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5 Paint Colors That Will Take Over in 2025, According to Interior Designers

By Sarah Lyon

Now that 2024 is more than halfway over, we’re starting to look ahead toward some of the design trends that experts predict will reign supreme in 2025. Not to mention that major paint brands are already announcing their colors of the year! So if you’re considering a paint refresh and looking for a little bit of inspo, then now’s the best time to do some research.

Below, interior designers share five shades and color families that they anticipate we’ll see everywhere next year. Plus, they offer tips on how to design a space with said hues, too. 

Deep, Moody Greens

Margie Kaercher, the founder of Hearth & Honey Homes, anticipates that deep, moody greens will be in vogue in 2025. “Post-pandemic, there’s been a growing emphasis on creating cozy, nature-inspired spaces that exude comfort, calm, and a sense of well-being, and deep, moody greens do exactly that,” she says. “As people become more brave in their design choices, hues that were once considered risky are now redefined as stylish statements that symbolize sophistication and flair.”

Kaercher imagines color-drenching an entire room in a deep, moody green hue for “a luxurious feel that creates a cocoon effect.” To add dimension to the space, opt for natural wood tones as well as a variety of textures, she instructs.

Browns, Rusty Reds, and Terracottas

Callie Blanks has witnessed these shades emerging already and believes that they will only continue to make their presence known. “These hues are being used in unusual and bold applications,” says the founder of Callie Blanks Interiors, who cites color-drenching as one example. 

When designing a color-drenched space, Blanks recommends weaving in light, natural linen when selecting drapery and/or bedding. “This helps to soften the space and feels a little less stark or modern,” she says.

As it pertains to accessories and furniture, she will also veer toward neutrals “but add interest with unexpected shapes and textures.” That said, one could also choose to embrace a tonal look if they wish; Blanks finds that doing so makes a room appear more dramatic or romantic. “I love the idea of dark walls accompanied with a similar color bedding or furniture,” she says. “I would change up the shade slightly to keep the space from feeling too flat.” 

Yellow

Lately, Meghan Jay’s clients have been just as eager as she is to use yellow in their homes. According to Jay, the founder of Meghan Jay Design, Farrow & Ball’s Dorset Cream is “the perfect hue.” Adds the designer, “It’s not too saturated, not too citrus. It feels subdued and brings so much warmth to a room.”

Jay understands that not everyone is necessarily willing to go all in with yellow, and therefore, incorporating small doses of the color is just fine, too. “A yellow table lamp brings vibrancy and playfulness to a space,” she says. “A goldenrod throw blanket placed at the end of the bed brings that touch of warmth and feels a bit unexpected.” 

What Your Favorite Paint Color Says About Your Personality

Bright Reds

Jay expects to see a greater use of bright red in 2025. “Adding that pop of red makes a space feel fun and alive,” she says. In a recent powder room project proposal, Jay suggested painting the trim in the space red. “Doing so would bring out the details in the crown molding and make the little bathroom feel playful and unexpected,” she says. “To me, it’s like wearing a classic black and white outfit and incorporating a red shoe. It makes your head turn and take notice.

Limewash Greens

Taylor Fusco, the founder of Tay Fusco Design, says that she is already “getting an influx of requests for more organic looking paint colors,” and many clients are eager to embrace green limewash and Roman clay in particular. “We believe 2025 will continue to be a year of lots of variations of gorgeous green tones,” she says, citing Sherwin-Williams’ Evergreen Fog and Benjamin Moore’s Scenic Drive as top contenders. 

No matter the shade of green she is working with, Fusco will “layer in some beautiful complementary pieces to make the shades of green pop even more.” For example, she enjoys bringing in light oak furniture for contrast. “Blush or pink is always another go-to complementary color,” she says. “The colors together are usually always a slam dunk.” 

Paint It Yourself: Our Complete Guide to Home Painting Projects

US Home Price Insights – August 2024

Through June 2024 With Forecasts Through June 2025 

Home prices nationwide, including distressed sales, increased year over year by 4.7% in June 2024 compared with June 2023. On a month-over-month basis, home prices grew by 0.3% in June 2024 compared with May 2024 (revisions with public records data are standard, and to ensure accuracy, CoreLogic incorporates the newly released public data to provide updated results). 

Forecast Prices Nationally 

The CoreLogic HPI Forecast indicates that home prices will rise by 0.3% from June 2024 to July 2024 and increase by 2.3% on a year-over-year basis from June 2024 to June 2025. 

Anticipated Rate Cuts May Not be Enough to Rekindle Cooling Home Price Growth  

Although this is the 149th consecutive month that the U.S. has seen year-over-year home price gains, the pace of growth is continuing to cool. Price growth increased nationally by 4.7% in June when compared with a year prior, and only one state posted double-digit gains this month. Next summer, prices are projected to slow further, only growing by 2.3% on a year-over-year basis.  

The continued decline in the pace of appreciation can be linked to elevated mortgage rates. Although the Federal Reserve Board is anticipated to cut rates in September, high interest rates continue to affect affordability, and several markets in the South continue to see inventory increases that are pulling prices below last year’s numbers.  

“Housing market activity essentially froze at the end of the spring homebuying season as high mortgage rates continued to compress affordability and dissuade potential homebuyers. The 0.3% gain in prices from the month before was less than half the increase seen between May and June prior to the pandemic, when the gains averaged 0.8%. In addition, cooling home prices continued to spread across more markets, and nine states reported a monthly decline, up from three states last month. The April surge in mortgage rates notably weighed on consumer sentiment, and consumers increasingly chose to respond to the anticipation of a lower mortgage rate environment later this year.”  

Dr. Selma Hepp  – Chief Economist for CoreLogic 

Okaloosa School District maintains top 10 ranking in Florida

The Okaloosa County School District has once again secured a spot among the top 10 school districts in Florida, according to recently released state assessment results.

The Florida Department of Education published the results of the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) and End of Course Exams on Monday, July 1, 2024.
A combined analysis of all test results placed Okaloosa Schools 10th overall out of 67 districts in the state for the 2023-24 school year.
The district excelled in several areas, ranking in the top six statewide for 5th, 7th, and 8th grade Reading, as well as 7th and 8th grade Mathematics, and 8th grade Science. Middle school performance was particularly strong, with Okaloosa students ranking 3rd in Math, 4th in Science, and 6th in English Language Arts (ELA) at the middle school level.
Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised the efforts of students, teachers, staff, and administrators.
“Our students and schools have overcome obstacles, met challenges head-on, and persevered to achieve academic success and for that, I am extremely proud,” Chambers said. He added that while the consistent top ranking is a source of pride, plans are already in place to address areas needing improvement at both school and district levels.
The assessments cover ELA for grades 3-10, Mathematics for grades 3-8, Algebra, Geometry, Science for grades 5 and 8, Biology, Civics, and US History. These results, along with other academic indicators, will be used to determine school grades, which are expected to be released in August.
For more detailed information on the assessment results, the Florida Department of Education has made them available on their website.

5 Pieces of Real Estate Advice for Sellers

By Dawn Whalen

Realtors can provide essential information when preparing a home for a sale since they know what buyers are seeking. Consider the following tips for successfully listing a home.

Realtors® have walked through hundreds, if not thousands, of homes. They understand what buyers want and the current trends in the housing market. This expertise and knowledge of the industry is exactly what a home seller needs in order to find the right buyer at the right price. Listing a home can be stressful, but getting a head start and knowing what to expect may make the process less burdensome.

Here are five tips sellers should do to prepare for listing a home:

Remove the clutter

The longer someone lives in a home, the more stuff seems to accumulate and multiply if children live there too. Preparing to list a home is an excellent time to start decluttering and packing items that may be sentimental, seasonal, or not frequently used. Begin the process of clearing out closets, cabinets, and drawers, picking up floors, clearing off counters, and simply removing the “stuff.” Decluttering helps buyers see the potential and space in the property. Cleaning up closets shows there’s ample room for shoes, clothes, accessories and other items. Clearing off counters allows kitchens and bathrooms to appear larger. Small appliances should be put away when not being used.

Realtors are excellent at pointing out which areas a potential buyer may question if there’s too much clutter in the room or space. Consider renting a storage unit while the home is listed in order to keep certain items safe and out of the way during this short time.

Clean up the yard

While decluttering the inside, take some time to straighten up the exterior too. This means freshening the flower beds, trimming shrubs, adding new mulch around trees, and edging around the driveway and sidewalks. Remove any obvious debris and weeds. These simple chores can add a lot of curb appeal. Remember, the front of the house and yard are the first elements a potential buyer sees. An experienced Realtor can offer suggestions on which areas a homebuyer is most likely to examine and where to spend the most effort.

Personal effects

For some buyers, seeing personal pictures and items may distract from the space. This can include family pictures, diplomas, certificates, awards, artwork, etc. While these items are important and special, the goal of listing the property is to sell it, and personal effects may sometimes hinder a buyer’s ability to see the home’s potential.

Protecting the seller’s privacy is another great reason to remove personal effects. For example, if small children or seniors live in the home, it’s a good idea to remove their pictures and special belongings while the home is listed. Diplomas often include middle names or maiden names, which are sometimes used for security purposes. Although it’s impossible to completely protect the identity of the seller and their family, removing personal items makes it more difficult for strangers to see who lives there. Ask a Realtor to walk through the home and identify any personal effects that may have been missed while cleaning and decluttering.

Clean, clean, clean

Dust loves every surface. Grab some cleaning supplies and old towels and prepare to wipe down every possible surface including behind the toilets, along the baseboards, above the doors, behind all the furniture, etc. Don’t forget to clean the appliances too. The microwave should be free of stains and food debris, the oven and dishwasher should be clean and free of slime and burn marks, and the sink and faucet need a good wipe down. If possible, enlist the help of a professional cleaning company before the home is on the market.

Staging

Staging a home means different things to different people and Realtors. For some, it may mean rearranging the existing furniture, while others may choose to bring in furniture and décor. The purpose of staging is to show how a room can look or be used. For example, while a family may use the existing dining room as a playroom, staging it with a table and chairs instead of toys can give potential buyers a different view of the space. Talk to an experienced Realtor about whether or not some areas may need staged and if so, what that means. It could be as simple as adding a tablecloth and centerpiece or moving a few chairs.

Once the decision is made to list a property and move, start cleaning, decluttering and removing personal items. This will make the process easier in the long run. Working with an experienced Realtor can also bring insight and advice about buyer behavior and what someone may question, love, or want to change within the home. Take time to walk through the property with a Realtor before listing to make sure the property’s best features are highlighted.

Copyright © 2024 Hendricks County ICON, All rights reserved.

How to Find Your Home in Northwest Florida

If you’re considering moving to Northwest Florida, there’s a home here for everyone. Boasting beautiful beaches and vibrant communities, Northwest Florida can appeal to homebuyers from all walks of life. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential steps of finding your dream home in Northwest Florida. From how to search neighborhoods to working with a real estate agent to determine your pricing range, we’ve got you covered.

Embracing the Northwest Florida Lifestyle 

From its pristine beaches to its vibrant cultural scene, Northwest Florida offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Picture yourself soaking up the sun on the sugar-white sands of Destin or exploring the charming communities in Fort Walton Beach. With an abundance of outdoor activities like fishing, golfing, and boating, there’s never a dull moment in Northwest Florida.

Aside from its natural beauty, the region also boasts a thriving cultural scene. Enjoy live music and art festivals, indulge in delicious seafood cuisine, or explore the rich history and heritage of the area. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, Northwest Florida has something to offer everyone.

Retiring in Northwest Florida means immersing yourself in a community that values relaxation, adventure, and a laid-back lifestyle. With its warm climate, welcoming communities, and endless opportunities for recreation, it’s no wonder that so many retirees choose to call this region home.

Determining Your Pricing Range

Determining your pricing range is a crucial step in finding your dream home in Northwest Florida. It’s essential to assess your budget carefully and understand how much you can comfortably afford to spend on a property. Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Down Payment: Calculate how much you can afford to put down as a down payment. Generally, a higher down payment can lead to lower monthly mortgage payments.
  • Monthly Payments: Take into account your monthly income and expenses to determine how much you can afford to pay towards your mortgage each month. Use online mortgage calculators to estimate your monthly payments based on different loan terms and interest rates.
  • Property Taxes: Research property tax rates in the areas you’re interested in living in and factor these costs into your budget. Property taxes can vary significantly from one location to another, so it’s essential to consider this expense when determining your pricing range.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can determine a realistic pricing range that aligns with your financial goals and allows you to find the perfect home in Northwest Florida. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can also help you navigate the pricing landscape and find options that fit within your budget.

House Hunting in Northwest Florida

Exploring the diverse neighborhoods in Northwest Florida is essential. Each area offers its own unique charm and amenities, catering to a variety of preferences and lifestyles.

Researching Neighborhoods

Start house-hunting by researching different neighborhoods. Consider factors such as proximity to beaches, parks, shopping centers, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant urban environment or a quiet suburban retreat, there’s a neighborhood in Northwest Florida to suit your preferences.

Attending Open Houses

One of the best ways to get a feel for a neighborhood is by attending open houses. This allows you to tour homes in person, explore the surrounding area, and interact with local residents. Pay attention to the condition of the homes, the overall atmosphere of the neighborhood, and any amenities or attractions nearby.

Utilizing Online Listings

In addition to attending open houses, utilize online listings to explore available properties in Northwest Florida. Websites and real estate apps provide valuable information about homes for sale, including photos, descriptions, and pricing details. Narrow down your options based on your preferences and schedule viewings for properties that catch your eye.

Considering Amenities and Facilities

As you explore different neighborhoods, consider the amenities and facilities that are important to you. Are you looking for easy access to beaches and outdoor recreational activities? Do you prefer neighborhoods with top-rated schools and healthcare facilities? Take note of the amenities that each neighborhood offers to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

Attending Real Estate Showings 

Attending real estate showings is a crucial step in the home searching process, offering you the opportunity to get a firsthand look at potential properties. When scheduling showings with your real estate agent, be sure to prioritize properties that align with your preferences and budget. 

During the showings, take your time to explore each home thoroughly, paying attention to details like layout, condition, and neighborhood surroundings. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and voice any concerns you may have. Additionally, take note of features that stand out to you and envision how the space could meet your needs and lifestyle. 

By attending real estate showings, you’ll gain valuable insights that will help you make an informed decision when it comes time to choose your future home in Northwest Florida.

Attending a Virtual Real Estate Showing

Virtual real estate showings have become an invaluable tool for home buyers. These virtual tours offer the convenience of exploring properties from the comfort of your own home, allowing you to view multiple homes without the need for physical travel. 

During a virtual showing, you can expect to be guided through the property by your real estate agent via video conferencing or pre-recorded tours. This interactive experience enables you to ask questions, examine details, and envision yourself living in the home. Virtual showings provide a convenient and efficient way to narrow down your options and find your perfect home.

Working with a Real Estate Agent

An experienced real estate agent can help you find your new home in Northwest Florida. Real estate professionals bring expertise, local market knowledge, and valuable insights to the table, ensuring that your home-buying experience is smooth and successful. 

  • Expert Guidance: A real estate agent will guide you through every step of the home-buying process, from browsing listings to closing the deal. They understand the local market trends and can provide valuable advice based on your preferences and budget.
  • Access to Listings: Real estate agents have access to a wide range of listings, including properties that may not be publicly available. They can help you find homes that match your criteria and preferences, saving you time and effort in your search.
  • Negotiation Skills: When it comes to making an offer on a home, negotiation skills are key. A skilled real estate agent will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you get the best possible deal. They’ll advocate for your interests and help you navigate any potential challenges that arise.
  • Streamlined Process: Buying a home involves a lot of paperwork and administrative tasks. A real estate agent will handle all the details, ensuring that the process is efficient and stress-free for you. They’ll coordinate with other parties involved, such as lenders and inspectors, to keep the transaction moving forward smoothly.
  • Peace of Mind: Perhaps most importantly, working with a real estate agent provides peace of mind for clients. You can trust that you’re in good hands, knowing that your agent is working tirelessly to help you find your dream home in Northwest Florida.

Find Your Dream Home In Northwest Florida

Searching for a new home requires careful planning, expert guidance, and a clear understanding of your needs and budget. Northwest Florida has so many options and so much to offer for a variety of buyers and budgets. 

Determining your pricing range, exploring neighborhoods, and navigating the home-buying process can be challenging on your own. If you’d like advice and support during your home search, contact Rising Star Realty today. 

What Are the Tax Benefits of Owning a Second Home?

Owning a second home in Northwest Florida is not just a lifestyle choice, but it can also be a savvy financial investment. Beyond the joys of having a personal retreat or an additional asset, there lies a realm of potential tax benefits that can significantly impact your fiscal portfolio.

In this guide, we’ll look into the often-overlooked financial perks of owning a second home. From mortgage interest deductions to property tax breaks, and even potential advantages in capital gains, we will explore how buying a second home in Northwest Florida can be more than just a getaway spot — it can be a strategic financial move, yielding benefits well beyond its tangible value.

Understanding the Mortgage Interest Deduction

Eligibility Criteria for Mortgage Interest Deduction

When it comes to owning a second home in Northwest Florida, one of the key financial benefits is the mortgage interest deduction. This deduction allows homeowners to reduce their taxable income by the amount of interest paid on their mortgage. To be eligible, the second property must be used by the owner for a portion of the year, either as a vacation home or a rental property. It’s important to note that the mortgage debt must be secured by the property and must not exceed the total cost of the home.

Calculating the Deduction

Calculating the mortgage interest deduction for a second home can be straightforward. Simply, the amount of interest paid on the mortgage for the year is the amount that can be deducted. This information is typically found on Form 1098, sent by the mortgage lender. If the property is rented out for part of the year, the deduction is prorated based on the number of days it was used personally versus rented. 

For instance, if you use the home for 120 days and rent it out for 120 days, you can deduct 50% of the mortgage interest and property taxes as rental expenses. The remaining 50% can be itemized as personal deductions. It’s crucial to maintain accurate records of rental and personal use to ensure correct calculation and compliance with tax laws.

Property Tax Deductions on Second Homes

How Property Taxes Can Be Deducted

Owning a second home in Northwest Florida comes with the notable benefit of property tax deductions. For homeowners with a second residence, the IRS allows the deduction of property taxes paid on both primary and secondary homes. This deduction can lead to significant savings, reducing the overall tax burden. It’s an appealing aspect of owning additional real estate, as it directly impacts yearly expenses. When filing income tax, these deductions are itemized, allowing second homeowners to claim the exact amount paid in property taxes for both properties, within the same fiscal year.

Limits and Considerations

However, there are certain limitations and considerations. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act introduced changes that capped the total deductible amount for state and local taxes, including property taxes, at $10,000 ($5,000 if married filing separately). This cap applies to the combined total of taxes paid on both residences. Therefore, if the cumulative property tax exceeds this threshold, the deductible amount is limited. 

This change underscores the importance of understanding the specific tax implications for your situation, especially for those owning properties with high assessed values. Consulting a tax professional can provide clarity and ensure that homeowners maximize their tax benefits while adhering to current regulations.

Rental Income and Tax Implications

Renting Out Your Second Home

Owning a second home opens the door to potential rental income, an attractive prospect for many homeowners. However, it’s crucial to understand the tax implications that come with renting out your investment property in Northwest Florida. 

When you rent out your second home for more than a brief period each year, the income earned must be reported to the IRS. This additional income could be beneficial, but it also means navigating a different set of tax rules. Expenses related to renting out the property, such as maintenance, advertising, and utilities, can often be deducted. It’s a balancing act between the benefits of extra income and the responsibilities of being a landlord, including adhering to tax regulations.

The 14-Day or 10% Rule Explained

The IRS has specific guidelines known as the 14-day or 10% rule. If you rent out your second home for fewer than 14 days throughout the tax year, the income earned is tax-free and doesn’t need to be reported. However, if the property is rented out for more than 14 days, you must report all rental income. Furthermore, if you use the home yourself for more than 14 days or 10% of the total days it’s rented (whichever is greater), it’s considered a personal residence and different tax rules apply. Navigating these stipulations is key to maximizing the financial benefits of owning a second home while remaining compliant with tax laws.

Capital Gains Tax Considerations

Understanding Capital Gains Tax

Capital gains tax is a crucial factor for homeowners to consider when selling a second home. This tax is applied to the profit made from selling a property that’s not your primary residence. Essentially, if the sale price of your second home is higher than what you initially paid (including certain improvements and selling costs), the profit is considered a capital gain, subject to tax. 

Different rates apply based on your income level and how long you’ve owned the property. For a second home, the long-term capital gains rate is most relevant, typically applied to properties owned for more than a year.

Capital Gains Exclusion for Second Homes

For a primary residence, homeowners can exclude up to $250,000 of capital gains from their income tax (or $500,000 if filing jointly). However, this exclusion doesn’t automatically apply to a second home. To qualify, you must have used the property as your primary residence for at least two of the last five years before selling. If you rent out the property, managing the number of days used for personal versus rental purposes becomes crucial. 

If the property was rented out for more than 14 days a year or more than 10% of the number of days it was rented, it’s considered a rental property, which can affect your capital gains tax strategy. Proper planning and understanding of these rules can significantly impact your tax responsibilities when selling a second home.

Conclusion

Owning a second home in Northwest Florida offers a spectrum of tax advantages that can significantly benefit prospective buyers. From the potential to deduct mortgage interest and property taxes to understanding the intricacies of capital gains taxes, these fiscal perks are compelling reasons to consider this investment. 

For those contemplating purchasing a second home in Northwest Florida, it’s essential to recognize how these tax implications can positively impact your financial landscape. As you embark on this exciting journey, keep these benefits in mind, and let them guide your decision-making process.

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