Host A Holiday Gathering and Show Off Your Manufactured Home
The holidays are upon us, and one of the greatest ways to celebrate the season is to toss a party with some of your favorite people. There are many reasons to host a holiday gathering. Not the least of which is to show off your mobile home or manufactured home.
Have you purchased a new model home, recently completed a room renovation in your manufactured home, upgraded the kitchen, or do you simply have a couple of new recipes you’ve wanted to try?
Now is the time!
A nicely designed holiday treat bar to greet your favorite guests.
Here’s the great thing: Throwing a party in your manufactured home is just throwing a party. There is no overwhelming need for small space party considerations or any concern about having the proper appliances for all that’s on the menu. Manufactured homes have come such a long way, with open floor plans and full-size kitchen accouterment, all you need to plan for is the full look of surprise and delight from your friends and family.
Consequently, the real consideration is how to accentuate all the positives. Here are a few tips on situating the perfect holiday party in the home you love.
Set the mood with some festive lighting.
7 Holiday Party Hacks Certain To Succeed
Greet your guests with warmth and twinkles for the holidays. Do you have a front yard or main entry that can be accented with festive holiday lighting? Let’s face it, whether it’s a string of holiday lights, LED candles in the windows, or a fire pit set up outside for s’mores, songs or campfire toasts, the holiday spirits certainly will soar with a beautiful light display.
Individualized stemmed glasses or trinkets to accent. Gathering even a few guests in your home may require somehow individualizing glasses for the punch bowl or cocktail bar. A fun holiday idea is to put out distinctive glassware to set each container apart, or make a home art project out of wire and beads for individual accents on stemware.
Use your kitchen island as a wine station/cocktail bar and appetizer stop. If you have wine stowed away, bring it out for a day. Bring all of your spirits to the top shelf. This will allow your guests to serve themselves, and you to do more mingling.
What’s the best room in your home for entertaining? Whatever your favorite space is, be certain to accentuate it with a festive wall hanging, holiday photos of family and friends, or even make it the main place for dining and socializing. If you love the kitchen, hold the party there, just bring in some extra barstools or put on some lively music and dance through the gig. If you want your holiday party to be more of a seated and plated affair, draw out a table through the living area or create an indoor-outdoor combination!
Decorate… just enough. You want to create a festive space, doing just a little something visual for the season. But refrain from overdoing it. The focus should be on the party and the people, but a little dab of holiday delight never hurts.
Turn off the TV. We at MHVillage appreciate the big game as much as anyone, but there’s a time and place for everything. Try not to schedule your gathering when everyone will want to tune in. Your party is about tuning out, appreciating the moment, and making memories with family and friends. So turn your TV into a music box, put it on the log-fire channel, or simply close the cabinet for the time being.
Consider courses or go family-style. We won’t pretend to direct your menu choices, but how you present the delectables is worth consideration. Will you conduct a full, small plate affair? Or would you prefer to have guests seated and served? It can be a mix, as well, but figure out what foods best fit the plan for seating and eating.
Do You Like to Give or Receive Gifts?
A holiday party among friends and loved ones doesn’t necessarily need to involve gift-giving. However, if shopping is a love of yours, or if you simply delight in giving a thoughtful gift, ensure that guests know this well ahead of time and allow them to reciprocate. Perhaps you set up a “white elephant” exchange? Or you ask that everyone bring a simple, fun and friendly gift that could be appreciated by anyone. Guests can choose at random, and let the swapping begin.
When the snow is near we at MHVillager begin to think about how to winterize the mobile home, whether you want to ensure warm feet, or are closing up for the season.
How To Winterize a Mobile Home
Some good intention and a dedicated day or two is all it takes to winterize a mobile home. And, if you want to take the extra step, there are a few items to consider for purchase that will help make your home better insulated, safer, and more comfortable if you plan to stick around.
Now is the time to winterize your mobile home.
What Are the Basics When it Comes to Winterizing Your Mobile Home?
Even if you’re in the temperate zone, there are some important steps to take in preparation for those short but colder days and longer colder nights.
The planning and maintenance you do today will reduce the risk of pricey repairs or frustrating fixes done with numb fingers.
So, with the right information, you can do the work yourself instead of paying someone else to do it. Take action now to protect your manufactured home from water leaks, heat loss, cold drafts and the danger of a winter fire.
Prepare Your Mobile Home for Cold Weather
A simple tube of silicone caulk may be your best investment this heating season. Polyurethane caulking is a good all-around choice for sealing your manufactured home from drafts and leaks.
Important Places to Caulk Outside Your Mobile Home:
Gutter and downspout seams
Plumbing and furnace vent pipes
Around flashing seams between roof and siding
Along door and window frames
Through siding joints
Encasing the dryer vent
At the TV antenna wire entrance
At pipe feed-throughs
Put weather-stripping on exterior doors and windows. This is an inexpensive heat-saver, and another primary step in winterizing your home. To detect heat loss, just hold your hand at the edge of a window or door frame on a windy day. If you feel a draft, weather-strip the area.
If you want to have some fun with a cool, new and wildly helpful device, you can detect drafts and all kinds of temperature changes in your home, take a look at this handheld temperature gauge, which are sold at numerous online and bricks & mortar marketplaces. We’ve used these handy little $20 devices, and they work surprisingly well. You can shoot a beam across the room and test the temperature in different parts of your home.
How the Roof Affects Winterization
A well-maintained roof lowers your energy bills and prevents costly water damage. Seal the edges, seams or expansion joints of a metal roof every year. Use a roof coating suggested by a local dealer or service center, and apply to a dry, properly prepped surface. Make sure you apply the recommended thickness. Put a good seal around vent caps for the furnace, water heater, and exhaust fans.
Repair any punctures, cracks or breaks in your roof. Remember to tighten or replace any loose fasteners.
Winterize Under Your Manufactured Home
The blocks or jacks that support your manufactured home should be in good condition. If they’re not, have them repaired immediately to prevent sagging, which can cause damage to windows, doors, joints, and walls.
Slightly loosen your home’s tie-downs if you live in an area where the ground freezes solid. The ground can “heave” as much as three inches during the winter, and tie-downs leave no place for the manufactured home to move. That can result in serious structural damage. Remember to tighten tie-downs again when thawing begins in spring.
Check your home’s skirting. It should be secure, but not so tight that it stops ventilation or vertical movement. Furthermore, shovel snow and ice away from the skirting to avoid denting or cutting off the air supply required for your furnace.
Heat tape is literally what it says it is! The tape contains a plug-in heating element that wraps around and warms water piping. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. If you have a heat tape already installed, make certain it’s still operative. Replace worn or loose heat tape. And, make sure you never overlap heat tape – it may cause a fire.
Winterize Windows, Doors, Siding
Be certain your mobile home windows are in good repair. Windows that have quality storm window inserts and proper mobile home insulation will keep your energy costs down, which is the prime reason for you to winterize your home. The same goes for doors. A winterized home is a more comfortable home, a safer home, an energy-efficient home and an environmentally friendly home.
Even if your window frames and doors are caulked and weather-stripped properly, heat can still escape. Properly installed storm windows and doors can cut your home’s heat loss by 50 percent.
Check exterior doors for wear, tear, cracking or fading. Look for signs of leaking around the sill and threshold. Make sure weather stripping and seals are okay. Inspect under your manufactured home for sagging, torn or water spotted insulation. Carefully examine your exterior siding and replace any missing or damaged fasteners and screws.
Additionally, to avoid winter water damage, be sure to clean out and inspect rain gutters for leaks or holes. They should be slanted so water runs away from your manufactured home. Don’t forget to check and repair downspouts and extensions. Again, if you have some money to spare in how your winterize your home and want to invest in a product that will minimize maintenance time guard against extensive winter damage, take a look at these reviews on roof gutter systems that keep the debris out and the water flowing away from your home.
Ensure Proper Furnace Function
It’s very important to make sure your manufactured home furnace operates safely and efficiently during winter weather. You can perform many routine furnace maintenance jobs, while others are best handled by a qualified repair person. Most furnace manufacturers recommend an annual professional inspection of fuel lines, safety controls, burner and flue pipe. Take a bit of time to check in with your utility company to see if they provide a free inspection.
To properly winterize your home, you should replace disposable furnace filters at the beginning of the season and check them often through the cold season. Remove and wash, brush or vacuum permanent filters. Likewise, remove the cover of the thermostat and vacuum away dust and dirt. Check the exhaust vent from the furnace. Clear obstructions like leaves or animal nests from the vent pipe. Keep roof exhaust vents clear of excess snow build-up.
Inspect blower motor. Vacuum any accumulated dirt. Inspect V-belt and pulleys for wear. If the belt moves more than an inch when you push it, tighten it. Check air intake. Most manufactured home furnaces draw combustion air from beneath the home, so keep no fewer than six vents in the skirting to allow free air passage.
Check the Entire Furnace Cabinet
Check the flue assembly for alignment and rigidity. It should run in a straight line from the top of the furnace through the ceiling. Be sure the flue is attached to the furnace collar. Check to make sure there is no loose wiring near the flue. If there is wiring in the flue area, move and secure it well away from the flue pipe.
Also, carpeting in the furnace compartment should be removed and replaced with fireproof material. Some manufactured home furnaces have wire mesh in front of the stack to prevent storage on top of the furnace. If this mesh is missing, replace it.
Clean out debris in the furnace area, and don’t allow even small amounts to accumulate. Never use your furnace closet for storage or drying clothes. This is a serious fire hazard.
CAUTION!: Never attempt to repair gas lines in your manufactured home. If you smell gas, call a repair person or your gas company immediately.
In addition, check you should also properly maintain your space heater, fireplace or woodstove. Both electric and liquid fuel-powered space heaters must be placed at least 36 inches away from anything combustible. If you have a liquid fuel-powered space heater, use only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer. Never use gasoline or any other substitute fuel. When refueling, always turn off the heater and wait until the unit cools down before adding more fuel.
Have your fireplace chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional to winterize your home. Creosote, a chemical substance that forms when wood burns, builds up in chimneys and can cause a chimney fire. Always protect your home and family by using a sturdy fireplace screen when burning wood. Remember to burn only wood – never burn paper or pine boughs or coal. These can float out the chimney and ignite your roof.
Chimney connections and chimney flues on wood stoves should be inspected at the beginning of each heating season and cleaned periodically. Remove ash as it accumulates, and be sure to follow any additional maintenance instructions provided by the wood stove manufacturer. Burn only wood and be sure the wood stove is on an approved, fire-resistant surface to protect the floor of your manufactured home.
Added Safety Steps to Keep Your Mobile Home Warm During Winter
Finally, don’t forget to check your fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. Keep one fire extinguisher in the kitchen and another near the furnace. Use a multiple-purpose dry chemical extinguisher suitable for use on Class A, B and C fires. Small home fire extinguishers operate only five to ten seconds, so take careful aim before using. Test your smoke detectors often to be sure they’re operational, and replace batteries before the weather gets cold. You should have one detector located high on the wall or ceiling adjacent to your bedroom areas and another in the kitchen.
Looking for more information on winterizing your mobile home? If you are looking for parts, tools or products for your home, be sure and check out the MHVillage page for Mobile Home Parts – anything you are looking for, from caulk to skirting, can be found here!
A great many millennials are still young enough to just be getting out on their own. Some are leaving college and searching for what to do with the rest of their lives. Others are just starting in their careers and are on the low end of the totem pole.
That means that most millennials have very little to their name and can’t afford to spend much money on anything, including a place to live.
Finances are tough on millennials because they are just starting out. And it’s also hard for them to build a substantial financial portfolio. That is at least partly because they have entered adulthood during a time when the United States was enduring and emerging from the Great Recession, meaning wages were lower than ever. To those in this generation who are trying to make their way right after college, they are having a difficult time saving any money. Chances are, anything they make goes immediately toward paying off student debt, which is more costly than ever.
What This Means for Millennial Home Choices
All of these factors add up and make it next to impossible for millennials to save up and put a down payment on a house, even small starter houses. That means that many of these young adults get stuck in a cycle of renting a place to live. It’s just as draining on the wallet, and rent prices continue to rise and make it harder.
It can get extraordinarily discouraging and scary. As we mentioned, student debt can be a roadblock to conventional mortgage approval. Those who are working hard and trying to find their way, making good financial decisions, come to find that millennial home choices can be very limited. Culturally, the feeling of needing a home of your own can become all-encompassing when thinking about strategies for future financial security.
There is good news.
Nowadays, there are options out there for homes that are not traditional but are more affordable than most. And they can be pretty cute. Are you a millennial who is worried about housing choice? Not sure what you can afford? Below is a list of affordable options that could work if you are willing to dig into some alternative millennial home choices.
Tiny Houses for Millennials
Tiny houses look very similar to traditional homes, just on a small scale. They are a small fraction of the cost of a conventional home and are friendly to the environment. You can even make this already affordable option even more affordable by directly ordering a tiny home kit, then building it yourself.
Tiny homes usually only cost anywhere between $20,000-$100,000 depending on what you want in it. If you get a small option that does not come with its own furnishings or amenities, it will be cheaper. Meanwhile, if you buy a big tiny home (strange as that sounds), that comes with custom furniture and has all the amenities you would find in a traditional home, you are going to be spending near or at the high-end of that tiny home price range. (Though still nowhere near as much as you would be on a conventional home).
You may not be able to get a loan for a tiny home through a bank. But most companies that sell tiny homes have their in-house affordable financing options allowing you to pay it off without struggling.
What About A Shipping Container Home
A shipping container home is perhaps one of the most unique types of alternative housing options out there. Not only are they surprisingly warm and inviting once you enter them, but they are incredibly low-cost as well. Buying the shipping container itself will only cost you between $1,800 and $5,000 depending on the size of the container you buy.
The thing that will cost money when building this type of alternative home is when you start doing construction on the inside. Making it your own and adding in details to turn a cold metal container into a home. It is also vital that you familiarize yourself with building codes before you start building as shipping container homes are not legal everywhere yet.
Affordability isn’t the only reason why millennials should consider the manufactured home as a viable housing solution. The inherently smaller space contributes to a lower environmental footprint, less consumption, and lower utility bills. On top of that, many young buyers find that mobile home communities—which often offer amenities such as pools, playgrounds, and event spaces—are fun alternatives to typical neighborhoods or apartment complexes.
Recreational Vehicle (RV)
Have you have ever wanted to be a nomad of sorts and travel where you live? Then living in an RV will give you the opportunity to do just that. Depending on how big of an RV you buy, and whether you get a standard one or buy it with all of the extras, you will be paying between $10,000 and $300,000 for it. Then, you get to live life on an open road and see the world from the comfort of your own traveling home.
Obviously, it is the wisest decision to buy one that has a mortgage or payment that you can afford starting out and upgrade as you go along. The downside of this type of unconventional home is that it’s a temporary or seasonal dwelling according to code and regulatory requirements. And then there’s the fact that if you do buy an RV and decide to travel, you will have to set aside some substantial cash for fuel.
Floating Through Life on a Houseboat
If you want to be completely different and live in a house that not many people see anymore, consider buying a home on the water. Houseboats can cost as little as $60,000 and can range to prices up in the millions. However, most houseboats that have adequate amenities and comfortable living spaces will cost less than $150,000 on average.
Living on a houseboat is going to come with extra expenses that you will have to set money aside for like slip fees, docking fees, and regular boat and house maintenance. Also, be ready to spend money during the harsh seasons where you live so that your houseboat is capable of withstanding it.
Consider Living With Someone to Split Costs
Whether you are buying a house or are planning on renting a home, living by yourself can be costly. To help offset the costs, you should consider living with one person or multiple people. You might be living with a partner or spouse who contributes to the household bills. Or you can go out and find one or more roommates to live in the home with you and split the mortgage or rent. This type of housing can be the solution you are looking for.
Living with one or more people is not something that everyone can handle, as some are more solitary people. However, if you need help in the immediate short-term to afford a living situation, it’s a popular choice. Co-living with people may the best solution until you can afford to move somewhere on your own without breaking the bank.
There is reason to believe that millennial home choices will continue to expand. This includes approaching a point where many traditional homes will become less expensive. Unfortunately, it might take a while. Until that time arrives, millennials will have to find ways to be creative and make warm, welcoming homes in ways that previously may not have been imagined.
Learn More About Factory-Built Housing
To learn more about mobile homes and manufactured homes, check out MHVillage’s mobile home buyers guide for homeowners and manufactured home community residents.
For most homeowners, finding a way to keep their residence and the possessions contained within its walls safe is a top priority. In fact, most property owners spend around$2,000 a year on optional maintenancelike security systems and other upgrades.
The main thing a manufactured homeowner needs to do before installing any security upgrades is to inspect their property. Making a checklist of things that need to be reviewed can help ensure that a thorough inspection is performed.
Here are some of the things a homeowner needs to check when trying to assess the security of their mobile home.
Checking the Condition Of Your Home’s Garage Door
One of the most common entry points burglars use is a home’s garage door. Generally, these doors will be unsecured and easy to open, which is why criminals gravitate toward them. Instead of leaving this area of your manufactured home vulnerable and exposed, it is time to take action. Ignoring the need for better garage door security can lead to lots of problems in the future.
If you want to increase the security of your garage, start by exploring different mobile home garage options and search for a more secure door opener. You may also want to completely cover any windows in the garage to ensure burglars are unable to look in.
The last step in properly securing your garage door is investing in higher-quality locks. Most of the factory locks that are on modern garage doors are not very sturdy. With a bit of research, you should have no problem finding the right replacement lock for your garage door. Instead of trying to install this lock on your own, be sure to work with a locksmith to avoid any problems.
Assessing the Power of Your Security System
Check windows in your home to ensure they’re secure.
Thebiggest misconception most people have regarding their home security system is that it never needs to be updated. Just like any other piece of technology, eventually, your home security system will become obsolete. Leaving an old and outdated security system in place can come back to haunt you. Rather than waiting for this system to fail you, replace it with a modern and monitored option.
Modern security alarms can be installed wirelessly and have a number of unique features. Conduct your own online research and consult with security professionals before choosing a new security system. Modern security systems allow you to add things likewindow alarms and cameras with ease.
This means you can turn your mobile home into an impenetrable fortress in no time.
Are Your Doors Secure?
The doors in a home are used multiple times a day without much thought. Over 34 percent of burglars use the front door as their entry point. This is why inspecting and upgrading your door and its hardware is so vital. Inspect the exterior doors of your home while considering a few factors. The first thing you need to assess is just how well-made the deadbolt on the door is. If the lock seems a bit flimsy, upgrading it to a more durable option is a good idea. As you inspect the deadbolt lock, be sure to glance at the door’s striker plate as well.
Most striker plates come with very short mounting screws. These screws will not be able to withstand a lot of force. For instance, it wouldn’t be very hard to dislodge these shorter screws. Replacing these screws with longer ones can help you secure your doors in no time.
You may also want to think about using smart locks to eliminate the need for keys. These locks can generally be unlocked with a code or even a fingerprint. They can be pricey, but they can be worth the money.
Affiliate Link Below – MHVillage receives a small commission from the seller for purchases made through this link.
Tighten Up Network Security to Avoid Attacks
Some homeowners get so fixated on physically security their home that they forget about the importance of digital security. If you have a home automation system in place, you need to work hard to ensure your wireless network is secure. If it is not, it will be easy for a tech-savvy burglar to infiltrate the network and open up your home with ease.
Doing things like hiding or renaming your wireless network is a step in the right direction. You will also need to work on making your passwords stronger. Changing these passwords on a regular basis is a good way to keep burglars guessing. Installing top-notch antivirus software can also help you avoid attacks on the technology in your manufactured home.
Does Your Home’s Exterior Need More Light?
Make sure the hedges and bushes are nicely trimmed.
Keep bushes, hedges and other landscaping well-trimmed and the exterior of your home well lit. Good lights will reduce the number of potential hiding places and are great for curb appeal. Instead of trying to find and install these lights alone, you should work with professionals. They can get new landscape lighting installed and functional in no time at all.
Home Security Upgrades are a Great Investment
Saving money is something most homeowners focus on. However, investing money in the right places can make your home more secure and appealing. Working through this home security checklist and investing in the right home security upgrades will enhance your home safety and security.
Resident-owned mobile home parks come with a bit of a bonus for residents who want to own. Everyone in a resident-owned community owns a slice of the property. You may have heard of co-operatives before, as many businesses around the country are adopting that model. For example, Namaste Solar became a co-operative, giving a vote to all employees instead of one owner. Likewise, a resident-owned mobile park takes out the leasing office and puts the power into the hands of the residents.
“You have a say in the park’s business and how it looks,” said Chateau Village Manager Marty Baxter on the benefits of resident-owned communities.
Being part of a resident-owned mobile home park is beneficial to the residents because they are in control of monthly rent and repairs. They also have added liability protection and security against eviction for development.
In Florida, resident-owned mobile home parks are primarily age-restricted. These communities are found in mid-to-south Florida near the state’s coastline and many interior lakes.
Take a look at a few of our hand-picked resident-owned mobile home parks across Florida.
Paradise Island in Largo
Paradise Island is a resident-owned home park in Largo that offers 824 units and has easy access to Old Tampa Bay, Clearwater Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico. The park’s clubhouse is perfect for large events, with seating for 400, plus a commercial kitchen. Social butterflies will love the number of events, group classes and specialty clubs the park has to offer.
Additionally, there is a swimming pool and hot tub, a covered picnic area, shuffleboard and more. Get out for a night of eating and drinking in the nearby towns, spend a day enjoying the outdoors or just enjoy some of your neighbors’ company.
Chateau Village in Bradenton
Chateau Village shuffleboard courts.
Located on 44 acres in Bradenton, this 55+ community has a small-town feel. It also is conveniently located near Tampa, Clearwater, St. Pete, and Sarasota. There are 262 lots and 14 RV sites at Chateau Village. The park is surrounded by water, sandwiched between the Sarasota Bay and Manatee River. Chateau Village is also closeby to Tampa Bay, Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, Bayshore Gardens and the Gulf of Mexico.
Westwind in Dunedin
This resident-owned mobile home park in Pinellas County is actually two: Westwind One and Westwind Two. Between the two 55+ parks, there are 383 homes. Westwind One and Westwind Two are separate parks with each having its own financials and board of directors, but coordinate everything else between the two. Located in Dunedin, the parks are located right on the Gulf of Mexico. Each one boasts its own beach for residents. As for community activities, there is weekly BINGO, shuffleboard, a bowling league, golfing, cycling, arts and crafts, a workout room, two heated pools and more.
Hacienda Village in Winter Springs
Hacienda Village in Winter Springs, Fla.
Hacienda Village is one of a few resident-owned mobile home parks in central Florida, only a short drive from Orlando’s world-famous theme parks. Central-Florida living offers some of the best in Florida. That’s because you have the option between the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding lakes and state parks. All these options for less than an hour-and-a-half drive away! In Hacienda Village, there are 447 lots on 83 acres, with multiple sites that are available for new units within the 55+ community. The park itself offers a clubhouse, heated swimming pool, library, fitness center, billiards and more. There is a community dinner and dance each month. But the community also has daily events, group fitness, crafts, potlucks and more.
Harbor Oaks Homeowners Cooperative in Fruitland Park
Located on Lake Griffin in Fruitland Park, Harbor Oaks Homeowners Cooperative is a 55+ mobile home community where every resident has instant access to beautiful water views. Additionally, the Ocala National Forest is right around the corner for anyone who enjoys Florida’s beautiful natural resources. Harbor Oaks Homeowners Cooperative has 207 sites, plus an RV park right at the marina. The clubhouse offers daily events. There is a house band. And the community has a heated pool and spa, as well as a private boat launch with 31 covered slips.
Colony Cove in New Port Richey
For resident-owned mobile home parks in southwest Florida, check out Colony Cove, a 55+ community right off the gulf coast. The park has 288 mobile home sites, and if you love water, Colony Cove is located on the Cotee River, which features a boat dock, fishing, is only five miles to local beaches and is surrounded by 80 acres of nature preserve. The community has two pools, including one that’s heated so you can enjoy the water year-round. The community offers regular social events and activities so you can get to know your neighbors.
Horizon Village Co-op in North Fort Myers
Looking for that laid-back lake life and a resident-owned mobile home park in southwest Florida? Look no further than Horizon Village Co-op, Inc, a 55+ community. The mobile home park is located along the Caloosahatchee River, right across from Fort Myers. The park offers daily events for residents, including group fitness classes, BINGO, line dancing, card games and more. In addition to the community-provided events and outdoor activities, Fort Myers has great shopping, eating and drinking, festivals and citywide events.
Midway Estates in Vero Beach
Located in Vero Beach, Midway Estates Co-op is a 55+ mobile home community for buyers and renters looking for a co-op living environment. The park has 266 lots. Community amenities include a heated pool and spa, clubhouse, bocce court, shuffleboard, bingo, and biking. Outside of Midway Estates are the beautiful Vero beaches, with free parking at public beaches. Passing through Vero Beach is the Indian River Lagoon, and a few miles north is Disney’s Vero Beach Resort. In addition, Vero Beach offers the lush McKee Botanical Garden on 80 acres. This makes Vero Beach a great place for residents who love exploring the natural surroundings.
If you are nearing retirement age, you’ve probably considered downsizing and moving to a sunny, warm destination like a Florida retirement community.
You’re certainly not alone!
The state is an extremely popular choice for retirement and offers many robust and friendly residential communities.
However, it certainly takes some research and exploration in order to make sense of all the Florida retirement options.
Whether you’re set on retiring to the Sunshine State, or are simply curious about your options, here are some tips for how to find the perfect Florida retirement community.
Why Retirees Move to Florida
With more than 20 percent of Florida’s population aged 65 years and older, it’s clear there is a booming market for retirement communities in the state. It’s an ideal choice for retirees for a variety of reasons, including many cost benefits, social life, and year-round warmth.
People will make retirement decisions based on their own unique factors. Yet, there are a few popular reasons you may consider a Florida retirement.
There’s no income tax and no tax on Social Security benefits
Florida is one of seven states that has no state income tax. For seniors who plan to continue working even throughout retirement, this is a major benefit. The state also doesn’t tax Social Security benefits, which means you’re able to get the most out of each and every one of your retirement checks.
Studies have shown that older individuals have lower body temperatures, and are, therefore, more sensitive to cold weather. Florida, located in the southeast United States, is known for its subtropical to tropical climate. The state could be a welcomed change for anyone looking to retire to a warmer, sunnier place.
Community Considerations
When exploring places for the perfect mobile home retirement community in Florida, the list of options can seem to be never-ending. To narrow down your search through the vast amount of mobile home parks available, it can help to ask yourself about the different types of manufactured home communities there are to choose from in order to figure out which are the best fit for you.
What’s your ideal Florida retirement lifestyle?
In retirement, do you plan to enjoy the great outdoors, staying active with recreational sports and clubs? Do you like planned social events? Would you prefer to be in a community that hosts events where residents can get together? Are you looking to relax and simply get some peace and solitude? Every mobile home community has its own unique dynamic and culture; place your focus on those with the perks that excite you most!
Do you plan to have visitors often?
If you plan to have visitors (such as family and grandchildren) over often, you might prefer buying within a community that offers shared spaces like pools, clubhouses, event halls, or other recreational facilities that your guests can enjoy with you. You might also explore homes that are set on open land. This setting is more apt to provide private space for entertaining.
Do you own (or plan to bring) a pet?
Mobile home communities in Florida and most other places have rules about pets. The rules are in place for resident health and safety. If you’d love to bring your best friend along into retirement with you, look into options with “pet welcome” policies. Alternatively, if you are allergic to, are afraid of, or dislike pets, you can look into communities that do not allow them.
Where in the state do you want to be?
Location, location, location. Think about where you’d most enjoy spending your time, whether it’s by the water, near a city center, or around the airport. Living in the perfect community won’t mean much if you don’t love the area. If you’re able to visit different communities before you make the move, take the time to explore the surrounding areas, as well.
Finding the Ideal Florida Retirement Home
There are many different reasons people choose to move into retirement communities, and just as many options to suit all sorts of tastes and lifestyles. While this could seem overwhelming at first, the key to finding your perfect Florida retirement community is to understand what’s best for you.
In addition, the Florida Manufactured Housing Association is a great resource for homeowners and residents. Contact them for more information on Florida living and buying a home in Florida.
A new manufactured home from Deer Valley Homebuilders.
You’ve probably heard the term mobile home used quite often. Perhaps you have a picture in your mind of what it is. Still, you might not be familiar with how exactly mobile homes differ from conventional site-built homes.
If you’ve ever been curious about the differences between manufactured homes and site-built homes, read on.
A Brief History on Mobile and Manufactured Homes
Mobile homes took hold after World War II with the economic expansion and rapid growth of cities. They provided an expedient and affordable housing solution for millions of Americans. Mobile homes became entrenched among other housing options. From there, it became clear the growing industry should be organized more definitively within residential code.
In 1976, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development introduced a series of standards and regulations to do just that. The changes with HUD code set the stage for construction and installation standards on what became manufactured homes. The terms often are used interchangeably. However, a manufactured home is one built on or after June 15, 1976. Mobile homes are those homes built prior to the application of the HUD code.
A new manufactured home from Franklin Homes on display during the 2019 Tunica Show.
What Makes a Manufactured Home?
Thanks to the HUD standards that were set more than four decades ago, manufactured homes are built under controlled circumstances in a manufacturing plant in one or more sections on a permanent chassis, to ensure transportability. New mobile homes in the U.S. built after 1976 must abide by this federal code and must display a HUD plate label on the exterior of each section.
Among the standards set by HUD are the following:
Body and frame requirements
Thermal protection
Plumbing
Electrical
Fire safety
Siting and anchoring
Mobile homes are available as single-wide, double-wide, and larger. Floor plans, building materials, finishes, and appliances can be customized just as with a standard site-built home can.
What Makes a Standard Site-Built Home?
When you picture the common residence, what you likely see is the standard site-built home. Most often, site-built homes are made of wood and on the land where it will permanently sit. Unlike manufactured homes, the rules and regulations that apply to standard, site-built homes vary by state, city, and county. This is one of the primary differences between manufactured homes vs site-built homes.
So, without a universal standard set for every area, it can be a complicated process to ensure adherence to every code with a home that comes from the site-built construction process.
A new home from Buccaneer Homes shown during The Tunica Show in 2019.
Key Differences: Manufactured Homes vs Site-Built Homes
Both mobile homes and manufactured homes make great options for permanent residence, but they do have a few more key differences from standard site-built homes that may influence you to consider a home built in a factory.
Cost: A new manufactured home in the United States, per MHVillage data as of May of 2019, the average sale price is $75,776 without land. Meanwhile, the median home price in the U.S. is nearly $230,000. For those who cannot or do not want to take on this significantly higher mortgage, a mobile home might be a better option.
Maintenance: Since mobile homes are built under controlled conditions in adherence to federal standards, the quality is extremely consistent. Materials for factory-built homes are purchased in bulk, which creates savings for the homebuyer. And those same materials are stored and then used for construction in a climate-controlled environment. All of this means there are fewer potential surprise maintenance issues involved with homes that are built in a factory.
Time: While the time commitment to building a traditional home varies due to several factors, many estimate the process takes an average of six months. And it could be much longer. Depending on the customizations chosen, new mobile homes can be completed in two months or less.
Land Ownership: With traditional homes, you have purchased the land as well as the home that’s built on it. For mobile homes, that isn’t necessarily the case: You can own the home and rent the land, or own the home and own the land.
Mobile homes and manufactured homes are a great purchase for buyers with a variety of interests, including first-time homebuyers, retirees, empty nesters looking to downsize, those interested in community living or people who want more than one home.
A used manufactured home can be an excellent option for almost any prospective buyer. However, it’s important to know what to ask during the buying process and how to evaluate the home’s condition.
Identifying a few key components can ensure that you are purchasing the home at the right price. Take into consideration age, amenities, necessary updates, and location.
There are a great many options for house hunters to consider when searching used mobile homes for sale. The options include the type of home, as well as where it sits. Depending on how the home is associated with the land has an impact on finance options.
Buy the home on existing property that’s already owned
Purchase a mobile home on leased land (often this is done by buying a used mobile home in a park or manufactured home community)
Key Tips for Buying a Used Home
The Condition of the Home is Paramount
Like site-built homes, the value of a manufactured home is based to a great degree on how the home is built and maintained. The condition of a used mobile home is important not just to ensure you get the home you pay for, but also to understand how that home will hold up in the years to come.
The longevity of your manufactured home depends on the proper working order of primary systems, like the mobile home roof, flooring, heating, and cooling. For that reason, it’s important to have a thorough mobile home buying checklist with you as you walk through a home and ask questions of the owner or seller.
Look for Solid Footing
The long-term success of your home purchase could depend on the quality of the home’s beginnings. Every mobile home and manufactured home is built on a chassis. Even when the axles and wheels are removed during the home’s installation and hookup, the chassis remains as the foundation of the home. The home may be set on a concrete pad or pilings, and also will have a pier and tie-down system. It’s important to check the chassis for wear and rust. Likewise, the pad or pilings should be solid. And the pier and anchor system that ties down the home should be taught, sturdy and free of rust or other signs of age.
A home may shift or sink depending if the quality of the chassis, pad and pier systems have been compromised. If so, there likely is visible sagging or tearing on the underside of the home, particularly at key pressure points where the piers lend support, including around entryways.
While peeking under the home, take note of the vapor barrier that keeps moisture away from the subfloor of the home. If there are compromises to the vapor barrier (usually a black sheet of rubberized plastic on the underside of the home) it will need to be replaced, and you’ll want to keep an extra sharp eye out for any water damage or pests.
Electrical, Plumbing, and Ventilation for a Used Mobile Home
Electrical
Wiring in a used manufactured home should be up to code. If you’re inspecting electrical wiring yourself, turn off the associated breakers, or the main switch, before handing wiring or use tools to test or make changes. If you have any doubts about your capability or safety in examining or working with electrical wiring, consider hiring a professional contractor to assist you.
Plumbing
Plumbing presents unique challenges as well. Poorly maintained plumbing can cause structural damage and drainage issues throughout the home. Checking the kitchen, laundry, and bathrooms for water stains can provide a clue on the quality of the current plumbing.
HVAC and Used Mobile Home Appliances
Also, check higher-priced systems in the home, like the water heater or furnace. They can throw a wrench in your budget should you need to repair or replace them. So make sure to check the age of the systems, as well as any appliances that come with the home. Regardless of age, the home’s water pressure and warm/cool airflow should be gauged for effectiveness.
Flip a tap, and put your hand down in front of a vent. Yes, sometimes it can be as simple as that!
If you are not getting heat or air conditioning through the ducts, it may mean there are leaks, blocks or disconnected sections of ductwork.Cohesive ductwork provides good airflow and comfortable environs throughout the home.
Many times the furnace in a mobile or manufactured home is in a closet or closed cabinet. The interior layout of your home and the placement of the furnace is important. Venting cannot be blocked or covered. Avoiding this promotes quality air circulation for the furnace itself. You also should ensure there is necessary room and working space to gain access to and check the ignition or thermocouple in your furnace.
Used Mobile Home Inspection
It may be that the advice offered here on what to look for when buying a used manufactured home is either logistically challenging or beyond your level of understanding. If this is the case, considering hiring someone to perform a used mobile home inspection. A professional third-party inspector can come out and go through a checklist of items that should provide a good understanding of the home’s condition, and whether it’s a home that should be considered for the listed price.
Popular Options For Financing
Chattel Financing is one of the several loan options for those interested in purchasing a pre-owned manufactured home. Like a personal property loan, chattel financing is home-only and does not include any land. This type of financing works best with a home that is in a community or already is on other owned land.
FHA loans, on the other hand, are especially popular because they feature low down payments, fixed interest rates, and consumer-friendly rules. This type of loan is insured by the Federal Housing Administration.
Veterans Assistance (VA) Loans also can also be used in the financing of pre-owned manufactured and mobile homes. However, to qualify for this type of loan, your home must be attached to a permanent foundation. It also must be bought with the land it sits on and titled as real property.
And, the resident is required to live in the home full time.
In addition, conventional mortgages are available for used manufactured homes. But, again, the home must be financed with owned land for a conventional mortgage to apply.
Preparing For Purchase
Gathering proper documentation ahead of time is a great way to prepare for the closing process of buying a pre-owned mobile home. Documents you will want to have ready include:
Let Us Take You On A Tour of Some of the Nation’s Top Cities for Mobile Homes
When choosing your next move, location is just as important as the home search. If you’re an outdoorsy person, you might not choose a home in the city. Likewise, if you’re a city person, that home out in the county won’t suit your fancy too much.
With mobile home manufacturers facing rising demand — between 2013 and 2017 the number of mobile homes produced jumped from 60,210 to 92,891 — there are more inspiring options available for you than ever. If you throw a dart at a U.S. map you likely will land near a great mobile home park.
So, where to go among the top cities for mobile homes?
The top 8 states for mobile homes are New Mexico, South Carolina, West Virginia, Alabama, North Carolina, Arizona, Florida, and Texas. However, you don’t have to limit yourself to those states.
A couple of notes for you here. The data we show is a percentage of mobile homes among all dwellings. So, states like Maine, North Dakota and Delaware may have higher percentages, but they have a much smaller total number of residential dwellings compared with the other states.
Also, we’ve compared the U.S. Census Data used to build our tables of top cities for mobile home and compared it against MHVillage listing volume by metro area to land on our selections for the eight top cities for mobile homes.
For this post, we will focus on the best mobile home cities, based on location, homesite volume, and local attractions.
The 8 top cities for mobile homes
A view of Albuquerque from the Sandia Mountains.
1. Albuquerque, New Mexico
New Mexico’s largest city has a rich cultural history from the Hispanic, Latino and Native American influences in the Southwest. Albuquerque’s culture and natural resources weave together to create an incredible living experience. One of the most impressive attractions is the Petroglyph National Monument, which has volcanic cones and thousands of petroglyphs carved by indigenous people nearly 3,000 years ago. Albuquerque boasts unique museums like the Rattlesnake Museum and the Turquoise Museum that highlight the area’s natural resources.
In New Mexico, mobile homes are aplenty. The state is ranked first for the highest percentage (16.9%) of mobile homes. Currently, there are dozens of mobile homes for sale in Albuquerque, spread throughout the Albuquerque’s nearly 80 mobile home communities. For an age-restricted community, the spacious Albuquerque Meadows is worth a tour. It touts luxury, country club-like living, and sits at the foot of the Sandia Mountains. For family living, take a look at Four Hills Mobile Home Park. The community has plenty of family-friendly amenities, like three swimming pools and playgrounds, as well as tennis and basketball courts.
A sunset view in Myrtle Beach, N.C.
2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
South Carolina is a robust mobile home state. This state ranks second on the list with 16.6% of residential dwellings being mobile homes. Add to that the benefit of a great beach town destination, Myrtle Beach.
Myrtle Beach is a great place to settle. There is enough to do for at least three lifetimes. South Carolina’s vacation-centric city isn’t just for spring breakers, either. You have plenty of attractions and comfortable living outside of S.C.’s party central. (Or if you enjoy the nightlife, stay nearby!) The city offers attractions like no other, including Myrtle Beach Speedway, Ripley’s Aquarium, SkyWheel and multiple waterparks. Also, we could never forget Myrtle Beach as the “Golf Capital of the World” with its impressive 90 courses for you to play.
A bonus to settling in Myrtle Beach is that there are plenty of mobile home parks to choose from, with about 50 communities located in or near the city. Myrtle Beach also is among the top cities with the most used mobile homes for sale, making it simple to search for a pre-owned manufactured home. For golf enthusiasts, Browns Mobile Home Park is located right next to the Whispering Pines golf course. Love shopping? Emerald Forest is just a nine-minute walk from Tanger Outlets. And, of course, for those who live the beach life, Three Lakes Mobile Home Park is a 15-minute drive from the Atlantic Ocean.
A scenic West Virginia setting near Charleston.
3. Charleston, West Virginia
Coming in third for most mobile housing units, West Virginia is perfect for anyone looking for outdoor adventure. Known for its white water rafting tours, West Virginia features incredible outdoor sights like the Potomac Highlands, the Mid-Ohio Valley, and of course, the Appalachian Mountains.
For manufactured homes, West Virginia is quite the hot spot, coming in third for the highest percentage of such dwellings in the state, at 15.1%. If you want to settle into West Virginia, we direct your attention to Charleston, the state’s capital. The city is right between the Elk and Kanawha rivers and is seven miles north of the Kanawha State Forest.
Mobile is Alabama’s fourth-largest city and is filled with a diverse history of French, Spanish, Creole, African and Catholic influence. Located on the Mobile Bay, it also has great water access, with nearby Dauphin Island and the Gulf Shores within a short drive. Interestingly, Mobile is where Mardi Gras originated, launching 15 years before New Orleans was founded. Mobile’s Mardi Gras is recognized as the oldest carnival celebration in the United States.
Alabama comes in fourth for being the state with the most mobile homes, at 13.4%. The average age of a pre-owned mobile home is 2011, which is perfect for people looking for newer models. Currently, you have 36 mobile home communities in Mobile, AL with about a dozen mobile homes for sale or rent. Take a look at Pleasanton Hills Mobile Home Park, which is a spacious and lush community with amenities that include a pool and a large playground for kids to get their energy out.
A seagull on the beach near Newport, N.C.
5. Newport, North Carolina
North Carolina is a great place to settle for people who prefer mild winters, a laid-back lifestyle and access to beaches. Well, guess what? Newport is a North Carolina city that has all three and more.
This city is a perfect fit for outdoorsy types. Newport is in the Croatan National Forest, one of four national forests in North Carolina. Croatan National Forest is surrounded by water in the form of rivers and the Bogue Sound, creating beautiful natural resources like bogs, saltwater estuaries and pocosins. Speaking of water, the city also is minutes away from Atlantic Ocean beach access.
Sounds like a decent place for you to settle, right?
North Carolina ranks high for the number of mobile homes among other dwellings. In North Carolina, 13.2% of housing units are mobile homes. We suggest checking out Bogue Pines Mobile Home Park, located right off the banks of Bogue Sound. A trip to the beach is only a 13-minute car ride. As for the park itself, Bogue Pines is an all-ages community that offers large, wooded lots, a pool, a fishing pond, trails and more. It has 22 mobile homes available that average around $55,000, which falls below North Carolina’s average mobile home price of $86,807. The average home age is impressive as well, with 2019 being the average model year of a home in Bogue Pines, beating out North Carolina’s 2009 average.
Tucson, Arizona from the foothills of the Tucson Mountains.
6. Tucson, Arizona
Like New Mexico, Arizona is a haven for gorgeous natural resources and its deep cultural roots. The state is home to Grand Canyon National Park, one of the seven wonders of the natural world. It’s also a haven for archaeological treasures, including Painted Rocks, Casa Grande Ruins, Kartchner Caverns State Park, Antelope Cave, the Petrified Forest and more.
Tucson is Arizona’s second-largest city, which means you can experience the benefits of city life while offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the state’s natural resources. There are four mountain ranges immediately surrounding Tucson — The Tucsons, Santa Ritas, Catalinas and Rincons — which means ample hiking, rock climbing and rappelling opportunities.
All-ages community Mesa Ridge has gorgeous grounds with plenty of amenities like recreational activities, a clubhouse, pool, and playground. For an age-restricted community, perhaps Trails West Mobile Home Park will pique your interest. The park offers benefits like a monitored entry, heated pool and spa, a library, private lake, as well as RV and boat storage. Fairview Manor is another 55+ community in Tucson. It provides residents a swimming pool, clubhouse, spa, billiards room, RV/boat storage, and planned social activities.
Lakeland, Florida at night.
7. Lakeland, Florida
Lakeland is well known for its mobile-home living. Located inland, this Florida city has 38 recognized lakes to enjoy and is only an hour’s drive to Tampa Bay. Or you can drive an extra 30 minutes to Clearwater, where you can enjoy stunning white-sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. However, these aren’t the only water-centric options available. This is Florida living we’re talking about! A 90-minute drive in the opposite direction will take you to Vero Beach, a gorgeous setting right on the Atlantic Ocean.
In Florida, there are plenty of mobile homes available, with the largest total number of such dwellings in the nation. The percentage of mobile homes compared to total residential structures in the state is 9.1%. For water and warm-weather lovers, Lakeland is a paradise — and filled with plenty of mobile home options. Currently, there are more than 350 mobile homes for sale in Lakeland across the area’s 180-plus mobile home communities. That’s a hefty amount to pick from, so let us highlight a few for you. Cypress Lakes and Schalamar Creek (which has an 18-hole championship golf course!) are age-restricted communities with a Floridian resort feel. For all-ages communities, you might start with Stoll Manor Mobile Home Park and Greenbrier Village, which has been described as Lakeland’s best-kept secret.
Kayaking through downtown Austin is a popular activity.
8. Austin, Texas
This city is for anyone who is looking for a quirky city that keeps them on their toes. After all, Austin’s slogan is “Keep Austin Weird”. Austin is the venue for South by Southwest, one of music and film’s biggest and best-known festivals. There is no shortage of entertainment in Austin, with events, shopping and dining in the city, and outdoor attractions like beautiful natural swimming holes, hiking in McKinney Falls State Park, and water activities on Lady Bird Lake.
Texas is a particularly a hot spot for mobile-home living. In Texas, 7.3% of the homes are manufactured. The state’s total number of manufactured homes trails only Florida. And Austin is filled with diverse mobile home options. There are about six dozen mobile homes for sale or rent in Austin, and nearly 70 communities to explore. For those looking for ultra-modern living, take a peek at Loma Vista, an all-ages community with beautiful homes and amenities. Similar to Loma Vista is Oak Ranch, which is a sprawling community built in 2012. Oak Ranch offers a large fitness center and swimming pool, as well as plenty of family-friendly activities.
Peruse All the MHVillage Listings for Your Ideal Place to Live
Take a look around at other popular, affordable markets to buy a mobile home. Also, contact us at MHVillage to let us know about a great mobile home city you’d like to learn more about.
After sweating through another hot summer, it’s time to welcome autumn with open arms. Before you kick back and relax with a warm cup of cider, it’s also time to prepare for winter. Here’s your essential fall mobile home maintenance checklist.
Manufactured homes have their distinct advantages. Still, they require maintenance because winter can be rough on any home. So let’s walk through how to make fall work best for you and your home during the winter to come.
Inspect for Pests
You aren’t the only one who wants to head inside when the temperatures get cooler. Outdoor pests, such as bugs and rodents, use fall as an opportunity to secure their winter housing. Don’t provide these creatures with rent-free homes.
Make sure the exterior of your home is free from debris and repair any damaged skirting. This helps keep animals out, and it provides ventilation and insulation. Quality manufactured home skirting will also prevent high heating bills and the build-up of mold and mildew beneath your home.
You may not be able to close off every potential entry point. But, you can keep most pests out with a little bit of weather stripping, steel wool, or other deterrents.
Tidy Up Outside
Fall is time to clean out your gutters and is an essential part of fall mobile home maintenance. While you’re up there, check the condition of your mobile home roof to make sure it’s in solid shape. If you find a leak, this is the time to reseal and recoat it.
It’s also important to rake your leaves. Come winter, a pile of wet, soggy leaves will invite mold, pests and will damage underlying grass.
Check for Cracks and Damages
Take a close look at both the exterior and interior of your mobile home. Cracks or other damage can indicate a larger problem, such as a home that isn’t leveled properly. Of course, cracks also let in the cold air. Most times, a little caulking can solve the issue.
Improve Your Insulation
Fall is an excellent time to survey your house for any air leaks. Check your windows and doors and seal any drafty areas. This is also a great time to add insulation to outside walls.
You’ll be thankful when you get those winter heating bills, particularly if your home is in a northerly climate.
Check for any drafts, inspecting and replacing weather stripping and tightening the hinges on your doors. You may need to add caulk to these areas, too, to help keep cold air out and increase your mobile home’s energy efficiency.
Protect Your Pipes
Turn off exterior faucets and drain water from outdoor pipes, sprinkler systems, and hoses. Cover your outdoor faucets and surround the pipes for the main water supply with good insulation.
Fall is a great time to prune your trees, particularly those that are large or near your house. You also need to check on those that are close to electrical wires. Iced-over branches in the winter can break, fall, and damage your home. It’s not too difficult to handle the smaller trees and shrubs, but if your home is surrounded by electrical wires, this might be a task best left to the professionals.
You’ll also want to clean up your flowerbeds, mulching, weeding, and watering as needed. Bring in the houseplants that spent the summer outdoors. Fall is also a great time to update your landscaping to enhance curb appeal. This is particularly important if you are going to plant perennials and bulbs that will bloom in spring.
Preparing your mobile home for the long winter months ahead can be a daunting task — but it’s worth it. Conducting regular inspections and taking stock of any necessary repairs can save you a lot of time and effort come winter and spring. Keeping a pristine look will drastically increase the value of your mobile home. Familiarize yourself with the basics now so you can sit back and enjoy the rest of the autumn season.
Heads up, Southeast Michigan! The Novi Home Show will host six stunning manufactured homes for public display at the Michigan Manufactured Housing Association (MMHA)...
This weekend, October 7th through the 9th, 2022, is your opportunity to tour six model homes as part of the Manufactured Home Showcase.
The Showcase,...
in your home may require somehow individualizing glasses for the punch bowl or cocktail bar. A fun holiday idea is to put out distinctive glassware to set each container apart, or make a home art project out of wire and beads for individual accents on stemware.
in your home may require somehow individualizing glasses for the punch bowl or cocktail bar. A fun holiday idea is to put out distinctive glassware to set each container apart, or make a home art project out of wire and beads for individual accents on stemware.
is, be certain to accentuate it with a festive wall hanging, holiday photos of family and friends, or even make it the main place for dining and socializing. 
there’s a time and place for everything. Try not to schedule your gathering when everyone will want to tune in. Your party is about tuning out, appreciating the moment, and making memories with family and friends. So turn your TV into a music box, put it on the log-fire channel, or simply close the cabinet for the time being.
Looking for that laid-back lake life and a resident-owned mobile home park in southwest Florida? Look no further than 
It’s a great place to downsize
You aren’t the only one who wants to head inside when the temperatures get cooler.
Fall is an excellent time to survey your house for any air leaks. Check your windows and doors and seal any drafty areas. This is also a great time to 
Turn off exterior faucets and drain water from outdoor pipes, sprinkler systems, and hoses. Cover your outdoor faucets and surround the pipes for the main water supply with good insulation.
