taylormadeteamdmv

[taylormadeteamdmv]

Prepare Your Home for the Spring Season

The Spring season is slowly approaching and it is time to get your home ready for the new season coming. Get ahead and read a few tips and tricks for making sure your home is ready for the Spring.

Deep clean the garbage disposal and the oven.

A clogged garbage disposal can cause major and expensive plumbing problems in the near future. Turning off the power, wiping the grinder and drain, and deodorizing with ice and vinegar should do the trick. 8% of house fires are caused by dirty ovens. However, the good news is cleaning your oven and keeping it clean is super easy. Just find a good brand of oven cleaner and the job is done.

Check and clean the gutters.

Spring is a rainy season! Therefore, now is the time to check your gutters for loose parts or leaks. Water draining improperly through your gutters can cause water to seep into the basement or crawl spaces. Call a professional to make sure the downspouts are free of debris and dirt and are draining away from the foundation of your home.

Take care of your landscape with compacted soil.

As a result of Spring being a rainy season, not filling your yard with compacted soil can have a few negative effects. Low area and dips around your home and especially next to the foundation can cause yard and foundation flooding when filled with rain. The same low areas and dips filled with rain can lead to a breeding ground for insects during the summer.

Check and service your AC unit.

Checking and having your AC unite serviced can save a lot of time before the Spring season hits. An AC unit with clean coils keeps the system operating efficiently and smoothly. Changing the filter inside of the home helps as well. Call a professional to look at and clean your AC unit in order to get prepared for the Spring season.

[taylormadeteamdmv]

Do’s and Don’ts of What to Buy in February

Don’t: Book Travel Plans for the Summer, Unless it’s a Cruise

Many people are planning their vacations for the Spring and Summer during this time. As a result, this can cause the price of flights and accommodations to increase a great amount. It is advised that you keep your travel plans for the off-peak season between September and October to attain a cheaper and cost-effective travel experience. However, cruises have an exception as February is the time most cruise lines try to book as many cabins as possible.

Do: Buy Winter Products and Apparel

With March being the start of Spring, you will find most Winter products and apparel at a discounted price. Stores and retailers have started to roll out their Spring and Summer arrivals at full price. Take advantage of the discount and deals on Winter products and apparel such as coats, jackets, boots, sporting equipment, etc.

Don’t: Buy Gym Equipment or Memberships

January is the month when most retailers and gyms roll out their promotion and discount signs for anything pertaining to exercise and fitness. Those starting their New Year’s resolutions hit the gym at the beginning of the year, taking advantage of the sales and promotions. However, when February comes around, most gyms and retailers selling exercise equipment begin to raise their prices as this is the “off-peak” season. More promotions and special offers do not come back around until the later part of the Spring season and beginning of the Summer season.

Do: Buy During President’s Day Sales

Valentine’s Day is not the only holiday in February. President’s Day is a popular holiday that may people look forward to in February for the many deals and discounts retailers offer.  Although the holiday falls on February 17th which is on a Monday, look out for weekend long deals and discounts on things such as mattresses, home goods, bedding, furniture, small appliances, etc.

[taylormadeteamdmv]

7 Ways to Celebrate Black History Month in the DMV

Originally recognized as “Negro History Week,” Black History Month became a month-long celebration in 1976 with February being chosen to correspond with the birthdays of Frederick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln. Black History Month is a celebration and honor of the contributions African Americans have made to United States History. Washington, DC is home to many African Americans who have contributed in some way to our culture and history. There are many ways to celebrate Black History Month and as 2020 is a leap year, it gives us an extra day in February to celebrate. Here are 7 ways you can celebrate Black History Month this year in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area.

Visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture:

Washington DC is home to some of the most popular museums in the country, one of those being the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Opened in 2016, it is a main attraction to many who live in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area as well as tourists visiting the nation’s capital. Inside the museum you will find a plethora of interesting history about the African American community and population. The museum consists of many exhibitions such as the Civil Rights Movement, Slavery and Freedom, Cultural Expressions, Life after Slavery, Revolutionary War, Education, Music, Entertainment, and Sports.

To plan your visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, visit their website at: https://nmaahc.si.edu/

Honor Martin Luther King Jr. at his Memorial

One of the newest memorials of Washington DC, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, is a popular monument for DC natives and tourists. The site is located in West Potomac Park and known for its 30-foot statue of Dr. King. His face and stance is carved into the Stone of Hope standing above the Mountain of Despair. Both pieces are references to his “I Have a Dream” speech. Visiting the memorial is most breath taking after the sun sets as the statue of Dr. King and the Mountain of Despair illuminates with light at night.

For more information on the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, visit the website at: https://www.nps.gov/mlkm/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm

Take a Walk Through Shaw Neighborhood and Howard Theatre

The Shaw neighborhood is most known for its prominent Black history and figures such as Jazz Musician Duke Ellington. Shaw was named after Colonel Robert Gould Shaw who fought in the Civil War as a member of the Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry of Black Soldiers. Later on, the neighborhood was nicknamed “The Heart of Chocolate City” for being the place that many escaped slaves called home and established a numerous amount of businesses for the African American population.

After walking through the Shaw neighborhood, take a stroll along Howard Theatre’s Walk of Fame, beginning at the Shaw-Howard Metro Station and ending at the façade of the theatre. The Walk of Fame honors 15 Black Cultural icons such as Marvin Gaye, Chuck Brown, and Ella Fitzgerald.

To learn more about the Howard Theatre and the Shaw Community, visit their website at: 

http://thehowardtheatre.com/

https://www.compass.com/neighborhood-guides/dc/shaw/

Support a Black Business:

There are a number of Black owned business in the Washington DC and Maryland area. Whether you are looking for a business for the arts, food & dining, community involvement, education, entertainment, finances, home needs, etc., there is a Black owned business for anything you can think of. Any small contribution of support will help our community’s businesses grow.

Take a look at a DC Black Business Directory to find a business to support: http://www.dcblack.com/black-directory/

Attend a Black Culture Event:

Washington DC hosts a few cultural events throughout the year. During Black History Month, from February 19-March 1, the Intersections Festival will be held at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. The festival will include showcases of theatre, dance, poetry, music, film, writing, photography, arts, and many more. Many of these exhibitions and showcases will incorporate the African American culture of the city and nation’s capital.

Check out the festival website to see a full list of events and showcases and to purchase your festival pass: https://www.atlasarts.org/intersections-tickets/

Attend a Musical or Theatre Performance:

The arts play a big part in the African American community and culture. One way to celebrate Black History Month is to attend a theatre performance recognizing and honoring African American ideas, heritage, and culture. “Gun & Powder” is a musical that spotlights two light-skinned African American twins and their journey through tragedy, race, identity, relationships, family and more. The musical is performed at Signature Theatre in Arlington, VA now until February 23rd.

To learn more about this musical and purchase tickets, visit their website: https://www.sigtheatre.org/events/201920/gun-and-powder/

Attend a Washington Wizards Basketball Game:

Along with other things, Washington DC is home to the NBA Washington Wizards Basketball Team. A Washington Wizards game is always exciting to watch from enjoying the crowd engagement activities, to the dance team and special events they hold. Throughout the month of February, the Washington Wizards will be celebrating Black History Month by taking the time out of a few of their games to highlight prominent African Americans who are making a difference in their communities.

To be a part of this honor and experience, visit their website to purchase tickets: https://www.nba.com/wizards/tickets

Black History Month is a month of honor, respect, culture, and learning for many. The African American population has contributed a great deal to the United States History. Washington DC has a lot to offer and a great amount of Black History embedded in the streets of the city. You don’t always have to do something extravagant to celebrate Black History Month. A simple visit to a historic Black monument, support of a Black business, or even spreading some knowledge about your Black History is always a plus.

Reference: https://washington.org/visit-dc/celebrate-black-history-month

[taylormadeteamdmv]

All I Want for Christmas is ...?

Holiday shopping can be a hassle, especially if you are shopping for a lot of people or are simply not a fan of shopping in general. However, there are ways to maximize your holiday shopping and spending. Enjoy a few tricks and hacks to keep in mind when you are shopping for loved ones and friends for the Christmas holiday.

Shop online

Who likes crowded malls, traffic, and packed parking lots with no parking spaces? Not a lot of people do. That is more of a reason you should spend your money and buy online during the holidays. A number of online stores offer expedited shipping during the holidays to make sure your gifts arrive on time. Amazon is a great website to look for all types of gifts and if you are an Amazon Prime customer, you can take advantage of one- and two-day shipping. Shopping online may be to your advantage as well because some things you can’t find in store, you can find online.

Free shipping Day – December 14th

Yes, Cyber Monday can come and go. However, what most don’t know about is Free Shipping day. For 24 hours only on December 14th, about 1,000 stores in total will be offering free shipping to all customers visiting and purchasing from their site. Even though it may be last minute to order gifts online, these retailers guarantee that your shipment will arrive on or before Christmas Eve.

Visit www.freeshippingday.com for more details.

Super Saturday

We all know that last minute gifts and shopping happen every holiday season. Super Saturday is the last day before Christmas, which falls on December 21st this year. Although the malls may be the most crowded on this day as everyone is doing their last-minute pick-ups, it’s also a good day to catch last minute deals. There may be deals on toys, electronics, apparel, accessories, etc. Make sure to be on the lookout for coupons and discounts from various retailers on this day.

Need last minute gift ideas?

Don’t know what to get a friend or co-worker? Or maybe you forgot to pick up a small gift from the mall when you were shopping for everyone else. Universal gifts are always a good idea around the holidays. Candles, socks, lotions, body washes, blankets, etc. are both small and perfect last-minute gifts. Stores like Yankee Candle and Bath & Body Works have a ton of sales during the holiday season that you should take advantage of.

Yes the holiday season and shopping can be stressful, but planning ahead can help you out a lot. Taking advantage of a few of these tricks and hacks can help reduce the stress and anxiety the holiday season may cause with the end goal being to have a wonderful Christmas holiday!

[taylormadeteamdmv]

Spice Up Your Home This Holiday Season

The Holiday season is here! You know what that means, it is time to re-decorate your home for the next few months. Here are a few decor ideas to include in your home this 2019 Holiday Season! ⁠

Save time and get an artificial tree

A real Christmas tree is not required to have a real and joyful holiday. Real trees can be a hassle between transporting them into your home and triggering safety issues and allergies. Artificial trees can cause less problems and are less likely to break your pockets. However, if you still want that fresh tree smell, getting a Nest Holiday or Birchwood Pine reed diffuser is a good idea!

Black Christmas anyone?

In getting an artificial tree, it allows you to experiment with color during the holidays. White Christmas trees have been popular in the past years. However, the most searched colored tree this year is black. A black tree is a statement piece to add to your home. Having monochromatic lights and ornaments will make it stand out like no other. Millennial pink or red trees are popular as well.

Bring back vintage and old items

Good new, plaid is back in! Plaid brings a sense of warmth to your home. It shouldn’t be a big display, but rather a small touch to your décor such as a throw blanket or stocking.

Find décor to use year-round

The holiday season only lasts for a few months. However, there is a way to keep the holiday spirit year-round without your home looking like This Christmas. Search for items that are festive and can serve as both holiday pieces and year-round favorites such as silver eatery or gold accented wall pieces.

Although the Holidays only last for a little while, it’s always fun and refreshing to re-decorate your home. Enjoy these few trendy tips to incorporate in your home and make it feel warm, refreshing, and ready for the Holiday joy.

[taylormadeteamdmv]

Looking to move to Maryland? Here’s why you should.

Whether you are looking to move to Maryland permanently or just for a short time, it is important to do your research to determine if it’s the right move for you. Here is a handful of things and benefits to consider when moving to Maryland:

Job Market

Although the cost of living in Maryland isn’t cheap, it is considered the wealthiest state in the United States. Maryland’s unemployment rate has been on a steady decline since 2010 with it being 4% as of 2018. The states minimum wage is currently $10.10. However, the state is increasing its minimum wage to $15 by implementing gradual increases each year until January 2024. The first increase will go into effect on January 1, 2020 bringing the minimum wage to $11. If you are interested in working in the health/medical field, Maryland would be a great place to reside. Some of the fastest-growing job fields in the state include: translators, home health aids, occupational therapists, and personal trainers. There will be more job opportunities opening as a new project in Largo, MD is underway that will include entertainment, shopping, residential units, office space and a new University of Maryland Regional Medical Center.

Housing

There is plenty of housing available in various parts of Maryland, whether you’re looking for a house or an apartment. As of 2018, the average home value is $283,549 with the average on the market price of $295,900. However, home values have increased by 4.3% over the last year. Although it depends on where you look, apartments are at an average price of $1,591/month. Additionally, there is a ton a new construction being done in the Maryland area.

Culture & Proximity

Maryland is very diverse as everyone comes in all shapes, sizes, and tones. It is also a place where the unique flag design is appreciated and shown off through bumper stickers, t-shirts, hats, etc. Maryland is also known for its many seafood lovers as it is the place where you can find the tastiest blue crabs.

Along with the diversity, the state is in close proximity to some of the states’ biggest cities – Baltimore, Frederick, and Rockville, and also the nation’s capital. Therefore, you are a short drive to all of the major monuments, restaurants, concerts, sporting events, museums, and even the annual Cherry Blossom Festival.

Attractions & Activities

There are plenty of activities and attractions to partake in regardless of your interests. Here are a few popular attractions:

    1. National Aquarium:

The national aquarium, located in the Baltimore Inner Harbor, is a popular attraction for all ages. With 660 different species of animals, there is a lot to see and a lot to do. The aquarium offers a dolphin show, petting stingrays and giant three-legged tortoises.

https://www.aqua.org/

    2. National Harbor DC

The National Harbor, located in Oxon Hill, MD is conveniently located near Virginia and DC. The area offers a lot of activities and attractions such as shopping, entertainment, restaurants, and outdoor activities. Enjoy shopping and sales at the Tanger Outlets which include stores such as Coach, H&M, Nike, and more. The area also has a few delicious restaurants such as Cadillac Ranch, Succotash, and McLoone’s Pier House which is located on the water. Speaking of water, you can also enjoy a boat ride across the Potomac river to Old Town Alexandria or a ride on the Capital Wheel with a beautiful scenery over the water. The National Harbor is also best known for its location right next to the MGM Resorts which has a number of tasty restaurants, a casino, and an outdoor area with beautiful scenery to enjoy during the day and evening.

https://www.nationalharbor.com/

   3. Six Flags America

Maryland is home to one of the many Six Flags America amusement parks. Located in Bowie, MD, the amusement park offers 40 rides and attractions for all ages including SUPERMAN: Ride of Steel and the new Firebird Floorless Coaster, along with a separate water park open during the summer season. Six Flags America offers themed attractions during particular seasons such as FrightFest during Halloween and Holiday in the Park from November 23-January 1.

https://www.sixflags.com/america

   4. Ocean City Boardwalk

Ocean City is Maryland’s most popular beach town located across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. The boardwalk is a main attraction in the beach town. Located right on the beach, it is filled with tons of things to do such as eateries, shops, bars, rides and more. Located on the boardwalk is Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum which offers a lot of fun and interesting things to see and interact with.

https://ococean.com/explore-oc/boardwalk

All in all, Maryland is a great place to live with many attractions and benefits that would suit a number of people. This is just a handful of what Maryland has to offer; there are many more things that the state has. Whether you are planning to make a move to Maryland short term or long term, it is up to you to weigh your options, pros, and cons to determine whether Maryland is a great fit for you.

[taylormadeteamdmv]

Tips on Keeping Your Home Safe During the Holidays

With Christmas coming up and theft being most prominent during the Holiday season, you should always ensure that your home is safe. Here are a few tips to keep in mind to keep your home safe during this Holiday season.

Keep your travel plans offline.

Planning to travel during the holidays? Be sure to keep your travel plans off of social media. That type of information is prime for a thief as they will know when your house will be empty.

Let your neighbors know.

Notify a trusted neighbor that you are going out of town. Ask them to look after your home, pick up your mail, and report any suspicious activity. If your house looks like somebody is there, it will deter a burglar.

Put away Christmas gifts and packages.

Keeping wrapped gifts away from windows and visible spots can keep a burglar from intruding on your home. If you are traveling for the holidays, taking care of packages you haven’t received yet is important. Make necessary arrangements to have your packages receive by someone you trust or consider installing a doorbell cam or outdoor security camera.

Keep an eye on your Christmas lights.

Christmas lights can cause electrical fires. Inspect your lights to make sure there aren’t any frayed cords or cracked lamps. Also, make sure to turn off all holiday lights when leaving out of going to bed. Using a timer can be helpful.

Inspect the furnace and chimney.

Having a professional inspect your furnace, air ducts, and chimney can prevent house fires and heating issues. This is also a good time to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Regardless of whether your Holiday plans are to travel or stay at home and enjoy the holiday cheer, staying safe is most important. These tips can also be used during any time of the year.

[taylormadeteamdmv]

Home Renovations During the Winter

Although the Summer time is the most common time to renovate your home, the Winter season has its advantages and perks for home renovation. Here are 4 advantages of renovating your home during the Winter and Holiday season:

Winter/Holiday Discounts

Winter is the season when there are less projects and business happening for contractors. Therefore, most contracting companies will begin to lower their prices or offer discounts during the season to bring in more business. Even if you can’t find a contractor that is willing to offer a discount on their services, you are guaranteed to find a store that will. Take advantage of sales such as Black Friday sales during the holiday season, especially if you are looking to renovate your kitchen or bathrooms.

Contractor Availability

The Spring and Summer seasons are busy for contractors because home renovations are more common. Contractors are less busy in the Winter, meaning that there is less competition for their services. They may be more available to tend to your renovation needs and pay more attention to the project at hand instead of having a great number of projects on their hands.

Better Inventory Selection

It is very common that you find an appliance or fixture that you really like and the next day it is out of stock. That is very common during peak times of renovations such as Summer and Spring. However, inventory doesn’t move off of the shelf as quickly in the winter season. This can allow you to shop and find exactly what you’re looking for without feeling rushed.

Possible Uninterrupted Time

The winter and holiday season are also a time when traveling is common. If you have plans of going out of town during this time, renovating your home during those travel plans will allow you to avoid disruption of your daily activities.

Although the Winter time may be a great time to renovate your home due to the potential discounts and availability, the best time to get into a home renovation is when you’re ready and completely know what the project involves. Fully knowing what the project entails will allow you to find and propose your detailed project to a contractor for the best price and quality.

[taylormadeteamdmv]

Need a Getaway for the Holidays?

It’s that time of year again; the holiday season is here! Many of us spend quality time with our families during this season. On the other hand, quite a few of us plan trips to go out of town. Maryland has a number of great places to travel to and visit during the holidays. If you are visiting Maryland, or just need a quick getaway, here are a few places in Maryland to visit during this Holiday season:

1. National Harbor

As one of the most popular places to visit in Maryland, the National Harbor is a great place to visit during the holidays. Along with the beautiful waterfront scenery, there are many places to eat, shop, and indulge in activities. Enjoy activities such as riding the capital wheel with Santa, watching a Fireworks presentation on Saturday nights, and the most anticipated holiday event ICE! At Gaylord National. This event is themed every year with almost 2 million pounds of ice carved into an ice show museum. Along with the Holiday events, enjoy some great food at Cadillac Ranch or Granite City Food & Brewery or great shopping at the Tanger Outlets.

https://www.nationalharbor.com/

2. Annapolis

Experience the holidays in the state’s capital. Annapolis offers a number of activities and attractions from tasty food and shopping to museums and historic monuments. Dine on the water or get a taste of some famous Maryland Blue Crabs. Take advantage of Christmas shopping at Annapolis Mall or Midnight Madness on December 5th, 12th, and 19th where you can find all of the bargains and last-minute holiday sales. Annapolis hosts various holiday events for all ages. Get into the holiday spirit by enjoying a spectacular holiday electric wonderland along the shore of the Chesapeake Bay, November 24th through January 1st or the Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade on the Annapolis Harbor December 14th.

https://www.visitannapolis.org/

3. Frederick

Recognized as one of “America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations,” Frederick, MD is a great place to getaway. Enjoy a number of award-winning restaurants, art galleries, special events, and relaxing scenery. Use your mind in an escape room, tour a brewery or winery, or taste some of Frederick’s popular dishes and drinks on a Taste Frederick Food Tour. This is the perfect place to experience the various Holiday events held. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of lights at the Festival of Trees or Sailing Into the Winter Solstice in which you enjoy lit floating boats along the Carroll Creek. Looking for some entertainment? Experience the Maryland Christmas Show, the Lightwire Theater A Very Electric Christmas, or take your family to a dinner with Santa.

https://www.visitfrederick.org/

4. Deep Creek Lake

Deep Creek Lake is an all-season destination in Maryland with amazing and relaxing scenery. However, during the Holidays, there are a number of activities and attractions to participate in. During the Winter, Deep Creek Lake offers outdoor activities such as skiing and ice skating, movie nights, good food, and their famous and popular mountain coaster. Enjoy skiing down winter wonderland, grabbing a hot cup of cocoa, and shop for the perfect Deep Creek gift before Christmas from the Christmas Chalet. Deep Creek also hosts various Holiday events such as Christmas in the Village and Festival of Trees. A popular favorite is Winterfest which involves live ice-carving demonstrations, displays, and horse carriage rides through the town of Oakland.

https://deepcreeklake.com/

Looking for other places to travel to in Maryland? Visit their website to see what other places, cities, attractions, and more Maryland has to offer:

 https://www.visitmaryland.org/