March 2026 Renting vs. Buying: The Numbers Might Surprise You

Renting can feel like the easier choice right now. There’s no big down payment. No dealing with surprise repairs. And no long-term commitment. But then your rent goes up again. And again. And suddenly the thing that seemed flexible starts looking…  expensive , especially considering you’re not building any equity. And once that happens, it’s easy to feel a little trapped in the cycle. That’s because there’s so much chatter today about how buying a home isn’t affordable. But the truth is, the math may work out better than you'd expect based on what’s changed recently. Buying Is More Affordable Than Renting in Many Areas  In a lot of places today, owning a home actually costs less each month than renting a 3-bedroom home.  and recent   data   from  A TTOM   shows   that’s true in nearly 58% of counties across the U.S.  ( see chart below ). And that's  after  you factor in things like insurance and typical maintenance costs.  In o...

Refresh Your Space: Creative January Decorating Tips

 

As the holiday season fades into fond memories, January welcomes a clean slate and a perfect opportunity to breathe new life into your living space. Embrace the freshness of the new year by revitalizing your home decor. Here are some inspiring January decorating tips to infuse your space with renewed energy:

1. Embrace Simplicity

After the festive decorations are packed away, embrace simplicity. Opt for a minimalist approach by decluttering and allowing your space to breathe. Clean lines and uncluttered surfaces can bring a sense of calm and clarity.

2. Seasonal Touches

Introduce subtle seasonal elements into your decor. Consider using winter-themed accents like cozy blankets, textured pillows, or soft rugs in cool hues to evoke a sense of warmth and comfort during the colder months.

3. Fresh Greenery

Bring the outdoors in by incorporating fresh greenery. Potted plants or a vase of winter flowers add a touch of nature and vitality to your space, uplifting the ambiance.

4. Rearrange Furniture

Experiment with rearranging your furniture layout. A simple change in furniture placement can give your room a fresh perspective and a new focal point.

5. Functional Organization

Invest in stylish storage solutions that complement your decor. Functional organization not only keeps your space tidy but also adds aesthetic appeal.

6. Reflective Surfaces

Incorporate mirrors strategically to amplify natural light and create the illusion of a larger space. Mirrors not only add depth but also serve as decorative pieces.

7. Layer Textures

Layer textures to add depth and visual interest. Mix and match different textures such as knit throws, velvet cushions, or faux fur rugs to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

8. Artful Display

Curate a gallery wall or display art pieces that resonate with you. Personalized artwork or photographs add character and reflect your unique style.

9. Candlelight Ambiance

Create a warm and inviting ambiance with candles. Use scented candles in calming fragrances to elevate the atmosphere and add a touch of luxury.

10. Seasonal Aromas

Infuse your home with seasonal scents using essential oil diffusers, potpourri, or scented candles. Scents like pine, cinnamon, or citrus evoke a cozy and inviting environment.

11. Accent Colors

Experiment with accent colors to revitalize your space. Introduce pops of color through accessories like throw pillows, rugs, or decorative pieces to add vibrancy.

12. Personal Touches

Finally, add personal touches that reflect your personality and experiences. Display cherished mementos or souvenirs that bring joy and meaning to your space.

January presents an opportunity to reimagine your living space. By incorporating these decorating tips, you can create a harmonious and inviting environment that sets the tone for a fresh start in the new year.

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