Putting things in order – it almost makes your head hurt to think about it.  Great news!  It doesn’t have to be that way.  Here are some easy tips for putting things in order without the headaches. 

TIP # 1 – Write it down

Get yourself a notebook and keep it handy. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy.  When I started out I used a repurposed notebook from one of the kids.   I called it “Decorating” but it wound up being much more. 

tips for organize your life

Every time there is an improvement or something done around the house – write it down.  It is amazing how time flies and the things you forget if you don’t.  Record the date, who did the work, how long it took, how much it costs, colors/swatches, appliance or parts numbers…everything you need to recall for future reference.  You will be surprised how many times you will refer to it. I wish I could say mine is neat and tidy, but really I just jotted down the notes and kept the receipts and invoices. 

TIP # 2 – What to write down

No – I haven’t lost my mind.  How many times have you called the cable company, the insurance company, the bank, a merchant or someone to discuss or iron out a problem?  You hang up the phone and two weeks later the same problem is still there.  Do you remember the date you called, the time of day, who you spoke to?  What was the resolution you agreed on?

Next time you pick up the phone or go to an office with a problem or question record all pertinent information.  If you have a bill, statement or receipt from the business that is the best place to write the info.  If/when you have to call back begin your conversation with, “I called on ______ and spoke with ______ at _____am/pm.  He/she told me _______________.  Now, what can we do to finally resolve the problem?

You are not done yet.  Get all the same information from person # 2 in case you need to repeat the call a third time or until the issue is resolved.  It is surprising how knowing the facts can give you credibility.  Most companies “record the call for quality assurance and training purposes.”  If you have the date and time they should be able to pull up the recording very easily. 

TIP # 3 – A place for everything and everything in its place!

Find a space in a closet or a dresser drawer where you put your book, any guarantee information or instructions for things like TV’s and appliances or any major purchase.  Even if it is not in any particular order you will alway be able to locate the things you need.

FINAL THOUGHT

Well, this is a painting blog. When it comes to painting one important piece of information you will want to keep is the identifying information of the type of paint and colors you use to enhance your home.  Whether it is interior or exterior painting you need this information for any touch-ups or future painting you do.  

Besides the color you need to know if oil-based or latex paint was used.  You can paint oil over latex, but NEVER paint latex over oil without the appropriate primer being applied first.  If you hire professional painters to help you with your project be sure to let them know before you select your paint.  

Keep track of the dates that your house was painted.  You want to be sure and care for your biggest asset by painting and regular upkeep.  How often should you paint?  The exterior of your home should be painted every 5 – 10 years depending on the quality of paint used, weather conditions and type of siding.  Most people go longer than they should, but that creates costly problems like rotten window sill and damage to your siding.  Your interior walls should be painted every 5 years or so.  This keeps your walls from looking dingy and also allows you to update the look of your rooms.  

The professional painters at ColaTown Painting can help you make great choices for your home.  They are trustworthy and reliable and they stay until the job is done to your satisfaction.  There is always a final walk-through before the final payment!  Call Britt at 803-603-6486 or e-mail us at ellisb@colatownpainting.com for a free, no-obligation estimate when you decide to paint.

Colatown Painting

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