There's a lot of benefit to be had from increasing the amount of natural light that enters your home. Scientists have long linked natural daylight to improved mood and productivity. You just feel better when you regularly work or relax in a room filled with light from the sun. Sunlight helps regulate circadian rhythms, too, meaning you sleep better and feel more rested when you wake up. Increasing natural light sources in your home can also help lower your monthly utility bill and raise your home's resale value. Here's what we recommend.
Drapes made from heavy fabrics and liners may be nixing your natural light. Replace them with solar window films instead. Solar window films won't damage your windows, and they block up to 99 percent of harmful UV rays, while allowing natural light to stream through. You won't have to worry about fading carpets or upholstery, and solar window film also reflects the heat from the sun, so your space doesn't become an instant sauna.
If privacy is a concern, install blinds or window shades that can be closed at night. You can even purchase frosted solar window films that provide privacy without darkening your room.
If a small renovation project is in the budget, consider adding a skylight to a dark, gloomy room to bring it into the light. Skylights keep things private while increasing access to natural light. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to install a skylight runs around $1,500. That's a small price to pay for added light and ventilation in a dark room. Even better -- adding a professionally installed, energy-efficient skylight can increase your home's resale value. There may even be a tax credit available for homeowners who choose skylights that are solar powered.
Did you know many paints have an LVR? That's a light reflectance value, and the higher the number, the better the paint color is at reflecting light around your space. When you paint walls in a color that's highly reflective, (white has and LRV of 100. Black has an LRV of zero) your room appears brighter. So, even if your room has only one window, using a light paint color can help bounce that natural light into all the corners.
If you're stuck feeling gloomy when you spend time in a dark den or bedroom, try letting a little light shine in. You might be amazed at how easy it is to transform a space from one you dread to one you highly desire. Use these three easy tricks, and you'll find out just how easy it is to lighten up a little.
Having provided award-winning service to my clients for the past 26 years, few other REALTORS are trusted like I am. My clients trust my advice, and they know that I will always look out for their best long-term interests. You can expect, and you will receive, personal service that is second to none. When you hire me as your Agent, you will work exclusively with me. I will personally answer your calls and respond to your messages. My promise to you is that I will not hand you off to another member of my team.
I have called Southwest Michigan home for 40 years. My mother's family ran a local locksmith service, and my father served as the Chief Investigator for the County's Prosecutor and Director of Security for the Whirlpool Corporation office for many years. I love all that this area offers, and I enjoy serving the buyers and sellers who are moving in or out of
Southwest Michigan.
My wife and I have two children, and we would not want to raise them anywhere else. Between the award-winning schools and the plethora of youth activities available in Southwest Michigan, it's a great place to call home. We enjoy spending time with friends at the beach, boating, golfing, hunting, skiing in the North, and fishing.
I give back to the community that has been so good to us. Currently, I serve on the Lakeshore Public Schools Foundation Board (LEF), as Past President of the St. Joe Kickers Sports Club, and as a Rotarian in the Stevensville-Lakeshore Rotary
Club. We donate throughout the year to various local organizations, schools, Fine Arts Programs, and youth sports groups.
I want to leverage my experience and knowledge to benefit you. I have sold over 700 properties and earned the respect of my fellow REALTORS, who have voted me "REALTOR of the Year." I am confident I can earn your trust as well.
Looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate? Allow me to serve you, and I promise you will not be disappointed.