What’s Hot: Interior Design Trends Defining 2025

This year, interior style is bold, grounded, and full of personality. Here’s a curated list of the top trends we’ve seen so far in 2025—complete with sources so you can explore further:

1. Color Drenching
   Painting the walls, ceiling, trim, and even cabinetry in a single hue creates a cozy, immersive vibe. Bold and moody tones are leading the way.
   Source: Homes & Gardens
2. Natural Stone Accents
   Travertine, soapstone, and marble are making their way into every room—used on coffee tables, backsplashes, and even curved furniture.
   Source: Decorilla
3. Statement Lighting
   Oversized pendants and sculptural chandeliers are replacing subtle lighting as the centerpiece in kitchens, living rooms, and entryways.
   Source: Decorilla
4. Rich, Warm Neutrals
   Beige is out, and tones like cinnamon, cocoa, and caramel are the new go-to neutrals.
   Source: Homes & Gardens: Dakota Johnson's living room
5. Loud Luxury & Maximalism
   Think bold colors, metallics, velvet, and statement décor. Maximalism is coming back with an upscale, curated twist.
   Source: Homes & Gardens / Southern Living

Understanding Your 2025 Property Tax Assessment

Provided by McManamy | McLeod | Heller (MMH)

Each summer, Georgia homeowners receive an Annual Notice of Assessment from their county’s tax assessor. These notices are not tax bills—they are estimates based on your property’s fair market value as of January 1st of this year and used to help calculate what your property taxes might be when your bill is issued later in the year.

Here’s what you need to know:

Why Did I Receive This Notice?

Under Georgia law, each county is required to reassess properties annually to reflect market conditions. Notices are typically mailed by July 1 and are meant to inform you of the county’s estimate of your home’s fair market value, which impacts your property taxes.

What Do "Fair Market Value" and "Assessed Value" Mean?

• Fair Market Value is what your home could reasonably sell for on the open market.

• Assessed Value is 40% of that market value, which is then multiplied by your county’s millage rate to estimate your property tax.

For example:
If your home is valued at $400,000, the assessed value is $160,000.
If your county’s millage rate is 30 mills, your estimated tax would be:
30 × 160 = $4,800 (1 mill = $1 for every $1,000 of assessed value)

What If I Think My Home is Overvalued?

You have the right to appeal the county’s valuation if you believe it's too high. This could be due to market data, recent sales in your neighborhood, or inaccuracies in your property record.

Appeals must be filed within 45 days of the date on the notice—no exceptions. You can file: online, in person or by mail

Do I Owe Money Now?

Nope! The Annual Notice of Assessment is simply informational. No payment is due at this time. Later in the year, your official tax bill will be issued—typically in the fall—based on the final millage rate and any changes from appeals.

July Home + Garden Tips

Make the most of peak summer with these quick landscaping and garden ideas:

• Water in the morning: Keep plants hydrated before the heat sets in.
• Deadhead blooms: Remove faded flowers to promote fresh growth.
• Watch for pests: Aphids and beetles are active this month.
• Edge flower beds: Maintain crisp, tidy lines.
• Apply mulch: Help retain moisture and block weeds.
• Fertilize mid-season: Give your plants a boost to keep them thriving.

July Home Maintenance Checklist

Stay cool, safe, and proactive with this monthly checklist:

• Ceiling Fan Maintenance. Clean your ceiling fans and reverse their direction to improve airflow and efficiency. Dusting the blades enhances air quality, while setting the fan to spin counterclockwise helps circulate cool air and reduce the need for extra air conditioning.
• Power wash your driveway and walkways. July is ideal because the warm, dry weather helps surfaces dry quickly and evenly. It’s also the peak season for outdoor gatherings, so a clean exterior boosts curb appeal and creates a more inviting space for guests.
• Check seals on windows and doors. Check the seals on your windows and doors to ensure they’re intact and preventing drafts. This helps keep your home cool during the hot summer months and can lower your energy bills.
• Clear lint and debris from your dryer vent. Clear lint and debris from your dryer vent to improve efficiency and reduce fire risk, especially in the hotter months. Regular maintenance helps your dryer run more smoothly and safely.