It's no secret that paint is one of the best ways to increase the value of your home, bringing a return on investment averaging 107%. But what you may not know is how a few simple tricks can elevate the interior of your home to exciting new levels. Our REALTORS® would like to share a few of those tricks with you:

• Use texture to add depth
  No, we don't mean popcorn ceilings or stenciled walls. Using sponges and brushes creatively can add subtle textures to surfaces that can add interest with little visibility. They can transform boring hallways into eye-catching spaces. Whether you select a neutral shade or a bold splash of color, the texture will provide a sophisticated element to your interior design.

To fish, you need the right supplies. From bait to line, your equipment makes a difference in the fish you catch. Luckily, there are several excellent bait and tackle shops on Long Island. Our REALTORS® recommend stopping by one of the following shops before your next fishing adventure.

1. Hi-Hook Bait and Tackle: 33 New York Ave. Huntington, NY 11743
   Hi-Hook Bait and Tackle is a small but well-stocked bait and tackle shop located near many Huntington homes for sale. The store has a good selection of live bait, along with various lures, hooks, and lines. The owners are quite knowledgeable and can help you find what you need for a good day on the water.

Summer is a wonderful time for adults and kids to enjoy the great outdoors, but what happens when the sun goes away and rain clouds are all you see? While many of us might retreat to our computer screens and streaming services, you should consider visiting one of the many indoor facilities on Long Island and the nearby areas.

To get you started, our REALTORS® have zeroed in on some of our favorites.

Spending a day with family is a great way to bond and re-focus on what's most important in life. If you're looking for something fun to do as a family, consider heading off to see wildlife on Long Island. From petting zoos to nature preserves, our REALTORS® can recommend some awesome places for a wildlife-focused family day.

• Holtsville Ecology Site: 249 Buckley Rd., Holtsville, NY 11742
  The Town of Brookhaven Holtsville Ecology Site and Animal Preserve is a publicly owned preserve built on a former landfill site. The town took ownership of the land in the 1970s and has been working ever since to preserve it in a way that benefits both people and native wildlife.