limited in the plants you can have in your garden if your outdoor space faces only one direction. Whether your small garden space gets mostly shade or mostly sun, or somewhere in between, there are great plants you can use. Be sure to stick to ones for your exposure. Planting a shade loving hosta in the blazing afternoon sun is never going to work. Likewise, expecting dwarf sunflowers to give you beautiful blooms with nothing but filtered shade is unrealistic.

Finally, while there is definitely a lot less weeding and maintenance with a container garden (one of the many percs!) make sure you take care of those things when they occur. Birds can drop weed seeds, flowers still need to be snipped off as they fade and occasionally you will want to replace plants that aren’t working.

Grow this!
Here are my top choices for plants to grow in your urban garden…

Edibles

• Pole and bush beans
• Herbs of all kinds
• Lettuce and other greens

Flowers

• Allysum
• Lobelia
• Geranium
• Sweet potato vine
• Purple fountain grass
• Verbena

Vines

• Pole vegetables
• Morning Glory
• Cardinal Flower
• Black eyed Susan Vine

No matter where you live, there is always a way to garden. Look for what you have, not what you don’t have. Grow, nurture and enjoy a garden in your small space!

Want free home and garden ideas? Kathy Woodard, is an author, columnist and home decorating expert. Visit her at her website  www.TheBudgetDecorator.com and also at www.DecoratingYourSmallSpace.com.

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

We had quite the mixed bag of homes for sales and home purchases this week. “Extra” host Mario Lopez recently purchased a 4,430 square-foot home in Glendale, California for the obvious reasons: outdoor pool, courtyard with a fountain and state-of-the art and modern amenities as well as for the not-so-obvious reasons: it will be the location of his new reality show where he and his baby mama will be filmed as they experience the trails of becoming new parents. While  some may tune-in to catch Lopez juggle his abdominal workouts while changing diapers, we are more interested in seeing how he will upgrade and personalize his Spanish-style home with home improvement projects and decor. Disney star-turned-actress, Hilary Duff also made this week’s Beat for purchasing an elegant Toluca Lake estate with her fiancé Mike Comrie for $3.85 million. We also reported on an interesting auction of the home of Joey Fatone. Fatone, who was in the band ‘NSync, is asking $6.5 million for the home that features a swimming pool and an outdoor sushi bar. These properties never cease to amuse and amaze us! Until next week…

•    Former ‘NSyncer, Joey Fatone Selling Orlando Home for $6.5 Million
Joey Fatone, of the popular 90s boy-band ‘NSync, will auction his home for $6.5 million citing wanting to be closer to his family as the reason for the sale. The gated estate, located in Orlando, is situated on 4.4 acres of lakefront property that includes 10 bathrooms, a 10-car garage and six bedrooms, including a 3,800 square-foot master suite with a butler’s pantry. The home also has 12,400-square-feet of living space that includes a movie theatre with stadium seating and an outdoor grotto area with a sushi bar,  swimming pool and spa. The minimum bid for the auction is $3.7 million, which will take place on September 11, 2010.

•    Mel Brooks Sells Ocean-Front Home for $5.3 Million
Comedian and director Mel Brooks recently sold his Watermill, New York home for $5.3 million. The 1,968-square-foot property was originally purchased for $2,995,000 by Brooks and his late wife, Anne Bancroft, which has been rented out for several summers. The home, situated by the ocean on. 74 acres, includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fireplace and is right down the street from last week’s celebrity beat seller, Christie Brinkley.

•    Leeza Gibbons Buys New Home for $6,600,000
Entertainment reporter Leeza Gibbons recently purchased a home in Beverly Hills, California for $6,600,000. The Mediterranean-style home includes five bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms and backyard complete with a heated swimming pool, spa and lush greenery. The 6,579-square-foot home also includes walnut wood flooring, a family room, a fitness room, a billiard room, an office, a three-car garage, a home theatre, four fireplaces and a state-of-the-art security system.

•    Mario Lopez Gets a New Home for $1,940,000
Mario Lopez of “Saved by the Bell” fame recently purchased a new home in Glendale, California. Sold to Lopez for a modest price tag of $1,940,000 (at least in celebrity real estate terms), the home will soon be seen by the rest of America when VH1 starts filming a new reality series about the trials and tribulations of Lopez’s life with a new baby. If you can’t wait to see the show, we can tell you the Spanish-style home includes four bedrooms, six bathrooms, three-car garage and a gorgeous courtyard with a fountain. The home, built in 1929, is fully renovated that also includes 4,430 square-feet of living space, a eat-in kitchen with modern appliances, an office, a formal dining area with hardwood flooring, arched doorways, fireplace and a swimming pool.

•    Teen Queen Hilary Duff Buys Home for $3.85 Million
Hilary Duff, former Disney star- and sometimes-designer/singer/actress recently purchased a colonial-style home for $3.85 million with her her fiancé Mike Comrie. Located in Toluca Lake, the elegant 5,260-square-foot two-story house includes five bedrooms, 6.5 bathrooms, an outdoor fireplace and a swimming pool and a modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Other amenities include a wet bar, French doors located throughout the home, a curved staircase, high ceilings and hardwood flooring. Duff and her fiancé Mike Comrie can also look forward to getting to know other Toluca Lake residents like Jenny Garth, Gwen Stefani and their next door neighbor, Britney Spears.

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

What an exciting week in the world of celebrity real estate. The home that Michael Jackson rented before he died was listed on the market for a whopping $28,995,000! With seven bedrooms, a game/media room, a theatre and a pool the new owner will never have to leave the property. Meg Ryan also made an appearance on the Beat for leasing her home for rent. Asking price? A mere $40,000 a month — or what we figure is better spent on two years worth of rent.  Christie Brinkley is also in the news for placing her beachfront home on the market. She is reportedly a huge fan of home improvement projects but cited lack of time to maintain the property as one of the reasons for the listing. We also reported on the foreclosure of Damon Dash’s (co-founder of Roc-A-Feller Records) NYC condos. Dash reportedly fell into the old spending-more-than-what-you-have bit and was unable to pay his $78,504 monthly mortgage payments.

•    Michael Jackson’s Home on the Market for $28,995,000
Yes, those numbers are correct and yes, this is the very home that Michael Jackson rented for $100,000 a month before he passed away in June of 2009 (owner is Hubert Guez, CEO of Ed Hardy).  This Holmby Hills estate (located in Los Angeles) is certainly fit for a King, or maybe just the King of Pop. The list of amenities goes on and on for “French Chateau” such as a wood-paneled den, a library, a modern eat-in kitchen, seven bedrooms, 13 bathrooms, seven garage spaces and 12 fireplaces all of which is situated on 1.26 acres of land. On top of all, the 17,171 square feet home (about $1,689 per square foot) also has a wine cellar, a media room, an art studio, a movie theatre, an indoor bar, a spa and a gym, lush gardens and greenery and an heated outdoor pool. Property listings describe this luxurious and gated abode as a “major achievement in design and proportion, incorporating classic design and impeccable craftsmanship and offering the perfect integration of charm and elegance in a world-class setting.” With that asking price and all that is included we wonder what King or Queen will be the reigning owner of this property.

•    Meg Ryan Renting Her Home for $40,000 a Month
Back in October, actress Meg Ryan listed this California home for $14.2 million only to be removed from the property listings a mere two months later. According to Zillow.com, Ryan has now listed her Spanish-style Bel Air home for rent at $40,000 a month. A bit steep for a lease but the world of celebrity real estate follows its own set of rules. And for whoever can afford this agreement will have quite the gorgeous beachfront estate to look after. The spacious home includes six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, four fireplaces and of course stunning views of the ocean. There is also hardwood flooring, open archways, wood-beamed ceilings and a modern kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances. There are no reports as to how long the rental agreement would last.

•    Hip Hop Mogul Damon Dash Losses Home to Foreclosure
Damon Dash, Co-Founder of Roc-A-Feller Records recently lost his TriBeCa condo to a foreclosure. Sold for $5.5 million, Dash reportedly stopped paying his $78,504 in mortgage payments on his two condos — one on Moore Street and the other on Laight Street. (We wonder why one would need two condos in the same neighborhood but perhaps that is a part of the whole celebrity real estate conundrum.)  Dash attempted to sell the Moore Street condo right after the real estate market crashed for $7.9 million and again for $5.75 million in 2009 with no interested buyers. Since he was unable to pay  his loan, Dash was sued twice and finally ordered to put his home through the auction process by the New York Supreme Court. A California-based finance firm, Platinum Capital, purchased the home. His second home (on Laight Street in NYC) went unsold and was taken over by Eastern Savings Bank.

•    Steve Carell Buys Home for $6 Million
Steve Carell of “The Office” recently purchased 1.27 acre estate for $6 million dollars. Located in Toluca Lake, California, the 5,126-sqaure-foot home includes six bedrooms, five bathrooms, a pool house and a tennis court. Toluca Lake is home to many celebrity neighbors that Carell can soon mingle with. According to the Real Estalker, Eric McCormack, Markie Post, Swoosie Kurtz, Andy Garcia, Demi Lovato, and Ashley Tisdale all live in Toluca Lake.”

•    Christie Brinkley Lists North Haven Home for Sale
Model/socialite and real estate investor Christie Brinkley recently listed her New Haven home on the market for $15.75 million. Built in the 19th century, the waterfront home not only has gorgeous views of the beach and the surrounding bay but is surrounded on 4.5 acres of land and 327 feet of beachfront. The 5,500-square-foot columned mansion has five-bedrooms, six bathrooms, four fireplaces and an outdoor pool. Brinkley cited busyness and an inability to maintain the property as the reason for the sale. She has an avid interest in home improvement projects stating “love fixing up old houses, but my life is so busy between with my children, launching several new businesses and my philanthropy, I just don’t have time.”

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

At Relocation.com, we are big believers in renovating your home or apartment for obvious reasons (like say, repairing a faulty toilet or fixing broken tiles) or to enhance the look and feel of your house. For homeowners, these projects may increase the value of a home, which can be rather helpful when you are seeking to sell. However, when you spend $50 million (yes, I  said $50 million dollars) for a home renovation, we have clearly entered into the mysterious and costly world of celebrity real estate. This exact transaction recently took place in NYC when the designer, Tommy Hilfiger forked over $50 million buckaroos to redesign his duplex. Pictures of the gorgeous home were taken by Harper’s Bazaar so we can all admire the “European-inspired” home from afar and truly see what you can do to your home when money is no object. This week you can also read more about Cameron Diaz who purchased Candice Bergen’s Beverly Hills home for $9.4 million. The homes of the late Jim Morrison and the late Ed McMahon are listed for sale, as well as Sasha Baron Cohen’s home that is listed on the market for $2.9 million. Let us know which home sounds interesting to you. Until next week…

•   Tommy Hilfiger Renovates Home for $50 Million
Clothing designer Tommy Hilfiger recently renovated his two-floor NYC duplex for the hefty price tag of $50 million. This home improvement project has been in the works for two years to create “an old-world atmosphere complementing the old-world Plaza,” as Hilfiger stated to Harper’s Bazaar. The project involved a complete gut renovation of Hilfiger’s 6,000-square-foot duplex to create a glamorous/vintage European-vibe. And that it certainly is. The newly redesigned duplex now includes a gorgeous Maison Jansen dining room table, crystal chandeliers, a nautical-themed kid’s room complete with a ship bed and a French Renaissance-style turret featuring an Eloise mural by Hilary Knight. There is also a 20-piece collection by Andy Warhol, paintings by Jean Michel Basquiat and an American flag painting by Jasper Johns that Hilfiger is reportedly interested in buying. The home also features a private domed terrace, which overlooks Central Park that was redesigned with checkered flooring, a black sitting table and custom cut plants.

Check out more photos of Tommy Hilfiger’s Plaza home as featured in Harper’s Bazaar.

•    Jim Morrison’s Laurel Canyon Home for Sale
The Laurel Canyon home of the late Jim Morrison has recently been listed on the market for $1,199,000. Previously sold for $535,000 in 2001, the rustic 2,300-square-foot home is reportedly where Morrison did a lot of his song writing and hung out  in the 1960s. The quaint home includes three bedrooms, open beamed ceilings, distressed wood floors, iron fixtures and a outdoor deck with a fire pit, gym and shower, as reported on Housing Watch. The new owner may also discover some of Morrison’s writings behind the wall of an indoor shower where he reportedly kept some of his poetry and songs – Strange Days, indeed.

•    Cameron Diaz Buys Candice Bergen’s Beverly Hills Home
According to the Real Estalker, Cameron Diaz recently purchased Candice Bergen’s Beverly Hills home for $9, 447,500. Originally listed for $10,250,000, the 5,000-square foot home features four bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms and a detached guest house that encompasses almost an acre of land includes another three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The sophisticated home also features hardwood and tiled flooring, high ceilings and an outdoor area with a pool, tennis court, gardens and a spa.

•   Sacha Baron Cohen Lists Los Angeles Home for $2.9 Million
Sacha Baron Cohen aka the man behind “Ali G” and “Borat” recently listed his 2,806-square-foot home on the market for $2.9 million. The single-story Los Angeles abode features three bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a detached guest room and a two-car garage. Other amenities in the house include hardwood flooring, a fireplace, French doors leading to the dining room, a modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances and white cabinets and an outdoor deck with a pool and spa.

•    Ed McMahon’s Beverly Hills Home on the Market for $4.6 Million
The home of the late Ed McMahon is on the market $4.6 million. Originally listed in 2008 for the same price, the Mediterranean-style is located in a gated community in Beverly Hills that overlooks canyons and a sprawling yard. The California estate includes six bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, fireplace and a swimming pool. The seller (who was also a friend of McMahon’s) made significant home improvements on the 7,013-square-foot estate that faced foreclosure in 2008.

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

A few politicos made “the Celebrity Beat” this week. The “Lion of the Senate” aka the late Ted Kennedy’s Washington, DC home was recently placed on the market for $7,995,000. This massive Colonial-style estate includes five bedrooms, six bathrooms, a wine cellar and a personal gym designed by “the Terminator” or Governor Schwarzenegger, as he is referred to these days. On the right side of the political spectrum, Rush Limbaugh’s Upper East Side penthouse was sold for $11.5 million to an undisclosed buyer. Limbaugh has been stating he has wanted out of New York due to the city’s high property taxes — but if you have an $11 million dollar home, we are thinking you have sufficient funds to pay good-old Uncle Sam. To light things up a  bit, comedians Cheryl Hines and Adam Carrolla are both selling their California homes. Hines’ home is situated in Brentwood overlooking the mountains; while Carrolla’s home overlooks downtown Los Angeles that was also personally designed and renovated by Carrolla.

•    Ted Kennedy’s Home on the Market for $7,995,000
The Washington, DC home of the late Ted Kennedy (Kennedy passed in 2009 after a long bout with brain cancer) is on the market for $7.95 million. Purchased in 1998 for 2.7 million, the 8,900-square-foot home includes five bedrooms, six full-sized bathrooms and two half baths, a wine cellar, an indoor and outdoor pool, a secret hideaway from the library and an indoor gym designed by no other than the movie star-turned-gobernador Arnold Schwarzenegger! Described as a “Colonial-style home” whose decor features long white columns, French doors, high ceilings, an outdoor terrace, gardens and a massive dining room that is customized to fit 50 people. Listed by Vicki Kennedy (Kennedys’ widow), who is seeking a smaller home in Washington, DC. According to the Wall Street Journal, the home is “quietly being shopped around” with no current buyer.

•   Cheryl Hines Lists Brentwood Home for $4,249,000
Comedian and “Curb Your Enthusiasm” star Cheryl Hines recently listed her walled and gated Mandeville Canyon-area estate for $4,249,000.The 4,908-square-foot home sits on an acre of land that features stunning views of the nearby California mountains and new furnishings and renovations throughout the properties open-floor plan. If that isn’t enough, perhaps the homes six bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, a guest house and an outdoor pool with massive trees throughout the property may entice you to buy?

•    Joe Torre’s Home Listed for Auction at $1,175,000
Joe Torre, former coach of the New York Yankees and current coach of the Los Angeles Dodgers has recently placed is New Rochelle, New York to be sold via a public auction. Located 30 minutes from Manhattan, the 6,500-square-foot home is listed at $1,175,000 that is expected to exceed the asking price. Some notable features about the two-level property includes six bedrooms, five bathrooms, an indoor pool and a three-car garage all of which is situated on 1.01 acres of land. The first level features a family room, a fireplace, and a large kitchen; while the second level has a master suite, guest rooms and a laundry room. Owners of the property will also become stockholders of the estate property company. For more information on the auction, visit BidOnTheCity.com.

•    Rush Limbaugh Finds Buyer for NYC Penthouse
On another side of the political spectrum, conservative pundit Rush Limbaugh has found a buyer for his Upper East Side NYC penthouse. Originally listed for $13.95 million, the undisclosed buyer will pay $11.5 million for the condo, according to the Wall St. Journal. The full-floor penthouse overlooks Central Park and features 10 rooms, four terraces, a 30-foot-wide living room and a private elevator. The new buyer will also enjoy personal decorating touches of the conservative talk-show host such as ornate wall designs and a mural of clouds and birds in the master bedroom, along with various ceiling murals throughout the penthouse featuring palm trees and the beach. Limbaugh is relocating from New York due to the high property taxes, which he announced in February on his radio-show entitled “El Rushbo to New York: Drop Dead.”

•    Adam Carolla Lists Home for $1.3 Million
Comedian, Adam Carolla recently put his Beachwood Canyon home on the market. Carolla – who also owns two other properties in the Los Angeles-area – personally did all of the renovations on this three-bedroom as stated on the Luxist, “the home was totally rebuilt, piece by piece, like a restoration of an old car with modern equipment.” With a contractor background, Carolla spent at least $350,000 in home improvements on his 2,281-square-feet French-style home. The “ultimate bachelor pad,” that was “overbuilt,” as stated by Carolla, includes some interesting features such as an office, an indoor and outdoor bar, an updated kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances and a soundproof basement. The exterior of the house is also pretty impressive, which resembles a castle and overlooks downtown Los Angeles and views of the Hollywood sign.

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

This weeks “Celebrity Beat” is packed with exciting real estate reports from New York to California. Starting in New York, Bill and Hillary Clinton have reportedly been eying a home in Bedford Hills (a mere eight miles from their Chappaqua estate). The Bedford Hills home will be quiet the upgrade for Bill and Hillary with 20 acres of land, 7,000-square-foot of living space and more importantly will provide the couple with “privacy and security.” In California, Dr.Phil (of the “Dr. Phil” show and “Oprah”) recently listed his Mediterranean villa for sale at $16.5 million for a larger casa in the Hollywood Hills. It was also reported that Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martins’ home was “stripped down” and recreated by the New York City design team, Roman and Williams — resulting in a space filled with shimmery textures and pastels. Lady Gaga also made this weeks Beat for reportedly leasing a Bel-Air home for $25,000 a month — an amount many of us would pay for a years worth of rent.

•    Lady Gaga Renting Bel Air Home
The ever provocative pop star, Stefani Germanotta – better known as Lady Gaga – recently leased a Bel Air home for $25,000 a month. This rock star-style pad is situated on an acre of land that is both walled and gated and fully furnished, featuring a number of Marilyn Monroe pictures that don the walls. According to Zillow.com, the home is owned by real estate developer, “Lorne Leibel who purchased the home in 2004 for $3,150,031 that was later listed for $4,750,000 in 2009.” The 6,143-square-foot pad also features six bedrooms, eight bathrooms, marble flooring, fireplaces and an outdoor and raised pool next to a spacious deck. There is also an office, a library and a modern kitchen with a separate breakfast nook. There has been much speculation whether Gaga would be buying in New York, but it seems she is testing out a few places before she decides where she will relocate.

•    Dr. Phil Lists Beverly Hills Home for $16.5 Million
TV Psychologist, Dr. Phil McGraw and his wife, Robin, have recently listed their gated Beverly Hills, California home for $16.5 million. This massive Mediterranean-style villa – covering a little over 11,000 square feet – includes eight bedrooms, seven bathrooms, a screening room, a pool room, a music room, a library, staff quarters, a beauty salon, fitness center and guest quarters with two bedrooms. The landscaped pool and massive backyard aren’t too shabby either. According to the Real Estalker, property records indicate that Dr. Phil “purchased the property in 2002 for $7,500,000…in cash.” Reports indicate that the home is for sale because the couple purchased another California property that they have “been admiring for years,” according to the Chicago Tribune.

•    Gwyneth Paltrows’ $5.1 Million Dollar Home Redesigned
Hot designers, Roman and Williams, recently redesigned Gwyneth Paltrow’s and Chris Martin’s 4,400-square-foot TriBeCa penthouse. Purchased in 2007 for $5.1 million, the designing duo revamped the home by completing a “total strip down to stud and redesign” of the interior space to create a space filled with “light, moldings, glassy paint and fuzzy nap zones,” according to the designers blog. They also used shimmering silvers, whites and pastels throughout the space to create a romantic and elegant home for the actress, hubby musician and two kids. The space features three bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms and a terrace and an impressive modern kitchen.

•    Bill and Hillary Clinton Looking to Buy in Bedford Hills, New York
Bill and Hillary Clinton are looking to move from their Chappaqua, New York home a mere eight miles north to Bedford Hills. According to the New York Post, the Clinton’s have been seeking more space, along with a home that has “privacy and security,” which has been lacking in their Chappaqua, New York abode. This prospective Bedford Hills home nicknamed “Clover Hill” is described as an English country cottage with five bedrooms, seven bathrooms, numerous fireplaces, wood-beamed ceilings, horse stables, a heated pool, massive gardens and two guest houses all of which are situated on a lake. The Clinton’s will reportedly pay $10.9 million for this space – that also features an impressive 20 acres of land and 7,000-square-foot of living space.

Home Improvement Ideas: Simple Fixes to Change Your New Home

By Kathy Woodard

Now that moving is over and you’re finally in your new home, it’s time to make it your own and add some of your style and personality. There are some simple home improvement fixes to change your new home that anyone can do. With one weekend and a little elbow grease, you can have your place in tip top shape in no time!

Paint:
Ok, I know this is an obvious one. The reason you hear painting as the number one DIY project for new homeowners so often is because it’s effective. And cheap. And easy. What more could you want? Make sure you plan out your color scheme for each room or the whole house before you ever visit a paint store. Many a new homeowner has ended up with what in the store appeared to be a bold, trendy color, only to discover that their new home was pink — really pink. Consider not just walls, but kitchen and bathroom cabinets, trim and doors as well. Plan, prepare and try out sample paints before you take a whole project on, but do paint!

Paint more…
Yea, I know, back to the paint thing. But did you know you can paint more than walls? By using a good primer and some polyurethane for protection, just about anything can be painted. Some ideas?

•    Ugly bathroom countertops? If you can’t afford replacement counters, no worries. Prime, paint with a faux stone finish, then seal with polyurethane. Instant style update, without the remodeling price!

•    Does your new kitchen come complete with avocado green appliances? You can spray paint them with auto spray paint to camouflage the 1970s look. If you paint a stove, make sure you use stove paint to protect the finish from the heat. Most home improvement stores carry a good brand.

•    Yucky pink tile in the bathroom? Again, prime with a good primer, then paint. There are specialty paints for just this purpose, or you can use regular house paint and seal well with polyurethane.

•    Even vinyl flooring can be painted. Keep in mind however, the higher the amount of traffic the floor receives, the more coats of polyurethane you will want to use for protection.

Add curb appeal:
You can increase the curb appeal of your new home in a day with some simple fixes. Replace your house numbers with something more in line with your personal style. Add a new mailbox, and update the light fixtures on your porch. Consider adding a window box or two. Use ornamental grasses in your box to give your home a contemporary feel different from the other houses on the block. Finally, paint the front door. Making these easy changes will brand your house as yours from all the way down the street!

Add storage:
Most homes never have enough storage, so think about making that one of your first home improvement projects. Closet and pantry systems are available at most home improvement centers and are easily installed by a beginning DIYer. Don’t forget the garage! Even adding simple shelves, hooks and hangars for tools and other items can double your storage space.

Quick changes:
There are also some simple projects you can do in less than an hour. Change out the cabinet hardware in the kitchen and bath. Choose new glass shades for all your ceiling mount light fixtures. Replace mismatched window treatments with inexpensive blinds. Add curtain sheers. Clean your windows inside and out to add sparkle to every room!

There you have it, simple fixes to change your new home, without needing a class in engineering or the bank account of a celebrity!

Want free home and garden ideas? Kathy Woodard is an author, columnist and home decorating expert. Visit her websites: TheBudgetDecorator.com and DecoratingYourSmallSpace.com.

More articles for your home improvement plans:

• Budgeting for Home Improvement Projects
• Small-Space Design: Create More Storage Space
• You’ve Moved: Five Quick Home Improvement Ideas

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com’s Celebrity Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

Another week of the Celebrity Beat, your weekly celebrity real estate report and this is certainty a luxurious one. From Jenny Garth’s family-friendly mansion for sale to Madonna’s home renovations reportedly costing $1.7 million, and not to mention a $27 million dollar Miami palace (yes, a palace) for sale owned by Netscape founder, Jim Clark. These real estate listings never cease to amaze us, and after reading about them (and taking a peak at these jaw-dropping pictures) we’re sure you will think so, too.

• Jenny Garth’s Toluca Lake Home for Sale for $5,995,000
  Jenny Garth – of “Beverly Hills 90210” fame – and her actor hubby, Peter Facinelli are selling their six-bedroom, seven bathroom Toluca Lake home for $5, 995,000. This 8,416-square-foot Colonial-style mansion was originally purchased in 2005 for $2,850,000 that has been greatly expanded and remodeled for additional rooms and modern amenities. The multi-winged mansion also includes gated and fenced surroundings, two master suites with dual walk-in closets, a breakfast area leading to an outdoor rose garden, a formal dining area, four fireplaces, hardwood floors, a media/kids space, arched doorways and a game room with a poker table, bubble gum dispenser and a pinball machine! Oh, and there is a five-car garage and a swimming pool – among many other amenities the new homeowner will love. Toluca Lake, California is also known as being family-friendly, which may help draw in a new owner.

• Madonna’s Townhouse Will Receive Renovations for $1.7 Million
  We all know who Madonna is and with an impressive 20-plus career as a singer/actor/writer/ sometimes provocateur, she obviously has some money to invest in real estate. Some of that hard-earned dough — to the tune of $1.7 million — is currently being put into the renovation of her $32 million dollar New York City townhouse. According to the New York Post, Madonna is adding another floor in her soon-to-be 13,847-square-foot Upper East Side home to include a gym, two brand-new master suites, a closest solely for luggage, a playroom, a hair salon and a wine cellar in the basement. At the end of the day, Madge will have 10 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms in her Georgian-style mansion. Not quite the renovations necessary to beef up your home for a sale, but when you have $1.7 mil to add a home hair salon and a wine cellar, we’re pretty sure this is something she is not worrying about.

• Faith Hill and Tim McGraw Sell Beverly Hills Home for $9.55 Million
  Super couple and country/movie stars, Faith Hill and Tim McGraw, recently sold their Beverly Hills mansion for $9.55 million. On the market since 2008, the home was originally listed at $14.8 million, reduced to $10.8 million and finally sold for $9.55 million. The 11,000-square-foot Mediterranean-style home is situated on three acres of land and includes six bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms and impressive views of Los Angeles. There is also a home gym, massive gardens, a tree house, tennis courts, a heated pool and a boat dock. For more jaw-dropping pictures, check out the Wall Street Journal.

• The Hawaiian Estate of the Late Author Michael Crichton is on the Market
  According to Zillow.com, the Hawaiian estate of the late Michael Crichton has been recently put on the market for $12 million. Crichton, author of the popular novels “Jurassic Park” and “Congo” (both of which were made into movies) and creator of the television show “E.R.” passed away in 2008, left two homes that have since been listed for sale. Built in 1926 for a local doctor, this Hanalei Bay estate is situated on 1.2 acres of land, resembling a plantation home with three parcels (one is empty). The main parcel is a 3,000-square-foot space features a calming décor with mainly white cabinetry and hardwood flooring. There are also two bedrooms, two bathrooms, an open-aired porch, a guest home with two bedrooms and 1.5 baths, along with a yoga studio and detached three-car garage. The property is also surrounded by lovely views of mountains and the beach, as well as a flourishing garden and lush greenery in the backyard.

• Tales from the World of Luxury Real Estate: Jim Clark’s Massive Miami Penthouse Listed for $27 Million
  Jim Clark, founder of Netscape recently listed his uber luxurious home for sale at $27 million. Located in Miami, the multi-level penthouse — or perhaps palace is a better term — is an ode to Thai and Asian cultures that is listed as a “Thai home in the sky,” according to Sotheby’s Realty. The 6,209-square-foot space is filled with ancient statues and artwork, unique architecture, custom wood carvings and dangling gold chandeliers situated throughout the space. Although spirited with an Asian-focus, the home is not short on modern amenities, which includes granite countertops, a billiard room, a high-tech security system, an open-aired deck with a swimming room, bar and a hot tub. Additionally, the property — called the Setai — comes with many on-site amenities such as a valet, room service, a fitness room and spa and three pools. And to top it all off, the new homeowner will have amazing views of Miami Beach and the boardwalk.

Missed a Beat? Check out Relocation.com’s recent blog posts covering the entertaining tales of celebrity real estate:

• A converted church, Penelope Cruz and Sheryl Crow!
• Tiny Fey, Will Ferrell and a “Real Housewives of New Jersey” foreclosure

Decorating Ideas: How to Design with your Kids

By Kathy Woodard

Congratulations, you have survived the moving process to your new home! Although your kids accepted the moving news, they may be feeling less than settled in — as well as a little scared and uneasy once they are in their new home. One of the best ways to help kids make the transition after a move is create a space that is all their own by decorating their room. This will help them create a new look for their new room, as well as offer a creative outlet and a way for them to express themselves.

Start talking about decorating your child’s new room before moving day. Allow the excitement to help with those difficult transitions. Brainstorm ideas with your child, so you can get an idea of what appeals to them!

As soon as you are settled into your new home, start making decorating your kids rooms a reality. Take them shopping in your new community to get ideas for their room décor. (This is a also a great way for them to start feeling more at home)

Create a plan with your child, not for them. You want to make sure your child is involved in the whole process. This way they will feel a real kinship with their new space, and taking ownership goes a long way toward getting over that homesick feeling for all they left behind at their old home.

Pick a theme and a color scheme with your child. This doesn’t have to be some cutesy cartoon character theme or anything commercial at all. Perhaps your 10-year-old wants a chic, stylish room painted in pinks and greens; while your toddler may want fish and mermaids. As soon as you identify your theme, write it down and have them make a drawing or list of what things they would like included in their room. Make sure they include the necessities like window coverings and storage, in addition to the beaded curtain they want as a closet door, or the disco ball they will insist will make a great bedroom lamp. Sit down together, and make choices as to what will be acceptable to you, and what you can afford.

Come up with creative ways you can make the room happen within your budget, and work on these home improvement projects together. Some money saving ideas?

•    Sew two sheets together on three sides and insert their old comforter for an inexpensive duvet cover.

•    Use paint to create the feeling in the room. Whether your child is quiet and shy, outgoing and vivacious, or somewhere in between, the right color scheme for their personality will make the difference between the room being a success, or a dud! Paint is cheap; use it ravishingly to create a fantasy for your child.

•    Visit dollar shops for accessories for your child. Fun picture frames, storage baskets in bright colors, and themed toys to use for décor are all easy finds that will save you big money. Remember, stick to your theme!

•    Craft and fabric stores are a gold mine for the DIY decorator. Use iron on hem tape to create simple curtains and throw pillows. Use craft foam in your rooms colors to cut out shapes that can be used as 3-D art on the walls.

•    Visit thrift stores and yard sales to find rugs, lamps and accessories that can be renewed with a quick update of paint or fabric.

Finally, make a party of decorating day. Assemble all the ingredients and implement them all at once, instead of gradually. This gives a dramatic effect and underlines the importance this new space has for the child. Allow them to invite a couple of their new friends over to celebrate, or make it a family affair with a barbecue or the child’s favorite dinner.

Decorating for kids when you move to a new home can be a fun and a healthy transitional experience for both parent and child. Take advantage of the situation to make it a bonding experience you will both remember.

Want free home and garden ideas? Kathy Woodard is an author, columnist and home decorating expert. Read more articles written by Kathy on the websites TheBudgetDecorator.com and DecoratingYourSmallSpace.com.

Home Improvement Project: How to Garden for Beginners

By Kathy Woodard

Whether you are moving to a new home or have lived in your residence for a long time, there are certain home improvement projects that can spruce up your landscape and add value to your property, while also being an enjoyable activity for you and your family. As the top hobby in the country and a fun home improvement project, gardening beautifies your property, relieves stress, offers good exercise and even supplies you with fresh herbs for your dinner. Not to mention, it allows you the opportunity to commune with nature in your own backyard! Not knowing how to garden can stop many people from picking up that first trowel or planting that gorgeous rose they have long admired. No need to fear those hydrangeas, beginners can easily learn how to garden by following these simple tips.

Learn, learn, learn.
There are so many resources now for learning about gardening. Libraries and book stores overflow with gardening books and the internet has a wealth of information. Consider joining a local gardening club or online forum.  Start a notebook where you can keep magazine pages of yards or plants you’ve admired, notes from online searches, or snapshots of your yard, both before you start gardening and as you progress.

Don’t bite off more than you can chew.
The biggest mistake beginner gardeners make is to start with too large a garden, or to use plants that require an expert’s care. You can always add more to your garden as you gain experience; nothing is as off putting to a newbie as a huge garden that turns, practically overnight, from gorgeous blooms to overrun weeds. Talk about taking the bloom off the rose! It’s common to quit gardening after a bad experience, so don’t let this mistake choose for you. Start small. Start simple.

Plan… but be flexible.
Make sure you spend some time drawing out a plan for your new garden. Make lists of plants that you would like to try, and research what times of year they bloom or fruit and what their special needs are. Group plants with similar needs together. Make sure shade plants are planted in shade, and sun plants in the sun. All that have been said don’t be afraid to try something new. Sometimes a volunteer plant will pop up and look just gorgeous right where it is. Other times you will have chosen a certain plant for a site and find that even after all your preparation, it doesn’t do well there. So, move it! Head to the nursery with a list, but don’t be afraid to substitute a plant for a new find. (Be careful with this one, you may come home with twice the plants you need!) Also, make sure that you purchase the proper gardening tools and don’t be afraid to ask for help!

Find a passion within your garden.
Once you learn a bit about how to garden, most beginners find a niche in gardening that ignites their passion. Find it, and enjoy it. Wildlife gardening, growing your own food, growing flowers for your own arrangements or water gardens complete with koi and living water plants are common passions. Letting yourself find that connection with the outdoors that speaks to you will only enhance your love of gardening all the more.

Consider hiring help.
If you love the idea of having a garden, or have gotten in a little over your head, hiring a gardener can be the perfect solution.

•    Decide what kind of help you need. Do you need just regular mowing and fertilizing, while you take care of the flower beds? Do you want your gardener to do it all?  Are you somewhere in between? Knowing what you need and what you can afford is the first step.

•    Ask for reference from family and friends.

•    Choose a garden service you can communicate with well. The last thing you want is for your new “help” to cut down the prize hydrangea you have been growing all season, or to use pesticides on your organic vegetables.

Learning how to garden is a fun and healthy hobby for beginners. Just follow these tips to get turn all your fingers into “green thumbs”!

Want free home and garden ideas? Kathy Woodard is an author, columnist and home decorating expert.  To read more articles by Kathy, visit The Budget Decorator and The Garden Glove.

How to Locate a Contractor

By Serena Norr

Remodeling is great way to alter some rooms in your home to add value to your property, or as a way to fix and repair existing damage. Anything from adding on new bathroom tiles to expanding your kitchen to knocking down walls can be a great way to add value to your home and of course make it more presentable.

Some people opt to go the do-it-yourself route as they channel their inner decorator/contractor in order to save money. This can be a great idea for simple projects like painting and gardening, but with massive projects such as landscaping or window installation it is better to hire a professional such as a contractor.

Once you decide to hire a contractor, there will be the challenge of actually finding one and not finding just anyone, but someone whose services, rates, professionalism and personality are all on par with what you need. This will require some time and research on your part as you ask friends, post tweets, scour the internet and skim through your phone book. It is also important to figure out exactly what you need (bathroom tiles), as well your design ideas (pink elephants on the tiles, but not too pink) and of course your budget. Having in-house meetings where you can ask questions, show the potential contractor your home, as well as receive multiple bids is huge when locating a contractor. Be wiry of going with the cheapest bid, sometimes this may be the right decision, but the old adage of “you get what you pay for” is certainly prevalent with some contractors. You also want to pick someone that you get along with since they will be working for you, as well as fixing or creating part of your home. Through this preparation you will soon be working with the contractor of your dreams.

1. Contractors from Friends and Family Referrals
Word-of-mouth research is a great (and easy) way to locate contractors. Start by asking your co-workers, friends and family members for referrals. These first-hand experiences will be the best way to hear contractor stories from a trusted source. You can also visit the homes where the contractor worked, which is a great way to see their work before you even meet with them.

2. Social Media Contractors
Twitter, Facebook, Digg (and many others) have changed the way in which we share information and locating a contractor is no different. Post on your wall or write a tweet that you are seeking a contractor, along with the specific details of your job (if characters permit). You may also see postings about contractors on another friend’s wall, which was the case with one of our readers. She writes: “A friend/former colleague posted on Facebook about a roofing job he was just completing at his home and mentioned the contractor who was doing the work. He praised the good work this contractor was doing so I wrote back asking for details. He posted photos of the contractor’s work to my wall and forwarded along contact information. We’re planning to use these guys this summer for some home projects.”

3. Contractors in your Neighborhood
Another great way to locate a contractor is to be on the look out for any home construction projects in your neighborhood.  Even if you don’t know your neighbors, asking a few questions about their contractors and their services will narrow down your selections. In the very least, it will add another connection on your list of prospective contractors.

4. Searching for a Contractor Online
Yes, you can find a contractor via the Internet, but you have to be very aware of too-good-to-be-true prices and claims online. Make a list of four-five contractors that you are interested in; based on their services, rates, Better Business Bureau to see if any unresolved issues or complaints were taken out against the contractor. You can also check out the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and Contractor Check, which allows consumers to search for contractors in their area, check their background, licenses, years in business, insurances of if  they have any complaints. You can also locate a reputable and licensed contractor through our extensive database of local professionals. When looking at prices online, don’t use those numbers as concrete figures until a contractor actually visits your home and you receive an estimate in writing. You can also locate contractors on sites like Craigslist, where local contractors post advertisements about their service, etc, but also be sure to look into references and liabilities when going this route. Also, this goes without saying, but be wary of any contractor that only accepts cash or requires money upfront.

5. Phone Books for a Contractor
Not many people use phone books anymore, but these local directories can be a great way to locate a contractor. The same way you searched for contractors online, you can also try your luck by finding one from the yellow pages. This is also not very time-consuming and you can go at your pace. When you call a contractor, have these calls be a consultation where you ask companies about their services, company history and customer experiences. Generally, contractors that are reputable have a list of customers that have agreed to act as references. Ask the rep or contractor themselves if you can have the names and contact information of past customers. If they don’t have these listings you can also ask where you can see examples of their past jobs (pictures, websites, etc).

This initial call may even determine if you want to meet with them in-person based on the amount of information that you received to the demeanor of the customer service rep. Also, be aware of guarantees or if a rep tells you have to make a decision now and offers you a rate over the phone, as this also can fall into the “too good to be true” category. Based on what information you like, arrange to meet with these individuals in person.

The Celebrity Beat: Relocation.com's Real Estate Report

By Serena Norr

Oh, what to do when you when you have millions of dollars? Travel around the world, eat in fine restaurants and real estate investing comes to mind and for some people, like celebrities these purchases are the norm. At Relocation.com, we are fascinated, part disgusted and semi awe struck by these luxurious extreme homes (eight bedroom condos and in-home movie theatres anyone?) and recently launched a real estate only blog called The Celebrity Beat. Every week we will cover real estate news, a rundown of recent purchases, homes for sale and foreclosures-stay tuned!

•    Uma Thurman Selling Greenwich Village Townhouse-Listed for $14.2 M
According to Zillow.com, Uma Thurman aka the lady that killed Bill is reportedly selling her Greenwich Village townhouse. This 5,086-square-foot luxurious pad has seven bedrooms, 6.5 bathrooms and an urban garden complete with a Buddhist sanctuary. Those not so keen on walking up and down stairs may not be into this place (of course if price was no option) since the home has no elevators and five floors. But the media room, spacious dining area and the rooftop deck may change your mind.

•    Conan’s $29. 5 Million Home May Have a Seller
Much has been covered of Mr. O’Brien’s late night woes, but perhaps making $29.5 off of his duplex will have him laughing all the way to the bank. This sprawling super-sized duplex (the 17th and 18th floors were combined in 2004) includes seven bedrooms, three terraces, two libraries, and 8½ bathrooms, according to a listing by John Burger, a broker at Brown Harris Stevens. An unidentified buyer is intended to make this sale, which if it does follow through will be the most expensive real estate sale to date at the art-deco apartment complex, the Majestic.

•    Kanye West’s Home on the Market for $3.9 Million
Producer, rapper, quasi political communitarian, Kanye West’s Hollywood Hills condo is on the market for $3.995 million. His modern pad is modest (at least for celebrity standards) with three bedrooms and 3.5 baths. But then again, there are built-in computers in every room, an in-home movie theater and room with a pool that makes it out of the norm.

•    Billy Joel Purchases $3.3 Million Townhouse
The piano man recently purchased a 1,607-square-foot townhouse in the lovely neighborhood of Nolita. This $3.3 million home features bedrooms and two bathrooms, complete with handcrafted architecture from old NYC and an uber modern kitchen (stainless steel and modern appliances). It is speculated by CurbedNY.com that the apartment was purchased for his daughter.

•    Julianna Margulies sells Santa Monica home to Ed O’Neill
Al Bundy bought that nurse from ER’s Spanish-style home for $3,350,001. This pricey Santa Monica, California abode features a spacious office, a library with built-in shelves, three bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathrooms and a swimming pool. There is also a separate guesthouse with its own bedroom and bathroom.

Relocation.com’s Best New York City Real Estate Blogs

By Serena Norr

Often dubbed “the Greatest City in the World,” New York City is a cultural melting pot that millions of people call home. Within this prime locale, residents have access to fine dining and nightlife, ethnic cuisine, museums and galleries, Broadway shows, sporting events and recreational parks and facilities.

With all of these unique amenities, it’s no wonder people from all over the world are moving to New York every year. However, once you relocate to NYC there is the issue of finding a place to live. There is no shortage of housing options in NYC with luxury apartments, two-family houses, buildings, condos and coops, brownstones, and even some houses with property; however these places don’t come without a sizeable price tag. In fact, when you move to NYC you will quickly find that locale determines the price of real estate. Due to these high-rentals (and desire for space), many people have moved away from Manhattan, opting for a two-bedroom apartment in Brooklyn, as opposed to a studio in the Lower East Side. This real estate shift has greatly altered what neighborhoods are desirable in NYC; however the high-end Manhattan real estate shows no signs of slowly down with new development deals and luxury condos throughout the city.

From new commercial developments to residential brownstones on the market to celebrity deals, there is always something exciting happening in the NYC real estate scene. On the beat of the real estate industry are some extraordinary NYC bloggers that are on top of the latest industry news and trends and whose sites feature in-depth articles ranging from tenant’s rights to real estate taxes. Here are some of Relocation.com’s favorites:

Created by Jonathan Butler in 2004, Brownstoner covers Brooklyn’s real estate market, latest news, new housing developments and renovation projects. This also includes covering housing issues in Brooklyn, buying tips and pictures of houses, and listings of apartments, coops and condos on the market. The site has grown tremendously since it began that also includes a directory of services, a community forum, restaurant guide, links to various renovation blogs and a sister site called Brownstoner Philadelphia.

A free listing resource, How to Rent in NYC features no broker fee and no fee apartments. The site also includes a renters section where users can write reviews about their landlords, as well as place to read past tenant’s experiences. Created by Alicia Schwartz, the site also features a directory of no fee management companies and landlords, a helpful question and answer segment for renters, rental articles and a listing of moving companies to get you to NYC.

Covering all of Manhattan, NYC Blog Estate features current real estate listings, recent developments and informative articles about the industry. Users can also navigate their way through the site based on the neighborhood they are interested in. The site also has a buyer and seller section where interested parties can post their home or apartment for a direct sale.

A self-professed “real estate solider,” Property Grunt features the latest news on Manhattan’s real estate industry. The daily blog also provides commentary pertaining to current issues such as crooked real estate transactions, taxes and housing issues, problems with landlords, housing reports, tenant’s rights and pictures of local real estate developments.

A print and online edition, The Real Deal features daily content about real estate news, commercial developments, foreclosed properties and expensive deals throughout the NYC area. Stories can also be broken down by neighborhood and users can share their tips about real estate to the website’s editors. The site also has an event section and listing of offices, retail spaces and commercial properties for sale.

The New York Observer’s blog-The Real Estate covers stories about high-end real estate transactions, building developments, tenant experiences and market reports. They also showcase “it’s free to look” area where users can check out luxury apartments and condos on the market.

Published by the Heddings Property Group, the True Gotham blog delivers content that pertains to the inner workings of the real estate industry. Taking an open and honest approach, the site features market reports of transitions in Manhattan, industry news, podcasts and videos and a residential listing section.

As mentioned, in our Best Real Estate Blogs in Los Angeles post we are fans of Curbed and their network of websites. The New York addition — aptly named Curbed NY— follows a snarky and direct approach to covering the latest news and headlines of the NYC real estate market. The site also features celebrity homes on the market (Olsen twins home for $.45 million is just one example), real estate gossip and developments, commercial real estate news, real estate construction and a link to their flickr site showcasing gorgeous photos of real estate around the city. Sellers can also list their home and buyers can search through homes on the market at the Curbed Marketplace.

A comprehensive real estate site, Urban Diggs analyzes the Manhattan real estate market through the use of macro economics to determine real estate trends and investment strategies. Created by Noah Rosenblatt, the site provides in-depth articles, a user discussion section, charts of current trends and insider tips. The also site covers renovations, mortgages, inventory and features a contractor directory.

Everything is coming up green, which also rings true for the real estate industry. Green Buildings NYC not only covers the real estate segment, but design and construction projects in the greater NYC area. The content on the site is organized by neighborhood where users can discover the latest news and articles on green building and sustainability on office spaces, commercial real estate, architecture projects, environmental issues, energy efficient buildings, alternative energy sources, lawn development and much more. Through the site users can also learn about local events, engage in a community forum, locate jobs and search for green real estate listings.

Relocation.com’s Best Real Estate Blogs in Los Angeles

By Serena Norr

As the second largest city in the United States, and the largest city in California, Los Angeles is renowned as a hub for glamour and entertainment, amazing weather, fine dining, attractions and breathtaking beaches.

This “City of Angels” is also home to some of the most immaculate real estate properties in the world with seaside residences, homes situated in the mountains, über modern architectural wonders and green design concepts. Although these housing options are plentiful, the area was hit pretty hard by the declining housing market, causing market price to plummet and foreclosures throughout the city. However, this area is now starting to see signs of growth with the rebound of home sales. Forbes magazine even named Los Angeles one of the top 10 metro areas in the U.S that is easing from the recession. Good prospects are up ahead and relocation.com is very excited to cover these Los Angeles bloggers who are on the pulse of what’s happening in this (once again) burgeoning real estate market.

As part of the popular Curbed network, the Curbed LA edition covers anything and everything real estate throughout all of the neighborhoods in the City of Lights. This up to the minute blog is certainly on the beat of what is going on in the market through their informative, but fun articles. The site also features breaking real estate news and deals, developments in architecture, home improvement and design concepts and real estates listings, accompanied by gorgeous pictures.You can also find restaurant reviews and everything about LA fashion on its sister sites-Eater LA and Racked LA for the complete LA experience.

Covering the Westside of Los Angeles and Downtown, the Los Angeles Real Estate Blog features the point of view of real estate broker-Keller Williams and his first hand insight of this residential real estate market. Since the blog covers Downtown, most of the listings feature apartments, condos and coops, along with location information (restaurants, area amenities, etc) room features, floor plans, pictures and even YouTube videos that give users an interactive tour. The site also provides informational articles such as green living, analysis of home growth in certain areas and parking in LA with a dead meter.

Crafted by the Valerie Fitzgerald Group, Los Angeles Real Estate Talk covers the market in Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Brentwood, Malibu, Santa Monica and the Westside of Los Angeles. This luxury real estate blog showcases the latest buying and selling trends and listings, as well an a great resource for informational articles about home inspections, construction sites, loans, mortgage rules and tax credits. Buyers and sellers should be sure to check out the blogs resource page, where they can check out a payment calculator, moving checklist, budget calculator, closing costs, and understanding investment, among many other informational (and free!) resources.

The Malibu Real Estate Blog gives users the “low down” on high end real estate from techy/real estate agent, Michael Gardner. Auctions, listings and pictures, sales and real estate developments throughout Malibu are all covered on the site through Gardner’s straightforward tone. He even lists his cell phone number, so that users can call or text him directly with their listing information or any questions.

A Manhattan Beach real estate blog, the Manhattan Beach Confidential lists properties on the market and compares current asking prices to its previous sales, which gives buyers a comprehensive analysis on property values and real estate trends. The reviews also include open house times, location information and a straightforward review of a homes appearance. Recent posting such as: “First, there’s that exterior, with its hard-on-the-eyes adornments. It just doesn’t work” are just some of the brutally honest remarks regularly found on MBC.

Blogger/real estate broker, Irina Netchaev breaks down the real estate market in Pasadena through her site, Pasadena Views. This informational resource covers architecture, home sales, real estate market reports, as well as information about loans and mortgages. Home owners can also list their homes here, or buyers can search through the up-to-date free listing section. The site also features foreclosures, market statistics and profiles on Pasadena’s neighborhoods such as average home price and amount of time a place is listed on the market. The site also has a personal touch with Irina’s real-life stories of the buying/selling market, advice and insider secrets.

Covering Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Los Angeles, Malibu, the Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica and Westwood, the Los Angeles Real Estate Voice provides a neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdown of real estate listing and housing news. The blog also features these areas through their own profile pages, as well as through lifestyle articles covering local restaurants, where the best schools are and an interactive video section where experts give their opinions on real estate in these markets.

Looks like brighter days are coming for Los Angeles, as the market is showing signs of some real change. Check out some of these blogs to stay up-to-date on current trends, real estate listings and industry news as they happen—we know we will!

8 Questions to Ask a Prospective Contractor

So the moving company has left, all your stuff is set up perfectly and you’re looking to get some work done. Don’t hire a contractor without first asking these questions:

Are you covered?
This is a question with no wiggle room. Under so circumstances should you work with an individual or company that is not licensed and bonded. That means requesting–and verifying–proof that he or she is currently state licensed, paying employees legally and carrying workers’ compensation, property damage and liability insurance.

What clubs do you belong to?
If your prospective contractor has a list of clubs and associations they belong to, it’s always a good sign. Usually, members are encouraged to attend continuing education program courses, and they often receive professional designations such as Certified Graduate Builder (CGB).

What is the estimate?
Along with the other questions you want to ask during the process of hiring a contractor, you should request an itemized estimate from each. Be sure to look over the information thoroughly, paying particular attention to those that seem too high as well as too low. Estimates that fall in the shallow end of the pool can be a red flag for a hasty job that won’t leave you with a quality product; those on the high end might have artificially inflated prices.

Can I have a copy of the schedule?
You need to know exactly how long that kitchen renovation is going to take. Before you hire a contractor, you should ask them to provide you with a fixed start date and a completion date–including any cleanup duties. These dates should be included in the formal written agreement, along with a timetable of the work that’ll be done and a material list of everything that’ll be needed.

What is the payment schedule?
Most professional builders work on a pay-as-you-go basis, receiving partial payments throughout the process. The payments for new construction, also called draws, typically are scheduled as a certain percentage of the total cost when specific stages of construction are completed. Avoid any contractor who wants full payment before starting the job.

In addition to your references, can I have a list of previous customers?
It’s one thing to talk to a list of people the contractor has prepared for your call; it’s another thing to cold call prior customers from whom you’re more likely to get an honest assessment.

Can I see some of your projects?
Good builders are proud of their work and enjoy showing it to potential clients. Ask to see photographs of complete projects, and choose someone whose work looks similar to the job you’re planning.

How do you schedule call backs?
You want to know what to expect and how to best contact the contractor if, for any reason, they need to come back and fix or redo a job. Go with the person that has a concrete plan for these types of issues.

Related Articles:
How to Set Your Home Improvement Plan
Hiring a Contractor: When to Know When You Need One
How to Get Along With Contractors

Recession Remodeling: Tips on Renovating Your Home on a Budget

Editor’s Note: This is a guest blog post from Paige Thomas, a communications specialist at ReliableRemodeler.com

I don’t want to be the bearer of bad news, but in case you haven’t heard, we’re in a recession and consumer confidence is at an all-time low.

While all of these signals may indicate to you that you should stop spending (or even start stuffing your hard-earned cash under your mattress), the current economic state actually presents consumers (that’s you!) with more affordable options and deals galore.

I’m not just talking about sales at the mall or more coupons arriving in your mailbox. You’d be surprised at how some smart planning and some good negotiating can save you on your big remodeling dreams.

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of any remodeling budget:

Don’t Move Up – Stay Put and Renovate Up: Traditionally, your first house isn’t where you live forever.

As your career grows and your family grows, it’s common to “move up” to a house that is bigger and better than your previous one. While many people will argue that the current housing market is an ideal time for you to get a great price on a new home, you might also look at your current financial situation and think staying put is a smarter idea.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t make your current home grow up a little bit.

Instead of moving, consider refinancing and plowing the savings into an addition on your home, or tackling a bigger remodeling project (windows, new kitchen, new siding) that will make your current home seem brand new to you.

If you are going to start remodeling your home, be sure to check out federal tax credits for energy improvements, and check for local reimbursements and state incentives too. Who doesn’t want to get money back from the government for investing in their home?

Make Cosmetic Changes: If you want to make big changes to your home, but aren’t ready to commit to the big price tag that comes with it, consider some cosmetic changes that pack a big visual punch.

New paint is a great option for changing the look of any room. If you hate painting, but want some new color in your life, consider changing the color of your interior molding and trim or changing the color of your exterior door. By covering up your basic white front door with a bright red, you will really make it pop and add fresh curb appeal.

Other interior cosmetic changes to consider might be new pulls or knobs in your kitchen, a new sink or vanity in your bathroom, or new window dressings and pillows in your living room. If you’d like to tackle the outside of your home, consider hanging planters or window boxes, some new landscaping contained in a raised bed, or painting your porch with a new color or stain.

Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate: I hate haggling, but it’s becoming almost commonplace these days. While contractors need to be able to make a livable income, you may be able to negotiate the price on your project depending on how much work you are planning to have done, and depending on if you are willing to assist with some of the demolition or prep work yourself.

Be sure to receive multiple estimates so you can get a good comparison on price. Another way to lower the cost of a remodel is to consider buying materials yourself, and shop around to find the best deal on those materials.

Follow this advice and you’ll likely get a surprising recession-era deal.

Buy Seconds: I love a deal – if there is a store I like that is out of my price range, I will often go and check out the clearance section first. Many stores, like Ikea and my local Portland favorite, Rejuvenation, have “seconds” rooms that are filled with items that have been returned and are put out at a heavily discounted price.

If you are considering flooring materials, many stores will offer a discounted rate on materials that are being discontinued, or of which they have only small amounts left. Carpet stores often have remnant rolls for far below the original price. If you have your heart set on a specific kind of material, shopping this way is not for you, but you’ll see your budget dramatically reduced if you’re willing to be flexible and work with what you find.

About the Author:  Read more remodeling and design tips from Paige on the blog she manages for ReliableRemodeler.com, a nationwide contractor matching service bringing together homeowners with area contractors for free estimates on home improvement projects.  She writes regularly for ReliableRemodeler.com’s blog and Twitter page posting on a wide range of topics including the newest home improvement trends, the latest in remodeling news, and the growing green-building movement.