
Despite the omnipotence of expensive HVAC issues and the wear and tear on your home, Florida home improvements aren't all subcontractors and trained labor. There are many projects (some even involving power tools) that will beautify your home, and improve its utility. We chose a few of our favorite DIY Boca home projects that everyone can get involved in, building camaraderie in pursuit of something better. Read on and learn these among our key homeowner tips in the Boca Raton Real Estate blog!

Restore/Repaint Mailbox
A mailbox might not necessarily increase the value of your home on paper, but its curb appeal will benefit you massively. The mailbox is the furthest outcropping of your personal expression, reflecting the aesthetic that follows behind as the introduction to your palette and design motifs. Mailbox repair kits, and even entire mailboxes, are relatively cheap and easy to work with.

Install Solar Pathway Lights
Another inexpensive way to improve your entryway and impress houseguests and passersby alike, these cheap, easily installed, solar-powered pathway lights are a practical...

Boca Raton Real Estate may not be the first place you think of when choosing a place to plant fruits and vegetables. After all, under the bright lights of Mizner Park and amidst the salt spray that pleasantly wafts across the Intracoastal, it's easy to see why some may be confounded when imagining planting veggies in Boca Raton. However, with subtropical climates that yield a balmy, temperate winter season, the hour is almost always nigh to plant something of value here in Boca. During these cooler, more crowded months, it makes more sense to enjoy time outdoors, and away from the throngs of holiday vacationers. Without further ado, here are 5 fall and winter vegetables to consider planting in your Boca Raton garden this year!

Carrots
These bright orange root vegetables are easier than they may seem! Great for elevated, deep container gardens, their growth ensures a low commitment of space in your garden. If there's anyone who values a square foot of Boca Raton real estate. While we have no issues with adequate sunlight and fresh air during our "wintry" months here in Boca Raton, we'd be remiss if we didn't remind our readers that carrots are very high in beta-carotene, a key component in producing Vitamin A in the body - which keeps the...

HOA's seem to be a mainstay in many of the upscale Boca luxury homes and condos found in every zip code through town. While they hold many merits, maintaining the civility and presentation of your neighborhood, HOA's can often be overbearing and expensive, requesting fees for services you may not agree with or want at all. We shared the 5 reasons to consider a Boca HOA neighborhood. In this article, we'll discuss the many drawbacks of the HOA system in Boca and abroad.

The Fees
HOA's keep so many things in line, you'd often think it was worth the cost of the sometimes high fees to live in an HOA regulated development. HOA's often employ landscaping, pest control, and security, among other key upkeep personnel as part of your fees. For many the value of an HOA sits in the prospect of paying a monthly stipend and watching these otherwise individual responsibilities go away. For others, however, the lack of choices, independence, or simply the desire to cut costs and handle their own labor is taken away and replaced with an uncomfortable fee.

Restrictive Regulations
Much like the above, HOA's tend to have strict regulations that can often border on the ridiculous. Many homeowners find that...

Having pets can be the greatest joy, but sometimes our daily lives don’t necessarily mesh with our little friend’s needs. Boca Raton homeownership offers the best of everything for pet owners. From pet-friendly condos to Spanish Being a pet parent requires some research if you truly want your pet to be able to enjoy their home as you do. With some little tips and information, you won’t need to worry about their well-being, giving you the peace of mind you deserve. Unfortunately, sometimes mistakes happen, and going outside or to work is when trouble strikes. These 4 pet-friendly tips can make your home the ideal living situation for both you, and your little sidekick.

Pets Need Help As We Do
Pets, like human beings, are privy to all sorts of physical complications. The older your pet gets, the worse things get. Providing your fur child with special furniture to snuggle on the couch with you will make your baby happy. With the aging process, many four-legged variants struggle to leap onto the couch, or simply leap down. Spines, hips, arms, and legs can suffer some aging blows, but with the right set of pet stairs or ottoman, your animal can move to and from with ease. Aged pets aside, younger pets become overzealous and want the attention of their owner, prompting them to make dangerous leaps. With this simple solution,...
In today's world, renovations can be an extremely costly project. With families looking to save money through couponing and rewards programs, folks can have access to savings at the touch of a phone or advertisement...But what about homes?
There are a ton of ideas online that allow virtually anyone to renovate a home, but what if you are doing the home renovation on a budget? The statement itself makes Boca Raton homeowners cringe, knowing that breaking out the tarp and busting down tile will be a financial nightmare. Let's face it--nobody wants to renovate, but in the event of moving or planning for a child, sometimes life tends to throw us a curveball. If you need some simple, DIY tips for your home--fear not, we have you covered.
Re-Paint the Walls

Okay, so this is an obvious observation, but an idea that is in actuality very overlooked. Sometimes a simple change like color can be an automatic game-changer.
Now, we know that some designer paints and higher-end brands can go up to an expensive $120 per can, but let's focus on simple color. An average can of flat, matte paint is around $30-$40, and can truly turn any vibe around in an instant. Even if you aren't fixated on painting your entire home, renovating your bathroom or even your living room can make a difference. Sometimes the simplest of solutions can be met with basic tasks! And, besides--it's a great opportunity for you and your partner to have some quality bonding time.
Change the Curtains...

When we think of Boca Raton, one of the first things that pop into our heads is palm trees, beach, the ritzy lifestyle of the rich, and many gated communities. While these are common tropes, they're not necessarily wrong! Boca Raton is arguably one of the most expensive places in the nation to live, but for every gated community, there's a suburban alternative that's more affordable for the family.
If you look between the playgrounds of the rich, you'll find suburban neighborhoods that are picturesque paintings of safety, uniformity, and tranquility. There are many misconceptions about HOA; while they are not exactly for everyone, we are going to list some of the reasons why a Boca HOA may be for you.
Property Value Increases

Yes, sometimes an HOA's strict rules and regulations are tough, but did you know that there is a reason for it? Pressure washing those driveways once a month will contribute to a long-term effect. One of the reasons why so many Homeowners’ Associations apply these rules is for the property value of your home.
Proper care and attention to the exterior details of your home and yard will certainly attract home buyers. Upholding these rules will also prevent future maintenance on your home, further keeping you from expensive costs and stressful situations. Upkeep on your home can sometimes be stressful, but if you are planning on selling your Boca home, you can guarantee you will receive top-dollar for your home!
Amenities Are Always Available
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Anyone who has moved knows how exhausting, stressful, and chaotic things can become. With the South Florida population on the rise, hundreds of people are moving into the area by the minute. If you are a Boca Raton native, then you've probably seen how busy the streets are becoming, excluding rush hour!
Pop-up condos, apartments, and multi-million-dollar homes are now inhabited by people out of state. South Florida has become a haven for people around the country, and the influx of people shows it!
However, with the influx of people, comes the influx of their four-legged companions. Moving is already a tedious task none of us want to be a part of--but what about our pets? Pets feel the pinch, too, and stressing a pet out can be just as detrimental to them as it is to us. We will be discussing some key tips on how to move without upsetting Fido. Moving is difficult for all parties involved, but keeping your pets relaxed can be one of the best ways to avoid unnecessary problems.
Reduce the Action

We all know pets can be annoyed by a multitude of noises and sounds. Involving your pet in the process itself could easily irritate your four-legged friend--leading to your pet becoming scared or acting out. A common mistake most homeowners make is allowing their pets to roam freely among the chaos. It's important to make sure your animal is comfortable but placing your pet in a carrier or empty room will keep him/her out of the action. It's a stressful situation, but a barking dog certainly will not help in any way, shape, or form.
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Nothing says summer more than exotic cocktails, sunsets on the beach, and the smell of smoked meats in every backyard. Summer is ultimately one of the reasons so many natives love our state. The closest thing before the Caribbean, South Florida is a nice introduction into the island vibe mentality. With tourism more in the fall/winter season, the roads, beaches, and avenues aren't jam-packed, letting the natives have some time to enjoy. Where summer is--the heat is sure to follow, and as every resident knows, the heat can be absolutely unbearable. The rainy season can rear its ugly season, and within an instant, the rain pours down--only to become sunny again minutes later!
South Florida is indeed a tropical paradise, but not all paradises come without troubles, too. You're grilling out in the backyard during dusk; the smell is lovely, the beer is flowing, and the atmosphere is ideal. Things go as planned and your soiree is an instant success...except for one thing: mosquitoes. Yes, the one thing most of us absolutely detest more than any insect that exists on this earth. South Florida natives know that mosquitoes are absolute killjoys during the summer season, and a lot of natives refuse to go outside because of it. With that being said, not all is completely lost! There is a multitude of ways you can experience the best of the summer season, without being bitten to death! These simple tips will reduce your bites and stay safe.
Eliminate Standing Water

It may...

[ It's always important to do proper research if you are unsure of any fruits and plants you come across. With any of the aforementioned, they are to be eaten at your own risk. Always make sure to thoroughly rinse your fruits or plants before consuming them. ]
The suburban sprawl that is Boca grows every day. Condos are appearing overnight, and it is not stopping from there. Boca Raton is becoming more of a concrete jungle with each, passing day. The construction that litters the sides of major highways is indicative of the large influx of people moving in. With hip college communities nestling next to natural areas--it's hard to imagine how any native wildlife can flourish outside the cemented streets. On the contrary, the floral diversity allows many natives to obtain delicious, edible, and HEALTHY plants to munch on.
You've been on many nature trails here in South Florida and always wondered if those delicious-looking fruits hanging from trees are edible--well, you're about to find out. Here are 4 examples of some tasty, edible, wild treats you can find here in Boca.
Seagrape

Go to any beach here in Boca and you'll most likely find this dotted along A1A. You may have found yourself perusing the fruits this shrub produces and wondered many times if...

Even with the incredible heat outside, our backyards remain a central part of our Boca Raton home. In south Florida, our backyards are often the expression of tropical luxury living, with incredible attention invested into our gazebos, planters, swimming pools, and everything in between. looking to spice up your backyard? check out these 5 suggestions below!
Add in a swinging chair

A swinging chair is such a strong South Florida vibe, with everything from basket chairs to tire swings, hammocks, and recliners adorning our illustrious backyards. Swinging chairs allow you the freedom to enjoy the breeze and colorful flora while taking in a good book or sipping your favorite cocktail.
Build your own glass terrarium or plant an herb wall

Florida is blessed to be home to some of the most incredible plants and animal life found anywhere in the united states. Vines, ferns, and trees grow wild, and quickly - thanks to our subtropical clime. Succulent gardens, large terrariums, or even a high-end biophilic plant design wall are options to add nature's most beautiful gifts into our backyard scene.
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The sun is hot and the temperature is rising. If you’re a Boca Raton native, then you’ve probably had your fair share of intense heat. The months of late July and August are no stranger to those conditions. Floridians, by nature, are a resilient bunch—but what about our gardens? The proverbial thorn in the side for any gardener with a green thumb is watching those roses and peonies wilt. There is nothing more demoralizing than seeing your hard work perish.
Luckily, there are an array of different shrubs, flowers, and fauna sure to sustain even in the hottest conditions. Midsummer may be scorching us all right now, but these plants will surprise even the most skeptical gardener.
Gerbera Daisy

You’ve probably seen these cheerful flowers littered in the many Publix’s floral departments. There’s a reason for it, though, and here’s why. These beauties have a lifespan of up to a week or more in a vase. Have you ever wondered why they are a common ‘filler’ in a boutique arrangement? Well, their beauty is a given, but the fact that these daisies can withstand intense conditions is a favorite among most. Trimming away wilted gerberas is recommended—as trimming promotes new buds to grow faster.
Sunflowers

Ah, the most well-known flower next to the rose. These flowers are commonly associated with the sun due...

Florida is a tropical paradise. The sun, the palm trees, the beach, and the islander vibe allow many Boca natives the chance to experience the perfect staycation. While some of us enjoy going out and retreating to the beach for some R & R, others are comfortable enjoying relaxing at home. And what's not to enjoy? With many yards adorned with flowers and plants that are native to many countries in the Caribbean and Central/South America--it's no surprise that many of us take up the wonderful art of home gardening. Many folks with a green thumb understand the difficulties of growing plants and flowers in these tumultuous conditions. From the intense humidity and sun--to the constant thunderstorms that roll in from the west, gardens can take a beating, but these 5 flowers can improve your Boca garden.
Lantana

No, not the road located in Lake Worth, but a beautiful perennial of the verbena family. These shrubs can grow up to a maximum of 6 feet tall and make any garden pop. The array of colors these flowers produce ranges from reds, oranges, blues, and even multi-colored variants as the flower matures. Aside from its hardy exterior and favor of hot, humid climates, Lantana attracts a multitude of butterfly and bird varieties, making it popular for anyone here in Boca forming a butterfly garden. Fun fact: while being a nuisance in Australia and prompting some gardeners to remove it altogether, its removal can have negative impacts. Lantana's absence decreases biodiversity in certain bird...

We are certainly not wanting for good cuisine in Boca Raton. You could probably dine out for dinner every evening in Boca Raton and never tire of what we have to offer. Nevertheless, you didn’t buy that seaside home to use its impressive kitchen as a place to pour wine. Well, we’d hope not! For the proud members of the culinary cohort, here are some of the best kitchen accessories for the modern Boca home.
Vitamix Food Cycler FC-50

There’s no shame in admitting that you can’t finish your plate, but what if your plate was already leftover? You can toss it in the trash, but wait a couple of days and the smell will remind you that it’s time to trek out to the mosquito den that is your city-issued garbage can. Simply place your unused food waste in the FC-50 and it will break it down to 10% of its volume and store it safely and unobtrusively thanks to its carbon filtration system that eliminates odors. When your FC-50 is full, you now have nutrient-rich and chemical-free fertilizer for your soil! As far as modern kitchen tools go, this is useful inside and out.

Hurricane season is always something to reckon with. following the devastation of Hurricane Andrew, the state of Florida never looked back when it came to hurricane preparedness. thankfully, there are many public messages, available info, and helpful guides on how to protect your home and loved ones. however, there are less obvious, locally known tips and tricks that can change the outcome of a hurricane for your home and family. here are 5 lesser-known but incredibly crucial hurricane safety tips to employ this year at your Boca home.
Cut Down Your Coconuts

Other than savoring that sweet nectar and the deliciously healthy meat of this tropical fruit, cutting down your coconuts serves a very important purpose. While the gale-force winds and powerful gusts are what carry the damage of a storm to fruition, it's often the projectiles that cause most inland property damage. Aside from the storm surge and potential flash flooding, your coconuts turn to cannonballs when left on their own to sway in the wind. Be safe, and hire help if you must, but be sure to remove these excess fruits lest they turn to a destructive force with winds at their backs.
Bring In Potted Plants

Another way to prevent projectiles from destroying your and your neighbor's property is to bring in potted plants. Everything from a small plastic herb pot to a massive, ornate ceramic...

In Boca Raton, we love green! It’s the year-round color many of us move here for, so why shouldn’t your home share the same shade? Not as in a new coat of paint, we can’t help you with swatches, but by making your Boca Raton home friendlier to the environment! Here are 4 tips for a green Boca home!
1. Watering Your Lawn at Night

We’ll admit, we Boca Raton homeowners can be a little vain when it comes to our lawns. Who doesn’t relish a verdant welcome whenever we return home? But with temperatures in the 80s and 90s for most of the year, your little plot of paradise will need plenty of TLC from you and the skies above. Even with our summer rains, which are almost a daily occurrence in our Boca Raton neighborhoods, our lawns can become dry and parched later in the year under the Florida sun. Take our advice and water well dark sunset. With no sun in the sky, you won’t have to contend with evaporation on both the grass and in your wallet when you get your water bill. Your lawn will thank you for it!
2. Research Solar Energy Solution

We've had water heaters powered by solar energy...

The Boca Raton lifestyle is one of leisure and relaxation. Life carries at its own pace under our verdant canopy of palm trees. But hidden within that thick foliage is another world of creepy crawlies and critters that would like to share your beautiful Boca home as soon as the thunder and lighting come calling. Here are 5 pest control trips to try in your Boca home!
Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitos and flies are an especially tiring nuisance around our fair city, especially in the legendary humidity of August. Get those pests off the dole by eliminating pockets of standing water, which are mosquito's favorite places to breed. These could be found in buckets being left out after housework, hammocks, gutters stuffed with debris, or a slump in the elevation of your lawn.
Remove All Food Waste

Did you know that a cockroach can live for days off of a single crumb? Think twice about eating that cookie on the couch! Leaving food out overnight is a juicy opportunity for our multi-legged friends. Even our faithful garbage cans are no match to keep out the tiny opportunists. If you must throw out raw items or unfinished meals, dispose of them in a plastic bag to contain the smell before dropping them in the trash can. If you love to grill during our perpetual summer, make sure the grill and grease trap has been properly...

over the past decade, Hurricanes have been infrequent, but are still inevitable. For all residents, but especially buyers of single-family homes, it is fundamental to have a plan and the supplies needed to weather the storm. Here are 4 must-have items for your Boca home to be hurricane-ready.
Solar Powered Fan

The silver lining of a hurricane is that due to its cyclical nature and megalithic formation, the weather shortly before and immediately after is often pristine. In the Sunshine State, this means the opportunity to soak up those precious rays and take advantage of solar tech. When the power goes out, perhaps nothing makes the aftermath more uncomfortable than the dearth of air conditioning. A solar-charged fan won't change the world, but it'll make things a bit easier as you work to get things up and running.
Battery Powered or Hand Cranked Radio

Emergency services have dramatically improved with technology. The devastation of Hurricane Andrew in particular amplified the call for South Florida homes to vault towards the 21st century. Thus, the need for emergency communications is reduced, but not altogether eliminated. Hurricane first-timers experiencing their power, cable, and cell service going out at once may be safely ensconced in their home, but unable to learn what hazards and post-storm alerts may be sent...

We pride ourselves on Boca Raton’s lifestyle of leisure. It’s certainly one of the safest cities in all of Florida, thanks to a close-knit community of neighbors, good schools, and a general sense of well-being. However, crimes of opportunity have been on the rise in some pockets of the country, and here are 4 simple home safety tips to keep your Boca home safe!
Close Your Garage Door

We know how relaxed life is in the cul-de-sac. You know your neighbors well. The neighborhood kids ride their bikes in the street. No need to worry about anything it seems, so keeping the garage door open seems like a good idea. It even signals to the neighbors that you’re home and they’re welcome to stop by. But you’re not thinking about the ride-share drivers, the out-of-town workmen, or the opportunists cruising through your little piece of heaven. Many a Boca Raton resident has seen power tools, bikes, electronics, even their cars disappear thanks to an open garage door. More reason not to make it a habit of leaving it open? You could easily forget it’s still up by the time you go to bed.
Invest in a Cellular Alarm System

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Unless you haven't been outside in the past 2 months, we're sure you know it's scorching hot! Aside from dehydration, sweaty clothes, and hot cars, our homes and air conditioning units are one of the biggest challenges to account for over the Boca Raton summer. When you're not venturing out to one of our local beaches or watering holes, it's important to keep things cool at home. Save time, save money, and save a little grief with these 5 tips to keep your Boca home cool!
Keep Your shades down during the day

We're not suggesting you turn your home into a windowless dungeon, but your windows are magnifiers for sunlight and can do much more to make your Florida room feel like Florida outside if you're not wary. Heavy drapes or even drawn blinds can go a long way to keep your home cool.
Utilize ceiling fans to support A/C

The A/C in your Boca home has two jobs - to create cool air and circulate it. Once your auto-set A/C turns off, it indicates that the internal temperature as a whole has reached the desired setting, not just the air coming from your ducts. Ceiling fans are incredibly inexpensive to run, and massively increase our overall air circulation at home, spelling the A/C as the sole circulator of cool air.
Change your air filters routinely...

Memorial Day is about one thing only: honoring the fallen veterans who gave their lives to secure & defend freedom. The Monday off, pool days, and barbeques with family are a testament to the space we've been afforded by the sacrifices of so many brave men & women. While much of the northeast is in the grips of a cold snap, Homeowners in Boca Raton are firing up their grills and putting on their swim gear. It's Memorial Day, and beyond the reference for our troops, it's time to spend a day outdoors with our loved ones. Here are four affordable outdoor accessories to make Memorial Day and every pool day a little better.
Citronella Candles

Citronella candles are an absolute must for any backyard event without a tightly screened-in patio. Despite its citrusy-sounding name and scent, citronella oil is obtained from the leaves and stems of the Cymbopogon family of plants, whose most notable member is lemongrass. Citronella candles are abundant and affordable, and while they aren't built for the perfect fragrance, they keep mosquitos at bay. As the sun goes down, you'll want a few of these handy to keep the fun going!
Solar Lighting
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