This time of year in Orlando and throughout Central Florida, homeowners often see contractors driving through neighborhoods looking for homes that might need repairs. They may point out a worn roof, cracked driveway, peeling paint, or other issues—and promise to fix them quickly and cheaply.

While some contractors are legitimate, many are simply scammers looking to make quick money. Falling for these schemes can cost you thousands of dollars and, in some cases, actually damage your home. Here are some common scams Orlando homeowners should watch out for.

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Driveway and “Leftover Materials” Scams Are Still Happening

This scam is as old as asphalt. A contractor knocks on your door and says they noticed your driveway needs resealing. They’ll often claim they have “leftover materials from another job” and can seal it for a bargain price like $59.99.

In reality, most driveways don’t need frequent sealing, and these crews often use watered-down materials that provide little protection. In some cases, the work is poorly done and may actually shorten the life of your driveway.

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Mold Inspections

Florida’s humidity makes mold a real concern, which is why this scam works so well.

Be cautious if a company offers a free mold inspection and promises to fix any mold they find. Unscrupulous inspectors will almost always “discover” a serious problem and then charge thousands of dollars for unnecessary remediation.

If you notice a musty smell or visible mold, start by contacting your insurance company to see if remediation is covered under your policy. Ask them to recommend a certified, independent mold inspector who doesn’t profit from the cleanup.

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Painting Offers

If someone shows up offering to paint the exterior of your home for a “today-only, cash-only discount,” it’s best to decline.

Door-to-door painters are often uninsured and unlicensed, which can create a major liability for homeowners. They may also use low-quality paint and rush through the job, leaving you with work that won’t last.

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Roofing Scams Remain One of the Biggest Issues

Roof scams are especially common in Florida after storms or periods of high wind.

A contractor might offer a quick, inexpensive repair for a few shingles—but once they’re on the roof, they suddenly claim your entire roof needs to be replaced. Many homeowners don’t inspect their roofs themselves, so they feel pressured to agree.

If you suspect roof damage, contact a licensed roofing contractor for a proper inspection and written estimate.

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Financing and Bait-and-Switch Pricing Are Ongoing Problems

Another tactic involves contractors offering to finance expensive home improvement projects through their own lenders.

The deal may sound convenient, but once the paperwork is signed, homeowners sometimes discover they’ve agreed to a high-interest loan. The contractor gets paid immediately and may not complete the work as promised.

Always review financing terms carefully and consider arranging financing through your own bank or credit union instead.

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Window Replacement

Window replacement companies may advertise extremely low prices to get their foot in the door. But once the job begins, the final cost can rise quickly due to unexpected fees or “upgraded” materials.

Homeowners may be told the original windows quoted are no longer available, forcing them into more expensive options. Always get a detailed written estimate that clearly outlines all materials, fees, and labor.

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Pest Removal

In Florida, termite concerns are common—but real termite damage can only be confirmed through a thorough inspection.

Be cautious if someone walking through your neighborhood claims they can see termite damage from outside your home and pressures you into immediate treatment. Instead, schedule an inspection with a licensed pest control company.

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Protect Yourself and Your Home

The best way to avoid these scams is to slow down and do your research. Never feel pressured to make a decision on the spot. Verify licenses, read reviews, and get multiple estimates before hiring anyone to work on your home.

It’s also important to warn elderly family members and neighbors about door-to-door contractors. Seniors are often targeted because scammers assume they may be more trusting.

A little caution can save you from costly mistakes—and help protect your biggest investment: your home.

Consumer Reports offers some tips to help you avoid being tricked out of your money, and how to go about hiring a pro to make necessary repairs and improvements to your home.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

The time of year has arrived when we gather to celebrate with delicious food. It’s incredibly difficult to resist slipping your furry friend a bite, but that small gesture of love can quickly lead to trouble. Before you share, read over the following list of human foods that may or may not be suitable for Fido or Kitty.

            Suitable Treats for Pets

• A small amount of cooked, plain white turkey meat is fine. However, always remove the skin first, as its fat and spices can lead to digestive issues or serious problems like pancreatitis.
• If you’re celebrating with prime rib or ham, a few bites of meat without herbs or spices is a nice snack.
• Gravy can be a yummy topping for your pet’s regular food, but limit the amount to just a few tablespoons. Gravies are typically too high in salt and fat for animals.
• Before you turn your baked sweet potatoes or pureed pumpkin into pies, pass a spoonful or two along as a treat. Both are rich in vitamins and high in fiber, and are a great anytime snack.

            Keep These Foods on Your Plate

• Any dish containing onions is a definite no–they contain thiosulphate, which is quite harmful to dogs and cats.
• Bones of any kind can be a real danger because of splintering, and could cause choking as well as a perforated digestive system.
• Stuffing may not only be too carb-rich, but the onions, garlic and spices that most stuffings contain can be toxic to your pets.
• Going sugar free? Double-check artificial sweetener ingredients for xylitol. If present, ensure your pet never consumes anything that contains it, as it is highly toxic.
• Do not give your pet baked goods. These treats contain excessive sugar and often include chocolate, which is toxic to both cats and dogs. If you think your pet has eaten chocolate, contact your vet right away.

The extra commotion of a holiday gathering can stress pets. Give them a quiet place to escape the hustle. Before sitting down to eat, remind all guests not to share food with the persistent, sad-eyed beggars. If you really want to include your beloved canine in your family meal, try this little doggy casserole from Rachael Rae, and cats will enjoy the Turkey Cat Treats recipe that is easy to make!

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

October is National Fire Prevention Month and the perfect time to do more than just test your smoke alarm batteries — it’s also a great reminder to inspect anything in your home that could pose a fire risk if not used or maintained properly. Take this opportunity to sit down with your family and review your emergency fire escape plan.

Not sure where to begin? Start with these simple tips:

• Keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach in your kitchen. If you don’t have one, be sure to purchase one. If you already do, have it inspected to ensure it’s still in proper working condition.
• Smoke alarms are essential for every home. Older models can be overly sensitive, often going off during cooking — which may lead to removing the battery and forgetting to replace it. Newer models often include a temporary sensitivity button to reduce false alarms while cooking, automatically resetting after a short time.
• If your home has more than one story, keep a fire escape ladder near an easily accessible window on the upper floor. SafeWise.com offers a helpful guide with top-rated ladder options and tips on how to choose the best one for your home’s layout and needs.
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets, and use extension cords only as a short-term solution. If you find yourself constantly needing more outlets, hire a licensed electrician to install them. The cost is minimal compared to the potential damage of an electrical fire.
• Call a licensed electrician if you notice warning signs like sparking outlets, flickering lights, or frequently tripped circuit breakers. These could indicate serious electrical issues that need immediate attention.
• After every load, clean the lint screen in your dryer, and regularly clear lint from the vent and the back of the dryer to prevent buildup.
• Have your chimneys and furnaces inspected and cleaned before use to ensure they’re safe and functioning properly. If you use a wood-burning fireplace, check that the screen protector is intact and use only a flame-resistant rug in front of the hearth.
• While rare, lightning can ignite house fires. Lightning rods might seem old-fashioned, but they effectively redirect lightning to prevent fires and protect your electronics from damage.

Most importantly, every family needs a fire escape plan that everyone knows well. To help you create and practice your own plan, check out the National Fire Protection Association’s page, which offers free printable tools and step-by-step guidelines. Remember, investing time in planning and practicing your fire escape plan is invaluable when it comes to keeping your home and loved ones safe.

Final Thought: Fire prevention is a shared responsibility that starts with awareness and preparation. Taking small, consistent steps today can make all the difference in protecting your home and family tomorrow. Stay safe, stay prepared, and make fire prevention a priority every day.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

When selling your home, it’s important to remember that prospective buyers will be looking at it with a fresh perspective. Things you might not even notice could stand out to them. To make sure your home is in the best possible shape, keep these seven things in mind:

• Curb appeal is the first–and very important–impression! At the very least, keep the grass cut and shrubbery trimmed. Go a step further and lay down fresh mulch in the flowerbeds and add a pot of flowers near the front steps–don’t forget to keep them healthy!
  
• When you declutter, don’t pack everything in storage containers and leave them in the garage. Temporarily renting storage or keeping them in a shed will keep your home looking neat, and rooms will appear larger without all the “stuff.”

• If you have mice or insects in your home, have them exterminated before you put a sign in your yard. Rodent traps or insect baits sitting around are discouraging to buyers.
  
• Dripping faucets or cracked windows will not be appealing to buyers, so have these repaired.
  
• If you can’t find the time to deep-clean the house, hire a professional. Potential buyers will be turned off by a grimy stove or mildewed bathroom grout.
  
• Unpleasant odors will have buyers wrinkling their noses as soon as they walk in. Cleaning is important to remove dirt, but you need to clean for odors, too. Follow these tips from realtor.com^® for removing any funky smells from your home.
  
• Natural light is important to many home buyers, so window treatments that block light need to come down, cleaned, and stored for moving. Let the sunshine in by using sheers or easy-pull blinds or shades while your home is on the market.

You control the impression your house makes on potential buyers. Think of it as a sales pitch: your effort is what will draw them in, grab their attention, and keep it. The care you put into the small details will be reflected in the feedback and offers you receive.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

All your pre-sale tasks are finally done — the home is clean, staged, and your RealtorⓇ is lining up the marketing strategy. It’s officially go-time! But before those buyer showings turn into serious offers, now’s the perfect moment to think ahead to the home inspection process.

While a home inspection doesn’t technically come with a “pass or fail,” it can become a major roadblock if you haven’t tackled basic repairs and maintenance. A good-looking home is only half the battle — what’s behind the walls (and under the sink) matters just as much.

Here’s a 2025-ready checklist to help you avoid costly surprises:

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🔍 2025 Home Inspection Prep Checklist

🐜 1. Inspect for Pest Damage or Infestation

Rodents, termites, or other pests can cause serious structural and health issues — and you might not even know they’re there. Book a professional pest inspection to ensure your home is critter-free before potential buyers find out the hard way.

🚰 2. Look for Leaks and Plumbing Issues

Turn on every faucet and check under sinks for drips. Test toilets for running water and make sure all drains flow smoothly. Even small plumbing issues can raise red flags for inspectors.

🌫️ 3. Check for Mold and Mildew

Inspect dark, damp areas like the attic, crawl spaces, and basement for any signs of mold or mildew. Look especially at the underside of the roof. Addressing moisture issues now prevents a major inspection hang-up later.

🏚️ 4. Examine Your Roof

From the ground or using a drone (a service many inspectors and roofers now offer in 2025), look for missing shingles, sagging areas, or other damage. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, be prepared to address it in negotiations.

❄️ 5. Service the HVAC System

Your heating and cooling system should be in good working order. Schedule a professional HVAC inspection and cleaning. This is often a line item on inspection reports, so having documentation of a recent service can offer buyers peace of mind.

💡 6. Replace Burned-Out Bulbs

Yes, really. If a light doesn’t turn on during the inspection, the inspector may flag it as a possible electrical issue. Replace any missing or dead bulbs so every switch and fixture functions properly.

🪟 7. Repair Window Cracks and Drafts

Check window sills for cracks and ensure windows open, close, and lock smoothly. Leaky or damaged windows are often noted in inspections and can be a concern for energy efficiency.

🧱 8. Address Foundation or Wall Cracks

Any visible cracks in walls (inside or out), ceilings, or the foundation should be assessed by a professional. If needed, complete the repair work before listing — or at least be prepared to offer documentation and repair quotes.

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👷‍♂️ Consider a Pre-Listing Inspection in 2025

If you’re a motivated seller in today’s market, you might want to go one step further: hire your own inspector before you list.

A pre-listing inspection gives you insight into any problems before buyers do. This way, you can:

• Make repairs proactively
• Price your home accordingly
• Offer repair credits instead of losing buyers to surprise issues

In 2025’s competitive housing market, showing buyers that you’re transparent and proactive about your home’s condition builds trust — and that can lead to a faster, smoother sale.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

Late summer is a busy time for gardeners, filled with harvesting fresh vegetables and enjoying landscapes bursting with blooms. Even with the heat, now isn’t the time to slow down in the garden. This part of the season is just as important as the planning stage. To help keep things growing, here are a few tips:

Flower Gardens and Landscaping

• Weeds are continuing to grow, especially perennials that thrive in late summer/early autumn. Pull them as soon as possible. Allowing them to get large enough to flower will mean spreading more seeds and creating more work for yourself next year.
• Annual flowers need deadheading, (removing spent blooms.)  This will encourage them to continue to blossom and provide full color until autumn.
• When flowering shrubs start outgrowing their space, they may need pruning but be certain you are pruning at the right time of year. For instance, a fading hydrangea should be pruned now to keep from cutting off next spring’s buds. Camellias and other late spring/early winter bloomers have already formed new buds. Wait until after they bloomed to prune.
• Spending some time away from home?  If you have asked a neighbor to look over your plants, make sure you get someone with gardening experience.  You don’t want to come home to plants that are dying because they were over- or under-watered.

Vegetable Gardens

• Keep your garden rows covered with a generous layer of compost to fertilize through the rest of the Summer. The nutrients will seep into the soil whenever you water the garden.
• Pinch blooming herbs back to extend their growing season. If the herb garden is giving more than you can use, give some away or freeze them.
• Check around fruit trees for windfalls following a windy afternoon storm–rotting fruit is an invitation for unwelcome pests that can kill your trees.
• Have you already cleaned out a few garden rows?  Planting a summer cover crop helps discourage weeds and will be beneficial to the soil when you turn it in.

Just because fall is near doesn’t mean that the heat has left! Remember when you’re working in the garden, get out in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen and be sure to stay hydrated. Take breaks to cool off when you need to. Taking these precautions will help you enjoy the fruits–and veggies–of your labor for an extended period!

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

Homework time doesn’t usually spark joy, especially for kids and sometimes even parents. But with a little planning, you can take some of the struggle out of the daily grind by creating a designated, organized study space at home. Whether you have a full room to spare or just a corner to work with, these creative tips can help you build the perfect “homework hub” for your student(s).

🍽️ 1. Rethink the Dining Room

Your kitchen or dining room table can pull double duty as a homework zone—especially for families with more than one child in school. These spaces often have great lighting and plenty of room to spread out.

Pro tip: Give each child a caddy or container with their own school supplies and color-coded file folders to keep things tidy and organized.

🖥️ 2. Share the Home Office

Already have a home office? Make room for your kids to join you! Add an extra desk or small table, and use labeled bins or baskets to keep everyone’s supplies in order. It’s a great way to model good work habits and still be close by to help when needed.

🛠️ 3. DIY a “Cloffice”

Short on space? Transform an underused closet into a mini office—or “cloffice.” With a little creativity and basic tools, you can create a compact but efficient study nook. (Check out Lowe’s or YouTube for some weekend project inspiration!)

🛏️ 4. Create a Private Teen Study Zone

Older kids and teens usually prefer some privacy when working. Loft-style beds with built-in desks underneath offer a compact solution, combining sleep and study in one footprint. Some even include shelving and drawers for extra storage.

🛋️ 5. Make Use of Unexpected Spaces

Look around your home with fresh eyes—an empty corner, unused attic space, or a wide hallway might be just right for a small table and some organizational tools. Resources like This Old House can give you ideas for turning overlooked areas into efficient study stations.

🧹 6. Keep It Clean and Clutter-Free

Just like adults, kids work best in a tidy space. Encourage them to clean up after homework each day. Use containers for supplies and file folders to sort homework, graded assignments, and test prep materials. Staying organized can reduce stress and help them focus.

🛒 7. Go Mobile with a Homework Cart

If there’s truly no way to carve out a dedicated space, try a rolling homework cart. Assign each child a section with their essentials, and they can turn any surface—dining table, coffee table, or even a corner of the floor—into a temporary workstation.

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Final Thought:

A well-thought-out study space, no matter how small, can make a big difference in your child’s attitude toward homework. Pair it with a solid after-school routine, including time for reviewing notes, reading, and prepping for the next day, and you’ll turn homework from a hassle into a habit.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

In today’s fast-paced real estate market, especially here in Orlando, where new developments continue to shape our skyline and suburban neighborhoods, homebuyers aren’t just looking for square footage—they’re looking for soul. That’s where your home’s character becomes a powerful selling point.

Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want to fall in love with your home all over again, adding personality and style doesn’t require a full renovation. In a vibrant, design-savvy city like Orlando, homes that showcase charm and thoughtful upgrades tend to stand out—both on the market and in everyday living.

Here are some affordable, impactful ways to boost your home’s character—from curb to kitchen.

🌴 Exterior Enhancements: First Impressions Matter

🎨 Paint Your Brick

If your brick exterior is feeling dated, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders. While it’s a job best left to the pros, if you’re a confident DIYer, check out the Do’s and Don’ts from the Brick Industry Association for expert tips. Light, neutral tones are popular in Florida and help reflect sunlight, keeping your home cooler.

🏡 Add a Porch or Portico

Want to enhance your entryway? If a full porch isn’t in the budget, consider a stylish portico that complements your home’s architecture. Not only does it boost curb appeal, it gives you a covered spot for those rainy Central Florida afternoons when you’re juggling keys and groceries.

🌿 Refresh Landscaping

Tidy landscaping adds instant style. Choose native Florida plants for low-maintenance beauty—think coontie palms, firebush, or blanket flowers. If overgrown shrubs or bare spaces are killing your vibe, a trip to your local nursery can offer the inspiration (and expert advice) you need.

🪨 Upgrade the Walkway

A basic concrete walkway is functional but swapping it out for pavers or natural stone can elevate your exterior. If a full replacement is out of budget, consider staining or painting the concrete for a fresh, customized look.

🎨 Update the Shutters

Old shutters? Give them new life with a fresh coat of paint or a style swap. It’s a small detail that can dramatically change your home’s façade—especially when paired with a newly painted front door.

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🏠 Interior Upgrades: Make It Feel Like Home

🖼️ Crown Molding

Adding crown molding instantly elevates any room. Lightweight options like polystyrene foam are easy to install and budget-friendly. This classic feature gives your home that high-end, custom-built look without the high-end price tag.

💡 Statement Lighting

Don’t settle for builder-grade fixtures. Swapping in stylish light fixtures is an easy and affordable way to inject character. Each room can have its own vibe—check vintage shops, tag sales, or Habitat for Humanity ReStores for unique finds.

🚪 Revamp Interior Doors

Can’t replace hollow-core doors? No problem. With a bit of paint, trim, or board-and-batten style upgrades, you can give plain doors a high-end look. Brands like Schlage offer DIY-friendly styles that make a big impact.

🪟 Add Trim & Architectural Details

Enhance your doorways, windows, or walls with new trim, baseboards, or wainscoting. Not only do they add charm, they’re great at hiding imperfections and making rooms feel finished.

🍽️ Upgrade Countertops on a Budget

If new countertops aren’t in the cards, resurfacing kits are a great alternative. They come in a variety of finishes and can dramatically change your kitchen’s look. For ideas and reviews, check out resources like The Spruce.

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💡 Final Thoughts

Adding character to your home doesn’t mean breaking the bank. Start small—whether it’s a lighting update or a fresh coat of paint—and build your way toward larger upgrades. Over time, your home will begin to reflect you—your taste, your personality, and the Florida lifestyle you love.

And if you’re thinking about selling? These upgrades can increase your home’s appeal and value, helping it stand out in Orlando’s competitive market.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

Who says every wall in your home has to be plain white with a few family photos or framed art? If you’re ready to add personality, style, and a focal point to your space, it might be time to think beyond basic decor—and say hello to the power of an accent wall.

Accent walls are a great way to express your style, create visual interest, and give your room that “designer” feel without a full-scale renovation. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or just want to freshen up your space, here are some standout ways to make your walls speak volumes:

🖼️ Bold Wallpaper—No Commitment Needed

You don’t need to paper the entire room to make a statement. Choose a bold or bright wallpaper pattern for just one wall to create a stylish, eye-catching feature. For inspiration, Better Homes & GardensⓇ tested 30 of the best wallpapers for 2025.

🎨 Stenciling for a Custom Look

Stencils have come a long way since the floral borders of the ’80s and ’90s. Today, they offer modern patterns, clean lines, and endless customization. Ambitious DIYers can even design their own!

🎯 Painted Accent Walls: Simple & Impactful

One of the quickest and most budget-friendly ways to create an accent wall is with a fresh coat of paint. In just one day, you can dramatically shift the vibe of a room. Real Simple offers designer-approved tips on color choice, painting technique, and even how to arrange furniture around your new focal point.

🌲 Plank It Up

Plank walls are alive and well in 2025 for a reason—they bring warmth, texture, and character to any room. Options range from reclaimed wood to peel-and-stick panels, making this idea flexible for different styles and budgets.

✨ Texture Is Trending

Adding depth and dimension to your walls is a fresh, eye-catching way to elevate your space—and it’s easier to pull off than you might think. You could go subtle with a custom drywall finish, add classic charm with beadboard or wainscoting, or go bold with a standout material like tin tile. Tin tile is one of our favorites—it’s vintage-inspired, touchable, and totally attention-grabbing. Just choose a pattern and scale that fits your wall, and you’ve got a statement piece that adds character in an instant.

🧱 Think Outside the Paint Can

Still looking for more ideas? The Handyman website showcases creative wall options like stone veneer, brick, stamping, and more. Accent walls are as versatile as your imagination!

Whether you go rustic, modern, bold, or subtle, an accent wall can completely change the feel of your space. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if you end up adding one in every room!

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

While a vacant home is on the market, even in a safe neighborhood, it is crucial to secure it. Savvy criminals can spot an empty house, and you do not want your property compromised, especially when potential buyers are viewing the property. Follow these tips to keep your property safe:

• Always ensure all exterior doors and windows are locked. Intruders often seek easy access and prefer not to draw attention by smashing windows or making noise.
• If you do not already, have motion sensor floodlights installed around the perimeter of your home. This will help deter anyone who is creeping around after dark.
• Outdoor light fixtures and even your HVAC unit are surprisingly common targets for theft. Install motion-detection lighting and secure your HVAC unit’s circuit box with a lock. Consider adding fencing or a security cage for extra protection.
• Talk to your Realtor® about using a keyless lockbox on your entry. This allows agents access and provides a record of who entered your home and when.
• Contact your homeowners insurance agent if the home is empty for more than 30 days; you want to be sure that the property is covered while vacant.
• Keep your landscaping well-maintained to avoid signaling the home is vacant. Have a reputable landscaper or pay a former neighbor to handle it.
• Ask a trusted relative, neighbor, or a reputable house-sitter to regularly check on your home if you have moved too far away. For added presence, see if a neighbor is willing to park their vehicle in your driveway.
• Many affordable wireless home security systems do not require monthly fees. Look for options with smartphone apps that allow you to self-monitor your home and alert contacts if there is an issue.

Keeping the electricity and Wi-Fi connected to a vacant home is a small cost compared to the peace of mind and protection it offers. The expense of utilities is far less than potential repair costs for damage or replacing stolen items. Protect your investment by safeguarding your vacant property.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.