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You’ve unpacked your boxes, you’ve gotten your furniture set up and you’ve begun to find a rhythm in your new home. Now that the dust has settled, it’s the perfect time to celebrate all your hard work. And just in time – 4th of July right around the corner!
But how exactly should you celebrate the holiday in your new home? Here are six ways you can enjoy yourself and get to know your new community.
Invite People Over
There’s no better excuse than a holiday to invite over friends and family. Plus, now that things are all in order, it can double as a “housewarming” party – you know everyone has been dying to see your new place! The thought of having people over so soon may seem daunting at first, but don’t worry, there are lots of quick, easy things you can do to make your get-together feel special. You’ve got this!
Get to Know Your New Kitchen
What’s the best part of 4th of July? The food, of course! And sure, you’ve cooked a few dinners and brunches in your new kitchen, but this is probably the first big holiday meal you’re planning.
Make things easy on yourself by preparing buffet-style food and drinks that can be arranged on your island or on your patio where your guests can serve themselves. Here are some ideas to get you started! And if someone in your family loves to grill, then this is the time to recruit them. Set them up outside with their “Kiss the Cook” apron and watch the magic happen. And remember, grilling isn’t just for hamburgers and hot dogs.
5 Easy Themes for a Backyard Barbecue
Play Yard Games
Make memories with your kids, your family and your friends with everyone’s favorite: yard games! There’s no better way to enjoy your new outdoor space than by playing around in it. Some great crowd-pleasers are Ladder Ball, Giant Jenga, Bocce Ball and (of course) Cornhole. If you don’t have a Cornhole set, there’s bound to be someone in your social circle who does; ask them to bring it over and help organize a tournament between all your guests. And if you’re feeling crafty, you can always DIY some other fun games to keep everyone entertained.
Take a Dip in Your Community Pool
If your neighborhood has a pool, you should absolutely use it! Your kids will love the chance to have fun with their friends, and you can enjoy laying in the sun with a good book or a summertime playlist. Remember to purchase pool passes for you and any guests ahead of time or have a plan to purchase them when you arrive. If it’s your first time heading over to the community pool, here are some tips on what to bring with you.
Related: Red, White & Blue Recipes from Our Family to Yours
Stop by the Neighborhood Block Party
Get social with your neighbors! Particularly in new communities, there is always a fun social event going on. Contact your Homeowner’s Association about upcoming events or reach out to your neighbors on the community Facebook page to see what sort of 4th of July plans are in the works. You’ll find that holiday block parties, pool parties and pot lucks are pretty common. And if you’re feeling a bit like the new kid at school, keep in mind that you’re probably not the only one; there are definitely new people in the community, just like you.
Check Out Local Fireworks Displays
What’s a 4th of July without fireworks? No matter where you live, there are bound to be local fireworks displays nearby. You may even see some from your home! But if you’d rather see the action up close, take a look at these event listings in Maryland and Delaware to find a day and time that fits your schedule. Especially if you’re new to the area, it’s a great idea to take a drive and get to know your new hometown.
So once the sun starts to go down, pack everyone up in the car and head out to watch the show! And remember, if you’re planning on having any sort of sparklers or fireworks at your home, you should check your local laws and regulations first.
However you choose to celebrate this year – whether you decide to host a family get-together, go out on the town or stay in to watch Independence Day – make sure to relax and enjoy yourself. Happy 4th of July!
Covington, Wash. – June 2019 – The city of Covington has increased in popularity and is gearing up to embrace the summer season with a whole series of public events. Located within walking distance from our Maple Hills and Cedar Creek Park communities in the city, it’s also just a short drive from our Northpoint at Maple Centre community in adjacent Maple Valley. All of these communities have new homes that are now selling!
Mark your calendars and be sure to bring your friends and family to enjoy these festivities:
Summer Splashtacular – June 29
Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Covington Aquatic Center
Bring the kids to this free event which is an afternoon of swimming, safety activities and tons of splashing fun.
Covington Days Festival – July 20-21
Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. & Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Come out for the festival kick-off parade on 272nd Street at 10 a.m. Then, enjoy all the fun carnival games, 100 different vendors, delicious eats, live music, a watermelon eating contest and so much more!
More details available at www.covingtonwa.gov/covingtondays.
Summer Outdoor Concert Series – Fridays, July 26 – August 16
6:30 p.m. at Covington Community Park
July 26: The Gothard Sisters – Celtic Music and Irish Dancing
August 2: Tia Brazda – Jazz
August 9: TBD
August 16: Harmonica Pocket
Stay tuned for more community events happening in Covington all through the month of August!
For more information on the above events, visit: https://www.covingtonwa.gov/events/index.php
To discover beautiful new homes for sale in Covington, surrounding cities and all over the Puget Sound, visit www.lennar.com/seattle.
About Lennar
Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation’s leading builders of quality homes for all generations. Lennar builds affordable, move-up and active adult homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar’s Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title insurance, and closing services for both buyers of Lennar’s homes and others. Lennar’s Rialto segment is a vertically integrated asset management platform focused on investing throughout the commercial real estate capital structure. Lennar’s Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. Previous press releases and further information about Lennar may be obtained at the “Investor Relations” section of Lennar’s website, www.lennar.com.
Summer is finally here, which means it is time to spruce up your home in preparation for all the summertime fun gatherings that you will host this season. Here are 8 important summer home maintenance tasks to tackle before planning your first backyard barbecue. Learn more in this Realtor.com article by Jamie Weibe.
The official start of summer might be mere hours away, but most of us are already well into celebrating the season, with backyard barbecues, pool parties, and even a few vacations in the rear-view mirror.
But before you go into full-on summer mode, bear with us: There are a few home maintenance tasks you should tackle to keep your home in tiptop shape all season long.
Buzzkill, we know. But the good news is we’ve done the heavy lifting for you, identifying the top items to address—and what professional help will cost if you want to throw in the (pool) towel. Check these eight projects off your to-do list before firing up the grill.
To keep your refrigerator running efficiently in these hot months, you’ll want to vacuum and clean the condenser coils, defrost the freezer, and clean the seals around the door. Then, scrub your fridge inside and out—a task that’s “often overlooked, but it’s a great way to ensure the cool air in the fridge is remaining where it belongs: inside,” says Ron Shimek, the president of Mr. Appliance.
DIY: This is an easy afternoon activity—although it might get a bit nasty if dirt has accumulated on the coils.
Call in the pros: Fridge making funny sounds? A pro can figure out why. It might just be replacement time, though. Wirecutter’s top pickis $1,620, and its favorite budget model will run you a cool $600.
Hot weather makes wood—and many other construction materials—expand. And over time, this expansion and contraction cycle can cause damage to your house.
“The effect can vary depending on the humidity and climate, but after a while, you may have breaches in the seals around your home,” says Craig Ricks Jr., the president of Acadian Windows and Siding.
Inspect the seals around your windows, roof, door frames, vents, ducts, and outdoor faucets, and take note of any cracking.
Not only are you ensuring your hard-working AC keeps its efforts inside the house, but you also “prevent unwanted bugs and critters from entering,” Ricks says.
DIY: Small cracks can be easily filled with spray foam or wood filler.
Call in the pros: If the rim around your doors or windows looks screwy, an expert can fix the problem. Expect to pay about $160 to fix an exterior door, depending on the severity of the damage.
Months of harsh weather have probably left your siding and hardscaping looking a little dingy.
“This gets overlooked, but it’s a huge part of keeping up the curb appeal of your home,” says mortgage broker Jennifer Harder.
Plus, a good pressure washing cleans out the dirt, preventing rot or other unwanted intrusions.
DIY: Have some fun! Renting a power or pressure washer costs between $50 and $200. (You’ll want a power washer, which uses hot water, for serious stains, and a pressure washer, which uses—you guessed it—pressure for dust and dirt.)
Take some basic precautions before starting: Harder recommends covering any plants, electrical outlets, and windows to avoid any mishaps.
Call in the pros: Pressure or power washing can be a big project. If you’re not up to the task, a pro will charge between $60 and $100 per hour.
Just like your fridge, your washing machine deserves some TLC during summer—especially if you have kids. All of those dirty sports jerseys and mud-soaked pants give the machine a serious workout. Check your hoses for leaks, and clean your lint filter, too.
And when you do the laundry, wash full loads and use cold water whenever possible, Shimek suggests.
DIY: A basic washing machine inspection is simple, and swapping new hoses for cracked, old versions is an easy DIY.
Call in the pros: If something’s majorly wrong, you might need to call for a repair, which will cost between $120 and $500, depending on the severity of the problem.
Continue Reading The Full Article HERE.
Black Diamond, Wash. – June 2019 – The Ten Trails master-planned community is a one-of-a-kind place for families to live and has just announced their lineup of Summer events for homeowners, friends, and prospective homebuyers. Mark your calendars and get your picnic blankets, chairs and snacks ready for all the fun happening this summer.
“We are so thrilled to be part of this incredible community and the Summer series of events is a perfect example of what makes this masterplan an incredible place to live,” said Bill Salvesen, Division President for Lennar Seattle. “From summer movie nights, Farmer’s Markets, barbecues, Hometown Socials and more – there is plenty of fun to be had and opportunities to connect with your potential new neighbors.”
Be sure to mark your calendars and invite friends and family to join in on the fun. All Hometown Socials will host a special Farmer’s Market bringing more than 25 local vendors, food trucks, games, a beer garden, music, a zip line, kids’ activities and so much more!
For more information on upcoming events at Ten Trails or new homes for sale within the community, visit www.lennar.com/tentrails.
About Lennar
Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation’s leading builders of quality homes for all generations. Lennar builds affordable, move-up and active adult homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar’s Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title insurance, and closing services for both buyers of Lennar’s homes and others. Lennar’s Rialto segment is a vertically integrated asset management platform focused on investing throughout the commercial real estate capital structure. Lennar’s Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. Previous press releases and further information about Lennar may be obtained at the “Investor Relations” section of Lennar’s website, www.lennar.com
Sacramento, Calif. – June 2019 – Lennar’s active adult community Heritage Vineyard Creek offers an incredible opportunity for 55+ homebuyers in seek of an amenity-rich lifestyle, low maintenance new home, and a prime Sacramento location. This new community offers a handful of quick move-in homes at an affordable price point that showcases modern design and features.
“Heritage Vineyard Creek is a great opportunity for homebuyers looking for a lock-and-leave lifestyle and prime location,” said Michelle Velky, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Lennar Sacramento. “All of our homes showcase single-story layouts with incredible design details and features, designed for active adult living, all at no additional cost.”
Home shoppers will find four distinctive single-story floorplans at Heritage Vineyard Creek. The homes range in size from approximately 1,743 to 2,206 square feet with two to three bedrooms and two to three bathrooms. The homes are priced starting from the high $300,000s for an incredible value.
Lennar’s series of Thoughtful Design® details are exclusively offered at Lennar’s active adult communities. Features such as illuminated addresses that help guests navigate through the neighborhood with ease, and wider doorways and hallways allow for easier movement throughout the home. Additionally, lower appliance design, walk-in showers with hand-held accessories and benches, extra lighting and windows, oversized water closets, reinforced backing in the bathrooms for future handrail placement and more make everyday life easier.
In addition to Thoughtful Design®, every home Lennar builds is a part of their Everything’s Included® program, which includes a high level of popular features at no additional cost. Upgrades such as granite or quartz kitchen countertops, stainless steel appliances, solar, integrated home automation, and Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™ home designs for whole-home connectivity come included as standard.
Homeowners enjoy access to incredible amenities at The Resort, an exclusive clubhouse for residents. Built on a two-and-a-half acre site, The Resort offers a clubhouse with a large social/activity room that opens to a covered patio with furniture and a double-sided fireplace, a perfect venue for an event or meeting up with neighbors. It also features a large fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment and men’s and women’s restrooms complete with showers.
Just beyond the patio is the sparkling swimming pool and spa, two lighted Pickle Ball courts, a Bocce ball court, community garden, vineyard area, picnic tables, gas barbecues and a well-maintained turf area for outdoor events. The layout provides plenty of flexible outdoor space that makes it easy to spend more time out in the sun.
Heritage Vineyard Creek is now open for tours seven days a week. Prospective homebuyers can learn more at their brunch and clubhouse tour taking place in two weeks on Saturday, July 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Resort, located inside the community at 7463 Golden Stars Way in Sacramento.
For more information, to view floorplans or make an appointment visit www.lennar.com/sacramento or call (916) 304-9906.
About Lennar
Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation’s leading builders of quality homes for all generations. Lennar builds affordable, move-up and active adult homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar’s Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title insurance, and closing services for both buyers of Lennar’s homes and others. Lennar’s Rialto segment is a vertically integrated asset management platform focused on investing throughout the commercial real estate capital structure. Lennar’s Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. Previous press releases and further information about Lennar may be obtained at the “Investor Relations” section of Lennar’s website, www.lennar.com.
A new home equals a new life. The US Census Bureau reports that the average retirement age in the United States is 63 years old. As baby boomers are retiring earlier and living longer, they are looking to begin their golden years in a new home – and they know exactly what they want and where they want to live. Florida is consistently listed as a top state to retire to, likely due in large part to the friendly climate, hospitality mentality and the absence of state income tax.
Where to Retire magazine has been informing the US on retirement relocation since 1992, offering information and insights for retirees looking to begin the next leg of their journey. In June of each year, Where to Retire reveals “The Short List: 50 Best Master-Planned Communities in the United States.” The communities come from 17 states. Florida has nine of the winning 50 communities.
In Central Florida – The Lakes at Harmony, in Harmony, is one of only nine master-planned communities in Florida to be recognized on “The Short List: 50 Best Master-Planned Communities in the United States” this year. This age-restricted neighborhood touts a private amenities complex, sports courts and outdoor splendors like two lakes. Residents also have access to amenities in the larger Harmony development, including a golf course that winds through a 260-acre nature preserve.
Top Considerations for Relocating Retirees:
For more ways to enjoy your golden years in sunny Florida and for reasons why Florida consistently ranks as a top state to retire in, check out Lennar’s Open-Door Blog.
Millennials are ditching engagement rings and committing to each other by sharing a mortgage instead. Unlike their parents, millennials do not view marriage as a necessary step before buying a home together. Due to college debt, many millennials are putting off marriage and investing their savings into a home instead of a wedding. This move shows how different millennials are from previous generations and are prioritizing home ownership over marriage.
Step One: Have an open and transparent conversation
Congrats! You and your significant other have determined that you are both ready to take a big next step in the relationship and buy a home together. Now it is time to have an open and transparent conversation about your finances. It’s important to discuss income, credit card debt, student loans, savings, and any other finances in order to make a home buying game plan. Having this conversation early on will give both of you the opportunity to be open about any credit blemishes and get a hold of your finances prior to buying a home.
Step Two: Document an Agreement
Buying a home as an unmarried couple is not as simple as signing the standard real estate agreement. Buying a home, regardless of relationship status, is the single largest asset a person will purchase in their lifetime. It is crucial to have legal agreement documented that protects both you financially if things go south in the relationship.
This agreement often referred to as a home-buying prenuptial, helps address many questions including who is financially responsible for what and what were to happen if the relationship fails. Although no couple wants to talk about a potential break up, it is necessary to plan for the worst through a legal agreement now that you both still like each other. Failing to plan ahead could potentially leave you unprotected and will likely result in a messy and long legal battle.
Here are some questions your home-buying prenup should address:
Step Three: Pick a Title Wisely
When it comes to buying a home there’s no one title that fits all. Most married couples usually take the “Tenants by the Entirety”, on the other hand unmarried couples have to pick from: “Joint Tenants”, “Tenants in Common”, and sole ownership. Know your options and pick a title that works for both of you.
Tenants by Entirety: This title is only available for married couples and it gives both tenants 100% of ownership over the home.
Joint Tenants: This title allows each person to own 50% of the home. If one tenant passes away, their share automatically goes to the other tenant
Tenants in Common: This title allows unequal ownership of the home. For example, one tenant can own 60% of the property and while the other one owns 40%.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Involve Your Parents
Young unmarried couples often feel the urge to seek homebuying advice from mom and dad. However, homebuying is already complicated enough so why bring extra opinions into the equation.
Your parents’ generation did things more traditionally, so they might feel uncertain about the situation. Although, parents mean well it is your house so they only opinion that matters is yours. Just remember to be smart and get everything in writing.
Irvine, Calif. – June 2019 – Discover new homes in Irvine at Central Park West, an urban-inspired masterplan community that pairs the best of city living with the serenity of lush landscaping and tranquil parks. Comprised of three communities, Hudson, Tribeca and Rockefeller, new homes showcase a variety of designs fit for families of every type, including flats, townhomes, and paired homes. Model homes for all three communities are now open, so stop by the Welcome Home Center for a tour. Plus, several homes are available now, which means you can get moving today and start enjoying the resort-inspired community amenities tomorrow – just in time for summer!
“With models now open for every community and new phase releases coming up at Central Park West, now’s the perfect time to stop by this urban oasis and find your dream Lennar home,” said Janet Price, Marketing Director for Lennar Cal Coastal. “Buyers will love the top-of-the-line Everything’s Included® features each home comes with as standard, as well as this neighborhood’s unbeatable location – located in the heart of Orange County near popular recreation, entertainment and within close proximity to top-rated schools and universities.”
Rockefeller boasts luxury paired homes, but hurry in because final homes will be released on June 22nd and will surely go quickly. Starting from the mid $1 millions, buyers can choose from two innovative designs ranging from approximately 2,496 to 2,594 square feet including two to three bedrooms and two to three and one-half bathrooms. Per plan, floorplans showcase multiple master bedrooms or large wrap-around upper decks, open concept living areas and gourmet kitchens for easy entertaining, sophisticated master suites with large walk-in closets and more. These upscale homes also overlook the Rockefeller Park in Central Park West.
Tribeca offers new flats and townhomes, with a new phase of homes releasing on June 22nd. New homes start from the upper $700,000s and range from approximately 1,093 to 1,965 square feet, including one to three bedrooms and one and one-half to three bathrooms. Per plan, floorplans showcase open concept living areas, spacious decks, exquisite kitchen spaces and charming master suites with large walk-in closets.
Hudson recently celebrated a successful Grand Opening and the models are now open to the public. Discover new stylish flats starting from the mid $400,000s and ranging from approximately 684 to 1,444 square feet, including one to three bedrooms and one to three bathrooms. This new home community offers five uniquely-designed floorplans to choose from, showcasing outdoor patios (per plan), open interiors, gourmet kitchens, master suites and ample parking with a shared underground floor.
Every new home at Central Park West is part of Lennar’s signature Everything’s Included® program, which provides top-of-the-line features like stainless steel appliances, upgraded cabinetry, home automation and so much more as standard – meaning no extra cost!
Additionally, Central Park West’s prime location opens the door to an unrivaled living experience with freeways, shopping centers, schools, airports and fitness centers close by. From sunny beaches, amusement parks and a vibrant nightlife, your new home puts you in the center of it all. Plus, residents have access to state-of-the-art amenities right outside their new front door, including beautiful verdant parks, landscaped paseos, a resort-style clubhouse, barbecue areas, and a fitness center.
Central Park West is located between Rockefeller and York in Irvine, Calif. 92612. For more information, please visit www.lennar.com/orangecounty or to schedule a tour, contact the Lennar iTeam at LennariTeam@Lennar.com or call 949-234-7880.
About Lennar
Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation’s leading builders of quality homes for all generations. Lennar builds affordable, move-up and active adult homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar’s Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title insurance, and closing services for both buyers of Lennar’s homes and others. Lennar’s Rialto segment is a vertically integrated asset management platform focused on investing throughout the commercial real estate capital structure. Lennar’s Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. Previous press releases and further information about Lennar may be obtained at the “Investor Relations” section of Lennar’s website, www.lennar.com.
Hillsboro, Ore. – June 2019 – Join Lennar for a first-time homebuyer seminar and fun Happy Hour at Rosedale Parks on Thursday, June 27 with two-time slots to choose from – 4 or 6 p.m. Enjoy snacks and wine catered by Simply Thyme and Blizzard Wines while getting all of your homebuying questions answered. You will also have the chance to tour the beautiful model townhomes showcasing innovative designs and Everything’s Included® features from the mid $300s. Plus, receive a $1,000 closing cost credit voucher*.
Each class is limited to 30 guests, so RSVP for your preferred time slot at Lennar.com/MyFirstHome. The seminar will highlight:
Now’s the best time to get moving and start reaping the many benefits that come with owning as opposed to renting, including:
Explore the possibilities for your first home in Hillsboro at Rosedale Parks and Butternut Creek. The Trailside Collection at Rosedale Parks offers sophisticated townhomes starting in the mid $300s and ranging from approximately 1,520 to 1,716 square feet. The Vista Collection at Butternut Creek offers upscale townhomes starting from the mid $300s and ranging from approximately 1,548 to 1,689 square feet. New homes in Hillsboro by Lennar showcase open living areas, gourmet kitchens, and stylish master suites, plus come outfitted with a high level of Everything’s Included® features at no extra cost, such as home automation.
Rosedale Parks is located at 6121 SE Genrose St in Hillsboro, OR 97123. To register for the seminar, visit Lennar.com/MyFirstHome. For more information or to view new home communities by Lennar in the Portland Metro area, visit www.LennarPortland.com.
Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation’s leading builders of quality homes for all generations. Lennar builds affordable, move-up and active adult homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar’s Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title insurance, and closing services for both buyers of Lennar’s homes and others. Lennar’s Rialto segment is a vertically integrated asset management platform focused on investing throughout the commercial real estate capital structure. Lennar’s Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. Previous press releases and further information about Lennar may be obtained at the “Investor Relations” section of Lennar’s website, www.lennar.com.
DISCLAIMER: *Seller will pay closing costs up to $1,000 as defined on your Loan Estimate, excluding prepaids, subject to seller contribution limits. Offer may affect the maximum loan amount. Offer available to qualified buyers financing through Eagle Home Mortgage, LLC and closing at designated closing agent. Lennar Homes, LLC (“Lennar”) and Eagle Home Mortgage (“Eagle”) have business relationships with each other. Lennar and Eagle are, directly or indirectly, wholly owned by Lennar Corporation. For additional information please visit their websites at www.eaglehm.com and www.Lennar.com. Eagle’s loan process is a voluntary program and participation is not required in order to purchase a home from Lennar Homes, LLC. Requesting a loan prequalification and making a loan application does not constitute a loan approval or otherwise indicate that a consumer has or will qualify for a loan from Eagle or any other lender. Financing is not guaranteed and not all consumers will qualify to purchase a Lennar home. Eagle Home Mortgage, LLC – NMLS # 1058. Mortgage Lending License # ML-5079, 7320 SW Hunziker Street, Suite 300, Tigard, OR 97223. Event subject to change without prior notice. Models/lifestyle photos do not reflect racial or ethnic preference. Photographs are solely for illustrative purposes and should never be relied upon. All maps are not to scale and are for relative location purposes only. Please see your New Home Consultant and home purchase agreement for actual features designated as an Everything’s Included feature, additional information, disclosures, and disclaimers relating to your home and its features. Visit Lennar.com or see a Lennar New Home Consultant for further details and important legal disclaimers. This is not an offer in states where prior registration is required. Void where prohibited by law. Copyright © 2019 Lennar Corporation and Eagle Home Mortgage LLC. All rights reserved. Lennar, the Lennar logo, Everything’s Included, the Everything’s Included logo, Next Gen – The Home Within A Home, the Next Gen logo, Eagle Home Mortgage, and the Eagle logo are U.S. registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. CCB#LENNAN1893QG. CCB#195307. 5/19
