The cooler weather poses more opportunities for gathering around a fire and soaking in the season. Don’t have an indoor fireplace? Have no fear! Learn to build your own backyard fire pit with just a few steps. 

Before you begin, make sure to find out what the local fire code says about having fire pits in your backyard.

You’ll need a few supplies before you build your own backyard fire pit. Here’s what you will need:

• Bricks or concrete pavers
• A trowel
• Strong twine
• Gravel
• A tape measure
• A stake
• A large shovel
• A level

Now that you have all of your materials, you can build your own fire pit. Once you know the distance that a fire pit can be from shrubbery, your house, etc., mark the center with a stake.

Then, attach a piece of twine from the end of your trowel to your stake. The twine will vary in length depending on the diameter you prefer for your fire pit. Next, take the sharp end of the trowel and drag it in the dirt to make a perfect circle around the stake.

Now you have the parameters to dig the hole for your fire pit, which will be about 6 to 12 inches deep. When you're done digging, use your shovel to pat the dirt down flat. Use your level to make sure the surface will be steady for your bricks. 

Add a couple inches of gravel and spread it evenly across your levelled soil.

Leave a few inches from the border, and begin laying down your bricks. Fire pit walls are typically about 12 inches in height.

Finally, round up your chairs and your friends, and enjoy your own backyard fire pit!

Now that it’s officially fall, you can welcome endless pumpkins, gourds and pine cones in your fall home decor! Decorating your home to reflect the autumnal season doesn’t have to be intimidating or even expensive. Here are five budget-friendly fall home decor ideas to adorn your humble abode for the cooler season:

1. Accent with earthy elements

Chances are you already have traces of fall home decor in your backyard. Earthy elements add an organic feel to your home decor and won’t break the bank! Accents can include pine cones, eucalyptus branches, wheat or even cotton bouquets. Arrange these in a tray, antique vase, or even opt for a pumpkin as your vessel. That’s right; clean out a pumpkin, and you now have a fun new vase.

2. Add textured fabrics

Fall welcomes the cozier season, and your seating areas should reflect this. Add luxe fabrics, such as velvet, as well as additional throw pillows and blankets on your chairs, couches and benches. These elements bring warmth both to your fall decor and when the temperatures drop.

3. Ready your fireplace

It goes without saying that you haven’t used your fireplace in quite some time. Get your fireplace geared up for fall by having it professionally cleaned first. Next, it’s time to deck out your mantle with fall home decor. Incorporate the aforementioned earthy elements by arranging them in vases of varying heights. You can also get more creative with your mantle by adding candles and colorful gourd varieties. 

4. Tackle the table

Since the colder months typically yield less picnic weather, it’s time to start looking at where you’ll be dining during the cooler months—your table. Upgrade your table by adding elegant linens and an eye-catching centerpiece. You’ll also be one step ahead as you prepare for family gatherings during the holiday season. 

5. Don’t forget the door

With fall season, it’s also wreath season. Now’s the time to deck out your front door! While you could easily purchase a fall-themed wreath at your local arts and crafts store, you can easily make your own. All you need are a hot glue gun, a large metal hoop and some twigs and greenery, which you can easily find in your own backyard. 

Whether you’ve flipped your home and you're ready to gain a profit or you're relocating and looking to put your home on the market, knowing how to stage your home can make a big difference in how quickly it will sell. 

Look to these tips when looking to stage your home:

1. Up your curb appeal.

You’ve probably heard this dozens of times, but curb appeal plays a crucial role when you're preparing to stage your home. The best part about the home staging process is that upping your curb appeal doesn’t have to break the bank. To do so, purchase new house numbers, add a potted plant to your front porch or give your front door a new coat of paint . . . the ideas are endless. 

2. Consider the five senses.

From soft lighting to light music, setting the mood and targeting the five senses creates a calm ambience for buyers to enter into when touring your home. If you choose to add a scent to your home, go for subtle scents like lavender or citrus. Add varying textures throughout the home such as a fun embroidered throw pillow or a velvety, chenille blanket. As potential buyers peruse your home, feeling the different textures, this promotes personal connection and makes them feel more at home. Lastly, what’s a home tour without a nibble? Set out a plate of small finger foods or simply just a plate of cookies to seal the deal. 

3. Play up your square footage.

Buyers are always looking for more square footage. Even if some of your home’s rooms are on the smaller side, there are a couple tricks you can do to make them appear more spacious. Hang mirrors in the smaller rooms to reflect more light and trick the eye into thinking it's larger than it truly is. Laying down oversized floor rugs and hanging large artwork on the walls are other simple ways to tactically play up your square footage. 

4. Make buyers feel at home.

To make buyers feel at home, there are several simple things you can do to achieve this. You can set the table with the whole nine yards—placemats, glassware and other dishes—to create a sort of dinner party scene for the potential hostess touring your home. You can also arrange outdoor seating and a grill on your patio to create a homey ambience. Better yet, hang a hammock between your trees to truly make your buyers feel at home. When buyers can imagine themselves living in your home, yours will stick out among the rest. 

The best thing about living in sunny Florida is that there’s year-round fun to be had outside, especially in your backyard. If you’re looking to upgrade your backyard, here are a few easy ways you can do so on any budget.

Create a patio.

When you add a patio, this new feature instantly makes the space more desirable and cozy. Once you add lounging and patio furniture, you now have a new place to entertain your family and friends. All you need is your grill, and you’re ready to host a backyard bash. 

Provide your kids with a playground.

Playgrounds make a great addition to your backyard since your kids won’t have to make the trip to the local park; they can just head out back! A backyard playground also ensures they’re playing in a safe, private space to ease your worries. The best thing about backyard playgrounds is that they can range from swings to climbing walls to treehouses! Decide what’s age-appropriate for your children.

Hang outdoor lights.

Stringing outdoor lights in your backyard instantly makes your backyard more dreamy. The ambiance from the string lights hung between your trees or on your patio is a neat alternative to your average lantern.

Add some green.

Incorporating gardens to your surroundings is a quick fix when you want to upgrade your backyard. Whether you decide to strictly grow flowers, vegetables or a combination of the two, you can’t deny that this addition quickly enhances your space.

Incorporate a fire pit.

No longer will you have to quickly retreat indoors when the nights grow chilly. Instead, a fire pit allows you to enjoy your evenings outdoors for extended hours. Even the kids will love roasting marshmallows after dinner!

Hang a porch swing or hammock.

Quite possibly one of the easiest ways to upgrade your backyard is to hang a hammock or swing on your porch. If you choose to place the hammock or swing within your yard, this adds another cozy seating option for guests to kick back and relax.

Peak hurricane season is here, and the season continues through the end of November. Since we’re on the eastern coastline, it’s crucial that you make sure your home is prepped for hurricane season. Here are five simple tips for readying your home.

1. Trim back loose limbs on your property.

When prepping your home for hurricane season, you’ll want to take a walk around your yard to locate any loose, dead limbs or weak trees. The rough winds that accompany hurricanes can easily cause already loose limbs to detach or trees to collapse. Remove these damaged parts of your yard in order to reduce the risk that these could fall on your home. 

2. Tidy your gutters and downspouts.

The last thing you want to worry about is flooding causing damage to your home when this could have been prevented. Now’s the time to clean out your gutters and downspouts of any debris or buildup. Then, make sure these are securely attached to your home in case of rough winds.

3. Invest in an electric generator. 

Whether you purchase a portable generator or a whole-house generator, these are great investments in the event that hurricane season causes you to lose power. Portable electric generators can cost anywhere from $800–$2,000, and portable generators cost as much as $25,000. Whichever type you decide to purchase, it’s important to have an alternate electric source during a power outage. It’s also worthy to note that portable generators should be kept outside of your home, at least 20 feet away.

4. Set an evacuation plan in place for you and your family.

All of your family members should know where to relocate in the event you have to evacuate your home. Be aware of local hurricane evacuation routes in your area, then make arrangements for your family to stay in a hotel or with friends or family.

5. When staying in your home, have a fully stocked supply kit.

In the event that you and your family must stay in your home during a hurricane, there are precautions you can take in order to ensure your safety. Your hurricane supply kit should be stocked with the necessities. Here’s a sample list of what you should include:

• Water bottles (1 gallon is needed per person/day)
• First aid kit
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries
• Nonperishable food for 3–7 days
• Can opener
• Extra blankets
• Rain gear
• Plastic garbage bags
• Dry pet food
• Coolers with drinks and perishable food
• Extra medicine and prescription medicine

While hurricane season can sometimes be unpredictable, do your best to be prepared by securing your home, setting a family evacuation plan and making sure your home is stocked with the essentials.

Wondering if homebuying is the best decision for you during active duty? While there are varying opinions on the subject, Army veterans have had a positive experience with homebuying during active duty.

Veterans see the benefits of owning a home including being able to rent it out while on duty as well as the overall freedom that accompanies having a home of one’s own.

Are you considering buying a home while on active duty? Here are some helpful tips if you decide to go this route.

1. Always have next steps in mind.

Ask yourself if this home could be rented out or sold down the road if need be.

2. Don’t rush the process.

When homebuying during active duty, you likely will not be too familiar with the neighborhoods. Take the time to meet with a trusted realtor and ask her about the various surrounding towns before taking the plunge.

3. Target the neighborhood’s median price and purchase below that price.

This tidbit of knowledge will greatly assist you as you will be likely making repairs on the home to eventually flip it and sell it.

4. Learn from other military members.

Other military members who have purchased homes during active duty are great resources during this process. Seek their help to find out what worked and didn’t work so well for them.

5. Be OK with this home not being your dream home.

See the home you’re buying during active duty as your investment home. The same advice goes for not paying top dollar for a home. Since you’ll likely only be living in the home for about three years, the home will not have enough time to appreciate by the time you will sell it. 

Are you looking to move to a new city? You may be relocating your family to a new city in search of a better school district, for your job promotion or to just have a better quality of life. However, you must be strategic before relocating to a new city. Save yourself the stress and explore these five factors before making the big move.

1. Affordability

When considering moving, affordability plays a crucial factor in whether or not you choose to relocate to a specific city. While you may be able to afford your new rent or mortgage, how does your income stand with the gas prices, groceries and other day-to-day expenses? To get an idea of the U.S. cities with the lowest cost of living, Niche investigates this topic using data from the U.S. Census and Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

2. City and State Taxes

Whether it’s income taxes or exemptions, city and state taxes are another expense that will factor into your new cost of living. The Tax Foundation’s Center for State Tax Policy has a helpful map for you to see the tax breakdown of each state. 

3. Safety

Now that you’ve calculated affordability and tax rates, safety is equally important when relocating to a new city. Consider a neighborhood’s crime rate before making the big move. You’ll likely discover that neighborhoods with lower crime rates will be more expensive, and vice versa. 

4. Weather

Moving from the sunny winters of Florida to the below-freezing, though beautiful, snowy winters of Minnesota might be one reason to derail your decision from moving to a particular city. Consider the weather and quality of life the new city will offer you and your family to see if this will be the most fitting option.

5. School System

Moving to a new city is an endeavor on its own, so you’ll also want to consider if it has a highly rated education system. WalletHub rates the best and worst school systems by state after analyzing a schools' performance, funding and instructor credentials, among many other factors. 

When perusing your social media accounts showcasing picture-perfect homes complete with a dreamy backyard and a gorgeous open kitchen, it can be easy to get swept up in this tell-tale question: Should I be buying a home, too?

The hard truth is that buying a home is not for everyone. Sure, owning a home can be a wise financial investment, but is it a good move for you right now? Here are six questions to ask yourself before buying a home.

1. Do I make enough money?

While you may make enough money to pay a mortgage, you also have to factor in the down payment, closing costs and extra cash for an emergency fund. What a lot of people don’t tell you is that there’s also the maintenance side of homeownership that must be considered along with taxes and homeowners insurance. Not to mention, depending on the neighborhood where you buy, there are HOA fees. To crunch the numbers, use this mortgage calculator. 

2. Do I have too much debt?

Now that you’re in the clear for your monthly mortgage and down payment, let’s assess your debt. For instance, if you’ve maxed out all of your credit cards, it’s wise to manage those prior to buying a home. Thirty-six percent of your gross income is the maximum ballpark debt that lenders prefer you to have when you’re looking to purchase a home.

3. Do I have enough funds in my savings account?

The down payment isn’t the only hurdle you’ll have to save for as a homeowner. What if your water heater breaks or a pipe bursts in your kitchen? While no one wants to worry about these surprise repairs, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a cushion in your savings account to cover the costs. On the other hand, there are the expected costs of homeownership: expenses for buying new furniture, property taxes and moving costs. As you can see, your savings account must supply for much more than just a down payment. 

4. Have I been with my job for at least two years?

Lenders like to see that you have kept a steady job for the last two years since this is how your average income is calculated. Not only does this show income stability, but this also conveys the message to mortgage lenders that you’re equipped to buy a home.  

5. How is my credit?

Whether you have poor credit or zero credit, these factors are red flags for mortgage lenders. Poor credit might be a result of too much debt, so lenders may suggest that you resolve these debts before buying. If you have zero credit, lenders will look for good credit patterns in other forms, such as your rent history and car insurance.

6. Am I ready to settle down?

Experts say that if you’re considering living in your home for three to five years, then homebuying may be for you. If you’re in the habit of changing cities and moving every year, buying a home may not be in the cards for you right now since this will not be enough time for your home to appreciate or gain value.

Chances are you don’t have a hefty down payment in your account to buy a home on a whim. Yet, with a few tips, you can save a down payment for your home in just 12 months.

First thing’s first, you have to factor in more than the down payment itself. From closing costs to insurance, the numbers will quickly add up. CNNMoney’s Home Affordability Calculator is a great resource for getting a quick, ballpark amount. However, it’s crucial to meet with a financial advisor to assist you in finding out how much you can afford once you factor in your spending habits. 

Once you’ve done your homework, you can have a starting place to put these four ways into practice for saving for a down payment in 12 months.

1. Cut your rent.

Your monthly rent payment is likely the largest portion of your budget. Sharing expenses with family members or friends is a great way to decrease your rent. Either by moving in with others or adding a roommate can save you bundles. Even saving as little as $100 on your monthly rent can save you up $1,200 in a year to put toward your down payment. 

2. Differentiate between ‘needs’ and ‘wants.’

Saving for a down payment in 12 months will require an assessment of your spending habits to establish your ‘needs’ and ‘wants.’ For instance, if you live in a city with public transportation, you don't need to drive. Save money on gas and take a bus. If you live close to your work, try biking or walking more. If your household has two cars, you may even want to ditch the extra car to help you save and pocket the amount from selling it. 

3. Minimize extra expenses.

Sure, this seems like a no-brainer, but you’ll be surprised how much you can save for a down payment on your home by cutting out extra expenses. Making your own lunch for work instead of going out to a restaurant, brewing your own coffee or exercising at home versus a gym are just a few ways you can save. Entertainment is another category that can be cut. For instance, rent a Redbox for a couple dollars instead of going to the movies and ordering popcorn and soda. 

4. Get a second job.

While this is certainly the least enticing way to pocket extra cash, a second job can give you the extra boost toward meeting your goal. Just keep reminding yourself that this second job is only for a season!

When you’re in the heat of a hot housing market, stakes are higher as prices have skyrocketed and the pressure is on when shopping for your new home. Don’t fall victim to the pressure of a hot housing market. Instead, here are five don’ts you should steer clear from as well as what you should do instead when house hunting in a seller’s market.

1. Don’t allow desperation to get the best of you.

Imagine this: the first home you’re head over heels for goes from For Sale to Pending before you got to tour it with your realtor. We’ve all been there. The first ‘don’t’ you need to overcome is desperation. When you’re desperate to purchase your home, your judgement can become murky toward homebuying and can cause you to make an impulsive decision.

Do: Take your time to truly narrow down what you are looking for in a home and be patient with the process, no matter how long it may take.

2. Don’t be unprepared when looking at properties.

When looking at homes in a hot housing market, it’s important that you are prepared to make an offer that same day. Homes will go quickly, and the last thing you want is to see your dream home go under contract because you didn’t have your loan approved ahead of time.

Do: Save yourself from the heartache, and be prepared with all of the necessary documents you’ll need to make a standout offer.

3. Don’t ignore the current market trends. 

In addition to taking a look at your finances, the future of your family, the security of your job and other factors, it’s also pertinent that you pay attention to the current market trends.

Do: Consult your realtor. Trends such as the duration that properties are on the market and which neighborhoods tend to sell quicker are great questions to start asking your realtor.

4. Don’t go into the process with a ballpark budget.

Homebuying is a major financial decision, and the last place you want to find yourself in is the stress of paying a mortgage, property tax and other items that are beyond what you can afford.

Do: Involve your financial adviser into the discussion when you’re planning your homebuying budget since your lender doesn’t take into account other monetary responsibilities such as savings, tuition, etc. Your advisor will also be able to clue you in on tax breaks if you’re a new homeowner. 

5. Don’t overpay for your home.

A hot housing market will inevitably produce bidding wars on homes. And if this is the seventh home you’re placing and offer on after losing other bidding wars, this can put the pressure on you to start bidding for more than you can afford.

Do: Look at comparables for the home before you visit in order to make an even-keeled decision.