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Springtime Activities to Enjoy in Bend

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 22:13:36 GMT

Bend, Oregon is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a wide range of activities and attractions to enjoy throughout the year. And for those that reside in our Central Oregon communities, you get to enjoy the beauty and splendor of this area without having to leave. With its mild weather and stunning natural scenery, spring is an excellent time to visit Bend and explore all that the area has to offer. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Bend during the Springtime.

Hiking

Bend is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and national forests, making it an excellent place for hiking. In the spring, the weather is typically mild and the trails are often less crowded than in the summer months. Start exploring the surrounding area’s hiking trails with Tumalo Falls Trail, the Deschutes River Trail , and the Pilot Butte Trail.

Mountain Biking

In addition to hiking, Bend is naturally known for its world-class mountain biking trails as well. As the weather starts to warm up in the next coming months, the trails are often in excellent condition making it the perfect time to explore the area on two wheels. Some popular mountain biking trails in Bend include Phil's Trail, the Wanoga Trail System, and the Peterson Ridge Trail .

Golfing

On top of hiking and mountain biking, Bend is home to several top-rated golf courses, many of which open for the season in the spring. With its mild weather and stunning natural surroundings, golfing in Bend is a unique and enjoyable experience. If you are an avid golfer, check out these popular golf courses: Tetherow Golf Club , Pronghorn Resort , and Broken Top Club .

Whitewater Rafting

As the snow melts in the spring, the rivers around Bend become prime spots for whitewater rafting. Several local outfitters offer guided rafting trips, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of navigating through rapids and enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way.

Brewery Tours

Oregon is known for its thriving craft beer scene, with dozens of local breweries and taprooms to choose from, and Bend is one of the state’s premier destinations for beer lovers. Spring is a great time to explore the local breweries as many offer outdoor seating and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy some brews and views at Deschutes Brewery , Crux Fermentation Project , and 10 Barrel Brewing . Ready to make a day of it? Download Bend’s Ale Trail map and score some prizes from Visit Bend ( vistbend.com ).

Exploring the High Desert Museum

The High Desert Museum is a popular attraction in Bend, offering exhibits and programs that showcase the natural and cultural history of the region. In the spring, visitors can enjoy the outdoor exhibits and gardens, as well as the indoor galleries and exhibits. This is a perfect activity for the whole family. ( https://highdesertmuseum.org/ )

Attending Festivals and Events

Bend comes alive in spring as it hosts several festivals and events, offering visitors a chance to experience the local culture and community. Look out for these popular upcoming events: the Bend Spring Festival, the Bend Brewfest, and the Pole Pedal Paddle multi-sport event. Check out all the upcoming activities in Bend at https://www.visitbend.com/event-calendar/2022-05-14/

It is clear to see that Bend, Oregon has a lot to offer in the springtime. Whether you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, golfing, or exploring the local culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Bend during the spring season.

Ready to make the move to Central Oregon to have all these activities in your backyard? Reach out to Woodhill Homes today; we would love to show you around our Countryside community and help find the perfect Bend, Oregon home for you.

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 18:01:33 GMT

Top Tips to Make Your Spring Home Maintenance a Breeze

Spring is officially here and now is the time to start on your spring home maintenance checklist. No matter the age of your home, routine maintenance is vital for the longevity of it. Use this list below to get a head start on your home maintenance.

Assess Winter Damage

With the snow melted, take the opportunity to walk around the perimeter of your home and look for any damage to siding, gutters and roofing. Winter winds, snow, and ice can wreak havoc on a home, so look for any areas where water could penetrate into the home’s facade. Pay close attention to the roof and survey for any missing shingles, chips, granule loss or fastener failures. Make repairs as soon as possible.

Exterior Wash
Winter leaves behind lots of dirt on a home’s exterior, so now is the time to give it a good cleaning. Use mild soap and water to see the best results. Or check out the other cleaning products available on the market.

Gutters

Inspect the gutters for leaves and other debris that collected there during the winter. Clean and remove any debris so there isn’t any back up of water and water is directed away from the house during spring showers.

Replace Air Filters

T o maintain the life of your HVAC system, air filters should be changed periodically. Air filters are essential for keeping dust, pet hair and allergens out of the air of your home. The filters trap these particles and help your air conditioner run more efficiently saving you on energy bills. Assess whether your A/C unit needs serviced by a professional to maintain optimal performance.

Test Alarms
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors can save lives and it’s important they are regularly tested. Make it a habit to replace the batteries in your alarms every spring. Lifespans for smoke detectors are around ten years and carbon monoxide detectors average around seven years. If your alarms have reached their lifespan, replace them this spring.

Yard Prep
Pick up any fallen branches around the yard from the winter storms. Start prepping your flower beds for spring planting and prune your shrubs for new growth. Aerate the lawn which allows for water and nutrients to enter the soil for a healthy looking yard all year.

Cleaning
Time for spring cleaning. Give your home a thorough cleaning, paying attention to those areas that are often overlooked during regular cleanings like baseboards, ceiling fans, walls, and the fridge.

Woodhill Homes builds quality homes that are meant to last a lifetime. If you are ready to find your dream home in Oregon, contact us today for more information on our available homes or click here .

Why Buying New Is the Best Idea

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 17:26:30 GMT

At Woodhill, we build new homes throughout Oregon. As a new home builder, we know all the benefits of buying a new home versus an existing home. If you are not sure exactly what those benefits are, allow us to share some of them with you.

Nothing is Used or Worn

Though it may seem obvious that this is a benefit, the value of everything in your home being new cannot be understated. Buying a home and moving is already an expensive and physically taxing endeavor. The last thing you want to deal with when you move into a home are repairs. That’s the reality for many people when they move into their homes, but it doesn't have to be when you choose a new home. Think about the peace of mind that comes from having new appliances, plumbing, and electrical work. When those things experience problems, they are often expensive to fix. But you buy yourself a lot of time not worrying about putting those kinds of repairs into the budget when everything in your home is brand new. Not to mention the fact you can rest easy knowing that your home was built according to the latest building standards and is equipped with energy efficient materials. All these things add up to savings in your pocket in the long run.

There Are Tailored Options

At Woodhill we do more than offer move-in ready new homes. Through our On-Your-Land division, Tailored Homes , we also offer custom options for those that want to build their homes on their own land. When you not only buy a new home, but you opt for a custom one, everything will be how you want it from the very beginning. While many people buy existing homes knowing that they are going to renovate in the future to bring their home aesthetics more in line with their personal taste, that is not something you have to worry about. You get to have a say when picking the layout of your home and all the finishing touches. The only reason you would need to renovate is if your style changes in the future. Your custom-built home will reflect your style from the very beginning.

If buying a home that leaves you without worry and that is built with you in mind from the start sounds valuable to you, contact us at Woodhill Homes today. We would love to give you a tour of one of our move-in ready homes or explain our tailored process to you more fully.

She-Sheds: The Ultimate Backyard Retreat

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 18:13:44 GMT

How to Create your Own Tranquil Space at Home

Have you ever envisioned having your own tranquil space dedicated exclusively to you and your interests? “She-sheds” are gaining popularity among modern women looking for their own individualized dwelling. These small spaces are detached from the main house and serve many purposes such as workout studios, art studios, yoga retreats, music studios, gardening, home businesses and much more.

Functional Spaces
She sheds have endless possibilities from cozy spaces to snuggle up with a good book to planned studios dedicated to the arts. These spaces are all about self-care and creating comfortable spaces for women to unwind and take a break from the demands of daily life. In addition to retreat style spaces, many women working from home use these as a way to work undisturbed and without interruptions from the family.

ARCs and Jurisdictions
As the popularity of these tiny spaces grew, local ARCs and jurisdictions started adopting them into their building codes and community guidelines. But it’s always best to check with local government before building to ensure your structure meets all codes.

Design
When designing your new space, start with the primary purpose and build off that concept. If you’re looking for an art studio that needs room for easels or a yoga retreat that needs plenty of floor space, use built-in shelving or open cabinets to keep clutter out of the area. Consider investing in plenty of windows for natural light or paint the front door a bold color to welcome you into your place.

Experienced Builder
Now that you have the vision for your she shed, but who will build it? It’s always best to choose a skilled builder familiar with creating these one-of-kind spaces. At Tailored by Woodhill Homes, we are an experienced custom builder of she sheds and can help you create the perfect space. It’s best to leave it up to the experts since you’ll need electricity, heating/cooling and possibly plumbing.

If you’ve been dreaming of a “She Shed”, contact our team at Tailored by Woodhill Homes to see how we can help make it a reality. Contact us today to start building your dream!

5 Things Every Homeowner Should Learn

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 16:52:13 GMT

Home Maintenance Items you can Tackle Yourself

Buying a new home is the perfect choice for many homeowners as you will not have the maintenance as you would with a fixer upper. At Woodhill Homes, our homes are built so that when you move in, you can simply enjoy your space and not worry about fixing things. However, all things need care and maintenance with age and use. For those things that don’t require professional assistance, being able to tackle some tasks on your own will save you lots of time and money. Here are a few things that we believe every homeowner should know how to do.

Fix a Leaky Faucet

Leaky faucets are at once irritating and common in homes. They naturally develop with use as joiners and rings become loose over time. To fix them is easy, thankfully. To do so, first turn the water line to the sink off. Then depending on if you have a compression faucet or not, you will need to either replace the rubber washer or the O-ring. This should create a waterproof seal.

Replace the Furnace Filter

For your furnace to run efficiently and for decades to come, proper maintenance is essential. One of the main ways to maintain your furnace is quite simple, changing the filter. Generally, you should change your furnace filter every three months.

Find Wall Studs

To hang things permanently and securely, you need to attach them to a wall stud. This is all the truer for heavy pictures and mirrors. Learn to listen for the sound of a stud. Knock on your wall until you hear a solid sound. This is a good indicator that you have found a stud. Alternatively, you can purchase a stud finder to help you with this task.

Use a Caulk Gun

Caulk is an integral part in many areas of a home. Occasionally, a new bead of caulk is needed to seal gaps and holes around windows, tubs, and more which is why knowing how to use a caulk gun is so important. To use, load the caulking tube into the gun, slice the tip off of the nozzle of the tube at a 45-degree angle, and gently pull the trigger to release the product onto a surface. To stop the flow of product, push the spring-loaded tab at the back of the gun.

Reset Your Breaker Box

When your circuit breaker trips, it is important that you know how to reset it and restore power to that part of your home. To do so, travel down to your breaker box, open it up, and identify which switch is not in the same direction as the others. Simply flip that switch to the right side and you have successfully reset your breaker.

Outdoor Living Spaces: Covered Patios and Porches

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 21:47:24 GMT

Patios and Porches are an Extension of Your Home

Covered patios and porches are effective at expanding your living space by creating comfortable outdoor areas for the family to enjoy. Not only do these home features add aesthetics, but they offer comfortable living spaces, practical entertainment areas, protection, and increased property value. Here’s a list of the reasons covered patios and porches are so popular and why choosing a home plan with these enhancements can be beneficial.

Extension of Living Space
A budget-friendly way to add living space to your home without costly structural additions is by adding a covered patio or porch. Viewed as an extension of the living space, it becomes the perfect oasis to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or take in the beautiful Pacific Northwest scenery. To get the most out of the additional space, many homeowners are adding kitchens, bars, TVs, comfortable furnishings, and gas fireplaces. Oregonians love the outdoors and these areas are great for enjoying it at home.

Entertaining
Nobody wants to cancel a party they’ve spent time and money preparing for due to bad weather. Covered outdoor spaces can help eliminate the need for cancellations. These areas can keep your guests cool and comfortable during hot summer nights and dry during rainstorms. Weather shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your new home and sharing the space with family and friends.

Protection
Protection is a main reason homeowners choose covered outdoor spaces as they shelter you from the sun’s UV rays and challenging weather. They also protect furniture from the elements allowing homeowners to choose more comfortable, plush furnishings as they don’t need to worry about them getting ruined. Even during the winter months, furnishings can be kept under the covered patios with proper covers, freeing up limited space within garages or accessory buildings.

Increased Property Value
Covered patios and porches continue to be popular among homeowners due to their curb appeal and extra livability. When selling a property, they can entice buyers to move quickly or even raise their offer. These highly sought-after amenities can set your home apart from others on the market. If you’re having your home appraised, don’t be surprised if it increases your appraisal value.

At Woodhill Homes, we offer home plans with covered patios and porches because we know how important it is to offer additional living spaces to our customers and their families. If you want to learn more about our plans with covered patios or porches, click here to explore your options.

COBA 35th Annual Tour of Homes

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 17:46:52 GMT

Come see the difference of a Woodhill Home

We are excited to share that we will be showcasing two homes on the 2022 COBA Tour of Homes! Visit us at our newest Redmond community, Rimview Estates , located by the picturesque Dry Canyon Trail System or stop by our featured home in Countryside , located in beautiful SE Bend, for your chance to win one of three BBQ's-you could win a Traeger, Green Mountain, or Weber grill (one of each will awarded). Admission is free, and our team is excited to show you the designs and features of a Woodhill home. We look forward to seeing you there!

Rimview Estates Tour Home
1697 SW Black Butte Ct.
Redmond, OR 97756

Countryside Tour Home
20460 Aberdeen Dr.
Bend, OR 97702

Tour Hours: Fridays 12 PM-6 PM, Saturdays & Sundays 10 AM-5 PM

https://coba.org/tour-of-homes/

Keeping Your Home Naturally Clean

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 17:24:07 GMT

Natural Disinfectants You Probably Already Have at Home

You are proud of your home. It’s your haven from the world. Naturally, you want to keep it in tip top shape. Part of achieving this is regularly cleaning and disinfecting the surfaces in your home. If you prefer to stay away from harsh chemicals, why not try some of these gentler options. Most of them you probably already have on hand.

White Vinegar

White vinegar is a household mainstay, and for good reason. It's great as a deodorizer, fabric softener, and sanitizer. White vinegar is effective at killing many food-borne bacteria including E. coli. It's also great at cutting through mildew. Mix up a spray bottle with half water and half vinegar and you will have a versatile disinfecting solution that can be used almost anywhere in your home.

Lemons

Similar to white vinegar, another high acidic household item you can use to disinfect are lemons. Next time you have an overabundance of lemons, slice one open and wipe it over surfaces like sinks and faucets to take advantage of the antimicrobial properties and lovely smell.

Isopropyl Alcohol

If you have a first aid kit, then you likely have a bottle of isopropyl alcohol in your home. Don’t let it just collect dust in between tending to injuries. Break it out every once in a while to effectively disinfect surfaces in your home. Or, you can even make your own hand sanitizer with it by mixing isopropyl alcohol with some aloe vera gel.

Borax

Many people have a box of borax in their laundry rooms, but this natural mineral powder can be used for a variety of disinfecting purposes. Mix a few tablespoons of borax with water in a spray bottle and you will have a mold and bacteria killing concoction.

So whether you are just running low on your regular cleaning supplies or you want to try your hand at creating your own gentle disinfectants, these common household items will help you keep a clean and sanitized home.

If you are looking for the perfect home to call your own, look no further than Woodhill Homes! Take a look at our available homes today or call us to schedule a tour of one of our homes.

How to Choose the Right Builder for Your Home

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 20:05:47 GMT

Simple Ways to Select the Builder for Your Home

Building a home on your land is a big investment and choosing the right home builder to partner with is a critical step in the new construction process. Before you sign a contract, you want to make sure you have thoroughly researched and determined the best home builder for you. There are many options available when it comes to builders, so we’ve compiled a list of key points to consider when selecting yours.

Research
Searching the internet is a great place to start your research, but don’t forget to ask friends and family for their insight. Personal experience with a builder can give you an insider’s perspective on the construction of your home. Ask the builder for project addresses and drive by to see the craftsmanship for yourself. References and testimonials can give you a better understanding of where the builder excels. Find out from past customers the builder’s ability to stay on schedule and budget, their response times, their communication style and the quality of workmanship.

Licensed and Insured
All general contractors building in Oregon are required to be licensed and insured. Being licensed means the builder has completed comprehensive state training. Their knowledge of local building codes will ensure your home passes inspections, keeping your project on schedule.

Experience and Professionalism
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. By asking the right questions, you can narrow down the list of builders and pick one with the experience and professionalism you require. Ask the builder how many years of experience they have building homes. An experienced builder has plenty of real-world knowledge that can be beneficial if issues or unforeseen circumstances should arise.

It’s acceptable to ask for credentials and a reputable builder won’t have an issue providing them. Check to see if they are members of the Central Oregon Builders Association or additional industry organizations. What other accreditations or awards have they received for excellence in their field.

Communication
Transparency and communication are essential when building a new home. Does the builder have a clear and concise plan on how they communicate with their customers? Ask the builder how they answer customer questions throughout the building process. Find out if they keep their customers informed with check-ins, progress reports and inspection dates. Finding a builder that has a communication style similar to yours can eliminate frustration during the process.

Style and Design
Request to see the builder’s portfolio and if possible, schedule a walk-through of an existing model to see if their design aesthetic matches yours. Review their available home plans, interior finishes, and color choices. Determine if these offerings match your style. If not, you may be required to pay for custom options in order to achieve the look you desire.

Quality
Quality craftsmanship and construction are key to the longevity and integrity of your home. Ask the builder what materials and brands they will be using in the construction of it. It’s a valuable investment, and you want it to be built with the best materials available. It’s important the builder has a warranty program to fix any warranty items after the home is complete.

At Woodhill Homes, we’re passionate about building homes that exceed customer expectations. With 20 years of building experience, we have the knowledge and vision to create a home unique to you. Contact us to get started.

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 17:24:07 GMT

Five Favorite Design Trends of 2022

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 20:49:41 GMT

1. Moody Kitchens/Kitchens With Warm Tones

Via Pinterest

Say goodbye to the days of the all white kitchen. While it is truly one of our favorites (light and bright is always good in our book), 2022 is taking a warmer and more moody trend. We’re seeing a lot of cabinetry painted hues of dark blue and green. We are also seeing cabinetry take on a more natural/warm tone, with shades of white oak being the preferred choice this year and we are loving it.

2. Bold Wallpaper

Via Lulu and Georgia

Wallpaper has been making a slow comeback, but 2022 is the year of the wallpaper. Trends are looking to be more on the vintage/retro side, almost verging on granny-chic but with more modern hues. If you want to quickly transform any space in your home, peel and stick wallpaper is a great option.

3.Extreme Minimalism with an Organic Feel

Via Camille Styles

The days of over styled shelves and coffee tables may be a thing of the past. Design trends this year are leaning more minimal. Home has really become people’s respite, and they want clean and peaceful spaces. Getting rid of clutter and choosing soothing colors in whites, creams, beige with natural elements and textiles can lend a hand in giving you a more relaxing space.

4. Multifunctional Spaces are Prioritized

Via House of Jade Interiors

A good handful of the population is likely now working remotely from home, so converting spaces into a makeshift office is a must, and we are seeing this as new homes are being built. Maybe a desk is added to the kitchen cabinetry or a little nook is carved out under the stairs. It’s all about being efficient with space.

5. It’s All About Those Curves

Via Ignat

Curvy furniture is making a comeback (instantly brings back the mid-century curved couches of the 60’s). This time, it’s in neutral colors with texture heavy materials (think shearling). Curved pieces add a focal point to the room and can create a more cozy atmosphere.

Which of these design trends would you incorporate into your home? Let us know in the comments!

Ways to Use Caulk Around the House

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 20:37:36 GMT

Caulk is a home improvement item that you should always have on hand.

There are a variety of formulas to suit any project you need it to, it is relatively cheap, and it is quite simple and easy to use. Here are a few useful ways that you can use caulk around your home.

Nix Drafts

If you are fighting a drafty window or door, caulk can rescue your energy bill. Acrylic or vinyl caulks are best for this purpose. Vinyl is best for damp areas and acrylic will perform well in drier environments. Just pipe a bead along the compromised edges of doors and windows and wipe the excess away with a damp towel.

Prevent Mold

Tile is common in bathrooms. It is versatile and easy to clean, so we can see why. But as time goes by, small gaps can appear between tiles. If left ignored, you are just inviting mold growth. Filling those spaces with a bit of caulk will only take a moment but it can save you from disaster down the road. For this project, choose a mold and mildew resistant silicone caulk.

Perfect a Paint Job

Making a new coat of paint look professional really comes down to the prep work. Before you get started painting, assess the state of the surface you want to paint. Take the time to fill any nicks or small holes with painter’s caulk. This caulk dries into a paintable texture and is ready to be worked on in just an hour.

Keep Things In Place

Got a piece of molding or a baseboard that is coming loose? A bit of caulk can secure the piece in place. Just dab a bit of all-purpose caulk behind the loose board and it will be good to go! No nails needed.

Long story short, caulk is an amazingly useful product. It is worth keeping a few varieties at home for quick touch ups and to fix minor problems!

At Woodhill Homes, we want you to love where you live. Take a look at our available homes across Oregon to find the perfect place for you.

Reasons to Make Friends with Your Neighbors

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 22:20:36 GMT

At Woodhill, we love our communities. We love building and creating stronger communities that reflect the beauty around them and encourage people to enjoy their surroundings. The neighborhood you live in provides a unique opportunity to create a community of people who look out for each other. Needless to say, making friends with your neighbors has many advantages on small and large scales. Here are a few reasons you may want to make friends with yours.

They Will Look Out for You

Getting to know your neighbors and letting them get to know you engenders a spirit of looking out for one another. Ask your neighbors to call you if they see people lurking around their home, and offer to do the same for them.

They Can Lend You Things

Being neighborly can also pay off when you are in a pinch. If your mother ever sent you to a neighbor’s house to borrow a cup of sugar, you know what we mean. Take the initiative in being generous. If your neighbor needs a tool or equipment and you have it, why not offer to lend it to them? Then, when you need to borrow something, your neighbors are likely to be just as generous in return.

They Will Be More Respectful

When you get to know and respect people, you keep them in mind. Friendly neighbors may think twice before getting that early morning start on yard work, and they may be moved to be more mindful of their music volume if you both have rapport.

They Can Help When You Go Out Of Town

Being friends with your neighbors also means that you can create a little vacation setup. Ask them to do simple, quick tasks like feeding pets, watering plants, and bringing the mail in. And then when they leave on vacation, you can make sure to do the same for them.

Your neighbors are likely to be your neighbors for a long time. Being friendly with them just makes sense. And realizing how beneficial it can be to have a relationship with your neighbors can make the thought even more appealing. So, next time you bake too many lemon squares or your garden produces more than enough tomatoes, why not offer some to your neighbors and start building your little community.

How to Avoid Common Painting Mistakes

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 23:32:04 GMT

Painting is the easiest way to transform a room for low cost and big payoffs. Here are a few tips to make your project hassle-free.

Woodhill Homes builds carefully designed homes throughout Oregon and, with their custom home division Tailored by Woodhill Homes, offers a custom-building experience for those who want to add their own design touches from the beginning. But it is once you move into your new home that you can truly begin to decorate and make it your own unique space. One of the simplest ways to change the look of a room is to paint it, which many homeowners choose to do. Make sure that you love the finished result by avoiding these common painting mistakes.

Not Choosing the Right Finish

Paints come in a range of finishes from flat to high gloss. Each finish is designed to not only give a different final look but also the desired durability. Certain finishes are better suited for baseboards, children’s rooms, or humid rooms. The best way to select the best finish is to tell your paint supplier what you are working on and they can guide you towards the finish that will be best for your project.

Not Buying the Right Amount of Paint

There’s nothing worse than being almost done with a project only to run out of supplies towards the end. Don’t let that happen to you! As a rule of thumb one gallon of paint should cover about 400 square feet. You can also take advantage of online paint calculators that will estimate how much paint you will need too. Additional paint left over is good to have on hand for touch ups and other projects.

Buying Cheap Tools

Everyone loves a bargain, and there are times when the cheaper option is just as good as the pricier one. Unfortunately, painting tools are not included in that. Cheap paint brushes and rollers are made with subpar materials that are prone to leaving streaks and hairs behind in your paint. Save yourself from the frustration that can come from this and opt for quality brushes from the start.

Ultimately, painting can make for a big transformation. If you avoid making these technical mistakes you will be sure to love the results of your painting project.

11 Tips to Winterize Your Home

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 23:58:18 GMT

Easy Tips to Get Your Home Ready for Cold Weather

Your home is the most important investment you can make for your family and future. While handling home maintenance can seem daunting, these easy tips can be done by any first-time homebuyer and can keep your house safe and sound over the cold winter months.

1. Have your irrigation lines blown out and turn off your irrigation computer.

2. Clean your gutters and check that your downspouts are directed away from the home.

3. Check your heating system’s air filters and replace or clean if needed.

4. Adjust HVAC system to a good program for the winter.

5. Adjust dampeners (if you have manual ones) for a two-story house so that more air flow goes to the first floor.

6. Disconnect any water hoses from your exterior hose bibs and cover the hose bibs with Styrofoam caps (if connected this can cause a major water leak in the home)

7. Install foundation Styrofoam vent covers. (Note: Be sure to remove these in the spring)

8. Keep the garage door closed as much as possible.

9. Keep your thermostat at 65 degrees if you leave for vacation.

10. Have batteries on hand for the fireplace if needed for backup.

11. Stock up on ice melt or salt to keep your driveways and walkways clear.

Whether you tackle these projects by yourself, or call in an expert, winterizing your home will ensure you don’t have any surprise, costly repairs and can enjoy all the fun the season has to offer!

Fall Front Porch Styling

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 17:27:45 GMT

The air is getting crisp and the days are getting shorter...fall is in the air! We feel a little more festive than usual this time of year, so we thought we’d kick off the season with a little fall (and Halloween) front porch styling trends, tips and tricks!

Here are five of our favorite Fall/Halloween front porch trends for 2021!

Muted Sophistication:

Photo credit McGee & Co

One of the hottest trends right now in fall front porch styling is muted pumpkins in all sorts of sherbet shades of pale orange, light green and white. We love this look for it’s fresh and modern take on the classic orange pumpkin. Buy several different sizes in all of these color combos and mix in some seasonal mums in ceramic and wooden planters to complete out the look.

Pro tip- Look for these “exotic” pumpkins at your local farm/pumpkin patch. They’ll be much more affordable than purchasing from a Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s.

Disneyland Vibes:

If you truly want to go all out for your fall/halloween front porch (and give Disnelyand a run for its money), then creating a spooky and fun jack-o-lantern arch is right up your ally:

Photo credit Macy Blackwell

This installation requires a big trip to your local craft store for faux pumpkins, some string lights, zip ties and some creativity. Learn how to make one yourself HERE .

The Classic New England Autumn Porch:

Whether you live in the Pacific Northwest or sunny Florida...everyone wants to experience that New England Autumn...or at least a little slice of it, so why not on your front porch?

Photo f ound on Pinterest

To achieve this look, you’ll want to gather up some classic orange pumpkins in all different sizes, several hay bales and bunches of dried stalks of corn. Fill in the gaps with some mums placed in baskets, perch a scarecrow on your porch, and you’re in business!

Witchy Minimalism:

Sometimes simple is best, and we’re loving the trend of using “floating” witch hats in your front porch Halloween decor!

Photo found on Pinterest

This project is as easy as hitting up your local dollar store and buying a handful of witch hats, some fishing wire and some thumbtacks, staples or whatever else you have around your home to attach the fishing string to your porch ceiling. Round out the look with some jack-o-lanterns, a fun wreath and doormat, and you’re set!

Spooky Whimsy:

Sometimes we are suckers for the unique and whimsical...so when we saw this spooky front porch with balloons, gold skeletons and giant eyeballs, we were smitten!

Photo found on Pinterest

To recreate this look, you’ll need some faux pumpkins, lots of balloons, some gold spider webs (like THESE ) and of course the amazing gold skeletons (some gold spray paint and an inexpensive skeleton Halloween decoration would do the trick).

Interested in how to create your own balloon garland? Here’s an easy tutorial: LINK

Purchase similar balloons HERE

Show us your favorite fall porch designs!

Plants That Will Help You Create a Charming Garden

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 19:29:33 GMT

How to find the perfect plants for your space

Woodhill Homes was built out of a desire to create environmentally sustainable homes nestled in beautiful communities in Oregon. We want you to be able to enjoy the beautiful nature around you while adding to it in your own backyard. If you’ve spent a lot of time scrolling through cottage inspired gardens on Pinterest, why not just create your own? Here are a few plant selections and ideas to get you started.

Give It Height

Many find cottage gardens charming because they offer variety and present the perfect backdrop to long meandering strolls. They can feel organic, but a pleasant cottage garden actually requires a bit of planning and forethought. To add dimension to your garden, choose flowers with varying heights. Planting brightly hued hollyhocks and delphiniums towards the back of your garden can create a lovely cascading effect as you plant shorter flowers towards your walkway.

Choose Cottage Classics

After adding some tall flowers, you can move on to beautiful bushy cottage classics. Hydrangea is a great example of this. They reward you with lovely shades of blue, purple, and pink and it can be fun to pH and try to change their color. Plus, even when the blooms die off, they still present lush foliage to frame the rest of your garden. Foxglove is another wonderful choice. The bright, bell-shaped flowers encourage pollinators like butterflies to stop by, which can make spending time in your garden more enjoyable. And what cottage garden is complete without lavender? This pastel perfumed flower is a staple for English gardens and is fantastic for creating potpourri or even using in cooking.

Try a Trellis

Extending your garden even to the sides of your home can also help to create an immersive experience. Rambling roses are a great place to start. This is a rewarding, easy flower to grow and it needs a trellis to thrive. Another great climbing option is wisteria. Create a welcoming entrance to your garden by training wisteria over an arched entryway. Or train it to grow over a gazebo or pergola to add a layer of delicate whimsy to your garden.

Hopefully this guide will be a nice steppingstone for you to create your dreamiest cottage garden. A place to entertain guests or enjoy reading a good book. For inspiration for the inside of your home, be sure to visit our gallery page!

Tips For Choosing a Carpet Color

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 19:48:08 GMT

Carpet is great for comfort, style, and warmth. But there are a lot of choices to be made so how do you choose the right option for you? One of the tough choices is color because it can be hard to imagine from just a tiny swatch what it will look like in a large space.

Here are a few suggestions to help you make this big decision.

When to Choose

Should you choose the carpet color, paint color, or furniture color first? Well, in the living room, you might wish to choose your sofa first because there are more limited options with sofas than with carpet. Once you find a sofa design you like, it will be easy to find a carpet color and pattern to match.

In a bedroom, however, you will likely want to choose carpet first, since there are even more options when it comes to bedding. The bedding is also less costly and easier to alter.

Neutrals Are Always In

Why are neutrals the most common choice for carpeting? Though bright colors can be an attractive addition to a room, when used over a large area, such as wall-to-wall carpet, it can become overwhelming. And if you ever wish to change your design style, re-carpeting will be very costly. For this reason, many opt to keep the carpet neutral and use the walls, pillows, artwork, or other decorative elements to bring in some punches of color.

If you are worried that a neutral color will be too bland or restrictive, fear not! There are many options available, from earth tones to beige to cool or warm greys. You can also look into the various textures available, like cut loop, level loop, Saxony, variable height patterned, and so many more.

Berber

Berber carpet is a level loop textured carpet with flecks of color throughout. The color variation can add a lot of interest to the room and can also be great for hiding imperfections. It is a great choice for high-traffic areas where you are worried about dirt or stains.

Consider Your Lifestyle

Pure white carpet can be stunning but might be a stressful choice if your house is full of kids or pets. When choosing a color remember that especially light or dark colors will emphasize any lint, dirt, or debris. For an especially busy household, mid-tones are a great choice

Everchanging Trends

It is also wise to analyze trends and consider how they may evolve in the coming years. Ask yourself if the color you like today will still be desirable to you in the future.

How to Build a Backyard Playground

Thu, 13 May 2021 22:57:44 GMT

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With the pandemic still an issue many parents are looking for ways to minimize their children's exposure. You're probably worried about them being around others on a public playground, but you still want them to have the best summer ever. You've been searching for ways your kids can get their energy out while staying safe. If you have the room at home, you might want to consider bringing the playground right to them instead of the other way around. A DIY playground will be the perfect solution for all those long summer days!

This DIY project is perfect for anyone. You don't have to be the best handyman in the world to be able to take on this project. You may even get the whole family in on it for a little bit of assistance! You'll pick the color, design, and layout of the playground to start. Choose the type of swing you wish to install if your child is younger. Do you have a child that enjoys climbing? Add a rock wall to it! This is a time to be as creative as you possibly can be!

Before you begin the project, plan out how you want the layout of the playground to look. Scroll through pictures of other playgrounds to help with your creativity. Once you have the layout ready to go, make a comprehensive list of everything you will need to buy. Remember, you don't have to get every single piece by itself if this sounds overwhelming. There are plenty of playground kits that you can purchase if that would be easier for you.

The next step will be to put the playground together. A fun way to do this is to make it a family project. Your kids will love being with you as you design their playground from the ground up. If they are old enough, let them join by teaching them how to use the hammer or drill and have them put some of the pieces together. If they aren't old enough to help, ask them to do small things for you, like hold the instructions or get you a drink.

Once the playground is put together, let your kids make it one they will be proud of! They can choose the paint color and help you paint the pieces. Let them "name" the playground what they want. You now have the perfect place for your kids to run and play!

Woodhill Homes wants to give your family a way to thrive together. We have the perfect home for you when you're ready to build your family unit.

Why Consider an Open Floorplan?

Mon, 03 May 2021 13:45:35 GMT

You may have noticed open floor plans have seemed to become the norm for new homes today. Why are they so popular? Let us consider some of the reasons that many view an open floor plan as an absolute must.

Heighten the Joy of Entertaining

We can’t deny that being able to entertain a sizable group in your home can be a challenge. But having an open floorplan means that you as the host can be in the kitchen, living room, and dining room all at once. Without the walls blocking your view you can care for all your guests with ease, and your guests feel more freedom to mingle.

Increase Home Value

An open floor plan increases the usable square footage of your home, thus increasing its real estate value. This spacious type of floorplan is a defining factor in making a home “modern” so, should you decide to sell in the future, an open floor plan will make it much more likely to sell at the price point you desire.

Utilize Shared Lighting

Have you ever noticed how the inner rooms of your home can feel quite dark and cut off from the world? Even a room with a single window can feel too dark. This problem is alleviated when the space is not split with walls. An open floorplan allows light to shine in from multiple windows on different sides of the home and the result is abundant shared light, which makes your home bright and cheery. Add to this the fact that each added light fixture will also shed light on the entire space so you will need fewer fixtures to receive the same lighting you would in a divided floorplan. The correlation between natural light and mood, as well as productivity and sleep, has been well established, so lighting is a vital consideration in achieving a happy and healthy home life.

Safety

Any parent will agree, their top priority is the safety of their children. Keeping tabs on the little ones can be quite a chore. Parents have a lot on their plate so being able to keep an eye on their children while working, cooking, cleaning, or caring for other household activities is a must. An open floor plan is invaluable in this circumstance since you can be with your children as they play in the living room while still being in the kitchen prepping dinner.

Have You Found Your Forever Home?

These are just a few reasons why open floor plans have become hugely popular today. Look at Woodhill Homes’ portfolio for some inspirational open floor plans or if you are looking for your new forever home, then please see our available homes here or email us at info@woodhillhomes.net . The team at Woodhill Homes is ready and eager to answer any questions you may have!

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New Title

Why Consider an Open Floorplan?