Rose Cottage Ltd

Nasty weather for the US Northeast this weekend. Rain, ice, snow, and a cold blast coming in behind the precipitation. Allow extra time for driving and keep an eye on this fast-moving weather front…

++ The $25,000+ Mortgage Mistake…

In my next life, you might find me living…

++ Tiny House: Go Small on Your Own Private Island

I couldn’t have titled this next one any better…

++ Really strange real estate listings

++ Ritzy real estate broker – $5.5 million fraud

++ Gifts under $100 from Exterior-Accents.com!

++ Why Real Estate Could Soar in 2015

And quite possibly, why it shouldn’t…

++ Look inside this rustic, sun-powered home

Looks like HGTV is starting to catch up with Rose Cottage Ltd!

++ “Tiny” House Hunters

And free shipping if your order is $250 or more!

For those who own real estate:

Spring is upon us, and whether you still have a bit of snow on the ground or not, now is a good time to get ready for Summer 2014.

Think about lawnmower, trimmer, etc., maintenance now – before equipment repair people get too busy. My lawnmower required a new blade for the coming growing season. Done! If weather permits, now is also a good time to get some mulch down to control weeds, apply any of those “pre-emergents” to get rid of the annoying crabgrass, etc., and to begin organizing any larger outdoor/landscaping projects you are planning to accomplish.

If you have any minor renovations to do or have decided to do some painting – inside or outside – do it now. You won’t have bugs (and maybe snakes,) or as much humidity to deal with as you will in a month or two.

Winter is also a slow time for many home improvement contractors. If you have work planned, get them out now for an estimate or to get your project started. They’ll have more time to devote to your project now than in June or July.

If you don’t own real estate, now is the BEST time to get looking!

Most families who are planning to sell want the deal over and done by mid-Summer so they can get organized for the next school year. You’ll usually find many new homes on the market in the next month – and maybe get some bargains too! Plants and trees are beginning to bloom in most areas of the US so you can get a better idea of what your new location will look like in summer.

For those who don’t own and won’t own real estate this year…

You can still buy a nice plant! Garden centers at places like Lowe’s or local nurseries are LOADED with plants for small spaces. Get yourself a exotic plant or even a small, flowering tree. If you are saving to buy a home of your own, you can still enjoy playing in a little dirt while you’re saving for your big purchase.

Whine for the week…

I see a LOT of homes where I know a couple of teenagers reside, and where I see hired landscaping service trucks and workers. You might be amazed at how good it feels to get outside and do some chores yourself once and awhile. It’s a way to get a little exercise, some fresh air, and often I find it reduces stress I might have lingering from the work week.

If I had kids over the age of 5, you’d also see THEM out doing something on a bright sunny day – even if I had to make something up for them to do. Younger kids usually enjoy planting something new and then being responsible for its watering, etc., and they can’t wait to see things grow and bloom. Older kids may require a swift kick to get them going, but once they do, most can get with the program and be reminded that a little work won’t kill them!

Happy planting!

More snow, sleet, ice (take your pick) on tap for southern states again this week. It’s getting a little bit annoying so time to think about spring and that it WILL eventually arrive.

Here’s a good place to retreat and think about products to improve your outdoor environment for the spring and summer to come!

Need some inspiration?

++ Gazing Balls and Globes

++ Outdoor Dining Sets

++ Outdoor Furniture

++ CLEARANCE ITEMS discounted at least 25% Click here

How many times has that particular question come up lately? Many of us have instead been saying “It’s going down to WHAT degree?”

For me, February is a rather depressing month. All the big holidays are behind us, the New Year is not “new” any longer, and there’s still over a month before spring.

So, this seems like as good a time as any to look for a new outdoor thermometer and clock – and to think positive for the remaining 43 days until spring and the 32 days left until Daylight Savings Time begins on March 9, 2014.

Here’s one for your favorite bass fisher…

Bass Outdoor Thermometer Clock

This Bass outdoor thermometer and clock combines functional quality with a unique decorative flair that may be used indoors or out. The rust-free durability of aluminum and upscale finish combine to provide a beautiful and durable patio accent.

+ Your choice of French Bronze or Antique Copper.
+ Clock runs on one AA battery, included.
+ Size: 14″ Diameter.

Cardinal Outdoor Clock Thermometer

This clock would be great in my backyard where Cardinals are the predominate “feeder.”

This distinctive outdoor clock and thermometer combines functional quality with a unique decorative flair that may be used indoors or out. The rust-free durability of aluminum and upscale verdigris finish combine to provide a beautiful and durable patio accent.

Size: 13.75″H x 8″W.

Fossil Sumac Thermometer Clock

I love this clock/thermometer in weathered limestone…very “rustic.”

Now you can have a million year old fossil replica right in your very own garden! This clever thermometer/clock combo is perfect for anyone looking to add a little fun to their garden. The intricately detailed plant engraving gives the look of a real life fossil and the convenience of a clock/thermometer combo, only adds to the overall presentation.

Size: 14.5″ Diameter

Shop for more clocks and thermometers in different sizes, styles and finishes!

Okay, you probably can’t get one of these up and running in time for the Superbowl, but many of us are in areas where we don’t want to be sitting outside in January anyway!

However, hundreds off regular price and free shipping make it “prime time” to look at some of these outdoor TV options for Spring and Summer 2014!

32″ HD All-Weather Outdoor LCD TV

This Sunbrite TV is designed for safe operation in a permanent outdoor environment and all electrical cords are rated for outdoor use.

The corrosion resistant powder coated aluminum exterior and watertight enclosure protects internal components from rain, dirt, insects and scratches. The baffled and filtered dual fan airflow system keeps the unit cool and dry in all environments. The innovative watertight cable entry system with pass-through design keeps cables dry and allows for easy hook up. An internal thermostatic heater is activated automatically when internal temperature sensor reads 32 degrees F or lower and protects TV in temperatures as low as 24 degrees F.

A contrast-enhancing, anti-reflective and scratch resistant window protects the LCD screen from rain, dirt and the elements.

Want a larger screen?

How about this 46″ HD All-Weather Outdoor LCD TV?

Compatible with nearly all video sources including off-the-air antenna, cable TV, satellite TV, DVD players and PCs (S-Video and composite video). Resolution 1920×1080, Standard VESA 75/100 mounting hole pattern.

Enjoy TV, movies and video entertainment in the comfort of your own backyard and at other outdoor venues, regardless of the weather!

Click here (or below) to get an additional 10% OFF

If you’ve ever thought about adding a “fire feature” to your garden or patio environment, now might be a great time to do so. Temperatures in North Carolina took a surprising drop to near freezing this past week – accelerating thoughts of what’s to come, i.e. WINTER!

Below are a few ideas proving that you can find a fire pit or stove to match well with almost any outdoor space, or budget. Items shown here are priced from just under $200 to over $4,000. Let your wallet be your guide!

Happy Fall!

Granite Top Chat Table w/ Lazy Susan Firepit

35″ Copper Fire Pit Set

Mosiac Tile w/ Stainless Steel Outdoor Firebowl

Mirage Stone Outdoor Woodburning Fireplace (Pewter)

Tree Leaves Firepit

Sonoma Gas Fireplace (Mocha)

If you want to add a bit of warmth and style to your fall backyard entertaining, how about one of these Chimineas? All are on sale right now – some items with Free Shipping!

This high quality cast aluminum chiminea is a perfect gathering place, outdoor heater, and grill. This small chiminea is perfect for a small patio or deck, handles up to 12″ fire logs, and has an adjustable door on the bottom to adjust airflow. Remove the stack to reveal the hidden grill. In addition to its durability, an aluminum chiminea is more lightweight than its cast iron cousins. It will be easier to maintain and can be quickly stored during off-season times.

Size: 33″H x 15″Dia. 28 lbs.

On sale – under $200! Also available in Green and Charcoal tones.

Etruscan Cast Aluminum Chiminea (Gold Accent)

Snuggle up to the vintage style of the Gatsby chiminea. This medium sized chiminea is perfect for the avid antique collector. It has the feel of the Gatsby era combined with the durability of cast aluminum. In addition to its durability, an aluminum chiminea is more lightweight than its cast iron cousins. It will be easier to maintain and can be quickly stored during off-season times. Finally, because aluminum does not rust, it will last through years of harsh weather and rain. Cast aluminum is strongly suggested for areas of the USA that have cold snowy and rainy winters or wet seasons.

Features include a beautiful antique design, non-rusting solid cast aluminum alloy body with a decorative removable rain lid, neck insert for grilling, carry handles for easy arrangement, hinged mouth spark screen, spark arrestor neck insert, and a cast iron bottom grate to support the fire.

Size: 44″H x 20″ diameter. 65 lbs. Also available with Gold accent.

Gatsby Cast Aluminum Chiminea (Charcoal)

Note: Always use a non-combustible hearth pad or brick pavers underneath a woodburning chiminea or fireplace on top of combustible materials such as wood decking. This will protect against fire or heat damage.

The large Venetian Cast Aluminum Chiminea makes an excellent centerpiece for outdoor entertaining. Gather round to roast marshmallows or try your hand at open fire grilling, a large grilling/baking insert is included. The extra large size handles a full size fire log and an extra large mouth opening for full view of the fire. Remove the stack to reveal the large hidden grill. In addition to its durability, an aluminum chiminea is more lightweight than its cast iron cousins. It will be easier to maintain and can be quickly stored during off-season times.

Safety features include a spark arrestor neck insert and a hinged spark screen. Includes bowl handles and a decorative matching rain lid. Burn wood or artificial logs.

Optional weather cover and gas conversion kits available.

Size: 54″H x 23″Dia. 90 lbs.

Gazing balls originated in 13th century Venice where they were hand-blown by skilled Italian craftsmen.

King Ludwig II of Bavaria, sometimes referred to as Mad King Ludwig, adorned his Herrenchiemsee palace with lawn balls. Thereafter, they became a fixture of European gardens and are associated with Victorian era English gardens in particular.

The biggest mistake I see regarding these gazing balls or garden globes is when people with little space, use too many. For the best effect, these globes should be a sudden and unexpected garden surprise. Otherwise, your yard might start looking like a bowling alley!

10″ Illuminarie Blue Swirl Gazing Globe

GLOW IN THE DARK!

These unique glow-in-the-dark garden gazing globes contain luminescent crystals that absorb sunlight during the day and then emit a radiant glow at night for up to four hours. Beautiful during the day too!

Hand-blown glass
10″ Diameter
Stand not included (see below for stand options)

Phoenix Mosaic Gazing Globe 10″

This mosaic gazing globe utilizes individually hand-blown glass pieces creating a beautiful array of golds and reds along with other colors, making a great addition to any garden area.

Place a gazing ball among your perennials, near the rose bushes, or at the end of a pathway.

Stand not included
Hand-blown glass, mosaic finish
10″ Diameter with 2″ neck at bottom

Garden Gazing Globes – Ocean Mist Illuminarie

These unique garden gazing globes contain luminescent crystals that absorb sunlight during the day and then emit a soft green glow at night for up to four hours. Beautiful during the day too!

Hand-blown glass
10″ Diameter
Stand not included

The best news about Gazing Balls and stands or columns? You can usually find a nice globe/stand combination for your patio and garden – and spend less than $100!

Stands for Gazing Globes come in a huge variety of shapes, colors and heights:

++ Treble Clef Gazing Ball Stand (12″H)

++ Three-Ring Globe Stand (34″H)

++ Fleur de Lis 10″ Globe Holder

++ Tuscan Globe Column

New for 2013 from Exterior Accents – Many Items w/FREE Shipping!

A cool morning or two make me long for more crisp mornings when I need my trusty sweater. The deck area sure will be more inviting if I also add one of these beautiful fire pits!

Note: Always use a non-combustible hearth pad or brick pavers underneath a woodburning fireplace being used on top of combustible materials such as wood decking. This will protect against fire or heat damage

Black Granite Copper Fire Pit Set

This stylish copper fire pit features a beautiful black granite table top surround and steel frame with a wrought iron finish. Includes a removable screen to contain flying embers, a lifting tool, a log grate for proper wood burning airflow, and a vinyl cover to protect it from the elements. Can also be used with charcoal.
Size: 15″H (without screen).

40″ Copper Fire Pit Set

This large copper fire pit includes a removable screen to contain flying embers, a lifting tool, a log grate for proper wood burning airflow, and a vinyl cover to protect it from the elements. Large heavy gauge (0.7mm) copper fire pit. Steel frame with powder coat wrought iron finish.

Dimensions (without screen): 14″H x 40″
Weight: 60 lbs

34″ Slate Firepit w/ Copper Accents

This stylish fireplace will quickly become the centerpiece of any patio setting. 34″ diameter slate and marble surround fire pit with copper accents. Features a 22″ diameter black porcelain bowl and a mosaic design with diamond-shaped copper accents. The fire pit has a heavy wrought iron stand that adds stability and comes with an easy lift spark arrestor and steel grate. The easy lift spark guard works great to keep ashes and sparks from flying. The steel grate improves air flow allowing for a larger and warmer fire.

Dimensions: 22″H x 33 13/16″
Weight: 58 lbs.