Kira Perkins, Author at Prime Realty

Simple Home Maintenance Tips That Can Save You Thousands

With summer winding down and fall around the corner, now is the perfect time for seasonal home maintenance, DIY home repairs, and simple home improvement projects. Every home needs some TLC from time to time, and you don’t have to hire a professional for every repair to keep your home in great condition. This guide includes easy home maintenance tips, DIY repair ideas, and preventative maintenance reminders to help homeowners and renters protect their investment, save money, and create a home they’re proud of.

6-Month Home Maintenance Checklist

When it comes to home maintenance, it’s easy to forget about appliances and household tasks during a busy summer. While these items don’t need weekly attention, adding them to your home maintenance checklist every 6-8 months can improve efficiency, extend the life of your appliances, and help prevent costly repairs.

Flipping and cleaning your mattress every few months is a quick way to freshen up your bedroom. Strip the bed, vacuum the mattress, spot-clean any stains, and rotate it to help keep the filling evenly distributed. For an in-depth guide, check out Good Housekeeping’s mattress cleaning guide.

Cleaning the condenser coils on your refrigerator is another important home maintenance task that can improve performance and reduce energy costs. These coils release heat from your refrigerator, and when dust builds up, your fridge has to work harder. On newer refrigerators, the coils are typically behind the front kick plate, while older models often have them on the back. This simple project usually takes about 10 minutes.

Keeping your dryer vent and lint trap clean is one of the most important home safety and maintenance tasks. If your clothes are taking longer to dry, lint buildup could be the cause. Remove the lint trap grate, vacuum inside the vent using a narrow attachment, and pull the dryer away from the wall to vacuum behind it and around the exhaust vent. Cleaning the exterior vent pipe every few months also helps improve efficiency and reduce fire risk.

Your dishwasher also benefits from a deep cleaning every few months. Remove the bottom rack, clean the filter and spray arms, wipe down the rubber door seals, and run a cleaning cycle with a cup of vinegar on the top rack using the hottest setting. Don’t forget to clean your garbage disposal by using baking soda and vinegar or disposal cleaning tablets, and wipe down the rubber splash guard while you’re at it.

Routine Home Maintenance and Safety Checks

Some home maintenance tasks don’t cross your mind until something goes wrong. Regular walkthroughs of your home’s interior and exterior can help you catch small problems before they become expensive repairs.

The end of summer is an ideal time to schedule HVAC maintenance before cooler weather arrives. While you can inspect the drain pan and perform a few basic maintenance tasks yourself, having your HVAC system professionally serviced once a year helps keep it running efficiently. While you’re checking your home, inspect windows, doors, and your foundation for cracks or air leaks that could increase energy bills or make your HVAC system work harder.

Touching up exterior paint is another great end-of-summer home maintenance project. Addressing chipped or peeling paint early helps protect your home’s exterior from weather damage, maintains curb appeal, and prevents larger painting projects later. If you plan to sell your home in the future, maintaining your exterior is a worthwhile investment.

Changing smoke detector batteries is easy to remember, but when was the last time you tested your smoke alarms? Press the test button on each detector to ensure it’s working properly and can be heard throughout your home. If the alarm sounds weak or doesn’t sound at all, replace the batteries and clean away any dust. Testing your smoke detectors every few months provides valuable peace of mind and helps keep your family safe.

Easy DIY Home Upgrades

Improving your home doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Small DIY home improvement projects can completely change the look and feel of a space, whether you have an entire weekend or just 30 minutes.

Replacing your kitchen or bathroom faucet is an affordable upgrade that makes a noticeable difference. Choose a new faucet, gather a few basic tools, and follow a step-by-step installation guide to give your sink a fresh new look. If you’re looking for a larger weekend project, painting a room or creating an accent wall is another easy way to transform your home.

Even if you’re renting, there are plenty of renter-friendly home upgrades you can make. Hanging curtains adds privacy and warmth while allowing you to personalize your space. Swapping out your shower head or replacing the toilet seat with one you prefer can also improve comfort without making permanent changes. Just be sure to review your lease and get your landlord’s approval if required before making modifications.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. With the right tools and a little patience, simple DIY home repairs and routine home maintenance can make a big difference. Staying on top of preventative maintenance helps extend the life of your home’s systems and appliances while reducing the likelihood of expensive repairs in the future.

Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, following a regular home maintenance routine can save money, improve your home’s value, and give you the confidence to tackle larger projects down the road. We hope this guide encourages you to approach your next DIY project or seasonal home maintenance task with confidence and preparation.

4 Simple Ways to Create a More Sustainable Home

With smart and sustainable homes on the rise, we wanted to break down some things big and small you can do for your home to reduce environmental impact while seeing financial benefits. Creating a sustainable home doesn’t have to be expensive or unattainable, it is simply about making intentional choices to reduce your environmental impact while saving money and improving your quality of life. From simple things like energy efficient lighting and diversifying your garden, every step towards sustainability makes a difference! Whether you’re just getting started on your home sustainability journey or looking to level up a bit, these four tips are sure to help you along in building a home better for you and our planet.

Incorporating Native Plants

With spring right around the corner, now is the perfect time to set aside some time for gardening. Adding in native plants to your garden such as butterfly milkweed, bee balm, and honeysuckle are a great way to support our small pollinating friends! They also have the added benefit of being perennials, meaning they will come back with your garden each year. Check out the native plant directory by the South Carolina Native Plant Society to find out what blooms will work best in your garden. Tired of mowing your grass? Check out turning your lawn into a wildflower lawn! This is a low maintenance and sustainable alternative to grass and turf and helps support our pollinators like butterflies, birds, and bees. Wildflower lawns only need mowing about once or twice a year, thriving in sunlight and a little bit of supplemental water throughout the season. Wildflower lawns have an added benefit of adding to your homes curb appeal!

Natural Light

Utilizing the windows and natural light in your home is a great way to create a stronger connection to nature in your home and allows you to leave off the light switches longer. According to a study from UCLA Health, being in natural light can improve your mood and have a positive impact on your physical well-being too. Researchers in Great Britain found that each additional hour spent in natural light can be linked to a corresponding decrease in the risk of developing long term depression. If you are adding on to your house, consider a skylight or a solar tube as an addition to an otherwise windowless or dark room in your home. There are also energy efficient windows that can be added to your home. Triple pane windows are recommended for the best results, to ensure proper insulation and reduce heat transfer so your home can stay warm in the winter and cooler in the summer.

Energy Efficient Lighting/Appliances

One easy switch to make throughout your home is replacing your incandescent bulbs with LED lighting. Depending on the LED you choose, they use anywhere from 25% to 80% less energy, and they last longer. Additionally, incandescent bulbs generate heat which can directly change the overall temperature in a room and raise your electric bill as your AC works harder to cool your home. Another great way to bring your electric and water bills down is to make sure your appliances are energy star certified. Energy star refrigerators, clothes washers, and dishwashers can save a typical family around $450 annually using 10-15% less energy than non-certified appliances.

Smart Home Technology

While it is a bit more of an overhaul process, installing smart home technology in your home can drastically enhance how sustainable your home is. These systems integrate your home appliances through a centralized network, allowing you to track more accurately your energy consumption in your home. Smart thermostats are on the rise, with users being able to check and set temperatures from their phone but there is also smart lighting, allowing users to turn lights on or off and adjust brightness in rooms. Smart thermostats can reduce energy use by 10-15% for heating and cooling and smart lighting can lower electricity consumption by around 50%! There is a plethora of other smart devices that can be installed into the home such as smart plugs, smart water leak detectors, solar powered devices and more.

With technology becoming more accessible, sustainable living is in reach to more people now than ever before. The Institute of Sustainability Studies predicts that sustainability will shift into the mainstream with more consumers focusing on longevity for their homes and products. Sustainability isn’t about doing everything at once, it is about doing what you can with what you have. Start with one thing and stay consistent, and watch how that small shift creates a change in your home!

Independent Bookstores in the Upstate: Hidden Gems for Book Lovers

Unbeknownst to many, Upstate South Carolina is home to a thriving network of independent bookstores, each one offering more than just books. These cozy corners of creativity are community hubs, gathering spots, and safe havens for readers, writers, and anyone in search of a good story. From historic downtown Greenville to the charming streets of Travelers Rest, the Upstate’s indie bookstores are full of surprises – and absolutely worth a visit.

Whether you’re a weekend wanderer, a local lit lover, or a caffeine-fueled bookworm, here are four must-visit spots where stories come alive and community is always in stock.

M. Judson Booksellers | Greenville, SC

Housed in a historic courthouse right on Main Street, M. Judson Booksellers is a Greenville a “literary hub” that delivers on every level. This woman-owned bookstore has it all: curated bookshelves, book clubs, author events, and even its own book subscription service, The Letterbox, which delivers hand-picked reads right to your door.

Need more incentive to linger? Stop by Camilla Kitchen, located inside, for coffee, tea, baked treats, or even lunch while you flip through your new favorite book. There’s always something going on here, from themed storytimes to readings and workshops. Come for the books, stay for the community vibe.

Swoon Booksellers | On the Move

Book truck, but make it romantic. Meet Swoon Booksellers. It’s a pink, pint-sized powerhouse delivering all things romance fiction across the Upstate. With a rotating selection of swoon-worthy reads, this mobile bookshop pops up at local markets, festivals, and community events at least twice a month.

Keep an eye on their events page to catch the next stop or book the truck for a private event (yes, really!). A book club is also launching soon, so lovers of love stories, take note: Swoon is bringing the heat (and the heart eyes).

As The Page Turns | Travelers Rest, SC

If you love the smell of old books, the charm of small towns, and chatting with booksellers who remember your name, As The Page Turns in Travelers Rest is your next stop. Open Monday through Saturday, this quaint shop stocks both new and used books, plus a helpful online catalog so you can browse before you go.

They regularly host Sunday sidewalk sales with secret deals (psst…check their Facebook to stay in the loop), and their cozy thriller/mystery book club is a fan favorite. Can’t find what you’re looking for? They’ll order it for you. It’s the kind of place where getting lost in the stacks is highly encouraged.

Petals Tea Shop & Bookstore | Greenville, SC (Westside Market)

The newest addition to the Upstate’s indie bookstore scene, Petals Tea Shop & Bookstore, is as magical as it sounds. Tucked inside Westside Market, Petals pairs thoughtfully curated books with handcrafted tea blends inspired by literature. Imagine sipping a “Night Court” blend while reading A Court of Thorns and Roses (yes, it’s a thing)!

With a mission to promote literacy and community connection, Petals is already hosting events and making waves in Greenville’s bookish circles. It’s whimsical, it’s cozy, and it smells amazing. Come for the fantasy, stay for the tea.

Whether you’re a lifelong Upstate resident or just passing through, these independent bookstores offer more than a good read, they offer a sense of place. Each shop reflects the heart of its community, run by passionate folks who believe in the power of stories to connect us.

So next time you’re reaching for your phone to order online or heading to a chain store… pause. Instead, step into one of these local treasures. You might just find your next favorite book and a few new friends along the way.

A Paw-some Day Out: The Ultimate Dog-Friendly Itinerary in Greenville

According to Realtor Magazine, American households with pets now outnumber those with children. This doesn’t surprise us—we know pets are part of the family! With this trend on the rise, we wanted to take a look at just how dog-friendly Greenville really is. Spoiler alert: it’s basically a puppy paradise.

From water bowls lining downtown Main Street businesses to dog-friendly patios all around town, it’s clear: Greenville is one pup-loving city. If you’re looking to treat your furry best friend, check out our paw-fect dog night out guide!

Sip, Sniff, and Stay Awhile

The Dapper Dog Bark and Brew is a must for dog lovers. This unique bar features an off-leash yard where your pup can run and play while you sip a drink and unwind. They’re also open during the day with a coffee bar, which is great if you’re looking for a fun new work-from-home spot with a pup-friendly twist. Keep an eye on their event calendar—they host everything from trivia nights to live music and more.

Prefer to stay closer to the heart of downtown? Yee-Haw Brewing Co. welcomes dogs both indoors and outdoors (on leash). There’s a water station and a turf area outside, and the inside taproom is climate-controlled – perfect for rainy or extra-hot days. With a rotating beer list and frequent events, it’s a lively hangout for you and your pup.

Just a short stroll away, Southernside Brewing Co. is another favorite and is close to Unity Park and The Commons. Their patio has couches, turf, and a dog-specific water station. Bonus: they serve frozen pup cups – perfect for cooling down on a hot day. It’s also right next to the Swamp Rabbit Trail, so it makes for a great pit stop after a walk or jog.

Bark and Brunch (or Dinner)

Once you and your dog have worked up an appetite, Greenville has plenty of pet-friendly dining options. Several local restaurants cater to dogs just as much as humans, offering dog-friendly patios, pup menus, and even treats on request.

Nic & Norman’s offers a dog menu on their patio – think grilled meats and even bison burger with rice. It’s a great place for a laid-back lunch with your furry companion.

Gather GVL is another outdoor gem where dogs are always welcome. With a variety of food stalls, it’s easy to find something delicious for you and maybe sneak your pup a bite, too.

And if your dog could choose their own restaurant? They might pick Double Dogs. Their “Pup Patio” is known for great service for both people and pups. Order yourself one of the coldest beers in town and request a plain grilled chicken breast for your four-legged friend. It’s a perfect combo of sports bar vibes and dog-friendly hospitality.

Don’t Forget Dessert

No dog day out is complete without dessert! Woof Gang Bakery has two Greenville locations and offers treats for all dietary needs. Whether it’s a daily reward or a special “gotcha day,” they’ve got something tasty for your pet.

If you’ve been walking the Swamp Rabbit Trail and need to cool off, stop by Blueberry Frog. They serve made-in-house pup cups (plain or peanut butter), so your furry friend can enjoy a frozen treat right alongside you.

Celebrating something special? The Barkery Bistro can make custom dog cakes for birthdays, adoptions, or any excuse to throw your pup a party. From small treats to full-on doggie dessert tables, they’ve got it covered.

Tips for a Smooth Outing

To make exploring even easier, download apps like Good Dogs of Greenville or BringFido to find dog-friendly restaurants, events, and services nearby.

And before you head out, be sure to pack:

Poop bags (leave no trace!)
A collapsible water bowl
Your pup’s leash and maybe a few treats

Greenville has really embraced its dog-loving community, and with more businesses becoming pet-welcoming every year, there’s no need to leave your pup behind. So grab the leash and go explore – because adventures are always better with your best friend by your side.

Home is where the paws are – and Greenville has plenty of neighborhoods that welcome wagging tails and happy hearts. Ready to start the search for your next pet-friendly haven?

Is 2025 the Year to Buy a Home? Here’s What You Need to Know

One of the most common questions in real estate is, “Is now a good time to buy a house?” or “What’s the market looking like right now?” While the answer isn’t always black and white, let’s dive into why 2025 could be your year to finally purchase a home.

We’re already seeing some exciting trends in the market this year, and there are plenty of benefits to owning a home versus renting. Not only does homeownership come with long-term financial advantages, but it also provides greater stability and the freedom to truly make a space your own.

In 2025, the number of homes hitting the market each day is on the rise! According to Realtor.com, housing inventory grew by 22% in 2024 – and that number is projected to increase another 11–15% this year. That’s great news for buyers who haven’t quite found the perfect home yet, as more options will become available.

We’re also seeing a significant increase in new construction. According to our local MLS in Greenville, as of January 2025, over 30% of listings are brand-new builds. While you might assume these homes come with a higher price tag, many are actually comparable, or even cheaper, than pre-owned homes. Builders are focusing on smaller, more cost-effective designs that still deliver on quality. If you’re having a hard time finding something within your budget, ask your realtor about new construction options. They could open up a whole new range of possibilities.

Interest rates are always a major factor when it comes to deciding if it’s the right time to buy. Although rates have been higher recently, they’re expected to decrease in 2025. We’re unlikely to see the ultra-low 3–4% rates we once had, but many experts predict rates will settle in the mid-6% range by the end of the year. Don’t let this discourage you. Every little drop in interest can make a difference in your monthly mortgage. At the same time, home prices are high and expected to continue rising, so buying sooner rather than later could be a wise move. The sooner you purchase, the sooner your home starts building equity.

Remember, location plays a big role in pricing. Check in with a local real estate agent to get a sense of what homes are selling for in your desired area – it can vary significantly from place to place.

While we’ve touched on some current market conditions, it’s also worth highlighting the long-term benefits of homeownership. Buying a home helps grow your net worth and brings a sense of security as your mortgage is paid down and your property gains value. It is reported that a majority of first-time buyers report feeling uncertain about their long-term financial future while renting. Rent might seem more affordable short term, but prices continue to climb year after year, making it even harder to save for a future purchase.

Owning a home also gives you full creative freedom. Whether it’s customizing a brand-new build or renovating a fixer-upper to reflect your style. And let’s not forget, buying your first home can be a fun and exciting journey! Sit down with a realtor to discuss your budget and dream home goals to see if 2025 is your year to take the leap.

There’s no definitive answer to the question, “Is now the right time to buy?” But the truth is, there’s no guaranteed market in the future either. What matters most is your personal timing. By carefully evaluating your financial situation and lifestyle needs, you can make a well-informed decision that sets you up for long-term success and satisfaction.

Here’s to finding the perfect home in 2025! Happy house hunting!

What’s New in Greenville?

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, Greenville continues to see an influx of new businesses. This past year brought exciting additions, especially in the downtown area. With warmer weather on the horizon, now is the perfect time to check out some of the latest restaurants and shops making waves in our community.

New Restaurants

Greenville’s food scene is thriving, with new spots constantly popping up. Here are a few of our newest favorites:

The Ottaray – A raw bar and taphouse offering the freshest ingredients with a Charleston-style approach to the menu. Not a fan of seafood? No problem! The Ottaray serves up steaks, burgers, and more. Opened in mid-December, this spot has already earned glowing reviews.
Grazeland – Self-proclaimed as a charcuterie emporium, Grazeland is a go-to for on-the-go lunches or weekend picnics. Their market section features local products alongside house-made pimento cheese and pasta or potato salad. They also craft stunning charcuterie boards for events – check out their website or Facebook for a sneak peek!
Comal 864 – If you’re craving authentic birria tacos, this is the place to be. While the menu is smaller than other Mexican restaurants, every dish is packed with bold flavors. Their traditional Mexican breakfast menu is a standout feature that sets them apart from chain restaurants. They’re not technically new, but their second location came alive in 2024, and they are always worth a mention. Plus, chef Dayna is a James Beard finalist, making every bite here even more special.

With an estimated 91,000 people moving to Greenville in 2024, we expect even more exciting dining options in 2025!

Local Small Businesses

A strong sense of community is one of Greenville’s biggest draws, and nothing reflects that better than its locally owned small businesses. Here are a few of our favorite newcomers:

Canvas Coffee + Art House – More than just a coffee shop, this cozy space hosts painting tutorials, latte art classes, and creative events to support local artists and makers.
Noble Vice Wine Co. – A laid-back wine bar that focuses on comfort and approachability. With knowledgeable staff and wine classes available, it’s perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts looking to expand their palate.
Mak & Cheesecakes – Expanding from its Simpsonville location, this new Augusta Road bakery is quickly becoming a downtown favorite. Their customizable cheesecake slices and award-winning ‘Nanner Puddn’ make it a must-visit for dessert lovers. Whole cheesecakes are also available to order for special occasions.

Supporting small businesses helps our local economy thrive – did you know that they create 75% of new jobs and make up over 81% of Greenville Chamber of Commerce investors? Shop small and support local!

Honorable Mentions

Some new businesses don’t quite fit into the above categories but are still worth checking out:

PKL Park – Pickleball fever has officially hit Greenville! Located next to Unity Park and Southernside Brewing, this premier outdoor entertainment hub features three micro-restaurants, a full-service bar, and live music from Mark V Studios throughout the warmer months.
Uki Bowlz – After an intense pickleball match, refuel at Uki Bowlz. This wellness café offers fresh juices, smoothies, coffee, and more in a bright, welcoming space. Be sure to try the São Paulo Bowl!

Greenville continues to grow as a vibrant hub of innovation, creativity, and community. We can’t wait to see what 2025 brings! Let us know which new spots you’ve tried or are excited to visit