Rachel KurziusRachel Kurzius joined The Washington Post in 2022 as its inaugural reporter for The Home You Own.https://www.washingtonpost.comTue, 03 Dec 2024 11:58:49 +00001hourly1Bidens’ final Christmas stays traditional — except for that weird treehttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusTue, 03 Dec 2024 01:54:44 +0000Bidens’ final Christmas stays traditional — except for that weird treehttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusMon, 02 Dec 2024 19:55:51 +0000This year’s White House decorations include a heavy dose of “Peace and Light.”Bidens’ final Christmas stays traditional — except for that weird treehttps://www.washingtonpost.com/style/2024/12/02/biden-white-house-holiday-decorations-2024/https://www.washingtonpost.com/style/2024/12/02/biden-white-house-holiday-decorations-2024/Rachel KurziusMon, 02 Dec 2024 19:31:48 +0000This year’s White House decorations include a heavy dose of ‘Peace and Light’So long, Sad Beige Christmas. Tacky Christmas is coming to town.https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusFri, 29 Nov 2024 15:58:58 +0000The latest holiday aesthetic? Throwing absolutely everything you’ve got on the tree.So long, Sad Beige Christmas. Tacky Christmas is coming to town.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/11/29/tacky-christmas-holiday-decor-trend/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/11/29/tacky-christmas-holiday-decor-trend/Rachel KurziusFri, 29 Nov 2024 14:05:35 +0000The latest holiday aesthetic? Throwing absolutely everything you’ve got on the tree.These sexy skeletons are a modern twist on an immortal traditionhttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusWed, 23 Oct 2024 17:52:12 +0000Whether they’re fondling over a gravestone or canoodling in a bathtub, the figurines are hot Halloween collectibles.These sexy skeletons are a modern twist on an immortal traditionhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/10/23/halloween-skeletons-get-silly/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/10/23/halloween-skeletons-get-silly/Rachel KurziusWed, 23 Oct 2024 12:05:00 +0000Whether they’re fondling over a gravestone or canoodling in a bathtub, the figurines are hot Halloween collectibles.She’s alive. Her political career is dead. We went to her estate sale.https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusMon, 21 Oct 2024 13:47:27 +0000Prada bags and Stuart Weitzman boots were on offer. But who wore them? Nobody knew.She’s alive. Her political career is dead. We went to her estate sale.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/10/19/congresswoman-estate-sale-designer-goods/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/10/19/congresswoman-estate-sale-designer-goods/Rachel KurziusSat, 19 Oct 2024 12:00:05 +0000Prada bags and Stuart Weitzman boots were on offer. But who wore them? Nobody knew.The crusade against overhead lightinghttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusWed, 16 Oct 2024 18:07:59 +0000Mariah Carey issued the latest salvo against the “hideous” lighting from the big light. But there is a way to do overhead lighting right.The crusade against overhead lightinghttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/10/16/overhead-lighting-hate-mariah-carey/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/10/16/overhead-lighting-hate-mariah-carey/Rachel KurziusWed, 16 Oct 2024 11:00:02 +0000Mariah Carey issued the latest salvo against the “hideous” lighting from the big light. But there is a way to do overhead lighting right.A divorced couple cohabitated during the pandemic — and fell back in lovehttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusThu, 03 Oct 2024 16:42:47 +0000The forced proximity of lockdown led to a lot of breakups. But it reminded this duo why they chose each other in the first place.A divorced couple cohabitated during the pandemic — and fell back in lovehttps://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2024/10/03/second-chance-love-pandemic/https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2024/10/03/second-chance-love-pandemic/Rachel KurziusThu, 03 Oct 2024 12:00:27 +0000The forced proximity of lockdown led to a lot of breakups. But it reminded this duo why they chose each other in the first place.Before renovating your kitchen, ask: What would Julia Child do?https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusWed, 02 Oct 2024 17:12:22 +0000You don’t need walls of French cookware to borrow a page from the legendary chef’s iconic space.Before renovating your kitchen, ask: What would Julia Child do?https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/10/02/julia-child-kitchen-renovation/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/10/02/julia-child-kitchen-renovation/Rachel KurziusWed, 02 Oct 2024 12:00:45 +0000You don’t need walls of French cookware to borrow a page from the legendary chef’s iconic space.KitchenAid’s gorgeous new mixer sold out. Bakers won’t touch it.https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel Kurzius, Becky KrystalThu, 19 Sep 2024 18:31:22 +0000The model features an eye-catching wooden bowl. But can you whip egg whites in it?KitchenAid’s gorgeous new mixer sold out. Bakers won’t touch it.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/09/19/kitchenaid-mixer-wooden-bowl/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/09/19/kitchenaid-mixer-wooden-bowl/Rachel Kurzius, Becky KrystalThu, 19 Sep 2024 18:00:00 +0000The model features an eye-catching wooden bowl. But can you whip egg whites in it?Are people still doing accent walls? Your paint questions, answered. https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/09/17/paint-color-help/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/09/17/paint-color-help/Rachel Kurzius, Alexandra PannoniTue, 17 Sep 2024 16:00:50 +0000Reporter Rachel Kurzius and color curator Joa Studholme answered your paint questions during a live chat.‘Boob lights’ are a scourge. Here’s how to cover them.https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusMon, 16 Sep 2024 12:33:41 +0000What to do if you’re stuck with one (or more!) of these cringeworthy light fixtures.‘Boob lights’ are a scourge. Here’s how to cover them.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/09/16/replace-boob-light-tips/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/09/16/replace-boob-light-tips/Rachel KurziusMon, 16 Sep 2024 12:00:46 +0000What to do if you’re stuck with one (or more!) of these cringeworthy light fixtures.From sketchbook to wallpaper: Behind the scenes at Rifle Paper Co.https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusMon, 09 Sep 2024 20:02:14 +0000How a hand-painted work eventually becomes a ubiquitous pattern.From sketchbook to wallpaper: Behind the scenes at Rifle Paper Co.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/09/05/how-rifle-paper-co-comes-up-with-a-design/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/09/05/how-rifle-paper-co-comes-up-with-a-design/Rachel KurziusThu, 05 Sep 2024 11:00:14 +0000How a hand-painted work eventually becomes a ubiquitous pattern.Elephant’s Breath. Disco Nap. How paint colors get their names.https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusWed, 04 Sep 2024 17:14:59 +0000Names must be memorable and different from everything else on the market — and fit on a paint chip.Elephant’s Breath. Disco Nap. How paint colors get their names.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/09/04/how-paint-colors-get-names/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/09/04/how-paint-colors-get-names/Rachel KurziusWed, 04 Sep 2024 12:00:24 +0000Names must be memorable and different from everything else on the market — and fit on a paint chip.The practical, impractical impulse to stockpile a ‘good bag’https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusMon, 19 Aug 2024 15:29:00 +0000Hoarding disposable bags is noble. But it’s okay to let go.The practical, impractical impulse to stockpile a ‘good bag’https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/08/19/we-all-love-a-good-bag/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/08/19/we-all-love-a-good-bag/Rachel KurziusMon, 19 Aug 2024 12:00:19 +0000Hoarding disposable bags is noble. But it’s okay to let go.The cardboard Olympic beds aren’t ‘anti-sex.’ But are they comfy?https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusSat, 27 Jul 2024 00:37:24 +0000The cardboard beds in the Paris Olympic Village are touted as both sustainable and recyclable. But do athletes like them?These people hated their mattresses — so they built their ownhttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusThu, 25 Jul 2024 15:26:16 +0000Frustrated by the high prices and lackluster comfort of big mattress brands, a growing community is going the DIY route.These people hated their mattresses — so they built their ownhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/07/25/how-to-build-your-own-mattress/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/07/25/how-to-build-your-own-mattress/Rachel KurziusThu, 25 Jul 2024 11:00:12 +0000Frustrated by the high prices and lackluster comfort of big mattress brands, a growing community is going the DIY route.The cardboard Olympic beds aren’t ‘anti-sex.’ But are they comfy?https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/07/24/cardboard-beds-olympic-athletes-paris/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/07/24/cardboard-beds-olympic-athletes-paris/Rachel KurziusWed, 24 Jul 2024 19:03:47 +0000The cardboard beds in the Paris Olympic Village are touted as both sustainable and recyclable. But do athletes like them?The somewhat definitive ranking of Emily Henry novelshttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comSophia Nguyen, Rachel KurziusFri, 19 Jul 2024 21:33:05 +0000“Beach Read” or “Book Lovers”? The debate rages on.The somewhat definitive ranking of Emily Henry novelshttps://www.washingtonpost.com/books/2024/07/17/emily-henry-books-ranked/https://www.washingtonpost.com/books/2024/07/17/emily-henry-books-ranked/Sophia Nguyen, Rachel KurziusWed, 17 Jul 2024 17:00:00 +0000“Beach Read” or “Book Lovers”? The debate rages on.She manages the opera’s costumes — and has excellent laundry tipshttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusThu, 11 Jul 2024 19:06:22 +0000After 36 years at the Washington National Opera, almost no one knows how to handle delicates like Marsha LeBoeuf.She manages the opera’s costumes — and has excellent laundry tipshttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/07/11/washington-national-opera-costumes-laundry-tips/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/07/11/washington-national-opera-costumes-laundry-tips/Rachel KurziusThu, 11 Jul 2024 11:00:28 +0000After 36 years at the Washington National Opera, almost no one knows how to handle delicates like Marsha LeBoeuf.Do landlords have to provide AC? Here’s what renters should know.https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusWed, 10 Jul 2024 23:28:23 +0000If you’re sweating it out sans air conditioning, your landlord may be required to help.Do landlords have to provide AC? Here’s what renters should know.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/07/10/do-landlords-have-to-provide-ac/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/07/10/do-landlords-have-to-provide-ac/Rachel KurziusWed, 10 Jul 2024 22:43:23 +0000If you’re sweating it out sans air conditioning, your landlord may be required to help.Your fridge isn’t built to last. Here’s why.https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel Kurzius, Jaclyn PeiserTue, 02 Jul 2024 12:30:23 +0000Kitchen appliances nowadays might be higher-tech — but they’re also higher maintenance.Your fridge isn’t built to last. Here’s why.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/07/02/why-refrigerator-oven-dishwasher-break/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/07/02/why-refrigerator-oven-dishwasher-break/Rachel Kurzius, Jaclyn PeiserTue, 02 Jul 2024 10:00:22 +0000Kitchen appliances nowadays might be higher-tech — but they’re also higher maintenance.The highs, lows and TV magic of ‘Antiques Roadshow’https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusFri, 21 Jun 2024 17:48:19 +0000We went behind the scenes — and the appraisals — when the hit PBS show taped in Baltimore this week.The highs, lows and TV magic of ‘Antiques Roadshow’https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/06/21/antiques-roadshow-baltimore-behind-the-scenes/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/06/21/antiques-roadshow-baltimore-behind-the-scenes/Rachel KurziusFri, 21 Jun 2024 11:00:11 +0000We went behind the scenes — and the appraisals — when the hit PBS show taped in Baltimore this week.Flag drama is not just for Supreme Court justiceshttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusFri, 07 Jun 2024 23:21:10 +0000Hanging a flag outside your home is a statement — and your neighbors might just respond with their ownFlag drama is not just for Supreme Court justiceshttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/06/07/home-flag-neighborhood-drama/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/06/07/home-flag-neighborhood-drama/Rachel KurziusFri, 07 Jun 2024 12:42:30 +0000Hanging a flag outside your home is a statement — and your neighbors might just respond with their ownHow candles got so expensivehttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusWed, 05 Jun 2024 16:14:13 +0000It’s not so unusual anymore to spend $50 or even $100 on a luxury candle. Here’s what you’re paying for when you shell out a small fortune on a jar of wax.How candles got so expensivehttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/06/05/why-are-candles-so-expensive/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/06/05/why-are-candles-so-expensive/Rachel KurziusWed, 05 Jun 2024 10:00:29 +0000It’s not so unusual anymore to spend $50 or even $100 on a luxury candle. Here’s what you’re paying for when you shell out a small fortune on a jar of wax.Compass Coffee workers at seven stores launch union drivehttps://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/05/31/compass-coffee-workers-seven-stores-launch-union-drive/https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/05/31/compass-coffee-workers-seven-stores-launch-union-drive/Jaclyn Peiser, Rachel KurziusFri, 31 May 2024 22:27:45 +0000Staffers are pressing the D.C.-based chain to end its no-tipping policy and bolster benefits and working conditions.When open houses get weirdhttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusTue, 21 May 2024 14:53:28 +0000From the gross to the dangerous, real estate agents dish on the ways open houses can go very wrong.When open houses get weirdhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/05/21/how-open-houses-go-wrong-weird/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/05/21/how-open-houses-go-wrong-weird/Rachel KurziusTue, 21 May 2024 10:00:53 +0000From the gross to the dangerous, real estate agents dish on the ways open houses can go very wrong.The city made him hide his boat — so he had it painted on his fencehttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusSat, 11 May 2024 16:52:14 +0000“I’ll do what they want, but I’m not going to do it their way” — one resident’s cheeky response to a city ordinance has made his fence a viral sensation.The city made him hide his boat — so he had it painted on his fencehttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/05/10/boat-mural-fence-seaside-california/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/05/10/boat-mural-fence-seaside-california/Rachel KurziusSat, 11 May 2024 12:50:22 +0000“I’ll do what they want, but I’m not going to do it their way” — one resident’s cheeky response to a city ordinance has made his fence a viral sensation.When pets get in the way of getting it onhttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusTue, 07 May 2024 14:29:06 +0000Why dogs and cats act up when their humans get romantic — and what to do about it.When pets get in the way of getting it onhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/05/07/dogs-cats-interrupt-sex-intimacy/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/05/07/dogs-cats-interrupt-sex-intimacy/Rachel KurziusTue, 07 May 2024 10:00:09 +0000Why dogs and cats act up when their humans get romantic — and what to do about it.The wild rise of Zillow Gone Wildhttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusMon, 29 Apr 2024 15:17:23 +0000Samir Mezrahi blasted the first outrageous house of Zillow Gone Wild out to the internet four years ago. Now he has 4 million followers and an HGTV show.The wild rise of Zillow Gone Wildhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/04/29/wild-rise-zillow-gone-wild/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/04/29/wild-rise-zillow-gone-wild/Rachel KurziusMon, 29 Apr 2024 10:00:05 +0000Samir Mezrahi blasted the first outrageous house of Zillow Gone Wild out to the internet four years ago. Now he has 4 million followers and an HGTV show.Getting your dream outdoor space is now easier — and cheaperhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/04/02/dream-outdoor-space-patio-backyard-cheaper/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/04/02/dream-outdoor-space-patio-backyard-cheaper/Rachel KurziusTue, 02 Apr 2024 10:00:46 +0000Following the pandemic, competition for landscapers and outdoor contractors was fierce. Homeowners are finally back in control.They panic-bought bidets during the pandemic. It changed their lives.https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusMon, 18 Mar 2024 19:13:57 +0000Four years after the toilet paper shortage of 2020, bidet converts say they’re never going back — and bidet manufacturers say U.S. sales have never been better.They panic-bought bidets during the pandemic. It changed their lives.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/03/18/pandemic-covid-bidet-sales/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/03/18/pandemic-covid-bidet-sales/Rachel KurziusMon, 18 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000Four years after the toilet paper shortage of 2020, bidet converts say they’re never going back — and bidet manufacturers say U.S. sales have never been better.Realtors’ settlement could dramatically change cost of housing sales https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comJulian Mark, Aaron Gregg, Rachel KurziusSat, 16 Mar 2024 00:41:06 +0000The proposed agreement with the National Association of Realtors could dramatically change how much consumers pay during real estate transactions.Realtors’ settlement could dramatically change cost of housing saleshttps://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/03/15/nar-real-estate-commissions-settlement/https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/03/15/nar-real-estate-commissions-settlement/Julian Mark, Aaron Gregg, Rachel KurziusFri, 15 Mar 2024 23:31:00 +0000The proposed deal with the National Association of Realtors would upend the rules that critics say help inflate commissions for home sellers. 8 things we learned about Joe Biden’s homes from the Hur interviewhttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusWed, 13 Mar 2024 14:06:37 +0000President Biden loves furniture, his Corvette couldn’t fit in his Wilmington garage, and other fascinating insights from the special counsel transcript.8 things we learned about Joe Biden’s homes from the Hur interviewhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/03/12/president-biden-special-counsel-hur-homes/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/03/12/president-biden-special-counsel-hur-homes/Rachel KurziusTue, 12 Mar 2024 21:05:34 +0000President Biden loves furniture, his Corvette couldn’t fit in his Wilmington garage, and other fascinating insights from the special counsel transcript.She built one of the most energy-efficient homes in D.C. Here’s how.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/03/05/energy-efficient-net-zero-adu/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/03/05/energy-efficient-net-zero-adu/Rachel KurziusTue, 05 Mar 2024 11:00:56 +0000The city’s first “net-zero” accessory dwelling unit took two years and about $200,000 to build. Its owner learned some valuable lessons along the way.These renters aren’t afraid to renovate — security deposits be damnedhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/02/22/renter-rental-renovation-ideas/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/02/22/renter-rental-renovation-ideas/Rachel KurziusThu, 22 Feb 2024 16:08:01 +0000Shut out of the housing market, they’re not willing to wait to paint, wallpaper, swap fixtures and otherwise create spaces that feel like home.Yes, your home can be sexy, according to romance authors. Here’s how.https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusWed, 14 Feb 2024 15:06:36 +0000They create chemistry-filled settings for a living. And they have some tips.Yes, your home can be sexy, according to romance authors. Here’s how.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/02/14/romance-novelist-home-tips/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/02/14/romance-novelist-home-tips/Rachel KurziusWed, 14 Feb 2024 11:00:46 +0000They create chemistry-filled settings for a living. And they have some tips.Redfin adds air quality scores to listings as climate concerns risehttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusTue, 13 Feb 2024 15:40:53 +0000The real estate site says a neighborhood’s environmental risks are just as relevant to home buyers as schools, walkability and other data.Redfin adds air quality scores to listings as climate concerns risehttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/02/13/redfin-air-quality-home-listings/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/02/13/redfin-air-quality-home-listings/Rachel KurziusTue, 13 Feb 2024 15:29:03 +0000The real estate site says a neighborhood’s environmental risks are just as relevant to home buyers as schools, walkability and other data.Is your TV the right size? Follow these steps to find out.https://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusWed, 07 Feb 2024 14:57:22 +0000The formula that interior designers swear by when figuring out what size TV screen works best in a room.Is your TV the right size? Follow these steps to find out.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/02/07/tv-size-distance-room/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/02/07/tv-size-distance-room/Rachel KurziusWed, 07 Feb 2024 11:00:34 +0000The formula that interior designers swear by when figuring out what size TV screen works best in a room.Don’t feel bad about your laundry chairhttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusMon, 29 Jan 2024 17:58:37 +0000Why a landing spot for the pile of in-between clothes is vital to every bedroom. Even professional interior designers agree.Don’t feel bad about your laundry chairhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/01/29/laundry-chair/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/01/29/laundry-chair/Rachel KurziusMon, 29 Jan 2024 11:00:01 +0000Why a landing spot for the pile of in-between clothes is vital to every bedroom. Even professional interior designers agree.Why your mortgage payment went up — and what you can do about ithttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusFri, 12 Jan 2024 20:11:06 +0000Rising home values and insurance premiums have caused unusually dramatic increases for some homeowners in recent years. Why your mortgage payment went up — and what you can do about ithttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/01/12/why-did-mortgage-payment-go-up/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/01/12/why-did-mortgage-payment-go-up/Rachel KurziusFri, 12 Jan 2024 20:00:51 +0000Rising home values and insurance premiums have caused unusually dramatic increases for some homeowners in recent years. Should you change clothes when you get home? These people say yes.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/01/11/outside-clothes-on-bed-in-house/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/01/11/outside-clothes-on-bed-in-house/Rachel KurziusThu, 11 Jan 2024 11:00:34 +0000For a certain contingent, “outside clothes” must immediately be swapped for “inside clothes” upon walking through the door. Here’s why.When the starter home becomes the forever homehttps://www.washingtonpost.comhttps://www.washingtonpost.comRachel KurziusFri, 05 Jan 2024 18:51:25 +0000Amid high mortgage rates, soaring housing prices and a stubbornly tight real estate market, here’s how families are stretching the space they have.When the starter home becomes the forever homehttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/01/04/starter-homes-are-turning-into-forever-homes/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/01/04/starter-homes-are-turning-into-forever-homes/Rachel KurziusThu, 04 Jan 2024 11:00:25 +0000Amid high mortgage rates, soaring housing prices and a stubbornly tight real estate market, here’s how families are stretching the space they have.How to host guests who are allergic to your catshttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/12/12/cat-allergy-hosting-guests/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/12/12/cat-allergy-hosting-guests/Rachel KurziusTue, 12 Dec 2023 11:00:38 +0000Worried your cats will ruin the fun for your wheezing, sneezing friends and family? Here’s how to make guests with feline allergies more comfortable. What house cleaners want you to know about paying themhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/12/04/how-much-to-pay-house-cleaner/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/12/04/how-much-to-pay-house-cleaner/Rachel KurziusMon, 04 Dec 2023 11:00:23 +0000Cash is often best, you’ll likely pay more if you have hardwood or lots of stairs, and other insights that cleaning professionals wish clients understood.Jill Biden unveils a crafty, candy-filled White House Christmashttps://www.washingtonpost.com/style/of-interest/2023/11/27/white-house-christmas-decorations-2023/https://www.washingtonpost.com/style/of-interest/2023/11/27/white-house-christmas-decorations-2023/Jura Koncius, Rachel KurziusMon, 27 Nov 2023 19:20:48 +0000Children’s feelings of ‘Magic, Wonder and Joy’ surrounding the holiday season inspired this year’s decorations.Holiday decorating is lasting longer and becoming more intense https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/11/21/holiday-decorating-christmas-creep/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/11/21/holiday-decorating-christmas-creep/Rachel KurziusTue, 21 Nov 2023 11:00:55 +0000Yes, Christmas creep is real. But retailers are also doubling down on Halloween, Easter, Pride Month and other occasions.Why you need a magnet on apartment tours and other secrets for rentershttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/11/06/mercury-stardust-trans-handy-maam-book/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/11/06/mercury-stardust-trans-handy-maam-book/Rachel KurziusMon, 06 Nov 2023 11:00:43 +0000TikToker and rental expert Mercury Stardust has lots of surprising advice to share in her new, bestselling book.Britney Spears’s childhood home lists for $1.2 million. Is it worth it?https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/11/03/britney-spears-childhood-house-sale-photos/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/11/03/britney-spears-childhood-house-sale-photos/Rachel KurziusFri, 03 Nov 2023 19:48:07 +0000The asking price marks a 315 percent increase from when the 2,229 square-foot ranch-style home sold in 2021.How real estate commissions work and why they might get lowerhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/11/02/real-estate-commissions-explained/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/11/02/real-estate-commissions-explained/Rachel KurziusThu, 02 Nov 2023 12:31:26 +0000A new court verdict could upend how real estate agents get paid. Here’s why some experts say change is overdue, and what it all means for buyers and sellers.How to sell a haunted househttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/10/23/how-to-sell-haunted-house/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/10/23/how-to-sell-haunted-house/Rachel KurziusMon, 23 Oct 2023 10:00:32 +0000Ghostly tales from real estate agents that are even scarier than this housing market.Home Depot just can’t top Skelly, the 12-foot king of Halloweenhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/10/05/halloween-decorations-12-foot-skeleton-home-depot/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/10/05/halloween-decorations-12-foot-skeleton-home-depot/Rachel KurziusThu, 05 Oct 2023 10:00:32 +0000The chain has launched a number of other giant Halloween decorations. But nothing has dethroned the original towering skeleton.The case for — and against — taking your shoes off in the househttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/10/02/take-shoes-off-indoors-house/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/10/02/take-shoes-off-indoors-house/Rachel KurziusMon, 02 Oct 2023 10:00:33 +0000Should you require shoes off in your home if it’s not for cultural reasons? Scientists, a podiatrist, a flooring specialist and an etiquette expert weigh in.The high-stakes art of naming new apartment buildingshttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/09/26/how-apartments-neighborhoods-get-names/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/09/26/how-apartments-neighborhoods-get-names/Rachel KurziusTue, 26 Sep 2023 10:00:55 +0000Developers pay marketing firms big money to find the right names — and dodge the wrong ones — for new buildings and neighborhoods.Cat litter shortages hit brands like Fresh Step. Here’s how to adjust.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/09/19/cat-litter-shortage-2023-clorox/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/09/19/cat-litter-shortage-2023-clorox/Rachel KurziusTue, 19 Sep 2023 21:35:21 +0000A cybersecurity attack on the company Clorox has led to shortages of cat-litter brands Fresh Step, Scoop Away and Ever Clean.Why furniture got so badhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/09/05/new-furniture-quality-doesnt-last/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/09/05/new-furniture-quality-doesnt-last/Rachel KurziusTue, 05 Sep 2023 11:00:46 +0000Furniture used to last generations. Now it barely survives a move. Industry insiders explain. House numbers, once utilitarian, are now personal brandinghttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/08/31/house-numbers-modern-custom/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/08/31/house-numbers-modern-custom/Rachel KurziusThu, 31 Aug 2023 11:00:46 +0000Why we started caring so much about the digits on our house — and what their typeface, finish and other details tell the world.The 7 things house cleaners wish every client would dohttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/08/23/house-cleaner-be-better-client/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/08/23/house-cleaner-be-better-client/Rachel KurziusWed, 23 Aug 2023 11:00:06 +0000The professionals dish on how homeowners make their lives harder and how you can be a better client.Hockey romance novels are in the news. Here’s why they’re so popular.https://www.washingtonpost.com/books/2023/08/06/alex-wennberg-hockey-romance/https://www.washingtonpost.com/books/2023/08/06/alex-wennberg-hockey-romance/Rachel KurziusSun, 06 Aug 2023 11:00:12 +0000The subgenre captured mainstream attention after a brouhaha involving NHL player Alex Wennberg.Your ceiling deserves some love. Here are 5 ideas.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/07/18/how-to-paint-wallpaper-ceiling/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/07/18/how-to-paint-wallpaper-ceiling/Rachel KurziusTue, 18 Jul 2023 13:36:16 +0000To professional designers, neglecting the ceiling amounts to leaving a space incomplete. Here are easy ways to make over the often overlooked "fifth wall."You might have mice without knowing it. Here’s how to outsmart them.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/07/12/how-to-trap-house-mice/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/07/12/how-to-trap-house-mice/Rachel KurziusWed, 12 Jul 2023 11:00:22 +0000Mice are so adaptable that they can work around your cat's nap schedule. Rodent experts share their best advice for getting rid of them. HGTV is making our homes boring and us sad, one study sayshttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/07/07/hgtv-makes-homes-boring-sad/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/07/07/hgtv-makes-homes-boring-sad/Rachel KurziusFri, 07 Jul 2023 11:00:03 +0000A pair of professors found that HGTV and other home renovation media lead homeowners to decorate for the masses, not for their own happiness.How often should you wash the sheets? The rugs? Take our cleaning quiz.https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/interactive/2023/cleaning-quiz-how-often/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/interactive/2023/cleaning-quiz-how-often/Rachel KurziusThu, 29 Jun 2023 11:00:02 +0000Find out if you’re cleaning these 12 household items frequently enough, according to cleaning experts.Mid-century modern is the style that won’t diehttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/06/13/why-midcentury-modern-furniture-popular/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/06/13/why-midcentury-modern-furniture-popular/Rachel KurziusTue, 13 Jun 2023 11:00:13 +0000There’s no getting over our obsession with Eames loungers, Saarinen tables and Nelson Bubble lamps — mid-century modern furniture is baked into our culture.How to pick the right air purifier for your home as wildfire smoke descendshttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/06/08/how-choose-air-purifier/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/06/08/how-choose-air-purifier/Andrew Jeong, Jura Koncius, Rachel KurziusThu, 08 Jun 2023 21:39:54 +0000When wildfires and extreme heat affect the air quality where you live, an air purifier might help.Stop trying to flush your secrets — and other advice from plumbershttps://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/05/25/plumber-advice-drains-toilets/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/05/25/plumber-advice-drains-toilets/Rachel KurziusThu, 25 May 2023 11:00:43 +0000Plumbers find all manner of objects stuck in people’s pipes, from toys to Q-tips to evidence of infidelity. Here’s what they’d like you to know.Which houseplant is right for you?https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/interactive/2022/which-houseplant-right-for-me/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/interactive/2022/which-houseplant-right-for-me/Rachel KurziusWed, 21 Dec 2022 11:00:49 +0000Whether you want to adopt your very first houseplant or add a new potted pal to your collection, take our easy quiz to find your ideal leafy match.What is a heat pump, and should I get one?https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2022/12/13/what-is-a-heat-pump/https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2022/12/13/what-is-a-heat-pump/Rachel KurziusTue, 13 Dec 2022 11:00:54 +0000Heat pumps, long popular elsewhere, have only recently started to catch on in the United States. Here’s a primer on the alternative to your gas furnace.