As the weather turns cooler, you'll probably start spending more time at home as you feel like snuggling into a warm, cozy environment. Upping your home's cozy factor can make it more welcoming and appealing, whether you're planning to own it for a while or looking to put your home on the market. And you can make these changes quite easily and inexpensively.
  
Our REALTORS® suggest making your Long Island home cozier this fall with the following updates.

• Add some pillows and throws.
  Warm up your couch and chairs with some pillows in seasonal colors or deep jewel tones, choosing soft fabrics that feel inviting and create layers. You can also add some snuggle-worthy throws (think chunky knits) to your bedroom and living room by neatly draping them on the back of your couch or chairs or storing them in a basket or on an ottoman. 
  
  
• Buy seasonal candles.
  Seasonally scented candles make your home smell like fall while giving it a cozy feel. As an added benefit, they add a warm glow that feels inviting. If you're concerned about lighting candles because of soot or safety issues, buy some candle warmers. Some are shaped like small lamps and give you the nice scent of a candle without any danger.
  
  
• Utilize area rugs.
  Hardwood floors have a lot of advantages, but when the weather turns cooler, they can be a bit chilly for your feet. Add some area rugs in warm fall colors to your foyer, hallways, and bedside to keep your feet comfy while creating a homey, comfortable look.
  
  
• Layer your lighting.
  The right lighting can make your rooms feel warm and inviting as the seasons turn to fall. Lamps are a great way to create a soft, layered effect of warm pools of light. Adding timers to your lamps can also give your rooms a nice glow to greet you when you get home. In contrast, overhead lighting can often look harsh in the fall. 
  
  
• Upgrade your headboard.
  Adding a cushy upholstered headboard to your bed makes it look softer and more inviting as well as adding a touch of luxury to your bedroom. If you're propped up in bed watching a movie on your laptop, reading, or scrolling through your social media, it creates a comfortable backdrop. Big headboards are in style, so don't be afraid to extend yours beyond the sides of your bed.
  
  
• Change your hardware.
  When you're updating your home for fall, you may not think about changing out your home's hardware. But if you have fixtures in cool-toned metals like silver and chrome, swap them out for warmer choices such as brass, copper, and brushed gold. You can even pair two types of warm finishes together if you'd prefer that look.
  
  
• Carve out a cozy corner.
  Carve out a special corner in your home where you can read, play games, or relax in other ways. Look for a spot close to a window for natural light or near a fireplace for some added glow and warmth. Then add a comfortable chair or sofa, storage for your books or other supplies, a side table, and a lamp, and you'll have a cozy go-to spot.

Contact us if you'd like to buy or sell a home on Long Island and would like to see Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale or put your home on the market. We can help make your buying or selling experience a smooth one with our unmatched customer service and knowledge of the real estate market.