Real Estate Guide 03.19.2021

MARCH 19, 2021

ESTATE REAL G U I D E THE PRESS

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Market Still Steady

Real estate prices predicted to remain strong

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What’s hot, what’s not in stylish kitchen designs

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REAL ESTATE GUIDE

MARCH 19,2021

The Final Forbearance Plan

any people have taken advantage of a lifesaving offer from their mortgage lender over the last year. They were

able to postpone their mortgage payments for a defined period of time through a forbearance program. For some it was 6 months and for others, 12 months. Without the opportunity to forbear their mortgage payments many people would have lost their homes, through no fault of their own.

One question that I hear frequently is “do I have to pay it back?” Or worse yet, I hear a statement “I do not have to pay it back.”

When the pandemic hit, so suddenly, banks, the government, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac, and Wall Street, all looked around wondering how millions of unemployed homeowners were going to make their mortgage payments. No one wanted to see a foreclosure crisis the likes of 2008.

At first it was 2 weeks. Then it was 2 more weeks.

Then it was “just 6 more weeks”.

Businesses started shutting down. Small service industries, and small local restaurants, just could not survive 10 weeks with zero income. They shuttered their doors forever. They were the first victims.

Luckily, lenders began offering forbearances within the first couple of months. The upside is they made it very easy to qualify for the forbearance. The downside is there was very little information about how the missed payments were to be repaid.

For many, the payments were to be added to the end of their loan and the bank made that clear at the time of the original forbearance. For others, the payments have to be paid, in full, at the end of the forbearance period. For others, they truly do not know when they will be required to repay those missed payments.

The key piece of information is that it does have to be repaid. I have had so many people tell me that they were sure that the bank said they were just going to forgive the payments. That is not the case, for any forbearance plan.

Forbearance, by definition, means to pay it later.

There is no forgiveness in a forbearance plan. The only question is, when does it have to be repaid.

So, let’s chat about the Final Forbearance Plan. Let’s call it FFP, for short.

FFP allows you to put off making your mortgage payment until you make the decision to leave your home.

At that time, the full amount must be repaid. This can be done through the sale of the home, or a refinance by your heirs, if you leave your home due to your death.

FFP allows you to make payments through out the life of the loan if you choose. You can pay a little each month, you can pay a couple of times a year, you can pay one time because you happen to come into some money, or you can never make a payment until such time as you leave your home. The payments are simply added to the back of the loan to be paid at a later date – it is a forbearance.

FFP also protects you against a downturn in the real estate markets. We all know real estate is cyclical and we see up cycles and down cycles. When you decide to leave your home, or if you pass away, during a time when values are down, if you owe more on your home than it is worth, you are never responsible for any deficit. For example, if you owe $600,000 and your home is worth $550,000,

you are not responsible for the $50,000 deficit, and neither are your heirs.

FFP pays off your mortgage(s) first and foremost.

Obviously, that is a big boost to your cash flow right there.

Whatever your current principal and interest payment is, you will now have that much more cash flow each month.

I think most people would love to have that much more spendable income each and every month!

FFP does require that you pay your property taxes and insurance, live in the home, and maintain the home. We can, however, set up a plan to pay your property taxes and insurance for you depending on your equity position.

One question I hear frequently is, “what does maintain your home” mean exactly? What it means is “if the roof leaks, fix it. If a tree falls on your house, repair it. If the window gets broken, replace it”. What it does not mean is that you must keep up with the Jones’. You do not have to remodel your kitchen, or put in new flooring, or replace your landscaping, unless you choose to do so.

FFP comes in all shapes and sizes.

We have FHA insured loans that may, in addition to paying off your current mortgage(s), be able to provide a line of credit, or a monthly payout to you depending on your equity position. The line of credit option actually provides for “growth” on the unused portion of the line of credit. What that means is that the amount of the unused available line of credit grows larger over time. The growth is based on the amount of unused line of credit and the current interest rates. It is an incredible feature that cannot be beat on any other mortgage program, anywhere.

We have jumbo loans with loan amounts up to $4,000,000. These programs may provide for a monthly pay out over 2-10 years, a lump sum payout, or perhaps a line of credit. This program also offers the protections for you and your heirs in the event the real estate market takes a downturn. Certainly, the jumbo program works well for the Bay Area with such high available loan amounts.

The jumbos are fairly new, and the programs are still evolving with some exciting new enhancements coming in April. The new features will allow borrowers more flexibility in qualifying which is very exciting. It is something brand new to the industry. A complete innovation the likes of which we have never seen before.

The FFP program will allow people 60 years and older to take advantage of a permanent forbearance. There is no time limit, there is no on-going periodic qualifying requirement, once you have the FFP in place, it will remain in place until you leave your home provided you pay taxes and insurance, live in and maintain the home. You can stay in your home without having to fret about your mortgage payment.

What exactly is an FFP? It is a reverse mortgage program. The same reverse mortgage program that I have been telling you about for years. Now that people are comfortable with the idea of forbearance, the reverse mortgage makes more sense. It is truly nothing more than a forbearance just exactly like the one you, or a family member, or a friend used to get through the pandemic, except that it can be a permanent solution to provide you with financial security throughout your retirement years.

I have friends/clients in Walnut Creek who took out a reverse mortgage just prior to the Pandemic. They had no idea what was coming. As the pandemic got worse, their friends and family were distraught about what to do about their mortgage payments. My friends did not have to worry at all, there was almost a sense of guilt. They called me and said we never knew what a blessing our

Beth Miller-Rowe has been in the mortgage industry for 38 years specializing in reverse mortgages for the past 12 years. Beth has degrees in economics and business administration. reverse mortgage would turn out to be. They knew that they likely would have lost their home had they not made the decision when they did.

If you are interested in hearing more about the Final Forbearance Plan please give us a call or send us an email.

We are here for you and looking forward to chatting about the benefits of Today’s Reverse Mortgage.

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*Reverse mortgages are loans offered to homeowners who are 62 or older who have equity in their homes. The loan programs allow borrowers to defer payment on the loans until they pass away, sell the home, or move out.

Homeowners, however, remain responsible for the payment of taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other items. Nonpayment of these items can lead to a default under the loan terms and ultimate loss of the home. FHA insured reverse mortgages have an up front and ongoing cost; ask your loan officer for details. These materials are not from, nor approved by HUD, FHA, or any governing agency. **American Pacific Mortgage Corporation is not financial service company or licensed tax advisors; the material provided is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, tax and/or mortgage advice. Although the material is deemed to be accurate and reliable, there is no guarantee it is without errors. We are not financial or tax advisors, please contact your financial professional for your personal financial situation.

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MARCH 19, 2021

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Real estate trends steady as pandemic eases In the beginning of February, we were really over what comps were giving us – at least $20,000 over, if not more.

DAWNMARIE FEHR

T

he real estate market over the past year has seen low rates, low inventory and high prices,

and local real estate agents say they see no end to current market conditions, especially as the busy summer season

– Laura Call

looms.

Brentwood real estate agent Debbie Anthony of Compass Real Estate said market reports continue to look promising for sellers.

“According to most real estate advisors who follow the market consistently, it’s going to be like this for two or three years,” she said. “The inventory just can’t get caught up. Unless something more tragic than the pandemic happens and the interest rates jump beyond belief, it will stay this way for a while.”

Laura Call with Sasville Properties in Discovery Bay agreed, noting it can be difficult to find comparable sales to determine a home’s value when bidding wars have driven prices so high.

“In the beginning of February, we were really over what comps were giving us – at least $20,000 over, if not more,” Call said.

“We are now seeing people writing without any contingencies, which is scary for both

Sasville Properties

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The real estate market in East County continues to be red hot, and experts say there are few signs of easing over the next year or two. the buyer and the seller. But it’s all in being prepared, having a strategy, and doing your homework.”

Another hot topic in real estate circles is the great exodus of people out of California.

Call said she has many clients investigating other states like Texas, Arizona and Idaho, though markets there have been driven so high in the last two years, they are barely below what can be found in East County or the rest of California.

“I tell my clients to do their homework before going on the market,” she said. “We are starting to see areas that are a little more

remote pick up and are just as high as they are here. If you don’t have to move, you might want to stay put.”

Call cited competitive markets and high property taxes as reasons to remain in your home if at all possible.

There’s more to the market than people leaving, though. Anthony has seen a wave of city residents relocating to the suburbs.

“People are leaving California, but people are also coming into California,” she said. “We have had an influx of people coming from places like New York to the suburbs of California. You live in New York for

New York, and if you can’t have New York, why spend $1 million on a tiny box when you can have a mini mansion here?”

For those who are in the market, Call says be prepared to write multiple offers and be aware of the competition. She also noted a higher offer isn’t always the right answer. “(There) are other things we can possibly do,” she said. “Maybe you cover the agent fees or closing costs, and there are other ways of getting creative where you are not in the higher property tax bases. Just be prepared before entering the market, do your due diligence, and strap in, because it is a wild one.”

For more information on Debbie Anthony, call 925-262-7702, email debbiedoesrealestatenow@gmail.com or visit www. debbiedoesrealestatenow.com. For more information on Laura Call, call 925-667-8127 or visit www.sasvilleproperties.com.

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REAL ESTATE GUIDE

MARCH 19, 2021

What’s cooking in new kitchen designs JENNA HARDS

K

itchens play an important part in any household, as they are areas of

entertainment, family gatherings and discussions and, of course, the central place for baking and cooking.

It has always been expected for kitchens to be functional and comfortable, but specific design aspects of kitchen appliances, cabinets and countertops are changing with new trends. For much of the East Contra Costa area, white, black and grey kitchen color themes are coming back, which is a change from the wooden cabinets and themes seen in the past.

“It’s the painted shaker style, which is very simple,” said Carol Carey from Carey Bros. Remodeling, an Antioch-based remodeling company that works with Bay Area homeowners on home improvement projects. “It seems like everybody wants painted cabinets. We’re not doing very many stained-wood cabinets.”

Simple colors and painted cabinets add a much brighter and cleaner look to kitchens, and backsplashes are also being used to give kitchen spaces another layer

Photo courtesy of www.stockcabinets.com

White, grey, and black kitchen cupboards are back in style, which is a change from the once popular wooden cabinets and dark countertops. of color or texture.

“Before, we used to have liners and dots and all kinds of things in our backsplashes, and today, they are simpler,” Carey continued, “But the shapes of the tile sort of add the dimension that you get from throwing in all of the secondary items.”

There has also been a growing interest in quartz countertops, although granite still remains a popular choice.

“The two upgraded types of countertops that you’ll find are either granite or quartz,” said Mitchell Preciado, a Contra Costa based realtor for Century 21 Real Estate Alliance. “What’s also really popular right now is that middle island. So, either the island is working and might be functional, or it might just be storage with a countertop on it.”

Islands are a great addition to any kitchen, not only for the extra counter

space, but also for the possibility of extra seating, or space for appliances or storage.

Many people are interested in having a lot of storage space, either through cupboard storage or walk-in pantries, which have become popular.

“The newer homes have walk-in pantries, which is really nice to put all your food in, as opposed to just having in a cabinet several layers deep,” said Preciado.

Walk-in pantries are great for storage of food, as well as smaller appliances like microwaves, slow cookers, juicers, or blenders Outside of the pantry, kitchen owners are also interested in larger appliances like wine fridges or double ovens.

“There are so many new appliances that are starting to change, and they’re offering more professional-style cooking for kitchens, (with) steam ovens, speed ovens, and ovens that have dehydrating and proofing (capabilities),” said Carey.

“People are looking for more diversity from their appliances.”

Carey also mentioned that many households are looking for new appliances to keep their homes healthy and clean.

Touchless faucets in kitchens are a great start to that effort.

“I think it should really be very individual,” said Carey. “What’s going to make you happy in 10 years when you walk into your kitchen? Something that’s timeless?”

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MARCH 19, 2021

Creating your own backyard oasis

O

ur backyards are some of the best places to spend the summer months, especially

if you’re practicing social distancing and are tired of being cooped up indoors. Fortunately, it’s possible to transform your outdoor living space into a secluded, open-air retreat.

Bring the indoors out. We often hear about bringing the outdoors inside, but the reverse is also true when designing a luxurious extension of your home. Homey, lived-in touches can take your outdoor space from sterile and unfinished to cozy and inviting. Think patterned throw pillows, fluffy blankets for chilly evenings, outdoor rugs, colorful lanterns, and decorative accessories like painted terracotta pots or metal tins.

Invest in comfy furniture. What’s the best part of your living or family room? Chances are it’s your comfortable couch or recliner. To recreate the same feeling, splurge on some soft furniture that will make you want to stay outside for hours reading a book or working remotely. It doesn’t have to break the bank

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either — you can DIY a cozy lounging bench with reclaimed wood and hand-sewn cushions with outdoor stuffing and fabric.

Add a relaxing pool or spa. Water has a calming effect and is often linked to our favorite memories at the cottage or on vacation. A pool or spa can help transport you somewhere far away without leaving your home. A pool can help you and the kids get some exercise while swimming laps, while a spa can soothe tired muscles after a long day hunched over your laptop. To reduce energy costs and increase longevity, consider using Nudura insulated concrete forms, which provide superior insulation. ICF pools also can be custom-made to accommodate any design, making them a very versatile and efficient way to build pools.

Go wild with greenery. Live plants can help you feel connected with nature, and tending to them can help you feel relaxed yet productive during isolation. A vertical garden can add visual interest, while trees and shrubs can provide shade and character.

Aromatic herbs like lavender or rosemary offer pleasant scents and can spice up your cooking. And don’t be afraid to cut some flowers from your garden to place in vases or pots for beautiful finishing touches.

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Keeping up with changing market rates low rates on loans and

refinancing, and many homeowners have chosen to take advantage of this opportune time to refinance.

Give your loved ones peace of mind!

ER MEDA LV ARD L

2020 AW

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However, In recent weeks there has been a slight, uptick in rates. This is a key sign that outside changes and the improving economy are having an effect on those historic low rates.

Many of these great deals have to do with conventional loans, which are loans that lenders refer to when discussing conforming mortgages. These loans include various property types from single-family homes to condos. They are also not guaranteed or insured by the U.S. government.

While refinancing rates have been low, loan limits have seen an increase which allows borrowers to have access to more money with lower rates.

“In Contra Costa County in 2021, we have seen an increase in the conforming loan limits,” said Kristine Messa, a mortgage broker with REInspired Home Loans. “The loan limits used to be at $510,400. So, for anyone who

open up. She still advises that borrowers take advantage of these unprecedented lows.

Mertens-Pickett advised every first-time homebuyer to see what products are available to them, because they may be able to get into a home with as little as renting a home.

Kristine Messa and REInspired Home Loans is located at 541 Montana Street, Ste. A in Brentwood. For more information, call 925-240-0051.

Kathy Mertens-Pickett and Stearns Lending, are located at 5829 Lone Tree Way Ste. D in Antioch, For more information, call 925-584-4368.

D

County has seen unprecedented

According to Mertens-Pickett, the mortgage back securities are adjusting and every time they adjust, there is a rate increase.

“It is also dependent on what is going on in the government,” said Mertens-Pickett.

“There is a lot of (uncertainty) with having a new president, and we have a new stimulus bill. All that stuff affects the stock market, and when the stock market gets affected, it affects the rates.”

Things are looking hopeful, however, as Mertens-Pickett also believes that rates will settle down once the stimulus package goes through and more businesses and communities

SI

I

n recent months, Contra Costa

has a loan now, they can get up to $548,250.”

Messa has been working in the industry for 20 years and works locally in the Brentwood area.

Some of the programs Messa offers for clients are high-balance conforming loans, which offer both 30- and 15-year, fully amortizing terms, as well as a fully amortizing 5/1 and 7/1 ARMS and jumbo loans, which adjust to loans that may not fall in regular loan limits.

REInspired also has Standard FHA’s for refinancing, including a 96.5% financing with a 3.5% down payment.

“First-time homebuyers want programs that would be like FHA, conventional 95%, or FHA is 96.5%,” said Messa.

This program also offers expanded credit scores, some all the way down to 580. Many of these low rates are due to the aftereffects of the pandemic, however, over these past three weeks, many brokers have seen an increase in rates.

“Rates just kept going lower and lower and lower, and everybody was refinancing,” said Kathy Mertens-Pickett, a mortgage lender based in Antioch who works with Stearns Lending, which is newly acquired by Guaranteed Rate. “People we refinanced in March have refinanced again, some of them in August and maybe even again in December, because rates just kept getting lower, but at this point, they are starting to go the other way.”

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In these unprecedented times, please know that You, Your Families and This Wonderful Community are in our thoughts and prayers. Please do not hesitate to contact any of our agents for your real estate questions. We will get through this, together!

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Insuring your future takes a little planning DAWNMARIE FEHR

N

avigating life often comes with pitfalls, but a little preparation – and a chat with

your insurance provider – can diminish those pitfalls into small hiccups.

Insurance is meant to provide protection against a possible eventuality. Some insurance, like liability insurance, is required by law, but what about things like renter’s insurance, or broader coverage in a homeowner’s policy?

Dirk Zeigler of Zeigler Insurance and Financial Services suggests shopping around.

“First thing, and this is across the board for any type of insurance, always get multiple quotes,” Zeigler said. “There are two types of brokers and agents out there – independent brokers and captive brokers. Captive brokers just sell who they work with, such as State Farm or Allstate. An independent broker

works with multiple policies and can give you options.”

When purchasing a homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, it’s important to ensure you have replacement cost coverage.

“Make sure you have enough coverage for your personal belongings, and make sure you have replacement cost coverage,” said Zeigler. “That means if there’s a fire and you need to replace your stuff, you can get new things at current prices. There’s no depreciation.”

It is a homeowner’s responsibility to see they have enough coverage on their home, so if rebuilding is necessary, they can afford to do so. Homeowners should also beware of limitations on items like fine art, jewelry, and gun collections.

“Most insurance companies limit those kinds of things to $1,500 max for any item, so if you don’t schedule that $70,000 ring, then $1,500 is all you’ll get,” said Zeigler.

According to Randy Aquino of Bushman Insurance Agency, many of his brokerage’s

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clients make assumptions about their coverage, only to be disappointed when the time comes to make a claim.

“It’s always a good idea to know what you’re covered for before a claim comes up,” Aquino said. “We have clients who assume they know what’s covered, and they don’t always know.”

One of the products Bushman offers is auto insurance, and he noted some companies offer more than others.

Rather than skimping on coverage to save money, another way to keep costs low is to look at higher deductibles, which will mean lower monthly premiums – though if the worst happens, you’ll spend more out-of-pocket.

Stella Bronstein is a commercial lines broker at Maurice Deroy’s Farmers Insurance who enjoys working with local companies to fulfill their insurance needs.

“If it’s a commercial account, we want to secure both their liability, their business property, their commercial, auto, and the workers’ compensation,” she said. “To me, a company is a company is a company. I want my clients to be comfortable and to trust their broker – which is me – to select the best coverage at the most competitive price.”

Bronstein did warn the devastation of last year’s fires will take its toll on homeowners this year.

“I can tell you from a homeowner’s

standpoint that homeowner’s premiums will increase this year because of the fires of the past year,” she said. “That will affect everyone, because there have been millions and millions of dollars of claims, and of course, the insurance companies are in business to make money. Since they are staring at a loss, they will increase premiums for everyone.”

Some companies have refused to renew clients in or near fire zones. Zeigler has had clients in towns like Clayton, Brentwood, and even Discovery Bay not have their policies renewed. Homeowners in fire zones may need to investigate other options through the California Fair Plan at www.cfpnet.com. All three agencies mentioned above offer a range of personal and commercial insurance and financial services.

Zeigler Insurance and Financial Services is located at 1300 Central Blvd., Suite B, in Brentwood. For more information, call 925-634-1240 or visit www.zeiglerinsurance. com. Bushman Insurance Agency Independent Brokerage is located at 6041 Lone Tree Way, Suite B, in Brentwood. For more information, call 925-788-6929 or visit www.bushmaninsuranceagency.com. Maurice Deroy’s Farmer’s Insurance Agency is located at 9040 Brentwood Blvd., Suite C, in Brentwood. For more information, call 925-634-9999 or visit http://bit.ly/Indy_3eQB2RZ. To view a video, visit www.thepress. net/multimedia

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DIY strategies to deep-clean carpeting

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hat’s underfoot in a

a solution of white vinegar, baking soda and salt to make a safe cleanser, according to The Spruce. Soak the stain, use a scrub brush to work in the cleanser and then blot up the liquid with a clean cloth. According to the lifestyle resource First for Women, club soda also works as a cleanser when it is sprayed on a stain.

Deep cleaning Carpets periodically need to be revitalized, and that can be accomplished with a specialized cleaning machine. Many are available for purchase (a good investment for homeowners with kids and/or pets), while others can be rented as needed.

Remove all of the furniture from a room and vacuum to clean dust, dander and any other debris. Address any darker stains first by pretreating with a cleaning solution. Let sit for around 20 minutes. While waiting, learn how to operate the machine, fill it and clean out the soiled water. Never allow the machine to oversaturate the carpet with water, as it can get into the padding and subfloor, causing problems like mold or wood damage. Spray the water-detergent solutions, and then pass the carpet cleaner over spots repeatedly until the carpet feels only slightly damp.

Removing shoes when entering the home can keep carpets clean and reduce wear and tear.

- Courtesy Metro Creative

home can go a long way toward making residences

comfortable and aesthetically appealing.

A study of home buyer preferences using data from the National Association of Realtors® found that 54 percent of home buyers were willing to pay more for a home with hardwood flooring. But that doesn’t mean that carpeting doesn’t still have its devotees.

Carpeting and rugs can offset some of the shortcomings of hardwood, providing a softer texture that makes for a better landing spot for active young children. However, carpets will require more maintenance than hardwood floors. Learning how to deep clean carpets can help homeowners, as vacuuming is not enough to keep carpets in top form.

Spot clean stains Stores sell a bevy of carpet cleaning solutions. When applying such solutions, do so in an inconspicuous area of the room to ensure colorfastness of the carpet and that the solution does not adversely affect the fibers. If the spot is clean and the carpet is not adversely affected, you can then apply the solution to more visible areas.

Homeowners who prefer all-natural cleaning solutions rather than chemicals can use

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Simple ways to make a front door pop

V

Painting an existing door or replacing it with a more vivid color can dramatically enhance an entryway.

isitors’ impressions of a home are often dictated by the home’s entryway.

Must as one may judge a book by its cover, the same can be said about the impression that a front door and entryway can create, regardless of how accurate that impression is.

Consider two different address signs: one illuminated and easily viewed from the curb, and another closer to the front door.

Making certain changes to an entryway can go a long way toward improving curb appeal. Entryways also can set the scene for a home’s interior. Whether one chooses to be classic or bold, modern or traditional, there are various ways to quickly transform a home’s entryway.

Utilize high-end materials

Bold front door color Painting an existing door or replacing it with a more vivid color can dramatically enhance an entryway. The DIY Network says certain colors stand out as favorites.

These include turquoise, yellow, red, indigo, orange, and black. The door color should complement the other shades of the home, such as those on the siding and trim.

Custom walkway

Guide guests right to the front door with an attractive (and safe) walkway.

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

The entryway to a home garners a lot of attention. Homeowners can enhance their spaces with entryways that really make a statement.

Stamped concrete or decorative paver blocks may fit the bill. This walkway can extend to the street or to the driveway.

or shrubbery may give off an air of neglect.

Container plants and carefully curated shrubs can create a neat and inviting aura.

Contain plants

Highlight the address

Landscaping around the entryway should be neat and well-tended. Overgrown plants

Make sure the home can be found easily with bold and decorative house numbers.

The relatively small area of real estate by the front door enables homeowners to splurge on more opulent materials that can really add a feeling of luxury. These can include colorful tiles, ornate planters, decorative wooden doors, or elaborate knobs and lighting fixtures.

Add architectural details

Find out which architectural elements will meld with the style of the home and then incorporate them. Moldings, columns, shutters, and trim are areas to consider.

– Courtesy Metro Creative.

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Steps to organizing your home office

R

More organized home work spaces can increase productivity.

emote working has become popular in recent years, but the working-from-home

economy bloomed exponentially as the world was forced to confront the COVID19 pandemic. According to Stanford

some papers can be scanned and stored as digital files, color-coded file folders can organize statements and other important documents. This makes it easy to find the folder you need when looking for certain documents.

economist Nicholas Bloom, as of summer 2020, 42 percent of the United States labor force was working from home full-time.

The need for home office spaces has increased as more people work from home.

Many people have retrofitted various spaces around their homes into areas to get work done. More organized home work spaces can increase productivity. Individuals can follow these guidelines to create effective, organized home offices.

Begin with the desk The desk is the primary spot where work will take place. The right desk accessories can provide visual appeal and also serve practical purposes. Have cups for holding pens and pencils, baskets and bins for larger items, and store whatever you can elsewhere so it does not lead to clutter on the desk. Store wireless printers in a cabinet or even on a bookshelf so it doesn’t take up real estate on the desk.

11B

Establish a charging station When it comes to organizing a home office, planning is key.

Create a printing station While you’re moving that wireless printer elsewhere, designate a space to serve as the central printing hub. This way children who need to print assignments for school will know where to go as well. Printer supplies like extra ink cartridges and printer paper can be kept in decorative storage boxes nearby.

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Repurpose certain items, such as a desk organizer, into an easily accessible electronics charging station where phones and tablets can charge at one time.

Make essential Increase your shelving binders Shelving can help keep items organized and off the desk in home offices without closets or drawers. Look for shelves that blend in with decor but are sturdy enough to be functional.

Organize paperwork Figure out a system that works for you to help tidy up papers you choose to save. While

HGTV suggests making binders that can store the most important papers for easy access even in an emergency. Set up a binder for automotive paperwork, including repair receipts, a medical binder where key medical records are kept, a binder for manuals for devices in the home, and one to store financial planning documents.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

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