As a safety measure against risks like fire, theft, and natural disasters, the Insurance Information Institute says that about 85% of homes have insurance. But a lot of plans don't cover enough, leaving homeowners without enough insurance when they need it the most.

"How much home insurance do I need?" depends on how much your house is worth, what you own, and how much you want to protect your finances. Here are the steps you need to take to get the right amount of covering.
First, figure out how much it would cost to rebuild your house.

Not just the market value of your home, but also how much it would cost to rebuild it from scratch. The cost of replacement includes:


How much does building and work cost where you live?

Building materials, such as roofs, floors, and furnishings
Unique features, like stoves or cabinets that are built in
Tip: Have a professional appraise it or use the new cost estimator on your insurance company's website.

Step 2: Figure out how much personal property insurance you need.

Most plans cover between 50% and 70% of your home's value in personal property. This includes things like tools, clothes, furniture, and appliances.

That way you won't be underinsured:

Add pictures and receipts to a house inventory.
Think about things like gold or art that are very valuable and may need extra riders.

Step 3: Look over your liability insurance.

Liability insurance protects you if someone gets hurt on your land or if you damage someone else's things by accident.

Liability coverage of at least $300,000 is what experts say you should have, but some people choose $500,000 or more, especially if they have a lot of valuable things.

Step 4: Don't forget about other costs of living

If your home becomes unlivable after a covered loss, your Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage will pay for food, lodging, and other costs while you are away.

Make sure that your policy covers enough ALE to keep your family alive for a few months.

Step 5: Check your covering often.

What kind of insurance you need changes over time. Read over your policy at least once a year or after big changes like

Making changes or adding on
Getting costly tools or furniture
Big changes in living, like working from home
What You Need to Know About Home Insurance
How do I tell if my home insurance covers enough?
You should have enough insurance to pay to rebuild your home at the current cost of building one and get new things to put in it. Some people may not have enough insurance if their policy limits don't match their current values.

Is new cost the same as market value?
Not at all. The land is part of the market value, while the cost to rebuild the building is the replacement cost. Insurance is based on how much it would cost to repair something, not how much it would be worth to sell it for again.
How much do you need for home insurance? In the end
You should have enough home insurance to cover the cost of rebuilding your home, your goods, your liability, and your living costs. You can protect your biggest investment with security if you take the time to think about what you need and compare policies.


How often should I make changes to my policy?
Experts say that you should look over your policy once a year and after big changes in your life or your home.

Read more at Redfin.

The transition from summer to fall is in full swing, and Cincinnati is celebrating with a weekend packed with unique festivals and special events. Forget the usual museums and parks—September 12-14, 2025, is all about tapping into the vibrant community spirit and one-of-a-kind experiences. Here's your definitive guide to the top ten things to do in the Queen City this weekend.

1. Go Back to School at an Oktoberfest (or Three!): With Oktoberfest Zinzinnati on the horizon, several smaller but equally spirited festivals are happening this weekend. Choose your adventure at Covington Oktoberfest at Goebel Park, Newport Oktoberfest at Newport's Festival Park, or the Loveland Oktoberfest. Each promises authentic German food, beer, and music.

2. Step into a Different World at HorrorHound Weekend: For fans of all things spooky, HorrorHound Weekend is taking over the Sharonville Convention Center from September 12-14. This convention features celebrity guests, vendors, film screenings, and a chance to dive into the world of horror with fellow enthusiasts.

3. Enjoy a Night of Classic Rock with The Doobie Brothers: Catch a legendary performance as The Doobie Brothers, joined by The Coral Reefer Band, take the stage at Riverbend Music Center on Friday, September 12th. It's an opportunity to hear a catalog of timeless hits live.

4. Dive into the World of Circus with Cirque España!: The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra is teaming up with Troupe Vertigo for Cirque España! at Music Hall from September 12-14. It's a spectacular show that blends the athleticism of circus arts with the stirring sounds of the orchestra.

5. Get Artsy at Art on Vine: On Sunday, September 14th, head to Washington Park for Art on Vine. This is a great chance to browse and buy from a wide selection of local artists and artisans in a beautiful urban park setting.

6. Find Something Unique at Hamilton Flea: If you love hunting for treasures, the Hamilton Flea is happening at Marcum Park on Saturday, September 13th. This curated urban flea market is the perfect place to find vintage goods, handmade items, and support small businesses.

7. Experience an Urban Art Festival: The College Hill Indie Festival is happening in Patrick's Park on Saturday, September 13th, and promises a day filled with music, local vendors, and a celebration of independent art and culture.

8. See the Best of British at a Classic Car Show: On Sunday, September 14th, don't miss British Car Day. This classic car show will feature over 32 classes of British and European cars, offering a glimpse into automotive history and design.

9. Get an Exclusive Look at TQL Stadium: Ever wanted to see the inner workings of a major sports venue? TQL Stadium is offering public tours on Sunday, September 14th. You can get a behind-the-scenes look at exclusive areas of the "Best Venue of 2022."

10. Honor First Responders at the Cincinnati Zoo: As part of "First Responders Days," the Cincinnati Zoo is offering free admission to all active fire, police, and safety personnel from September 12-14. It's a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation for those who protect the community.

Because of the economy and ongoing tariff constraints on goods and resources, it's hard for sellers to make big improvements these days.

These days, even homeowners who only want to use their equity for renovations are having trouble figuring out what they can afford.

But housing prices are still quite important, so even a small expenditure of $500 can make a big difference in how valuable a home seems—and maybe even the sale price.

Put a new coat of paint on the entrance door.

A freshly painted door is one of the first things buyers see, and it can make them think that the house is well-kept.


"Make the front door count," advises Justin M. Riordan, the designer behind Spade and Archer Design Agency in Portland, OR, and Seattle. "It's one of the first things buyers will see." "Bright hues like orange, turquoise, and coral can say, "Look at me!" but traditional colors like black, navy, and red can suggest, "Well-maintained."

A can of exterior paint usually costs less than $100, so painting the front door may be a very good investment.

Riordan says, "It's one of the best ways to make your home look better without spending a lot of money." "A door that has just been painted helps the buyer's eye move around, subtly showing them a welcoming path as they enter your home."

Homelight says that painting the outside of your property, especially the front entrance, can provide you a 51% return on your investment.

Cara Ameer, a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker who works in both California and Florida, says, "The impression the buyers get when they walk up to the home is made in a few seconds, and you want to make sure the front door sends the message that the home is cared for and welcoming."

Replace the hardware in the kitchen and bathroom.

Changing out old drawer handles, cabinet knobs, or faucets for new ones in matte black, brushed gold, or stainless steel can drastically change the look of a room.

Riordan adds, "It's like a facelift for your kitchen and bathroom—an instant upgrade."

Nikki Beauchamp, an associate broker with Sotheby's International Realty in New York, NY, regularly tells her clients to change out their hardware sets because they are cheap and easy to do yourself.

Beauchamp explains, "It's easy to pick up and do yourself over the course of a weekend."

BobVila.com says that cabinet hardware hinges and handles start at around $2 apiece. You only need 20 to 40 pieces of hardware to make a 200-square-foot kitchen seem better.

According to HomeAdvisor, you can acquire a faucet with basic features for as little as $91. This means you get a great visual reward for a small amount of money.

Riordan adds, "Changing out the hardware and faucets can completely change the look of the room without costing a lot."

Improve the illumination

Changing out old fixtures or upgrading builder-grade lighting to something more attractive are both simple methods to give a space a more modern look and make a big impression.

Riordan says, "It's a cheap way to make the house feel warmer and more upscale."

HomeGuide says that most lighting fixtures cost at least $50, so there's a lot of value for your money.

Basic dimmer switches, which cost between $15 and $25, can also make a room look better right away.

According to Bosscat, these kinds of lighting enhancements can provide you a return on your investment of up to 75%.

Also, if you're selling, adequate lighting will make your home look better in pictures.

Riordan says, "It's very important for making those listing photos stand out."

Get your carpets cleaned by a pro
People think that a home with clean floors is well-kept.

Ron Myers, a real estate salesperson and investor at Ron Buys Florida Homes, adds, "Buyers notice flooring right away." "If the carpet smells like pets or has stains on it, it can quickly turn someone off." Having a professional clean your carpets makes your home feel fresh and well cared for.

Angi adds that professional carpet cleaning costs an average of $182. Riordan says that it "can erase years of stains and odors, which is especially important for homes with pets or smokers."

A clean carpet might not add much value, but it could keep a buyer from being interested.

Riordan said, "It's a quick fix that will make buyers think more highly of you."

Install new insulation
Putting new insulation in the attic is a simple method to save money on energy bills, and in a time when energy costs are going up, it's a big selling point.

Riordan says, "It's a little under the radar, but trust me, energy-conscious buyers love it." "Plus, there are a lot of rebates and incentives for upgrading insulation that make it even more worth it."

For example, taxpayers can use the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit to get back up to 30% of the cost of the insulation itself.

Angi says that insulation expenses start at $498, while the U.S. Department of Energy says that adding insulation to attics can save you up to 20% on your heating and cooling bills.

Myers says, "A lot of buyers want to know about the utility bills and how energy-efficient the house is." "Insulation helps you answer that question with confidence."

Some studies show that selling a property with a newly insulated attic can give you back more than 100% of your investment.

Riordan says, "It might not be something buyers see, but they'll feel the benefits, and that's what matters."

As home remodeling becomes increasingly popular, more couples are arguing over paint colors and floor finishes. The new 2025 U.S. Houzz Remodeling & Relationship Survey says that the many options in a home redesign can put a strain on relationships. But it's not always only the burden of picking out finishes. Sometimes the bigger question is whether to sell or remodel the house.

The survey from Houzz found that 12% of couples who had been together for five years or less even thought about breaking up or getting a divorce during a house remodel.


Marine Sargsyan, an economist at Houzz, says, "A home renovation is clearly one of the most demanding journeys a couple embarks on together, with numerous decisions, budget considerations, and trade-offs along the way." "The results show how communication, compromise, and visualization technologies can help couples and the professionals they hire work together more effectively during the renovation process."

How to Work with Real Estate Agents
Because of the tension, real estate brokers could act as middlemen to help customers make renovation choices that are less stressful.

As home remodeling becomes more popular, real estate agents are finding that they can be heroes by recommending trustworthy contractors, designers, and remodelers, as well as tools to make the process easier.

Agents can give homeowners information about similar homes in the area so they can see what features other homes have that are similar to theirs. They can also give clients more information about which refurbishment trends give the best return on investment (ROI). The National Association of REALTORS®' 2025 renovation Impact Report is one of many resources that show which home renovation improvements tend to pay off the most when you sell your home. )

The Most Common Complaints Couples Have When Remodeling
The Houzz study says that the main causes of disagreement during renovations are:

31% of people find it hard to stick to their budget.
28% of people disagreed with items, materials, and finishes.
Coming to an agreement on the project's scope or design (20%)
The survey also found that approximately a third of couples indicated that picking paint colors, furniture, and flooring materials was a regular problem during a refurbishment.

The Houzz survey found that couples argue about different things during a remodel depending on how long they've been together. For instance, couples who have been together for less than 10 years tend to fight over furniture selections, couples who have been together for 21 to 30 years prefer to fight over flooring, and couples who have been together for 30 years or more likely to fight over paint colors and flooring.

To get through these tough times, couples said they had to make compromises and use tools more and more to help them picture the end outcome. The Houzz survey found that younger couples were more willing to compromise, while couples who had been together for a long time were twice as likely to have one spouse give up and let the other win.

According to the survey, couples agreed that the remodeling process would be smoother if designers and builders were more open about their prices, communicated properly, and gave more precise timelines.

Most couples indicated they were happy with the outcome of the remodeling project, saying that their newly renovated home made them more comfortable, happier, and less stressed. They only have to get to the end.

Forget everything you think you know about a quiet September. The Queen City is ending the summer with a bang over Labor Day weekend, September 5-7, 2025. This isn't your average weekend guide—we've left out the usual suspects and focused on the unique, can't-miss events that will make your Cincinnati trip truly memorable.

1. Savor the Flavor at Oktoberfest: While the main Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is later in the month, the spirit of beer and bratwurst arrives early. On September 5-7, you can experience the Springboro Oktoberfest or the one at Braxton Factory 52, both promising a full Bavarian celebration with cold beer, food, and music.

2. Enjoy Art and Wine at Vinoklet's Festival: For a more relaxed but equally enjoyable experience, head to the Vinoklet Art & Wine Festival from September 5-7. This festival offers a great opportunity to browse local art, enjoy award-winning wines, and listen to live music, all with free admission and parking.

3. Catch the Cincinnati Reds in Action: Baseball fans, you're in luck! The Cincinnati Reds will be at Great American Ball Park all weekend, playing a series against the New York Mets. It's a classic Cincinnati experience with a special Fireworks Night on Friday, September 5th.

4. See The Red Clay Strays Live: Country and Southern rock fans should get their tickets for the Red Clay Strays concert at The ICON Festival Stage at Smale Park on Saturday, September 6th. This is a large-scale concert event with an estimated crowd of 6,500 people.

5. Get Your Bluegrass Fix with Billy Strings: The Grammy-winning bluegrass artist Billy Strings is playing at The Woodward Theater on Friday, September 5th and Saturday, September 6th. This is a perfect opportunity to see a world-class musician in a more intimate venue.

6. Watch "What Happens in Vegas" on Stage: If you're a fan of theater, check out the Cincinnati Music Theatre's production of "What Happens in Vegas" at the Aronoff Center. The show runs from September 5th to the 13th.

7. Experience the Excitement of the Harvest Home Fair: The Harvest Home Fair in Cheviot is a long-standing tradition in the area, kicking off with a parade on September 4th and continuing through September 7th. The fair features food, rides, an Artisan Market, a Flower Show, and much more.

8. Support a Good Cause at the Buddy Walk: On Saturday, September 6th, join the Buddy Walk 2025. With an estimated crowd of 10,000, this public event is a powerful way to show your support and get involved with the community.

9. Immerse Yourself in a Haunted Hall: For those who love a good scare, the Mt. Healthy Haunted Hall opens for its season this weekend. It's a great way to get into the Halloween spirit a bit early and support a local volunteer-run attraction.

10. Attend a Neighborhood Street Party: Keep an eye out for smaller, local events happening around the city. The City of Cincinnati's event calendar lists several block and street parties for Saturday, September 6th, including the Sayler Park Oktoberfest, and parties on Williamson Place, Briarcliffe, and Terrace Avenue. These are a great way to experience a true, local Cincinnati vibe.

Wallpaper is becoming popular again. Wallpaper, which was formerly thought to be out of style and difficult to remove, is now available in fresh materials and contemporary designs that are regaining popularity. The secret? Don't go overboard. Particularly when selling a house, moderation is essential.
Does Wallpaper Add to or Detract from a Home's Sale?

Undoubtedly, some purchasers can have unfavorable opinions regarding wallpaper, particularly if it appears to be in an out-of-date pattern or is used in several places around the house. Even in its updated form, old wallpaper may not be appreciated by those who have previously spent endless hours removing it.

However, purchasers may overlook—and dare we say, even enjoy—wallpaper that is employed in a single room, like a guest bathroom, or on a single feature wall.

Nearly one-third of twentysomethings adore wallpaper in a home, according to a Talker Research survey commissioned by Realty ONE Group. Twenty-three percent like wallpaper prints with a beach or nautical theme, and another 21 percent choose wallpaper with a bohemian feel.

The difference between a listing selling quickly and staying on the market for several months can be determined by knowing which prints will hold up over time and which will require buyers to ask for a decorating allowance.

Consider These 5 Wallpaper Trends: 1. Textured Neutral
Plaster walls from the early 1900s are suggestive of textured walls. If the house has a vintage feel, adding textured wallpaper in a gentle taupe or white shade can allude to its charm.

2. Colors That Go Well Together
Wallpaper selections must to blend well with the room's other components, such as the furniture. For instance, blue stripes on an accent wall are eye-catching and combine nicely with a plush gold sofa, adding a sophisticated touch to the room.

3. Patterns on a Small Scale
Entryways, laundry rooms, and half bathrooms can feel congested when the wrong wallpaper is utilized. Patterns on a smaller scale could be less intimidating. However, carefully examine the print from a distance to make sure the design isn't very cluttered or that it's not too small to be seen from the other side of the room.

4. Prints Inspired by Nature
In recent years, décor with a natural theme has become more popular. Customers may be reminded of simpler pleasures by the soothing assurance of a forest picture or prints of flora and fauna. In an urban environment, elements inspired by nature might help individuals get away from the bustle of the city. For an extra organic touch, combine prints with real plants that are inspired by nature.

5. Rich, Deep Colors
A space can be made more exciting by utilizing the emotive impact of rich, deep colors like mahogany, crimson, orange, and yellow. These colors are very effective in a home's communal spaces, such as the living room or kitchen.

Yes, wallpaper can be used excessively!

Although a stunning wallpaper mural in a home's foyer may appeal to you, purchasers may react differently. Wallpapered ceilings and plastered patterns are trendy in 2025 design, although they might not sell a house.

In any case, if someone is in love with a house, they will either purchase it with or without wallpaper. But if they had to choose between two homes, they could be more inclined to pass on the one they think needs more work in order to get rid of something they hate.

It's possible that more real estate agents are having difficult discussions with their clients on their wallpaper preferences. However, with careful and thoughtful selection, wallpaper can be a home's asset and a useful staging tool to add character to a room. There is a thin line between going overboard and being on trend, so sellers should pick wallpaper that makes you gasp rather than gasp.

The ideal time to embrace the fall season is around Labor Day weekend. Yes, we are aware that September 22 marks the official start of fall. However, as you get ready for the fall chill, you can enjoy the final balmy weeks of summer.
Anyone can participate in these events. Everyone is welcome, whether you're hosting friends, family, or neighbors. Since there aren't many other ways to mark the end of summer, we naturally selected a lot of outdoor activities. However, you might not like being outside, and we are aware that the weather isn't always cooperative. To accommodate bad weather or individual preferences, we also provide indoor versions of each activity.

1. Movie Night in the Backyard
Doesn't everyone like movie night? The light sets earlier and earlier as fall draws near, so Labor Day weekend is the ideal time for a movie night in the backyard. As you duplicate the big screen in your backyard, invite your neighbors and friends to grab a chair or blanket and settle in. We advise informing your neighbors in advance if you live close by or intend to watch a noisy movie.

What You Require

You'll need a projector, a screen (occasionally a sheet will work), some refreshments, and chairs for a movie night in your garden. However, you are not required to supply all of those on your own. As the host, for instance, you could invite visitors to bring their own chairs and blankets and offer the movie and food. Alternatively, you may arrange the chairs and request that each visitor bring a drink or a snack.

Take It Inside

We advise against using a television, even indoors, when organizing a movie night over Labor Day weekend. Instead, bring the refreshments and the chairs inside your home and find a blank wall (or a place where you can hang a sheet or screen)! It won't seem like a typical movie night, but it might not feel like the drive-ins either.

2. The Station for S'mores
Why not make s'mores at home? They're a traditional summer and fall delicacy. Have a bonfire in your backyard and set up a make-your-own-s'mores station, if permitted by your city. The standard ingredients—chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker—can be used. However, don't be scared to add your own unique flair as well! Offer peanut butter candies in place of chocolate or Oreo cookies as a substitute for graham crackers. S'mores Oreos are a great option if you want to stay true to the s'mores theme!

What You Require

The ingredients, a bonfire, and marshmallow skewers are all you need. You can invite each guest to bring a special s'more ingredient while you supply the standard fare, much like on a movie night in your garden. It goes without saying that you should have an experienced person tending to the blaze. Additionally, be sure to abide by any municipal regulations about timing, placement, and size. Safety comes first at all times!

Take It Inside

You can put them in the oven, but you can't really bring your bonfire inside. Online recipes abound, but they are all straightforward. Simply place the marshmallows in the oven with the graham crackers (or cracker substitute). When it's warm and a little mushy, take out the two ingredients, add chocolate or another meltable confection, and voila!

3. Handmade Fall Décor
Start your fall décor early by doing these do-it-yourself crafts! Sunflowers can be used to make centerpiece bouquets or door wreaths because they bloom from summer into fall. Mason jars can also be sprayed in brilliant yellow and warm orange to be used as vases. Or try this cute idea for a mason jar pumpkin! There are countless ways to decorate for fall, so choose your favorite and be creative.

What You Require

Use whatever supplies you need to make your fall-themed artworks, such as paint, jars, burlap, and sunflowers. Make a list of the supplies you'll need, pick two or three activities, and get them all before the long weekend. In this manner, you can avoid rushing the weekend of and running the chance of encountering any festive crowds.

Take It Inside

Since creating isn't technically an outside activity, bringing it inside is as easy as clearing the kitchen table. However, if you want to get creative, you may do it without the usual crafts materials or set up a tarp and do it yourself on the floor of the living room. For instance, what else can you use to color the mason jars if you are unable to use a paintbrush? Your palms? Paint by spraying? A sponge?

4. Camping in the backyard
Camping in the wild isn't always an option. Perhaps you wish to avoid tick season or your child experiences homesickness. Camping in your yard is an interesting alternative for any number of reasons. Additionally, camping can be combined with pre-camp outdoor movie screenings and s'mores! Everyone can set up their tent and go to bed when they're ready if you're hosting pals. Ask the children to decide who gets to sleep in which tent if it's just the family.

What You Require

A yard and a tent! Well, a couple of tents might be needed. But one yard is all you need! You will need large enough tents to fit everyone and their sleeping bags if you intend to have the children sleep apart. However, if friends are staying over as well, you can ask them to bring their own blankets and tent, and you'll supply the yard.

Take It Inside

Anywhere is a good place to camp! To bring it indoors, set up a tent directly on the floor of your living room. The children can even camp on the floor in separate rooms. They are camping as long as they are in a tent.

Summer might be winding down, but Cincinnati is definitely not! Forget the back-to-school blues, because the weekend of August 29-31, 2025, is packed with exciting, one-of-a-kind events you won't want to miss. Ditch the usual tourist traps and dive into what makes Cincy buzz. Here's your curated list of the top ten things to do that weekend, leaving out the everyday attractions for a truly special experience:

1. Rock Out at Cincinnati Music Festival: This is THE event of the weekend! From Friday, August 29th to Saturday, August 30th, get ready for a legendary lineup of R&B, soul, and hip-hop artists at the Paul Brown Stadium. With big names hitting the stage, this festival brings an electrifying energy to the riverfront.

2. Taste the Tradition at the Holy Trinity Clifton Annual Festival: Immerse yourself in culture at the Holy Trinity Clifton Annual Festival, running from Friday, August 29th to Sunday, August 31st. Expect authentic food, live music, dancing, and a true sense of community at this long-standing Cincinnati tradition.

3. Groove to the Beats at the Cincinnati Ultimate Tournament: For a different kind of energy, head to the Cincinnati Ultimate Tournament on Saturday, August 30th. Witness the athleticism and spirit of this fast-paced sport as teams compete. It's a fun and active way to spend an afternoon outdoors.

4. Experience the Magic of "Disney's The Little Mermaid": The Broadway in Cincinnati series brings the beloved tale of Ariel to life at the Aronoff Center. Catch a performance of "Disney's The Little Mermaid" throughout the weekend and relive the classic story with stunning visuals and unforgettable songs.

5. Celebrate Local Craft at the Cincinnati Coffee Festival: Caffeine lovers, rejoice! On Saturday, August 30th and Sunday, August 31st, the Cincinnati Coffee Festival will be brewing up a storm. Sample local roasts, learn about coffee culture, and maybe even find your new favorite blend.

6. Discover Unique Finds at the City Flea: Cincinnati's original curated urban flea market will be popping up on Saturday, August 30th. Browse unique vintage finds, handmade goods, and local art. It's the perfect place to snag a special souvenir or just enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

7. Laugh Out Loud with Colin Quinn: Get ready for a night of sharp wit and hilarious observations as comedian Colin Quinn takes the stage at the Taft Theatre on Saturday, August 30th. This is a great way to unwind and enjoy some top-notch stand-up comedy.

8. Enjoy Live Blues with Noah Wotherspoon: For a dose of soulful music, check out Noah Wotherspoon performing at Live at the Ludlow Garage on Friday, August 29th. Let the blues wash over you in this intimate and legendary venue.

9. Embrace the Art Scene at the Final Day of an Exhibition: While specific exhibitions may vary, be sure to check out local art galleries and museums for any special closing days or events happening that weekend. It's a great opportunity to catch a show before it's gone. (Check listings for venues like the Cincinnati Art Museum or smaller local galleries).

10. Explore a Neighborhood Festival (TBD): Keep an eye on local event listings as August approaches. Often, smaller neighborhood festivals or street fairs pop up at the end of summer, offering a glimpse into Cincinnati's diverse communities. These can be fantastic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

So there you have it! Your guide to an unforgettable weekend in Cincinnati. From major music events to local cultural celebrations, August 29-31, 2025, promises a diverse range of activities for every interest. Start planning now and get ready to experience the Queen City at its late-summer best!

You start to feel it as the nights get a little cooler and you know you only have a few weeks left at the beach or in the pool. Fall is almost here. That indicates that warm days and pumpkin spice lattes are coming up soon. It's important to take some time for yourself and your home before the holidays start and life gets crazy with back-to-school plans, sports, and other social responsibilities. You should clean these seven places before fall starts. You'll be pleased you did!
Windows and their sills

Robin Murphy, a cleaning expert at Maid Brigade Westchester, says that it's a good idea to clean your windows and window sills well. Murphy says, "Clean windows let in more light, which helps brighten up your home as the days get shorter." "Microfiber cloths are great for cleaning both windows and sills."

Air Vents and Filters

People don't want to walk into a house and feel like they can't breathe or that the air is full with dust. One of the simplest methods to avoid this issue is to keep your HVAC system in good shape. For the best air quality, Murphy says to change the filters every season. She explains, "Cleaning the vents and air filters lets more air flow and makes the air better as you get ready for colder weather."

Entrances and Mudrooms

You only get one shot to make a good first impression. Cleaning up your entryway or mudroom not only helps you stay organized, but it also makes you feel good when you step into your home. Murphy says, "A clean and organized entry area keeps dirt and clutter from spreading throughout the house."

She says that buying baskets and containers is a good way to keep things neat and tidy. "They make it easy to get to things and use up all the space," she says.

Dusty Corners and Crannies

If you spend a lot of time at the beach in the summer, you could get a lot of grime, dust, and even sand. Logan Taylor, who started The Dazzle Cleaning Company, thinks that a deep dusting is really important at this time of year.

He says, "Use your vacuum hose to clean under couch cushions and behind and under furniture that doesn't sit directly on the floor." "This is always a good thing to do, but it's even more important if you have hard floors because the dust will keep moving around your house until you get rid of it." Carpet holds on to it a lot more.

Outdoor Spaces and Outdoor Furniture

You might still be able to use your patio or deck in the fall, but Taylor says you should clean it really well before the first frost. "It's amazing how busy fall gets. You'll want to give them another scrub down in the fall, but it'll be a lot easier if the dirt hasn't been building up for months," he says.

Also, don't forget to wash your patio furniture using a hose or power washer!

Closets in bedrooms

A quick closet reset is one of Taylor's favorite things to do before fall. He says, "Any summer clothes you haven't worn this summer are clothes you probably won't wear again, so give them away so that someone else can wear them."

It's hard to find what you need in a wardrobe that is too full. Get rid of the things you don't wear so you can easily see and find the things you do wear. "And finally, take out any fall and winter clothes you have stored away and put them in their proper place for the next season," Taylor says.

Closets for coats and seasonal storage

Wendy Zanders is a professional organizer who works with neurodivergent people, military families, and elderly. She advises that you should absolutely clean up and arrange your coat closet or seasonal storage before you drink your first pumpkin spice latte.

"If summer stuff is still mixed in with winter stuff, mornings get crazy fast," she explains. "Families have to search through their things to find what they need, which is like a daily treasure hunt. We sort things instead of throwing them away, give away things we don't need, and keep things that aren't needed in the fall and winter so that they are easy to find.

Zanders says that breaking it down into one category at a time and making sure everything still fits and works can make the process a lot easier, even though it may seem hard at first. Finally, make sure that everything is in the right containers and has the right labels.

When you sell a house, the last thing you want is for the deal to fall through right before you sign the papers. But Redfin's most recent data shows that this is happening a little more often these days. The good news is that you can entirely prevent it if you ask an agent for help understanding why it happens and how to avoid it.
Fifteen percent of homes that were supposed to sell this June didn't. That indicates those buyers broke their contracts. It's not much more than the average of about 12% from 2017 to 2019, but it is an increase. And it's one you don't want to have to deal with.

Knowing what problems are making a buyer walk away is the key to preventing this trouble. A recent poll by John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM) found that the home inspection is the main reason deals are breaking apart right now (see graph below):

Here's why. Buyers don't have much room (or desire) for unanticipated repairs because prices and borrowing rates are so high.

And purchasers have more choices now that there are more homes for sale. So, if the inspection finds a big problem, they can decide to walk away. They could always buy an other house instead.

A buyer might also back out if the seller won't fix things since they don't want to deal with those problems themselves and pay for them.

As a seller, you can avoid any bad surprises by arranging a pre-listing examination. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) says that even if it's not required, it's a good idea right now:

"To keep deals from falling apart, it gives the seller a chance to fix any problems before the For Sale sign goes up." It can also help buyers avoid surprises like a broken roof, an expensive plumbing problem, or an old electrical panel that could make them leave before closing if they are short on cash.

What is a Pre-Listing Inspection?

It's exactly what it sounds like: a professional examination of your home that you set up before you put it on the market. What it can do for you is:

Give you time to mend the things that matter. You'll be aware of any problems that might come up during the buyer's inspection. So, you'll have time to deal with them before anyone ever comes in.

Don't try to change the terms of the deal at the last minute. If buyers find problems after you've signed a contract, you may have to make compromises like lowering the price or making repairs, or even worse, the purchase may fall through. A pre-listing examination helps you keep ahead of such things before they become problems that stop the purchase.

Let buyers know you're serious. Buyers can tell whether your home is tidy, well-kept, and has already been checked out. It helps you sell faster with fewer back-and-forth negotiations and fosters trust.

What does it all come down to? Paying a few hundred dollars up front can save you thousands afterward.

Should All Sellers Do This?

Not always. Your real estate agent can help you figure out what is best for your position, your home, and the market. Your agent will help you every step of the way if you choose to go through with a pre-listing inspection. They will:

Tell you whether to fix or tell about each problem

Help you decide which repairs are most important to buyers in your area

Make sure you know the rules on disclosure in your area.

The Bottom Line

A pre-listing inspection might be a good idea if you want to avoid problems with your deal. Talk to an agent, such as the Hersey Group, to find out if a pre-listing inspection is the best thing to do for your house and the market.