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Home Improvement

Thinking of remodeling? Have you stopped to consider how transforming a bedroom into a home office might impact the value of the home? One of the most common questions homeowners have when thinking of remodeling is how much the work will add or detract from the value of the home. You'll find answers to those questions and more in this section of ActiveRain.


Everything you need to know – the answers to all your burning questions – about energy efficiency, green homes, landscaping, home maintenance, staging, landscaping and more is right here at your fingertips.


With over 300,000 real estate professionals, including stagers, contractors, landscapers and others, there is no better place to find the information you need than ActiveRain.


While you'll find a ton of helpful ideas and hints within these pages, you'll want to bookmark the site so that you can check back for the hundreds of daily updates from authors who spend their days actually performing the tasks you have questions about.


Put the hammer down and the glasses on and read on.

Recent blogs on Home Improvement
By Linda Peltz, It's The Sold That Counts
(eXp Realty)
Foundation repair is a crucial aspect of home maintenance, and when issues arise, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. With cracks in the walls, doors that won’t close, and floors that seem uneven, many homeowners rush to find solutions. However, according to Bob Brown, an expert in foundation repairs with over 40 years of experience, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can lead to unnecessary expenses and ongoing problems. Recently, Bob Brown spoke to Linda Peltz, realtor Fresno CA to shares insights on how homeowners can make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes in foundation repairs. Lets dig deeper into the discussion About Bob Brown “The Dirt Whisperer”Bob graduated in 1984 from ASU receiving a Bachelor of Design Science from the School of Architecture and a Bachelor of ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Black appliances can add a sophisticated touch to any kitchen. Pairing them with the right cabinet colors—whether it’s crisp white for contrast or rich navy for a bold statement—can elevate the look of your space. Check out these creative tips to find the perfect match!  Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP PAIRING KITCHEN CABINET COLORS WITH BLACK APPLIANCES DESIGNER ADVICE Hey there! I'm Nathan Fitts, Real Estate Broker, Builder, and Designer. Today I would like to share a little advice when it comes to determining what color cabinets to choose with your black appliances. Black appliances are a stylish, eternal choice that have maintained their popularity for decades with no signs of decline in the years to come; however, the deep hue of black appliances presents chal...
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By Nelson Huggins, Rooter Man to the Rescue
(Rooter Man )
Hurricane season: the perfect time to skip the DIY plumbing and let our plumbers work their magic! Let us handle the floods while you focus on binge-watching your favorite shows!🌊🔧📺 Call us at 843-402-7799, or schedule an appointment online at www.rootermansc.com. #RooterManPlumbers #RooterManCharleston..... #Plumbing #Plumber #PlumbingIndustry #PlumbingServices #PlumbingTips #Pipefitting #WaterHeating #SustainablePlumbing #HomeImprovement #247Plumber #247PlumbingService #Charleston #CharlestonCounty #CharlestonPlumber #CharlestonPlumbing #CharlestonRenovations #Community #DIYPlumbing #EmergencyPlumber #EmergencyPreparedness #FYP #HomeImprovement #HurricaneImpact #HurricaneMilton #HurricanePreparedness #Hurricaneseason #HurricaneWatch #LifeInTheSouth #LowCountry #PipeBurst #Pipefitting ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Dealing with a plugged sink can be frustrating, but with the right steps, you can easily fix it yourself! Regularly cleaning your drains can help prevent future clogs and keep your sinks running smoothly.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Fat chance a guinea pig will plug up your bathroom or kitchen sink BUT the chances of having a plugged sink at some time in your home is a firm 100%. Both my wife and my son have very thick and long hair so a plugged bathroom sink is a regular occurrence. Here are the steps we take. #1) Without having to take anything apart we start with  a product similar to the yellow tool above, second item from the left. This tool is usually a short term fix. CAUTION, we have had one break off but don't worry it's still a pretty simple fix. #2 Re...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Concrete overlays are a great way to upgrade the look of your property while also boosting its value. They’re durable, cost-effective, and can transform any space with a modern finish. A smart investment for homeowners looking to enhance their home’s appeal without a major renovation!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP When it comes to upgrading a property, most homeowners and real estate investors look for solutions that improve both aesthetics and value. One often overlooked option is the concrete overlay, a cost-effective way to revitalize worn-out concrete surfaces. Not only can it transform the look of your home, but it’s also a great investment that can increase property value. What is a Concrete Overlay? A concrete overlay is a thin layer of specially formulated...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Maintaining your yard in the fall doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Start by raking up fallen leaves to keep your lawn healthy and free of mold. With these eight easy care hacks, your yard will be prepped and ready for the coming seasons!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP   It’s amazing what perennials, mulch, and decorative rocks can do. Now that you have found your ideal home, you may discover that it has a larger yard than you have ever had or had to keep up. You can create (and enjoy) a low-maintenance yard all year long with these fall yard cleanup ideas. #1 From Spring to Winter: Designing with Perennials for Every Season Planting for each season is the key to a gorgeous yard, yet warmer-weather seasons appear to receive more attention when it comes to landscape ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Organizing your kitchen cabinets can make meal prep and daily tasks much more efficient. With a few smart strategies, you can turn your kitchen cabinets into a well-organized, functional space that makes cooking a joy! 🍽️🔧Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Kitchen cabinets are the heart of the kitchen. They store everything from pots and pans to spices and snacks. Yet, organizing them can feel like a never-ending battle. Here are some helpful tips to make the most out of your kitchen cabinets and keep everything within reach and tidy.   Maximize Vertical Space Most cabinets have plenty of unused vertical space. Consider adding shelf risers to create additional layers. This works particularly well for stacking plates or storing smaller items like mugs. You can also han...
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By Nathan Fitts, The Leading Name in Real Estate
(Nathan Fitts & Team )
PAIRING KITCHEN CABINET COLORS WITH BLACK APPLIANCESDESIGNER ADVICEHey there! I'm Nathan Fitts, Real Estate Broker, Builder, and Designer. Today I would like to share a little advice when it comes to determining what color cabinets to choose with your black appliances.Black appliances are a stylish, eternal choice that have maintained their popularity for decades with no signs of decline in the years to come; however, the deep hue of black appliances presents challenges when it comes to color pairing. Vibrant colors can diminish their elegance, while combining them with other bold shades may create a dark and gloomy kitchen atmosphere.If you are looking for cabinet colors than can harmonize perfectly with the black appliances, I would highly suggest you try pure white, gray, green-gray,...
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On October 3, 2024, Jennifer Kelly Gaddes published a very good interesting report on Realtor.com about what is a Butler’s Pantry, the multifunctional space between the kitchen and dining room.1. What is a Butler’s Pantry?2. Benefits of a Butler’s Pantry,3. Butler’s Pantry ideas,4. How to build a butler’s pantry in your home,Perhaps there might be other helpful information about suggestions for what is a Butler’s Pantry, the multifunctional space between the kitchen and dining room.For complete more detailed information about Jennifer Kelly Gaddes’s report for what is a Butler’s Pantry, multifunctional space between the kitchen and dining room, please click HERE
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It’s amazing what perennials, mulch, and decorative rocks can do.     It’s amazing what perennials, mulch, and decorative rocks can do. Now that you have found your ideal home, you may discover that it has a larger yard than you have ever had or had to keep up. You can create (and enjoy) a low-maintenance yard all year long with these fall yard cleanup ideas. #1 From Spring to Winter: Designing with Perennials for Every Season Planting for each season is the key to a gorgeous yard, yet warmer-weather seasons appear to receive more attention when it comes to landscape design. To guarantee that the plants will return year after year, plant perennials instead of annuals. Try alternating your favorite spring and summer plants with perennials that bloom in the off-season, change the color of...
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By Dave Livingston, Painting Company Serving the Natick Area
(Natick Painting Company)
When it comes to upgrading a property, most homeowners and real estate investors look for solutions that improve both aesthetics and value. One often overlooked option is the concrete overlay, a cost-effective way to revitalize worn-out concrete surfaces. Not only can it transform the look of your home, but it’s also a great investment that can increase property value.What is a Concrete Overlay?A concrete overlay is a thin layer of specially formulated concrete applied over an existing surface, such as a driveway, patio, or interior floor. It offers a fresh, new appearance without the need for a full replacement. These overlays come in various textures, colors, and finishes, giving property owners the flexibility to choose a design that complements their style.Why Are Concrete Overlays ...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
When it comes to home renovations, exterior siding is one of the most important decisions. Not only does it protect your house from the elements, but it also plays a huge role in the overall curb appeal. Whether you're building a new home or simply upgrading, choosing the right siding can make a world of difference. Here are some common types of exterior siding and tips to help you decide which one is right for your home.Vinyl Siding: Affordable and Low MaintenanceVinyl siding is one of the most popular choices due to its affordability and low maintenance. It comes in a variety of colors and styles, making it easy to match any home aesthetic. While it's budget-friendly, keep in mind that it may fade over time with exposure to the sun. However, it's easy to replace and doesn't require mu...
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By Caprice Weston
(Caprice Weston's Home Staging)
Credit: Arnon Suksumran via Pexels Furnishing your home is a fun, thoughtful exercise. You get to imagine different ways the room could look, and select which one is for you. Decorating your home is not just about finding the right aesthetic. There are practical considerations to make about related to lifestyle, budget, and more.Before you furnish your home, why not read about all the benefits of solid wood furniture?Timeless BeautyMaybe wood furniture looks so wonderful in people’s homes because we’ve been using it as a building material for millennia. People worldwide have enjoyed wooden homes and furniture for ages.Whether you want dark wood that creates an elegant, introspective look encouraging contemplation or something light and airy, there’s a type of wood to fit the bill. Choos...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Fat chance a guinea pig will plug up your bathroom or kitchen sink BUT the chances of having a plugged sink at some time in your home is a firm 100%.Both my wife and my son have very thick and long hair so a plugged bathroom sink is a regular occurrence. Here are the steps we take.#1) Without having to take anything apart we start with  a product similar to the yellow tool above, second item from the left. This tool is usually a short term fix. CAUTION, we have had one break off but don't worry it's still a pretty simple fix.#2 Removing the "P-trap" usually takes care of the problem for a longer, but not Permanente, term. The P-trap is just that elbow under the sink.Hundreds of years of under the sink clogs has lead to the development of the P-trap (no clue as why they call it this). If...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Choosing the right flooring can truly transform the look and feel of your home. This guide does an excellent job of breaking down the pros and cons of different flooring options, helping you consider factors like durability, cost, and aesthetics. Whether you're looking for a classic hardwood or a budget-friendly laminate, this comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision that suits your style and practical needs. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP   When it comes to home improvement, flooring is one of those things that can make or break the look and feel of a space. The right floor can transform a room, adding warmth, style, and functionality, while the wrong choice can leave you feeling like something is just... off. With so many options available tod...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
These creative porch décor ideas are fantastic for transforming any entrance into a welcoming, stylish space! From vibrant flower arrangements to seasonal decorations, small updates can have a big impact on your home's curb appeal. It’s amazing how a little creativity can elevate your porch, making it an inviting space for both guests and family!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Your porch is more than just an entryway; it's the first impression of your home and can be an extension of your living space. With a few creative ideas, you can turn it into a cozy, welcoming, and stylish area perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests. Here are some simple yet effective tips to help spruce up your porch décor.   Add Comfortable Seating Whether you have a small or large por...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Kitchen cabinets are the heart of the kitchen. They store everything from pots and pans to spices and snacks. Yet, organizing them can feel like a never-ending battle. Here are some helpful tips to make the most out of your kitchen cabinets and keep everything within reach and tidy.  Maximize Vertical SpaceMost cabinets have plenty of unused vertical space. Consider adding shelf risers to create additional layers. This works particularly well for stacking plates or storing smaller items like mugs. You can also hang hooks inside the cabinet doors for measuring cups or dish towels.  Group Similar Items TogetherOne simple hack is to organize items by category. For example, group all baking supplies in one section, place all cooking oils and sauces together, and keep spices in a single draw...
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By Charles Ross - eXp Realty LLC, Love To Help People
(eXp Realty LLC Salina Group)
 When it comes to home improvement, flooring is one of those things that can make or break the look and feel of a space. The right floor can transform a room, adding warmth, style, and functionality, while the wrong choice can leave you feeling like something is just... off. With so many options available today, from hardwood to laminate, tile to vinyl, making the right decision can be overwhelming. But don’t worry—I’m here to walk you through choosing the right flooring for your home.1. Understanding Your Space NeedsBefore choosing materials and colors, consider the space where you’ll install the flooring. Is it a high-traffic area like the kitchen or entryway? A cozy living room where comfort is key? Or a bathroom that needs to withstand moisture? Different rooms have different demand...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
Few years ago, we bought Sheppard Hooks to hang plants and one of the plants grew like crazy and slowly bent the hook.  Michelle looking on her favorite app “Pinterest” which most men aren’t thrilled about she found Plant Post.  Can we build these?  Yes no problem off to Lowes pick up a couple 8’ long 4” x 4” pressure treated wood, single concrete blocks to bury in the yard, bag of sand for leveling and a few metal hanging baskets.  Dig a hole, put the concrete block in the ground, level with dirt and sand.  Chop saw and made 2 4’ long 4” x 4” out of 8’, stick in concrete block, use level to be sure straight, back fill dirt, use screws to mount basket to top of post.  Turns out the make sleeves of just paint them how you want.We liked them so much we now have 5 of them and soon will be ...
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By Sally Dollar
(Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate)
Record rainfall from storms Beryl and Debby hit Quebec and Ontario hard this summer, with flood damage forcing a rethink of city infrastructures as large storms become more frequent. ☔️@Marc Lefrançois, real estate broker with @Royal LePage Tendance, shares practical tips to help protect your home from future flooding. 🏠️🔗 Tap the link to read more....https://blog.royallepage.ca/prevent-flooding-essential-strategies-to-protect-your-property/#royallepage #realestate #realtors #agents #canada #news #industry #brokers #homeowner #buying #selling #sallydollarrealtor #shesellsniagara
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