New Year, New Season: Simple Home Goals to Start 2026 Strong in Council Bluffs

January always feels like a reset. The snow slows us down a little, the calendar turns, and we get a chance to breathe and look ahead with hope.

Here in Council Bluffs, and all across the Omaha metro, our homes truly are the heart of our days. They are where family gathers, coffee warms chilly mornings, and memories are made season after season.

As we begin a brand-new year, here are a few simple home goals that can help you start strong.

1. Clear a Little at a Time                           

Winter is the perfect season to tidy up indoors.

6 Ways To Make Your Home Smell Fresh

When potential buyers step into your home, one of their initial impressions is the scent. Just as you might notice a peculiar odor upon returning from a trip, visitors perceive the aroma of your home. Over time, individuals become accustomed to these scents, a phenomenon known as nose-blindness. Hence, it's crucial to maintain a fresh-smelling environment when home staging for buyers.

While the ideal scenario is an odorless space, achieving this can be challenging amidst daily activities like cooking, childcare, and pet ownership. However, there are effective methods to neutralize odors without resorting to artificial air fresheners. Consider these 6 ways to make your home smell fresh:

1. Revitalize Your Garbage Disposal:
   Combat kitchen odors by treating your garbage disposal wi...

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This week's weather forecast for the Southwest Iowa area predicts extremely cold temperatures, with lows dropping below zero. Homeowners may be concerned about the risk of frozen pipes. Here are some tips to help prevent this potential disaster in your home.

Preventive Measures for Extreme Cold to Avoid Pipe Freezing:

1. Open cabinet doors leading to exposed pipes (e.g., sink access doors) to allow household air to warm them.
2. Keep attached garage doors closed to protect plumbing routed through this unheated space.
3. Turn on a faucet farthest from the water entry point to create a slow drip, preventing pipe freezing.
4. Maintain a thermostat setting above 65 degrees when leaving your home or business for an extended period.

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As winter approaches, (it just doesn't seem possible!!) our landscape transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-covered scenery and frigid temperatures. While the picturesque scenery is delightful, it's essential to ensure that your home is ready to handle the cold weather. Winterizing your home is crucial to keep it comfortable, energy-efficient, and safe during the colder months. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the impending chill.

1. Insulate Your Home: Proper insulation is the foundation of a well-prepared home for winter. Ensure your walls, attic, and basement are adequately insulated to prevent heat from escaping and cold air from seeping in. Good insulation not only keeps your home warm but also helps reduce energy costs.
   
   
2. Check and Seal Leaks: Gaps and cr...

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Bust Dusting

Dust happens, it's everywhere, and when you think about it, it isn't just unsightly, it's unpleasant. According to Wikipedia, household dust is composed of about 20-50% dead skin cells. The rest consists of soil, pollen, pet dander, bacteria, dust mites, and more.

Regardless of the source, dust is unattractive, and breathing it in has potential to be harmful. Here are a few proactive ways to reduce it from entering and settling in your home, and therefore less dusting for you!