Turning a house into a welcoming, well-designed home takes a little strategy—and knowing what not to do can be just as important as what to do. Whether you’re getting your home market-ready or simply giving your space a refresh, avoiding these common decorating pitfalls can help create a space that feels intentional, balanced, and beautiful.
1. Choosing Paint Colors Too Early
It’s easy to fall in love with a paint color and want to start there—but resist the urge. It’s much easier to match paint to fabric and furnishings than the other way around. Start with pieces like rugs, curtains, or upholstery, then choose a color that complements your overall vision.
 

2. Not Measuring Before Buying
Purchasing furniture without checking dimensions is a recipe for frustration. A piece might look great in a showroom, but if it’s too big or too small for your space, it throws off the entire balance of the room. Always measure first—and don&rsquo ...

At BELL Home Team, we believe in giving back to the community that supports us. That's why we're thrilled to announce our continued sponsorship of the 11th Annual Links for Learning Golf Tournament & Golf Ball Drop, benefiting LAUNCH CNY. This event not only brings together golf enthusiasts but also supports vital educational and employment services for individuals with disabilities in Central New York.
Event Details:
Date: Monday, June 9, 2025
Location: Drumlins Country Club (Private Course), Syracuse, NY
Schedule:
9:00 AM – Registration
10:00 AM – Shotgun Start
Format: Captain & Crew
The tournament promises a day of camaraderie and competition, all while supporting LAUNCH CNY's mission to provide services like educational consulting, summer learning programs, and employment services for individuals with disabilities.

Our Commitment:
As a returning sponsor, BELL Home Team is honored to support this event and the invaluable work of LAUNCH CNY. Our spo ...

When it comes to building long-term wealth, few strategies stand the test of time like real estate. Year after year, real estate continues to be ranked as one of the most trusted and powerful long-term investments—and 2025 is no exception.
At BELL Home Team, we’re all about empowering our clients with smart, forward-thinking decisions. So let’s break down why real estate is still considered the gold standard in long-term investing.
Real Estate Has the Edge — Again
Each year, Gallup conducts a national poll asking Americans what they believe is the best long-term investment. And once again, real estate ranks #1—beating out stocks, gold, savings accounts, and bonds.
This marks the 12th consecutive year that real estate has held the top spot. Why? Because property ownership continues to offer something that no other asset can match: tangible growth, stability, and control.


Long-Term Wealth, One Home at a Time
While the market naturally experiences ...

Mark your calendars for a culinary extravaganza as the 2025 Food Truck Battle takes over the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, NY, on Friday, May 16 (4:00 PM – 10:00 PM) and Saturday, May 17 (11:00 AM – 10:00 PM). Presented by the Syracuse Food Truck Association, this two-day event is set to be the largest gathering of food trucks in Central New York history, featuring over 60 locally owned food trucks from Syracuse, Rochester, Utica, and beyond.
Event Highlights:
Diverse Culinary Offerings: Savor a wide array of cuisines, with each food truck offering at least one low-cost sample priced between $3–$5, alongside their full menus.


Live Music Performances: Enjoy an incredible lineup of live music acts, including a Taylor Swift tribute band, lovelytheband, Chris Eves Trio, and more, performing on the Chevy Court stage.


Artisan Village: Support local artists and craftsmen by exploring unique goods in the Artisan Village.


Craft Beverages: Indulge ; ...

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home, but even the most diligent cleaners can overlook certain areas. Paying attention to these small details can make a big difference—especially if you’re getting ready to list or thinking about selling your home in the near future. A sparkling, well-maintained home gives buyers confidence that you’ve cared for your space, which can lead to stronger offers and better sales prices. Inspired by Houzz's guide on often-neglected cleaning tasks, we've compiled a list of spots that might be missing from your routine. 
1. Light Fixtures and Lamps
Dust accumulates on ceiling lights, fans, and lampshades, dulling their brightness. Use a microfiber cloth to gently clean these areas, restoring their shine.

2. Doors, Knobs, and Handles
High-touch surfaces like doorknobs and handles can harbor germs. Wipe them down with a disinfectant to maintain cleanliness.

3. Wall Scuffs and Dings
Walls can collect scuff marks over tim ...