For many, the year end holidays is a much anticipated time of rest and relaxation, of pina colada's and sunsets , a time for giving! But for thieves and burglars, TIS A TIME FOR TAKING Protecting your home from burglary is a necessity all year round, but when burglars know that holidays such as Christmas are when homes are filled with new gadgets, flat screen tv's, jewellery ,cash and other expensive items , and worse yet, empty homes- extra security measures need to be considered. So avoid having the joy and sense of goodness being knocked out of your holidays by following these 10 simple security measures when away. Try to organise a housesitter so that your house always looks occupied, no post is left in the postbox and your lights come on and go off irregularly. If you can't get a housesitter, then put your outside lights on a timer, as well as one or two inside lights, to give the house a lived-in look. Also hook up a radio on a timer so it comes on for an hour every couple of hours. Ask a neighbour to keep an eye out on the place and pick up your post and junkmail. Nothing says I am on holiday like two wet newspapers on the lawn. Make sure your house is well lit at night; not brightly but enough to expose someone trying to sneak in. Garden lights can help with this. Close all your windows and check that all your locks and security gates are in good condition. Close all ground floor curtains and blinds so people cant see inside the house during the day.It is better for the house to look unoccupied during the day than at night ,which is would be if the curtains were open. Lock your shed and any outdoor storage areas and make sure that the garage is locked too. Turn down your telephone volume and dont announce your holiday plans on your answering machine. Leave a spare key with a close friend/family in case of emergencies. And lastly, ensure that your household insurance payments are up to date. This gives you the additional peace of mind knowing that you are covered for potential losses. #security

As homeowners, we're constantly looking for ways to improve our living spaces while also contributing to a more sustainable future. At Blueprint Homes, we believe that eco-friendly home renovations are a great way to achieve both goals.Not only do eco-friendly renovations reduce your environmental footprint, but they can also increase your property value and appeal to potential buyers. In this blog, we'll explore some eco-friendly home renovation ideas that can boost your property value and contribute to a more sustainable future. 1. Solar Panels Installing solar panels is a great way to reduce your reliance on non-renewable energy sources and lower your energy bills. Solar panels can also increase your property value by up to 17% (according to a study by Zillow). 2. Energy-Efficient Windows Energy-efficient windows can help reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, resulting in lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. Replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones can also recoup up to 73% of the cost at resale (according to the US National Association of Realtors). 3. Rainwater Harvesting Systems Rainwater harvesting systems collect and store rainwater for non-potable uses, such as flushing toilets and watering plants. This can reduce your water bills and alleviate pressure on municipal water supplies. A rainwater harvesting system can also increase your property value by up to 5% 4. Sustainable Flooring Sustainable flooring options, such as bamboo, cork, and reclaimed wood, can add warmth and character to your home while also reducing your environmental footprint. Sustainable flooring can also increase your property value by up to 10% (according to a study by the US National Association of Realtors). 5. Green Roofs Green roofs, also known as living roofs, are covered with plants and can provide insulation, reduce stormwater runoff, and create habitats for wildlife. Green roofs can also increase your property value by up to 15% 6. Low-Flow Fixtures Low-flow fixtures, such as showerheads and toilets, can significantly reduce your water consumption and lower your water bills. Low-flow fixtures can also increase your property value by up to 5% 7. Insulation Upgrades Insulation upgrades, such as adding fiberglass batts or spray foam insulation, can reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, resulting in lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. Insulation upgrades can also recoup up to 100% of the cost at resale (according to the US National Association of Realtors). Conclusion Eco-friendly home renovations are a great way to boost your property value, reduce your environmental footprint, and contribute to a more sustainable future. At Blueprint Homes, we're dedicated to crafting sustainable and stunning living spaces that not only minimize environmental impact but also provide a healthier and more comfortable living experience. Our team stays at the forefront of innovative, eco-friendly building materials and technologies, ensuring our homes are constructed with the latest green solutions. Every Blueprint Home is built with sustainability in mind, incorporating green technology and systems as a standard of our quality and craftsmanship. From energy-efficient systems to sustainable materials, we're committed to building your dream home the green way. Discover how we're redefining home construction with sustainable practices. Speak with our team today to learn more about our eco-friendly building solutions and let us help you create a beautiful, sustainable living space that you'll love for years to come.

*2025 Home Decor Trends: Elevate Your Space with Style and Sustainability* As we step into 2025, the world of home decor is buzzing with exciting trends that blend style, sustainability, and functionality. At Blueprint Homes, we're always on the lookout for the latest and greatest in home design. Here are the top 2025 home decor trends to inspire your next renovation or decorating project: 1. Sustainable Luxury Eco-friendly living is no longer just a trend; it's a lifestyle. In 2025, expect to see a rise in sustainable luxury decor, featuring materials like reclaimed wood, low-VOC paints, and energy-efficient appliances. 2. Neo-Traditionalism This trend combines classic elements with modern twists, resulting in a unique blend of old and new. Think bold colors, statement furniture pieces, and eclectic patterns. 3. Wellness-Centric Design As we prioritize our well-being, our homes are becoming sanctuaries for self-care. Incorporate wellness-centric design elements like air-purifying plants, calming color schemes, and spa-inspired bathrooms. 4. Maximalism Maximalism is back, and it's bigger and bolder than ever. This trend celebrates individuality and self-expression, featuring vibrant colors, eclectic patterns, and statement pieces. 5. Smart Home Technology Smart home technology is becoming increasingly integrated into our daily lives. In 2025, expect to see more seamless interactions between smart devices, voice assistants, and home automation systems. 6. Biophilic Design Biophilic design emphasizes the connection between nature and our built environment. Incorporate natural elements like living walls, green roofs, and large windows to bring the outdoors in. 7. Curved Lines and Shapes Curved lines and shapes are making a comeback in 2025. From rounded furniture pieces to arched doorways, this trend adds a touch of whimsy and sophistication to any room. 8. Multifunctional Spaces As our lives become increasingly busy, our homes need to adapt. Multifunctional spaces that combine different activities, like a home office and guest room, are becoming more popular. 9. Earthy Tones and Textures Earthy tones and textures are dominating the 2025 home decor scene. Think natural materials like wood, stone, and clay, paired with soothing colors like sage green and sandy beige. 10. Personalized Decor In 2025, it's all about making your space truly yours. Personalized decor, from monogrammed throw pillows to custom artwork, is becoming increasingly popular. At Blueprint Homes, we're passionate about creating homes that reflect our clients' unique styles and personalities. Whether you're building a new home or renovating an existing one, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Stay ahead of the curve and incorporate these 2025 home decor trends into your next project. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let's bring your dream home to life!