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_You have purchased a home and want to build a cozy patio where you can spend the summer. Here are our suggestions for creating the deck of your dreams, whether you accomplish it on your own or with aid from pros._

## Where your terrace is located

The position of your deck must be chosen after considering a number of factors. Access is the first factor. Yes, your terrace can be an extension of your internal area, be built around a pool, or be situated on a balcony. Its placement must be well-planned if you intend to eat there.

To enjoy the sun for as long as possible, it is also important to consider how it is oriented.

## Which kind of terrace?

There are several terrace designs that can meet every purpose. One of the most well-liked options is the adjacent terrace, which was constructed to flow with your interior area. However, it may also be raised, suspended, or placed on the roof.
The sort of terrace will be decided upon in accordance with the terrain. It must occasionally be leveled; this should be noted in the budget.

Lastly, choose the deck's dimensions based on your requirements.

Things to consider are outdoor furniture and ease of movement.

## Which materials ought I to pick?
You have a wide range of options, including stone, wood, and tile. Here are some parameters to aid your decision-making:

- Concrete, teak, composite wood, or stone decks are suggested for a strong and weatherproof deck.
- Choose a tiled patio made of natural stone or ceramic for a pleasant and attractive outdoor space.
- Choose concrete, pavers, or composite wood for a deck that requires no maintenance.

Finally, keep in mind that it is crucial to learn about the laws currently in effect and to take the appropriate actions to complete your project. For more information, consult the appropriate authorities.


Building a Terrace for Summer

How to accelerate the sale of your property.jpg

Looking to move your home sale forward quickly? Fast and successful sales? Are you thinking about Home Staging? In the highly competitive real estate market, this method has been growing steadily in recent years. Focus in this article.

When the owner of a house encounters resistance to the sale, he often decides to lower the asking price. However, there are other options. Home staging was created to meet this need. The goal is to enhance the value of a property so that it sells faster and for more money.

In fact, Home Staging is a set of methods that improve the marketability of a home before it is rented or sold. The idea is to draw attention to the strengths of the property so that visitors can fully appreciate what each space has to offer. Indeed, potential buyers may be put off by a home that is gaudy, old-fashioned or too personal.

If you want to increase the chances of a successful sale of your property, you should follow these six guidelines.

- Clean well
- Repair and maintain
- De-clutter
- Organize the space
- Decorate in harmony 
- Creating a new atmosphere

You don't need anyone's help to put the basics of home improvement into practice. Simply removing a few pieces of furniture or frames, or applying a fresh coat of paint, is all it takes. You can also ask for help from an expert in the field of interior design.

How to accelerate the sale of your property?

3 tips for insulating your home in winter.jpg

You may be thinking of having your home insulated after you recently purchased it. Then you should read this, because inadequate insulation is usually the root of the problem when it comes to heat escaping from your home. Get your home ready for winter by following our insulation tips.

## Roof Insulation

Checking the overall condition of your roof is crucial now that the cold weather has arrived. The truth is, the roof can be responsible for 30% of heat loss, so it's important to keep an eye on it and replace any broken tiles or moss you find, especially after a storm.

Mineral and organic wool insulation products dominate the market. Glass wool, rock wool and sheep's wool are just a few of the options. Whether they come in rolls or flexible sheets, they can be easily cut to size. The use of board insulation is also common. Many people have a preference for extruded polystyrene, polyurethane or polyisocyanate.

## Transform your view by changing your windows

Condensation, coldness or poorly closed windows are all indicators of inadequate insulation. By protecting your windows, you will not only improve your comfort, but you will also realize significant energy savings. There are a variety of thermal insulation products available. Install double-glazed windows or use gaskets to seal the ones you have on the outside. Roller shutters are more expensive but offer a longer warranty and are just as effective.

## Insulating the walls

By properly insulating the walls, heat loss can be reduced by up to 25%. There are two main methods: thermal insulation, which is installed on the inside, and exterior wall insulation, or facade insulation. Because of its low cost, the first option is the most popular. In addition, it can be done without an official declaration of work.

There are three main options when choosing the material to be used as wall covering for protection. Glass wool, rock wool and cellular glass all contain minerals and are therefore cheaper than other types of insulation.

Natural and environmentally friendly insulation options such as expanded cork, wood fiber and absorbent cotton should also be considered. Synthetic materials such as expanded or extruded polystyrene and polyurethane are also widely used.

3 tips for insulating your home in winter

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You've found a suitable rental, but the price is out of your reach. Do you want to know how to finance your first home on a limited budget? When buying or renovating a home in Luxembourg, a number of financial incentives are offered by the government. How about rental assistance? Here is a quick overview.

## The first type of housing assistance is the subsidy

### Criteria for Participation

There are a few prerequisites that must be met before you can benefit from the rent reduction.

Renting a home in Luxembourg is reserved for adults who are permanent residents of the Grand Duchy.

Renting an apartment or a house implies that it will be used as a primary residence. The property must also be up-to-date in terms of security. Neither the applicant's family nor any of their relatives, nor any government entity, may rent the property.

To be eligible, an applicant cannot own, co-own or usufructuate another residence.

The household income must be stable for at least three months and not exceed a certain limit. The amount of rent must exceed 25% of the applicant's net monthly income.

### Recognition of financial resources

Income from the previous fiscal year on the date of application for assistance is used to determine the final amount of assistance.

All pensions, parental leave benefits and other income received during the year are included (alimony or accident). Any pension contributions made by the applicant will reduce the total amount of their pension.

## Another possibility: obtaining assistance to pay the rental guarantee

Landlords have the right to require rent guarantees in any situation. However, this guarantee can be difficult to obtain for some.

The good news is that financial assistance is available from the government. Who is it for, and how do I get it? Detailed information is provided by us.

### Access requirements

There are a number of prerequisites for receiving rental guarantee payment assistance:

The applicant must be over 18 years of age, cannot be the owner or usufructuary of another principal residence, and the rental property must serve as his or her principal residence. It must be physically located in Luxembourg; a conditional guarantee contract must be concluded with a financial institution.

In addition, the rent cannot represent more than 40% of the tenant's net monthly salary.

### The amount of the aid

The guaranteed rent assistance is equal to three months' rent. You will need to apply to this special housing assistance service.

If you are a low-income tenant who has not yet applied for these state-sponsored assistance programs, you should do so. You can still submit an application if you wish. Contact a real estate office; a counselor can answer any questions you have about buying a home and getting a home loan.

What kind of help for renting in Luxembourg?

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Is the construction of your new house finished, or are you still dreaming of redoing the floors in your old house? Either way, your primary goal is the same: to improve your mood. How about refreshing the look of your home with new flooring? When you have so many options, how can you decide? You can count on us to guide you to the best option.

## 1. Wood floors have always been a popular and sophisticated option

If you're enamored with the natural beauty of wood, you'll have to choose between solid wood and parquet flooring. In terms of price, engineered wood floors are preferable to solid wood floors. Solid wood flooring is the best option because it resists damage and lasts a long time. Unlike glued parquet, which consists of three layers, only the top layer is completely made of wood, and therefore it is 100% noble wood. Since solid wood floors can be sanded, they can take on a new look over time and as the decoration is updated with some work, of course. Also, solid wood floors can squeak and make noise, but they have the advantage of absorbing moisture. Underfloor heating is convenient, but careful planning of the flooring material is required. It will keep your feet warm, but this method of heating may accelerate the deterioration of the floor.

## 2. Sea rush or cork flooring is a practical and attractive option

Two raw materials, sea rush and cork, are available to you for this task. These environmentally friendly and natural materials are robust and should provide sufficient insulation. Sea rush, on the other hand, requires constant maintenance and is easily stained. When cork is exposed to intense sunlight, it may undergo a color change. However, when displayed in well-lit areas such as the kitchen or living room, it takes on a more organic and inviting appearance. The weaves of sea rush can add patterned variations to your floor, and cork can take on a variety of colors and styles.

## 3. Resilient flooring is incredibly beneficial

Resilient flooring is simple to install and can be styled to mimic a wide variety of materials, but to do so, you need to know the differences between vinyl and linoleum. Unlike linoleum, which is made from natural materials, vinyl flooring is made from plastic. Both the floor and upper levels are soundproof, and both can be cleaned quickly and easily. Linoleum is both environmentally friendly and exceptionally hygienic, while vinyl excels only in its impact resistance. They are both inexpensive, but their usefulness is limited by their short lifespan. They can't stand the heat of a fireplace or smoker, so keep them away! They are usually found in high-traffic areas that require more frequent cleaning, such as kitchens, hallways and bedrooms. There is a wide variety of patterns, colors and styles, making it easy to create the atmosphere you want in the room of your choice.

## 4. Tile or carpeted floors

The versatility of tile comes from the wide variety of tile sizes and materials available. The use of large tiles is currently in vogue and can visually expand a room. A simple change to gray or white tiles can have a dramatic effect on how others perceive your home. Among the many benefits of this flooring are its low maintenance and high durability. The only real risk with tile floors is the risk of slipping and falling. Carpet, on the other hand, is the safest flooring because it prevents slipping. It is easy to install but difficult to maintain. For this reason, it should only be installed in discrete spaces, such as the bedroom. Carpet comes in a wide variety of colors and textures, and can be made from natural or synthetic materials.

Now that you have a floor covering for your room, your feet can get a break from the hard, cold floor.

4 floor coverings to adopt for your property 

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If you have recently purchased a property with the intention of renting it out, you may be looking for tenants. Living alone, with roommates or in a committed relationship? Consider the different rental scenarios and the benefits of renting to a couple.

## The benefits of renting to a couple over other possible tenants

### 1. Renting to a single tenant

Renting to a single tenant is an option. There is little reason to worry if his income is at least three times the monthly rent. On the other hand, if he suddenly loses his job and is unable to pay the rent, you may be in immediate arrears, or even have to find a new tenant.

### 2. Renting to multiple occupants in the same unit

The problems mentioned above are just a few that can be avoided when tenants pool their resources and live in common spaces. Additionally, the risks are mitigated if your tenants are students, as their parents will be paying the rent. But sharing a unit with others can lead to noise complaints and even vandalism at night.

### 3. Renting to a couple

By renting to a couple, you can be sure that your rent will be paid even if one tenant loses his or her job and the other continues to receive income from their partner. They're also likely to be quieter than roommates with friends, unless they have small children. But families are universally more welcome in housing, so there will be fewer problems between neighbors.

## Advantages specific to the couple's situation

When a man and a woman get married, they automatically become co-tenants. This simplifies not only the paperwork, but also the payments: if one of the tenants is late in paying the rent, the other can be asked to cover the shortfall.

In addition, if one spouse moves out, he or she is still obligated to pay his or her share; only a divorce will relieve him or her of this responsibility.

Thus, renting to a couple has a number of advantages, including reduced risk of non-payment, increased security in the condominium, simplified administration and the possibility of a lease transfer.

What are the benefits of renting for a couple?

Renovate your home with these 3 well-planned strategies.jpg

Are you uncomfortable when you are at home? It's probably because your layout is the cause of that discomfort. Yes, a well-designed layout improves the comfort of your home. But it's not always easy to know where to start. Having trouble and need help? Take a look at these three suggestions.

## 1. Set up zones

To enjoy life at home, it's important to set boundaries between different spaces:

Use a sliding wall to separate the bedroom from the rest of the house, including the kitchen and living room.

The fireplace can be isolated from the rest of the house, preventing drafts and ensuring complete privacy.

Does your kitchen open directly into the living room? Install an island divider and use a combination of kitchen tile and living room flooring to visually separate the two rooms.

Do you have an enclosed cooking area? If so, you may want to consider installing a skylight.

One last tip: if you need a desk, set it up in a separate room so it doesn't get in the way of your rest or concentration.

## 2. Make sure you decorate your living spaces well

In the kitchen, storage solutions that cover the entire wall height and are customized to accommodate your specific appliances are a wise investment.

In the living room, custom furniture allows you to use all the available space, which is especially helpful if your room has an unconventional layout.

Have a spacious closet to store your clothes and accessories. If you want to get a good night's sleep, the rest of the room should be as bare as this one.

In the office, make sure your desk is well-lit and ergonomic to avoid back pain.

## 3. Make sure the layout of your home is right for you

### For children

Use soothing tones and rugs or curtains to create zones in your child's room. You shouldn't have to help your young child find his or her way.

Is there a place in the house where he can get hurt? Think about covers for electrical outlets, a barrier at the top of stairs, etc.

Is everything designed for his height? If not, buy him a stool so he can use the sink.

### For the elderly

For everyone's safety, it's important to assess living conditions, especially if you have elderly relatives or friends living with you.

Seek the services of an expert in the field for the best results in this area. Your inspector may ask you to rearrange furniture, put a bedroom on the main floor or install grab bars in the bathrooms.

Designing your home is fun for many, but stressful for others. With the tips listed below, you can get started with peace of mind.

Renovate your home with these 3 well-planned strategies

How can a Jacuzzi spa help you.jpg

If you've had a long, stressful day, a soak in the hot tub could be just what the doctor ordered. A hot tub can do more for you than help you relax. Find out when it's best to stay away from one and what benefits you can get from it. The six benefits of owning a hot tub are listed below.

## 1. Reduce Stress

The ability of a jacuzzi spa to relieve tension and anxiety is one of its most prominent features. The soothing effect of the hot water and the massaging action of the jets can do wonders to relieve tension in your body, mind and soul.

Relaxing music, subdued lighting or aromatherapy can contribute to this effect if you wish.

## 2. Relax your muscles to fight pain

Tight muscles can benefit from the hot water and massaging jets of the spa. In addition, they can reduce pain. Tension in your muscles, joints and tendons is reduced when you soak in a hot tub, which can help relieve some of your pain. Arthritis sufferers can find relief from their symptoms by applying heat or getting a massage, which helps reduce stiffness and inflammation. If you spend more time in the water, your range of motion and flexibility will improve due to the buoyancy effect. A warm bath can have similar effects.

## 3. Better results at bedtime

Simply soaking in a hot tub can be enough to help you sleep better, according to studies. One old study examined the effectiveness of passive body warming in treating insomnia in older adults. 

## 4. Improved Cardiovascular Health

Relaxation in a whirlpool can increase heart rate and lower blood pressure. Particularly for people who are unable to engage in strenuous physical activity, the study authors hypothesized that passive heat therapy may help reduce cardiovascular risk and mortality. According to reliable research, soaking in a hot tub for 10 minutes can reduce blood pressure and is probably safe for most people with treated high blood pressure.

## 5. Increased response to insulin


Some studies have found that regular use of a sauna or hot tub can help diabetics manage their condition by increasing insulin sensitivity. In addition, one study found that sauna and hot tub therapy can help people with obesity and diabetes.

## 6. Burn calories

Soaking in a hot tub for an hour at waist height burns almost as many calories as a brisk walk for 30 minutes, according to a 2016 study. However, for people who have trouble motivating themselves to exercise, a relaxing bath may be just what they need to jumpstart their metabolism. Taking a warm bath regularly has been associated with many health benefits, including reduced muscle tension, less pain and better nighttime sleep.

To protect the well-being of hot tub users, regular maintenance is necessary. If you have health problems, including cardiovascular disease, you should consult a physician. Avoid hot tubs if you are pregnant, have skin lesions or for any other reason. Most people can use hot tubs safely if they are used properly.

How can a Jacuzzi spa help you?

What help can the notary provide during a real estate transaction.jpg

Your property search has been successful, and you and a reliable seller have now signed a preliminary sales agreement. All that remains is for you to finalize the deed of sale by going to a notary. But does this person only have this responsibility? More precisely, how can he help you? Find out what a notary does and how he fits into the real estate process.

## Ensuring the property is authentic and of high quality

Is the seller the legal owner of the house, or is it subject to a mortgage? Any debts that don't show up on your credit report? An unfinished rental contract?

In any case, the notary will verify everything. He officially guarantees that the real estate transaction will go smoothly.

In addition to dozens of other legal and fiscal points, he will also check the consistency of the real estate diagnoses, especially the one on energy performance. He will find the slightest flaw and will make sure that you are informed of it.

If there is nothing to report, on the other hand, you can rest assured that the transaction will be concluded without any unpleasant surprises.

## He will guide you through the steps of closing a sale

Once these details have been taken care of, the notary will draw up the notarial deed.

This is the last step to finalize the real estate transaction. Even if the signature of a preliminary sales agreement represents a serious commitment on the part of both parties, it is only the first step in the conclusion of a purchase.

Therefore, the notary takes care of everything necessary to conclude the sale on your behalf, including filing the deed with the proper authorities and making the necessary payments.

In addition, the notary will determine the official status of the property. What is this for? Well, it's an essential piece of evidence to show that a particular date and specific parties have completed a particular real estate transaction.

This way, you won't have to deal with as many problems later on.

## During a real estate transaction, the notary gives you sound advice

It goes without saying that a notary is indispensable for every home buyer.

In Luxembourg, there are still 36 notaries in total. They are personally appointed by the Grand Duke and are subject to extensive regulations for the exercise of their profession.

You can rely on your notary to give you competent advice on any question you may have. When exactly should a purchase be made? What to do if the notary discovers a mortgage?

Remember that the notary is impartial and cannot be influenced by either the buyer or the seller. For this reason, the services of a single notary are sufficient for both parties.

Thanks to your new knowledge of the notary's functions in the Grand Duchy, you can consult him in all confidence for any legal question. Do not hesitate to ask him questions, he is there to answer you in the most impartial way possible.

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