We’re a bit over halfway through the ski season, and many enthusiasts may be feeling fatigue—not from the slopes themselves but from crowded runs and packed lift lines. In the quest for open trails, savvy skiers and boarders opt for lesser-known destinations, where the same fresh powder, dramatic vistas and fireside warmth await without the press of the masses. Here’s a curated selection of seven such understated ski havens with a glimpse at some of their most prestigious properties, all worth a try before buying, or as an investment. Grimentz, Switzerland Though recognized by outlets like CNN and National Geographic…

Every residential real estate transaction, whether on the buy-side or the sell-side, involves different components unfolding at different rates. While much has been written about the hard facts of interest rates, inventory fluctuations, and the importance of proper pricing, far less attention is paid to the equally important (but less easy to quantify) “soft” impediments that buyers and sellers frequently experience. As these buyers and sellers go through the multiple decisions that comprise the transactional process, experienced agents can provide guidance and support for them in acknowledging these less visible challenges. Among the most significant are: 1. The psychological transition…

Renowned artist, designer, and Forbes Next 1000 honoree, Elizabeth Sutton has mastered the art of licensing her work while cultivating a career as a celebrated fine artist. Now, Sutton is setting the table—literally—with the launch of her highly anticipated dinnerware collection, a project eight years in the making. For Sutton, timing is everything, and her latest venture reflects her knack for blending artistry with functionality. Here’s what you need to know about the artist’s latest launch and what makes these future heirlooms a true must-have for any home. Bringing Art to the Table Sutton’s dinnerware collection features ten unique patterns,…

As we step into 2025, interior design is becoming more personal than ever. Gone are the days of standard builder-grade finishes, stark white walls, and thoughtless choices. This year is all about true authenticity in design. While some trends from previous years will remain popular, they will also evolve to keep up with changing tastes. Surprisingly, what many expected to be fleeting microtrends—like quiet luxury and vintage aesthetics—have proven to have lasting power. So, what’s in (and out) for 2025? Here are the top fifteen interior design trends, according to designers and experts. Rich Color Palettes Leave those muted colors…

The American Institute of Architects’ fourth quarter 2024 Home Design Trends Survey of its members reveals patterns in neighborhood design . Some of the findings from the online survey of 300 member firms reflect trends that support residents’ health, safety and well-being. It will be interesting to see if they are reproduced and amplified in communities like Altadena, California and Asheville, North Carolina that have to rebuild after being devastated by natural disasters – particularly the trends that enhance resilience and support the aging of our society. Home Styles, Sizes and Exteriors While the pace of demand for contemporary home…

If you’re a real estate broker, you likely see many deals and may have considered investing yourself. While some professionals choose to focus on one path, it can be possible in some cases to carry out both roles. You may want to provide brokerage services while building an investment portfolio. This dual role can offer some advantages, though there are also other factors to be aware of, including potential conflicts of interest and ethical concerns. Before stepping into both worlds, you’ll want to understand what’s involved in each role. It can also be helpful to weigh the pros and cons…

New York City’s polarized political climate has created a misalignment in incentives between tenant advocates and housing providers, leaving landlords unable to reinvest in their properties. Many owners, faced with rising costs and capped revenues, are choosing to keep units vacant rather than re-renting them, resulting in a system where no one benefits. This dynamic underscores the urgent need for balanced, informed solutions. Educating Lawmakers: Bridging the Knowledge Gap Kenny Burgos, CEO of the New York Apartment Association (NYAA), is committed to educating lawmakers about the financial complexities involved in operating rent-stabilized housing. Burgos, who was my guest on a…

If it seems you’re noticing more senior housing communities these days, you’ve got a good eye for development. Retirement communities, along with the older Americans primed to move into them, have increased in number over the past decade. As commonplace as these communities appear to be, however, the pace at which they’re being developed has fallen off noticeably in recent years. The number of new starts is not keeping up with those coming online. At the same time, the number of seniors looking to move into senior housing has not dropped, and is likely to surge next year, when the…

Valentine’s Day is just two weeks away, and finding the perfect gift isn’t always easy. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with the best Valentine’s Day gifts for the home. Whether you’re shopping for a partner, a child, or even a Galentine, we’ve rounded up the most unique, meaningful, and stylish home gifts to give and receive. Katie Kime Zodiac Gallery Prints This is your sign—you’ve found the perfect Valentine’s Day gift. Katie Kime recently launched a line of zodiac-themed home goods, from wallpaper to ice buckets and even pajamas. But whether you’re a Capricorn or a Scorpio, these whimsical prints…

Keeping abreast of the latest kitchen trends can stimulate your creativity as you update your home. Since Houzz has 65 million homeowners and design enthusiasts in its community, along with 3 million residential construction and design professionals, I always pay attention to their trend announcements. The Houzz 2025 U.S. Kitchen Trends Report is chock full of information on the most popular colors, styles, materials, and more. I was eager to get insight from Marine Sargsyan, Houzz staff economist, along with photos from Houzz designers that demonstrate the new kitchen trends. Traditional Style Makes A Comeback Interestingly, the percentage of homeowners…