Monday, March 17, 2025 / by Maria Sims
Your HVAC system quietly keeps your home comfortable—until something goes wrong. And when it does, repairs aren’t cheap. So, how long can you expect your system to last, and what can you do to keep it running longer? Let’s dive in.
How Long Do HVAC Components Last?
On average, HVAC systems last 15–25 years, but individual parts have their own timelines:
Furnace: 15–30 years
Air Conditioner: 15–20 years
Heat Pump: 10–15 years
Ductwork: 20–30 years
Thermostat: Around 10 years
If your system is creeping up on these numbers, it might be time to start planning ahead.
What Wears Your HVAC Out Faster?
Some things put extra strain on your system, cutting its life short:
Leaky ducts & poor insulation – If your home is losing heated or cooled air, your HVAC has to work harder to compensate.
Dirty filters & clogged ducts – Restricted airflow means your system runs longer, wearing it out faster.
Skipping maintenance &. ...
Read More
home, budget, home ownership, home maintenance
Monday, March 10, 2025 / by Maria Sims
Are you looking to increase your home’s value without spending a fortune? Whether you're preparing to sell or just want to build equity, there are budget-friendly improvements that can make a big impact. Here are some smart, cost-effective ways to enhance your home’s appeal and value.
Boost Your Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, and your home's exterior is the first thing potential buyers or guests see. Here’s how to enhance it without overspending:
-Paint the Front Door – A fresh coat of paint in a bold or classic color can make a statement.
-Upgrade Landscaping – Trim bushes, plant seasonal flowers, and add fresh mulch for a polished look.
-Update House Numbers & Mailbox – Small details can modernize the look of your home.
Refresh Your Walls with Paint
A fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to update your home. Stick to neutral colors like soft grays, whites, or beiges to appeal to a wide range of buyers. If you. ...
Read More
home, real estate, renovations, staging, upgrades, budget
Tuesday, March 4, 2025 / by Maria Sims
March is here, and with it comes an exciting lineup of events in Canton, GA! Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly night out, an inspiring arts festival, or a celebration of women, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the best of our community!
March 1 | Glow Night in Downtown Canton
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Kick off March with a glowing good time in Downtown Canton! Glow Night features 18 holes of Glow Mini Golf, plus fun games like Glow Spike Ball, Glow Corn Hole, Glow Bucket Pong, Glow Kan Jam, and Paddle Smash. With DJ Thomas keeping the energy high, this will be an unforgettable evening of glowing entertainment. Bring your friends and family for a night of laughter, competition, and fun!
March 1 | West Main Arts Festival
Time: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Art lovers, this one’s for you! The West Main Arts Festival is bringing a fine arts experience to Downtown Canton. Hosted in the growing West Main Street! ...
Read More
local, canton, events
Monday, February 24, 2025 / by Maria Sims
March 8th is International Women’s Day. It is a day of celebration of women’s achievements and a rally for gender equality. It’s a day to honor the past, embrace the present, and inspire the future!
Symbolism in Colors
Purple, green, and white are the colors of women's suffrage and are symbolic on International Women's Day. Their use originated from the Women's Social and Political Union in the UK, which was founded in 1903.
Purple signifies justice and dignity, and being loyal to the cause
Green symbolizes hope
White represents purity
A Brief History
International Women's Day began in the early 1900's when women fought for better working conditions and voting rights. By 1911, it had become an international movement. The UN made it official in 1977. Today, it’s a global event recognizing women in business, politics, science, and more!
Historical Timeline
1909 – The first National Woman’s Day is observed in the U.S. on February 28
1911 &nd! ...
Read More
Friday, February 21, 2025 / by Maria Sims
If you own a home in Georgia and live in it as your primary residence, you may qualify for a homestead exemption—a tax break that lowers the amount of property taxes you owe. Many homeowners miss out on this savings simply because they don’t apply. Here’s what you need to know to take advantage of it!
What Is a Homestead Exemption?
A homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of your home, which means you pay less in property taxes. In Georgia, there are different types of homestead exemptions, including special ones for seniors, disabled homeowners, and veterans.
Who Qualifies?
To qualify for a homestead exemption in Georgia, you must:
1) Own and live in the home as your primary residence as of January 1
2) Make sure you apply per your county's deadline
3) Not claim a homestead exemption on any other property
Types of Homestead Exemptions in Georgia
Each county may have different rules, so it’s best to check with your local tax assessor. ...
Read More
georgia, real estate, home ownership
