This week, the folks at Cyberhomes will share our New Year's resolutions for 2009. Look for our home and real-estate goals for the upcoming year.
Lauren Baier Kim, Cyberhomes Blogger
My resolution: To clear out, furnish and decorate a spare bedroom to create a larger, more grown-up bedroom for my twins to share. Although now in elementary school, they are still sleeping in their toddler beds in the tiniest (almost closet-like) room in the house.
Cost: Approximately $1,598. I figure I'll spend about $1,278 for two twin bed frames and two mattress sets that will hopefully last a few years. I may spend about $150 on the paint (white and two shades of pink for the ceiling, upper walls and lower walls) and a princess wallpaper border. I could get princess bedding for about $120 and a small bookshelf for about $50. If I find two matching unfinished bed frames that I like, I may be able to complete the room for less.
Last year's resolution: To hire a cleaning service — if not weekly, then at least biweekly. With a busy schedule and two young children at home, it’s difficult to find time to get the house clean. I spend most of my time putting toys away and cleaning up small messes.
The outcome: As much as I dream of a spotless, clutter-free home, I opted not to hire a service. At about $90 a week in my area, it seemed like a luxury I could do without — especially when the economy soured. Plus, the $4,680 I might have spent in a year on sparkling counters and freshly vacuumed floors can now be put toward my daughters' new room — I also may be able to put more money away for their education. Plus, the kids have discovered a new fascination with dusting. (All on their own — I swear.)
Click here to read the next New Year's resolution.—Lauren Baier Kim