4th ave properties

Mirrors are more than just functional objects in our homes. They can transform spaces, add light and even influence our moods. However, placement plays a crucial role in maximising their benefits.

Let's explore the best mirror positions in the various rooms of your home.

Living Room
• Opposite a window to increase natural light
• Reflecting art to add depth to the room
• Above the fireplace, highlighting this focal point

Bedrooms
• A full-length LED mirror beside the bed is functional and stylish
• On cupboard doors, especially in smaller rooms

Bathrooms
• Above the basin for functionality
• Across from the bath or shower to make the bathroom feel more luxurious

Dining Room
• On a feature wall as a statement piece
• Reflecting light fixtures

Read the full article here.
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Property advice: SA’s residential market records fastest y/y rental growth since 2017

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If you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over? - John Wooden..

As the cold of winter retreats and spring takes hold, it’s time to spruce up your home and get ready for a new season. Decluttering has many benefits, including mental well-being!

Go room by room
Don’t try to do your whole house in one day. Write a list of what you’d like to accomplish on a day or over a weekend, and tick things off as you complete them. Be sure to schedule regular tea and snack breaks!

Use the box method
When de-cluttering, fill one box with the things that you want to dump, another for things that are in a relatively good condition that you wish to donate (toys, clothes etc), and another for things that are in the wrong place and need to be put away properly.

Revamp your storage
Use this time to reorganise and buy storage containers to put things in. But don’t use these boxes to store things you don’t need!

Schedule time for the kitchen
Give yourself a full day in the kitchen to clean your fridge, freezer, deep freeze and food cupboards. Remove anything that has expired and wipe down cupboards before replacing items.

Whack your rugs
Round up your children, if you have them, arm them with their cricket bats, tennis rackets or hockey sticks and get them excited to beat the dust out of all your rugs and loose carpets. If you don’t have kids, take out your frustration on the task and go nuts.

Sanitise your mattress
Now is the time to do a deep clean. Vacuum, sanitise and steam away those dust mites, then turn it over for a fresh night’s sleep.

Read the full article here.
https://tinyurl.com/55hkr97z

Property advice: women over 55 are the fastest growing group of property owners in South Africa

https://tinyurl.com/2k68zrnu

The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing. - Walt Disney.

We all have that one empty corner in our homes that seems to serve no purpose. It stands there, an awkward gap in an otherwise perfectly designed space, begging for attention. But with a little creativity, that empty corner can become a highlight of your room. Here are some stylish and functional ways to transform that neglected space and make your room feel complete.

Create a cosy reading nook
All you need is a comfortable chair, a small side table and a good lamp. Add a cosy throw blanket and decorative pillows to make it extra inviting. A small bookshelf or a few floating shelves stocked with your favourite reads can complete the look.

Add a statement chair
A bold, statement chair can add function and flair to an empty corner. Pair it with a stylish floor lamp or a unique side table to enhance the corner’s appeal.

Incorporate plants
Bring life to an empty corner with greenery. A tall potted plant like a fiddle-leaf fig, a snake plant, or a monstera can make a dramatic statement.

Install a corner shelf
A corner shelf is a practical solution that adds storage and display space. Choose a shelf design that complements your room’s decor—whether sleek and modern or rustic and charming.

Hang a mirror
A mirror can make a small space feel larger and more open. Hanging a stylish mirror in an empty corner can reflect light and add depth to the room.

Read the full article here.
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Property advice: Helpful Advice to Consider Before, During, and After Your Big Move

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There are no shortcuts to any place worth going. - Beverley Sills.

Hardscaping refers to any manmade structures in landscaping design made of materials like gravel, brick, wood, pavers or stone. A wide selection of products and materials can be used to craft attractive hardscaping designs for outdoor spaces.

• Stone pathways provide access to different parts of the garden.
• Retaining walls are load-bearing walls at the top or bottom of a slope, which dam up dirt and water runoff.
• Gazebos and pergolas provide shade and shelter making outdoor spaces more usable.
• Decks and patios can extend living space into outdoor areas using brick, wood or concrete.
• Water features like fountains or paved garden streams create a natural focal point with a tranquil feel.
• A built-in outdoor fire pit or fireplace in brick or stone provides a safe and controlled space to enjoy fire outdoors and can make your outdoor space more liveable. Fire pits are often used as gathering places for family and friends to socialise.

Read the full article here.
https://tinyurl.com/mr2kpyzb

Property advice: Do you know who owns your home — you or the bank?

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Being realistic is the most traveled path to mediocrity. - Will Smith.

Take the first step in transforming your bedroom into a space where you can enjoy the best sleep and improve your health and well-being.

Bedroom zen
Bedrooms, ideally, need to be places of calm and comfort. Consider keeping your sleep space free of devices, including television and work stress. A calm and quiet bedroom is about more than just a good night’s sleep, it’s an investment in your health.

Mattress matters
Invest in the best quality mattress you can afford, ensuring it allows your body to rest comfortably while you sleep. Mattresses should also be cleaned regularly.

Dressed for sleep
The bedroom is a private space and should be calming and peaceful. Beautiful bedrooms in magazines look inviting and comfortable because they’ve been dressed or styled. Do the same for your own by investing in beautiful bed covers, a comfy duvet and fluffy pillows.

Clean and clutter-free
In the bedroom, clean and clutter-free equals calm.

Read more here.
https://tinyurl.com/mucpx4d4

Property advice: Landlords are winning in South Africa.

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The only impossible journey is the one you never begin. - Tony Robbins

Sometimes, less is more. Knowing which items or projects are worth it can take your home to the next level—and save you time and money.

According to interior designers, here are five things your home doesn’t need.

𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝘁𝘀
While there’s no denying buying a matching sofa, loveseat and accent chair is easy and convenient, interior designers will tell you matching sets are a big no. Matching furniture sets can make a space feel sterile and less personalised.

𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲
While a home should incorporate decorative elements, adding too many can easily overwhelm a space. Incorporate a few statement pieces in different shapes and sizes to create visual interest and infuse personality into your home.

𝗟𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆
While collecting things is fun, those collections don't always translate well into creating a cosy and inviting home. Collections can overwhelm a space and make it feel cluttered.

𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘀-𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗔𝗿𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸
If you're trying to fill your walls quickly, you may be tempted to buy the first art you see online—but this can backfire. Try to stay away from generic or mass-produced artwork, it can lack personality and fail to reflect individual taste.

𝗔𝗻 𝗔𝗯𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄𝘀
When it comes to pillows, you can have too much of a good thing. Too many can be impractical. Have a few curated pillows that balance colour and texture without overwhelming the space.

Read the full article here.
https://tinyurl.com/6r6krmax

Property advice: Important red flags in property deals to look out for.

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Worry is a misuse of the imagination. - Dan Zadra

Experts offer their best tips to brighten up your living room—each impermanent and cost-effective—that are sure to inspire.

Vibrant Rugs
Rugs can provide a room with texture, pattern, or colour—and sometimes all three!

Contrasting Textures and Elements
Think of your upholstery like the good basics in your wardrobe. You can always layer underneath or on top of those base pieces—and change the feel of a space without a substantial renovation.

Powerful Pillows
Add a colour accent to a room with throw pillows. But don't settle for two of the same. Instead, opt for a collection of coordinating pillows.

Lively Curtains and Blinds
Frame your windows with a fun, colourful print, or choose a solid colour fabric blind with a chic trim.

Natural Accents
Colourful planters can infuse a joyful atmosphere in any space.

Bold Bookcases
Adding wallpaper to built-in or freestanding bookcases will add depth, layering and interest to the living room.

Read more here.
https://tinyurl.com/yax679w6

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” ― Eleanor Roosevelt

Design is very personal, and what might be a no-go to one person will feel just right for another. We spoke with a handful of interior designers on the problems they see all the time.

𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐝 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
Rather than using only recessed lights or the ceiling fixture, layer your lighting. A mix of task, ambient and accent lighting can sophisticate and highlight your home.

𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐒𝐢𝐳𝐞, 𝐒𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
With too many small items, your home can feel cluttered as it takes more to fill. The solution is measuring and laying out how the furniture will look.

𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐞
Focusing on quality over quantity gives attention to each piece without overwhelming the space

𝐋𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞
Start with a neutral base and build the colour scheme around it. It's not so much the colours you pick, but more how you blend them as well as the tone and temperature.

𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲
You might be fearful that your preferences don't align with trends or best design practices, but it's better that personal design feels intuitive.

Read the full article here https://tinyurl.com/55hv24cu

Property advice: Can landlords legally limit how many days tenants work from home?

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For most of history, "Anonymous" was a women - Virginia Woolf

Enhancing your home with natural materials can introduce earthy colours and rustic textures that can boost our well-being. Designers reveal how best to bring the outdoors in.

𝗞𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘁𝘁𝘆 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱
Left exposed and unpainted they lend an on-trend muted, cloudy aesthetic.

𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱
Colours inspired by nature are the perfect companions to furniture and furnishings made of natural wood and materials.

𝗔𝗱𝗱 𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘀𝘁
For a more industrial aesthetic, bring in something man-made – it will make the natural elements stand, acting as a handbrake to stop and appreciate the scene.

𝗟𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗮𝗻 𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗵𝘆 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗼𝘂𝗿
Choose a light colour and then gently follow a tonal path to its strongest iteration.

𝗣𝗮𝗶𝗿 𝘄𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘄𝗼𝗼𝗱
Mixing different types of wood will always work in a scheme. The variations of grains and knots alongside the age difference provide endless interest.

Read the full article here.
https://tinyurl.com/5cn4zaru

Property advice: The Average Age Of Sa’S First-Time Homebuyer

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“The best view comes after the hardest climb.”

Property advice: Four major challenges of running your home

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Heated floors are considered a luxurious and comfortable addition to any home, providing warmth underfoot during cold winter nights and mornings. However, like any investment, weighing the pros and cons is important.

𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐬
𝐸𝑎𝑠𝑦 𝑡𝑜 𝑖𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑙𝑙 - Electric floor-heating systems are so easy to install that with the right tools and experience you can DIY it, but to be on the safer side, it is recommended you get a professional.
𝑅𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑟𝑒 𝑛𝑜 𝑚𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 - Floor heating systems do not require any major maintenance. Most will last for 20+ years without any issues.
𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦-𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 - Floor heating is one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat your home. This is because the heat is evenly distributed throughout the room.

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐬
𝐻𝑖𝑔ℎ 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑡 - Even though the heating system is not expensive, the installation cost might be a bit pricier.
𝐸𝑥𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑓𝑙𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑚𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑏𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑑 - heated floors must be installed under the new flooring.

Heated floors are an investment. They might be costly but they are worth it. The cherry on top is the comfort of stepping out of bed onto a warm floor.

Source: https://www.womanandhomemagazine.co.za/decor/the-pros-and-cons-of-installing-heated-floors/

Property advice: How Not to Lose Money When Selling a Home

https://www.immoafrica.net/news/how-not-to-lose-money-selling-home/

“All serious daring starts from within.” — Eudora Welty