Adventure is a way of life for the Ronson’s. When Chris retired from car racing in 2002, he and his wife Jan hopped aboard their yacht, the Yianoula, and cruised for several years to places as far north as Bar Harbor, ME, and as far south as Grenada. Their adventures have proven that retirement can [...]

If you’ve heard of Skype, but don’t know what it is or how to use it, READ THIS ARTICLE. Staying in touch with relatives and friends has never been more fun, easier or cheaper. If you have children or grandchildren that live out of town, it’s fun to see their faces when you talk with [...]

1. Netflix If you’re a movie buff, this app is for you. Watch all the videos you want each month for only $7.99/month. If you have a Netflix account, you can download the free app for the iPhone, iPad or Android. You can watch from your TV or your phone. 2. Pandora Internet radio at [...]

Whether you are building a new custom home or renovating an older home, thinking and living green can be incorporated to help the environment and your bottom line. Below, you’ll see how one family in California has created one of the greenest homes in America, scoring 104 out of a possible 108 points, earning them [...]

Ideal Living magazine is proud to announce the location of the 2011/2012 Ideal Home at Palmetto Bluff, in Bluffton, SC. Set in the heart of Palmetto Bluff’s Wilson Village, the 2,176-square-foot Ideal Home has a central location among the Wilson Cottages, is just steps from the Wilson Lawn & Racquet Club and a short walk [...]

Recent surveys reveal that consumers will be doing a lot of remodeling this year. But with the sluggish economy, many are opting for do-it-yourself projects to squeeze the most out of their budgets. One of the most common undertakings: interior painting. “Nearly everyone agrees that some jobs-like re-roofing or electrical work-are best left to the [...]

“It’s all about me.” Your home should be all about you. Universal design creates livable, workable environments for everyone regardless of age, size or ability. Universal design is human-centered design that makes life easier, not only for those with mobility limitations, but also for those who are short, tall, young and old. Universal design is [...]

This winter, you can escape it all and head south for that ideal retirement or second home spot. If you’ve never been to a Live South Real Estate Show, presented by Ideal Living magazine, or even if you have-it’s time to come explore what’s out there for you. 10. New Workshop: Retirement Solutions for Changing [...]

It’s mid-October, you get in your car and drive down the Blue Ridge Parkway. Flanked by brilliant reds, oranges and yellows at every turn, you are experiencing fall in the Southern mountains. With the brilliant colors of fireworks, the South`s mountain ranges burst with color and welcome you to the enchanting towns just around the [...]

What does the luxury homebuyer have in common with an inexpensive home shopper? Value. Since the real estate bubble burst, buyers from millionaires to civil servants all expect a good value. And, they also desire the milder winter weather in the South. Value means something different to each person-a lot of it depends on your [...]

An almost primitive connection draws people to water_to the lakes, rivers and oceans. Maybe part of that reason is that, biologically speaking, human beings are about 70 percent water. Aesthetically speaking, however, who can resist the calming effect of watching the gentle ripples lap at the shore. The power of water to wash away concerns [...]

1. Just Breathe. Slow down, close your eyes, clear your mind and take at least five deep breaths. It’s amazing what a difference just a few relaxing moments can make. 2. Appreciate Your Surroundings. Observe something beautiful in nature-the ocean, a bird chirping, the subtle movement of the leaves in a tree, a sunrise or [...]

Visions of sun-drenched white-sand beaches permeate thoughts of Florida. Millions flock to Florida each year for vacation or retirement. So many, in fact, that it has changed the perception of Florida into a concrete jungle with congested freeways and beaches. However, you can still experience the Florida of yesteryear in Florida’s “Nature Coast.” In 1867, [...]

In the midst of one of the worst economies the U.S. has seen, how could it be one of the best times to build a new custom home? People are finding that retiring and building a new home brings enjoyment and hope for a new, wonderful life. Taxes and cost of living will continue to [...]

Although retirement was more than ten years away, six years ago Vincent and Darylee Buszko decided they just couldn’t retire in New Jersey. Cold weather and the busy, never-stop atmosphere of the Northeast prompted their decision to attend a Live South Real Estate Show. Their search had begun. They attended two real estate shows and [...]