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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 Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~REO Broker / Auctioneer
(Arizona Resource Realty)
As the cold season starts to enter, it is when homeowners must check their properties. Certain basic general maintenance can go a long way in avoiding more serious problems in terms of getting problems once the weather becomes colder. Sealing air leaks to checking heating systems, some preparation today can save some time and money in the future.Inspect and Service Your Heating SystemChecking the heating system is essential before the cold season begins, and make sure that it runs efficiently. It is advisable to make an appointment with a professional to test every component of the heating system. Routine service works to both increase the duration of the system and also allows the owner to keep their home warm during the season. In accordance with Energy.gov, performing regular mainten...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6’ tall Washington Fence in Slate Gray by Acreage Fences in Papillion, Nebraska redefines contemporary charm — offering sleek style, lasting privacy, and the durability your home deserves. Perfect for those who value both beauty and strength. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty ⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less ❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #WashingtonFence #SlateGrayFence #PapillionNebraska #LuxuryExteriors #TimelessDesign #NebraskaHomes #OutdoorElegance #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #LuxuryLiving #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Preparing your Home for Fall It’s that time of year again! The leaves are changing colors, the air is getting cool, and pumpkins are spotted everywhere! But even with all the fall fun, there’s still some work to be done. Follow these home maintenance tips to get your house ready for the season and into the winter.  Inside: Inspect windows and doors for air leaks. Seal any drafts by weatherstripping. Use materials like vinyl, silicone or metal instead of felt or foam, which aren’t as durable. Caulk anywhere you can’t use weatherstrips (where materials meet—foundation and wall, openings where ducting, plumbing, and electrical cables pass through, etc.). Have your furnace serviced before winter and be sure to change out the filter for improved efficiency. Bleed your hot water radiator. Do...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Whether you just bought a new home or looking for ways to add maybe some character to an older home consider a Shiplap Accent Wall.  Do you love the look of old shiplap walls and ceilings, but live in a newer home? Add a gorgeous shiplap accent wall in any space for $50 or less by trimming down plywood into planks, then attaching the boards to your wall using construction adhesive and nails. Finish it off by painting the panels.Turn-of-the-century homes were built using planks of wood that were milled on site, and slight imperfections left cracks between the boards. Many home stores offer prefabricated shiplap boards to mimic this look if you don’t want to make your own planks.  This can be a DIY project for some and if you Google and YouTube it you can do it yourself.  For some it migh...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
 This 6’ tall Washington Fence in White by Acreage Fences in Papillion, Nebraska brings a clean, classic look that enhances both privacy and elegance — perfectly balancing charm and strength for your outdoor retreat. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty ⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less ❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #WashingtonFence #VinylFence #PapillionNebraska #LuxuryExteriors #TimelessDesign #NebraskaHomes #OutdoorElegance #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #LuxuryLiving #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Wendy Rawley, Straight Talk. Clear Guidance. Real Results.
(The Wendy Rawley Team)
I've been fielding an unusual number of calls from clients about accessory dwelling units over the past six months, and I suspect many of you are seeing the same trend. With California's housing affordability crisis and multi-generational living becoming more common, ADUs have shifted from a niche conversation to a mainstream strategy.If you work in Orange County, it's worth understanding what's actually changed with the regulations, because your clients are asking, and the rules vary significantly by city.Why Yorba Linda Is Worth Paying Attention ToYorba Linda has implemented the state's ADU mandates in a way that actually functions. The city processes applications efficiently, the building department is reasonably helpful, and I'm seeing consistent 60-day approvals for compliant proje...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
You should pressure wash your Florida home at least once a year, but more frequently (every 6 to 12 months) is ideal for most homes to combat algae, mildew, and dirt. Houses in shaded or waterfront areas, or those with many trees, may need quarterly cleaning due to higher moisture and debris. Specific surfaces like driveways and walkways need cleaning every 6 to 12 months and roofs every 2–3 years.Recommended frequency by surface  Surface  Standard Frequency Clean more often if... House Siding and Stucco Every 6–12 months You live in a heavily shaded, damp, or high-humidity area, or see signs of algae and mildew. Driveways & Walkways Every 6–12 months They become slick or stained from foot traffic, overspray, or tree debris. Roofs Every 2–3 years (using low-pressure soft washing) You se...
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By Inna Ivchenko, Realtor® • GRI • HAFA • PSC • Short Sale • Probate
(Barcode Properties)
Your Home Has Wrinkles Too — Let’s Talk Wall Cracks!During home showings — especially during inspections — some clients react as if the walls are revealing secrets. “Another crack? Is this house falling apart?” they ask. And in Southern California, who can blame them?Our walls here tell stories — of shifting soil, the occasional earthquake, and a few door slams too many. Little lines can appear even in the most beautiful homes.But don’t worry — not every crack spells trouble. Some are just cosmetic “wrinkles,” while others deserve a closer look. Let’s walk through the most common ones and what they really mean.1. Hairline CracksThese are the faint, thread-thin lines — like tiny wrinkles on your wall’s face. Usually caused by normal settling, humidity, or drying paint.Good news: They’re ...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Did you ever paint a room and when done you think that next room needs painted, oh the floor or rugs don’t match, you know the drill.  No other rooms in the home can cost you more than the kitchen and bathroom if you are not careful.  Here is a good one appliance envy!  Your refrigerator dies and you have all white kitchen appliances, you have always wanted stainless-steel so you buy a stainless-steel fridge, every day you walk into the kitchen thinking this just doesn’t look right, what will your friends think?  Perfect working stove, microwave and dish washer must be replaced.Bathrooms, you been thinking about a new vanity for the bathroom, you might as well plan on new shower, toilet, mirror, and lighting and maybe floor while you are at it.  I mean hey if we are ripping out all this...
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By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
If you're thinking of listing your home soon, your kitchen may be one of the most powerful rooms for attracting a faster sale and a higher offer. Here’s a fresh look at what’s trending in kitchens for 2025 — and how you can translate that into appeal and value.🔹 Trend #1: Larger Kitchen Islands – The Heart of the Home GrowsToday’s buyers aren’t just looking for a functional island — they want an island that serves as prep zone, dining table, gathering spot and more. Think generous width and overhangs for seating, integrated power outlets, and clear flow from living spaces.This aligns with the rising emphasis on social kitchens — where cooking, dining and entertaining happen in the same space.  🔹 Trend #2: Extended, Floor-to-Ceiling Backsplashes – “Luxury Hotel” VibesThe kitchen is evolv...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
When I am showing homes during the day with lights on it is still dark I know we have a problem.  When listing a home and they have low wattage incandescent bulbs I suggest buying Daylight White bulbs where possible.  Another thing that drives me crazy is where there are multiple bulbs in a fixture and they have both incandescent and LED bright in the same fixture. Enough of that, anyway one inexpensive way to improve the appearance of your home is light fixtures.  When I am involved in a flip we love to put the small ceiling mount LED lights in rooms with a dimmer.  Bathroom and kitchen light fixtures can really make a difference in a home.  The picture with this article is one of the flips, check out the lighting.  Also, the bathroom mirrors are Bluetooth so pick a playlist on your ph...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(RE/MAX Classic)
  Solar Panels in Michigan: Complete Homeowners Guide Did you know that Michigan has installed over 2,100 megawatts of solar energy and now covers nearly 2 percent of the state’s electricity needs? More families are turning to solar panels as the cost of electricity rises and environmental concerns grow. With new technologies and a range of incentives available, homeowners across Michigan are finding real opportunities to cut bills and shrink their carbon footprint.Table of Contents Solar Panels In Michigan Explained Types Of Solar Panels And Systems Installation Process And Local Regulations Incentives, Rebates, And Tax Benefits Costs, Maintenance, And Resale Value Key Takeaways Point Details Growing Solar Capacity Michigan has installed 2,100 MW of solar capacity, contributing around ...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
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 they make sleeves of just paint them how you want.We liked them so much we now have 5 of them Michelle did some crea...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
 This 4’ tall Centurion Ornamental Steel Fence in Black with 3 Rails, Flat Top  by Acreage Fences in Omaha, Nebraska blends timeless elegance with durable craftsmanship — elevating your outdoor spaces with style and security. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty ⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less ❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #CenturionFence #OrnamentalSteel #OmahaNebraska #LuxuryExteriors #TimelessDesign #NebraskaHomes #OutdoorElegance #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #LuxuryLiving #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Here’s the problem like many others have, hot water heater is in one side of the house and the primary bathroom is on the other side. Want to shave with hot water? Turn it on and do something else for a few minutes, shower takes forever! I thought this was something I would just need to live with, hold on, wait there is a solution!You can install a circulating pump on your water heater and some sort of tee in your primary bathroom that has a timer. You can set the timer and you will have instant hot water. A major remodel is in our future for the primary bathroom and one of these will be on the list.  This product is for water heaters with tanks, does not work with tankless systems.Here is one I found on Amazon, not saying this is the best one just to give you an idea:  https://a.co/d/f...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6’ tall Centurion Ornamental Steel Fence in Black by Acreage Fences in Gretna, Nebraska combines striking elegance with long-lasting strength — turning your outdoor space into a statement of style and sophistication. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty ⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less ❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #CenturionFence #OrnamentalSteel #GretnaNebraska #LuxuryExteriors #TimelessDesign #NebraskaHomes #OutdoorElegance #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #LuxuryLiving #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Our local news source has been swamped with comments about palm trees and the maintenance of trimming palms.  I am not a Palm tree expert so I went to the University of Florida IFAS Extension website to learn more.  I found a PowerPoint Presentation which is 144 pages long and will put the link below.I personally have had seven palm trees, two at places I lived in Ocala and five where we are now.  We had three when we bought this home which when we finally removed them, our view from inside the home they looked like telephone poles.  You could not see the tops of the trees unless you went outside and looked up.  When we did our driveway that was the time to remove and planted sod in that area.  Now we have two Sylvester Palms with one of them looking healthy the other not so much.  Gues...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
 This 5’ tall Roosevelt Fence Tan Posts & Rails and Clay Pickets by Acreage Fences in Blair, Nebraska brings a perfect blend of durability and timeless appeal — enhancing your property with warmth, structure, and style. 🌾🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty ⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less ❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #RooseveltFence #BlairNebraska #TanFence #LuxuryExteriors #TimelessDesign #NebraskaHomes #OutdoorElegance #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #LuxuryLiving #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Today I'm sharing my new Fall Wreath I made with Dollar Store items for under $7. I'm not kidding. I made one last year, but wanted to create something new, out of the box and different from what I've seen out there, and of course, "On a budget" too. MoreThe C-Note: Your Quick Guide to All Things Real EstateWelcome to The C-Note, the go-to source for everything real estate in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or owning rental properties, we have got you covered. With Charles Stallions as your trusted real estate broker since 1995, you’ll find expert advice and actionable insights to help you make confident decisions.Do you have a question about the local area, from top dining spots to job opportunities or real estate guidance? Call or ...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
My past clients now friends Pat and Steve were in town and invited us to try out their Swim/Spa.  If you follow me you know this has been a year long process between finding the perfect home for them, introducing them to Spa Kingdom to understand how a swim/spa was the perfect choice.  I shared a video of the crane lowering the unit into the vault and did an interview with Matt Smith co-owner of Spa Kingdom.The swim/spa is 15’ by 9’ and the water level is about 48”, if you watched the video I promised to include the size of the unit.  Steve and Pat love the setup they have and very thankful for all involved!  Michelle and I enjoyed getting in the swim/spa and who knows there might be one in our future! Dick Betts, REALTOR®The Betts TeamLPT RealtyThe Villages, Florida717-860-3107 cellwww...
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