Susie Skog knows Lake Norman Real Estate Inside Out

Thinking about adding a home security system?

Criminals are less likely to target homes with built-in security, so installing one could protect your family and valuables.

Safety isnt the only benefit, though.

Some systems let you control them remotely, allowing you to unlock the door for visitors and keep an eye on your kids from work.

Security features could also be an attractive selling point if you put your house on the market.

You might even get rewarded with cheaper homeowners insurance, meaning the system could help pay for itself.

For peace of mind and financial gains, consider a home security system.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

These easy techniques will keep your home current, while displaying vintage artifacts.

Be Bold

Layering modern patterns and colors is a great way to make a room feel more contemporary.

Mix and Match

Juxtaposing old and new makes for an original look not tied to any specific time period.

Create Collections

An assortment of items offers unique visual appeal that calls more attention than a single piece.

Take a Step Back

Keep an eye on the big picture. Antiques should complement the look, not define it.

Focus on Presentation

Vintage crafts on contemporary shelving or old posters in modern frames provide a glimpse into the past while still feeling fashionable.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

When you live in the city, space is one of the ultimate luxuries. Even high-end homeowners might sometimes feel like they could use a little extra square footage around the house. Living elsewhere, you probably have the liberty to expand your residences footprint, but in an urban setting you have to get more creative. If youre looking to maximize the space in your home, here are several tips to ensure all your needs are accommodated.

Hidden Features
One way to make the most of your space is including hidden features that can transform a room when in use. For example, a casual seating area can quickly become a media room with a pop-up television that emerges from a cabinet or a projector thats hidden in the ceiling. If you need more room for overnight guests (which can quickly become an issue for growing families), another option is to install Murphy beds in your rec room or home office that are seamlessly stowed away when not in use.

Smart Home Gym
You may not have the space for a full-blown fitness area full of equipment, but you can still get a good workout without leaving the house. These days, there are numerous smart home gyms that require minimal space to exercise with maximum convenience. Whether youre into running, cycling, kickboxing or even resistance training, all you really need is a small corner of the house.

Multi-Purpose Furniture
Having furniture that serves more than one purpose has major appeal when space is at a premium. This is especially valuable if you get extra storage space, like an ottoman that can open up and hold blankets inside or a bedframe for the kids room with built-in drawers where they can keep their toys. Other options might be a versatile dining room table that can extend to accommodate extra guests at a dinner party or splurging on a high-end sofa with a pull-out bed thats actually comfortable.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

If youve ever felt like a room in your home needs a little extra energy, an accent wall just might be the perfect solution. By having one wall stand out from the rest of the room, it provides exciting visual appeal that draws the eye and leaves a lasting impression while breaking the monotony. Here are a few exciting ways you can create an accent wall in your home.

Fabric Wall Covering
By introducing a plush fabric, like silk or mohair, to one wall, you can instantly give any room a unique aesthetic while creating a luxurious look. Even a more traditional option, such as a neutral-toned linen wall covering, can provide a distinguished feel without being too flashy. Using a textured surface like fabric can help to warm a room up or add depth, depending on what you hope to achieve.

Exposed Brick
Whether youre in the city or the countryside, an exposed brick wall evokes a sense of character in practically any setting. While it might be more commonly associated with industrial chic- and bohemian-style lofts, theres no reason why you cant mix it up in a traditional residence with a red brick wall. If you feel like that might be too much, another option is to paint the brick white and let it blend in a little bit.

Wallpaper
There are tons of great choices for high-end wallpaper that can easily transform a room into an entirely new space. From mesmerizing floral patterns to classic prints, the right wallpaper will bring a room to life while supplementing the existing color scheme. And if you find the perfect one, you might just want to go ahead and cover the entire room with it.

Bold Paint
Of course, the most common way to create an accent wall is simply by painting one wall an exciting color that complements the rest of the room. It doesnt necessarily have to be a vibrant shade of yellow or orange, however. A dark, moody blue, for example, can make an equally powerful design statement that everyone is sure to take note of.

Published with permission from RISMedia.