Bermuda’s change of season may not be measured by the change in the colour of the leaves, however, one feels the chill in the air that reminds us summer has left us and autumn is here. Take a look at some quick and easy tips that many designers use that can transform your home from one season to the next and so can you.

Say welcome at your front door by purchasing an inexpensive carpet and placing some seasonal shrubbery from your garden or fresh flowers. Bermuda’s Croton plant has natural autumn colours, however, as the plant is very woody peel off two inches of the stem to keep the leaves from curling and becoming limp.

Your living room can carry the autumn theme by changing out your decorative pillows and make it “punchy” with some textured pillows; your rugs can be layered for added depth and finally a warm fuzzy blanket for snuggling. Stack firewood in a basket for a crackling fire or place various size pillar candles in your fireplace for a glowing effect.

Dress your bed with some flannel sheets and a heavy comforter in earth tone colours, lay a blanket over the corner of the bed with the thought of curling up with your Kindle.

Kitchens are perhaps the easiest and least expensive as many fruits, vegetables and berries are abundant. Display them in a ceramic bowl or glass vase. Grouping different textures and fruits will create interest.

Cooler evening are upon us so have warm blankets for everyone to use. Light your fire-pit or Chiminea and entertain under the stars.

Visit your local paint store and find out the latest colour trends and choose a room(s) for a facelift.

An autumn or Christmas wreath is easy to assemble using garden vines to hang on your front door.

Plant outside pots with seasonal flowers.

Scented candles.

Create pools of light with lamps around a room for a cozy space. Dimmers will also help to create the same ambiance.

Autumn is upon us now and the holidays are soon to follow. While some like the beauty of the white winter, just as many wish to escape the cold. The decorating tips listed above can truly make the difference of your Bermuda Vacation Home renting or not. In addition to how the property looks, it is important to have a thorough understanding of the industry.

Savvy travellers are reviewing more and more websites for their family vacations to get the best accommodations and amenities that their hard earned dollars can buy. If you are considering renting your home, be sure you have set your goals and objectives. Some home owners are looking at this as a business and others to offset some costs. Review your Government regulations for required permits for houses; and condominium owners review your Homeowner’s Association Rules.

Know how involved you wish to be in the day-to-day running of the guests and their wishes. Who will be called when problems arise as your guests are expecting a quick response. You may wish to employ a property manager who will oversee the bookings of the property, take care of incoming and outgoing guests, co-ordinate any concierge wishes and a host of other services.

As this trend grows each year, marketing your home is crucial and creative search engines will provide you the best results.

If you are looking to learn more about this trend please give us a call and we will be happy to meet with you.

This week’s column was submitted by Karen Brine, sales representative at Coldwell Banker Bermuda Realty. Contact her at kbrine@ brcl.bm or 247-1806.