As school starts, parents and homeowners take back the house

As lazy summer days shift into hectic back-to-school schedules, many parents are preparing to take back their homes.

While this change in season can be filled with meeting new teachers, making sure school supplies are well stocked and planning for a major shift in everyone’s schedule, fall is also one of the most popular seasons to make minor home renovations that create warm and welcoming atmosphere.

These upgrades prepare your home for visits from family and friends, and create a more inviting space to serve spiced cider, watch football or enjoy family meals.

Plus, it's the perfect time for parents to "take back" their homes after the kids are back at school.

Much like spring cleaning, one of the most important things that homeowners can do when deciding if and how to renovate is to spend time in each space of the home removing anything that is unused or unnecessary.

The end of summer is always bittersweet. It’s the end of long days and late nights, neighborhood barbecues and carefree days at the pool. But it's also a fresh start -- the beginning of autumn's glow, watching leaves turn and fall, and establishing back-to-school routines

That makes this time of year the perfect time to hit the refresh button on your home.

So how can you get your house ready for the season while making it more welcoming for kids as they race from the bus stop to the front door?

"It doesn't have to be overly complicated," Serany explained. "By just changing the centerpiece on the kitchen table, there is renewed energy and inspiration for the entire family."

Serany believes that it is vital for parents to create an entryway that is welcoming and comfortable to visiting guests and family members.

She says to start by prepping the entryway, saying, "The first priority should be cleaning and sweeping the front porch, sidewalk or stoop."

Next, homeowners can add a container of seasonal plants and flowers from a local garden center to provide instant color and visual interest. A fresh coat of paint on the front door can also greatly enhance the entryway with minimal effort.

After creating an entryway that ushers guests into the home, parents and homeowners will want to present interiors that are comfortable and refreshing.

"Identify the key areas of your home that need attention," Serany said, "Whether it's refinishing your floors, replacing old carpeting, adding a fresh coat of paint or replacing your windows, now is the time to do the maintenance work."

Serany also believes that homeowners would do well to seek out manufacturers who are constantly introducing new, innovative and energy-efficient products.

Fall is a beautiful time of year and homeowners can turn to this beauty as a source of inspiration. By adding a few seasonal decorations and candles in some favorite spaces, decorating for the season can be done without a lot of work.

Serany has a few secrets that she likes to use when it comes to decorating for fall: