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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 Pat Starnes-Front Gate Realty, 601-991-2900 Office; 601-278-4513 Cell
(Front Gate Real Estate)
Today's tip helps reduce unnecessary wear and tear on your home-- turn on the vent fan while bathing or showering, and let it run for several minutes after your shower is over.In small bathrooms, steam from a shower or bath creates moisture. If the steam can't escape, it creates a "rain forest" situation and sweat will accumulate and run down the walls. You will greatly reduce moisture in the room by using the vent fan, which is a standard feature in modern homes.Turn on the fan before turning on the hot water. Let the fan run during your shower and bath and for several minutes after. When you vacate the bathroom, leave the door open to help the steam dissipate faster.This is such a simple task, but children or teens will not learn this lesson unless we teach them. How do I know? Common...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Wood has a timeless charm, but over the years, exposure to the elements, wear, and neglect can leave it looking dull and damaged. Whether it’s hardwood floors, furniture, or outdoor decks, wood restoration is the key to reviving its natural beauty and extending its lifespan. With the right approach, you can bring old, worn-out wood back to life.Assess the ConditionBefore starting a restoration project, examine the wood carefully. Look for scratches, water stains, warping, or discoloration. Understanding the level of damage helps determine the best restoration methods, whether it’s a simple refinishing or a deeper repair process.Clean and PrepareDirt, grime, and old finishes can prevent wood from looking its best. Start by cleaning the surface with a gentle wood cleaner or a mixture of m...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog offers fantastic insights on making the most of small spaces without sacrificing style or comfort. The space-saving tips are practical and creative, proving that even compact homes can feel spacious and functional. I especially love the clever storage solutions and multifunctional furniture ideas. Great inspiration for small-space living! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to feel cramped or cluttered. With the right strategies, you can maximize every inch of your home and create a functional, stylish, and comfortable environment. Here are some space-saving secrets to help you make the most of your small space. 1. Opt for Multi-Functional Furniture Investing in furniture that serves multiple purposes is a game-ch...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog is a great reminder of how essential a well-stocked tool kit is for every homeowner. Having the right tools on hand can save time, money, and stress when tackling minor repairs and DIY projects. The tips on must-have tools are especially useful for beginners. A very informative read! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP The Importance of a Well-Stocked Tool Kit for Homeowners A well-stocked tool kit is an essential investment for every homeowner. From quick fixes to ongoing maintenance, having the right tools on hand can save you time, money, and the frustration of scrambling for supplies when something goes wrong. Here are the key tools every homeowner should have in their kit: HammerA reliable hammer is a must-have for a variety of tasks, from hanging pictur...
Comments 0
By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog beautifully highlights how stylish furniture can transform any space, blending aesthetics with functionality. I love how it emphasizes the importance of choosing the right designs to enhance comfort and elegance. The tips on selecting pieces that reflect personal style are especially helpful. Looking forward to more design insights! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Furniture is more than just functional—it’s a statement of style, personality, and comfort. The right furniture design can transform any space, making it feel cozy, modern, elegant, or eclectic. Whether you're looking to revamp your living room, bedroom, or office, choosing the right pieces is essential. The Power of Thoughtful Furniture Design Stylish furniture doesn’t just fill a room; it enha...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Furniture is more than just functional—it’s a statement of style, personality, and comfort. The right furniture design can transform any space, making it feel cozy, modern, elegant, or eclectic. Whether you're looking to revamp your living room, bedroom, or office, choosing the right pieces is essential.The Power of Thoughtful Furniture DesignStylish furniture doesn’t just fill a room; it enhances the overall aesthetic while serving a practical purpose. Modern furniture designs blend form and function, incorporating sleek lines, multi-use features, and high-quality materials to create a timeless look.Trending Furniture Designs to Watch Minimalist Elegance – Clean lines, neutral colors, and uncluttered spaces create a modern and sophisticated vibe. Multi-Functional Pieces – Space-saving ...
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By House Buyers Texas, We Buy Houses | Sell My House Fast
(House Buyers Texas - We Buy Houses | Sell My House Fast)
When it comes to safeguarding your home or business, a high-quality roof is one of the most important investments you can make. At Texas Pro Roofers, we bring decades of expertise to every project, ensuring that your property is protected against the harsh Texas weather. Our team is proud to serve a diverse range of communities, including Texas City, League City, Friendswood, Dickinson, Galveston, Pearland, La Porte, Alvin, and Santa Fe. In this in-depth article, we’ll explore why quality roofing matters, the unique challenges of roofing in Texas, and how our expert team meets these demands across multiple cities.The Critical Importance of Quality RoofingA roof isn’t merely a layer of shingles or tiles—it’s the first line of defense against unpredictable weather and a key factor in your...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
The Importance of a Well-Stocked Tool Kit for HomeownersA well-stocked tool kit is an essential investment for every homeowner. From quick fixes to ongoing maintenance, having the right tools on hand can save you time, money, and the frustration of scrambling for supplies when something goes wrong. Here are the key tools every homeowner should have in their kit: HammerA reliable hammer is a must-have for a variety of tasks, from hanging pictures to making minor repairs. Screwdrivers (Flathead & Phillips)Essential for tightening screws on furniture, fixtures, and appliances. Having both flathead and Phillips screwdrivers ensures you’re prepared for any project. PliersPliers are versatile tools used for gripping, bending, and cutting wires, pipes, or nails. Measuring TapeWhether you’re in...
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Why You Should Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners When faced with a clogged drain, many homeowners reach for a bottle of chemical drain cleaner as a quick fix. While these products promise fast results, they often cause more harm than good. Here’s why you should think twice before using chemical drain cleaners. 1. They Can Damage Your Pipes Most drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals like sulfuric acid or lye, which generate heat to break down clogs. While this might clear the blockage, it can also weaken your pipes over time, especially if you have older plumbing or PVC pipes. Repeated use may lead to cracks, leaks, or even pipe failure. 2. They’re Harmful to Your Health Chemical drain cleaners release toxic fumes that can irritate your skin, eyes, and respiratory system. If accidentally s...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Yesterday's comic strip with Titus's portrait can be found here. Following up to today's strip sometimes it's just best to say NO to offers of help.Yesterday I had my first experience with Angi, formerly Angie's List). Here is/was my experience. The bold white print on their homepage above is BS, anyone who pays Angi's fee is "top-rated" (my opinion). The situation: Our dishwasher had ceased to function in a satisfactory manner. We purchased a new one at Karl's. Being an experience DIY person I thought I may install it myself. Timmothy and I removed the old one but the new one appeared to be more than I wanted to tackle.When I failed to get connected to the handyman who advertises on Christian radio I turned to Angi. I left messages at 3 numbers. The first "expert" quoted me $600.00. I ...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to feel cramped or cluttered. With the right strategies, you can maximize every inch of your home and create a functional, stylish, and comfortable environment. Here are some space-saving secrets to help you make the most of your small space.1. Opt for Multi-Functional FurnitureInvesting in furniture that serves multiple purposes is a game-changer. Look for beds with built-in storage, fold-out desks, or ottomans that double as storage units. A sofa bed can also turn your living room into a guest room in seconds.2. Use Vertical SpaceWhen floor space is limited, go vertical! Install floating shelves, tall bookcases, and hanging storage units to keep items off the floor. Wall-mounted desks and foldable tables also help free up valuable space.3....
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog wonderfully explores how natural textures can enhance both our living spaces and overall well-being. It highlights the calming effects of wood, stone, and organic fabrics, creating a more inviting and peaceful environment. A great read for anyone looking to bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of nature into their home! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Discover How Natural Materials Can Enrich Your Life   Introduction   Have you ever walked into a space that felt instantly comforting? Perhaps it was the warmth of wood underfoot or the cozy fabric of a soft couch. Natural materials can do that. They engage your senses and improve your overall well-being. You might be surprised at how much these textures impact your mood and, ultimately, your daily life.   The...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Many of the homes in The Villages, Florida have the washer and dryer in the garage.  Ours included and we are fine with that, others it is on their wish list to not be in garage.  One of the questions I get when showing homes is how hard to move them.  I believe the video explains it is not easy and can be expensive.  How far you move it depends on the mess and cost.  I have seen villas where it is the same wall to move into a closet, moving any distance watch the video again.The owner of the villa wanted it moved from the garage to far end of the home and built into a laundry closet.  Are you sure?  Yes it would be nice just outside the primary bedroom, okay if you say so.Ever wonder what is under your flooring?  A concrete slab, some stones and dirt but most importantly your plumbing....
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By Dawn Castell, Freelance home stager
(Freelancer)
First impressions matter—especially when it comes to selling your home. Whether you’re planning to put your house on the market next year or in a decade, enhancing your home’s curb appeal is one of the best ways to increase its value. A home that looks well-maintained and inviting from the outside gives buyers confidence that the interior is just as appealing. The good news? You don’t need a massive budget to make a difference. Here are some practical and effective ways to improve your home’s curb appeal and maximize its resale potential.1. Refresh Your Front Door and EntrywayYour front door is the focal point of your home’s exterior, so make it count. A fresh coat of paint in a bold but tasteful color—like deep blue, classic red, or even a rich green—can add personality and charm. Cons...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
A well-designed flower bed can transform any outdoor space into a vibrant and inviting retreat. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these tips will help you create a stunning flower bed that flourishes throughout the seasons.1. Plan Your DesignBefore planting, consider the size, shape, and location of your flower bed. Choose an area that gets the right amount of sunlight for your plants and ensure proper drainage. Sketching a rough layout will help you visualize the arrangement and create an eye-catching display.2. Choose the Right FlowersSelect a mix of perennials and annuals for continuous blooms. Perennials return each year, while annuals add seasonal bursts of color. Consider plant height, bloom time, and color coordination to create depth and harmony.3. Prepare...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Sunday started out a beautiful day in The Villages, in the afternoon we went to Lowe’s and bought these flowers and a bag of dirt.  Next we stopped at Publix something happened while at Publix, walked in it was 82º, walked out the wind was howling, started to rain and 67º, welcome to Florida!I thought okay we made it through January and our 5 to 7 days of winter let’s think spring.  Don’t rush it!  Watching the Weather Channel app first Thursday night would be 34º, next day showed 35º and as of Wednesday 36º.  The extended forecast after Thursday the lowest temperature starting Saturday is 46º for the next 15 days.  The plan is to move the plants from the driveway to the garage for the night and maybe this weekend start planting.We love to plant flowers and tend to them in the spring, d...
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By Nelson Huggins, Rooter Man to the Rescue
(Rooter Man )
Why You Should Avoid Chemical Drain CleanersWhen faced with a clogged drain, many homeowners reach for a bottle of chemical drain cleaner as a quick fix. While these products promise fast results, they often cause more harm than good. Here’s why you should think twice before using chemical drain cleaners.1. They Can Damage Your Pipes Most drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals like sulfuric acid or lye, which generate heat to break down clogs. While this might clear the blockage, it can also weaken your pipes over time, especially if you have older plumbing or PVC pipes. Repeated use may lead to cracks, leaks, or even pipe failure.2. They’re Harmful to Your Health Chemical drain cleaners release toxic fumes that can irritate your skin, eyes, and respiratory system. If accidentally spill...
Comments 3
By Larry Atkins, Veteran Owned & Operated
(State Wide Realty Co.)
State Wide Realty: The Countdown to Spring Has Begun! There is only a month until Spring starts and now is the time to get the outside of your place ready for the season.Start by deciding what plants, vegetables, etc. you would like to grow this year. Research the best planting time for each and make a chart of what you need to plant when.Make sure you have the space you need. If you need to clear an area for your plantings now is the time to make that happen. Also if you wanted to build raised beds or put in fencing this is the time to start.Stock up on fertilizers and tools now before the crowd hits. When the time comes for planting you don’t want to have to run to the store/greenhouse only to find out they are out of stock.Now that you have a plan for the outside it is time to focus ...
Comments 0
By Nelson Huggins, Local junk removal service. Real Estate clean outs
(Black Dog Junk Removal)
Junk Removal vs. Dumpster Rental: Which Is the Better Choice?When it comes to clearing out clutter, tackling a renovation project, or handling a big cleanup, you might be wondering whether to rent a dumpster or hire a junk removal company. While both options can get the job done, hiring a junk removal service often provides a more convenient and hassle-free experience. Here’s why:1. Less Work for You With a junk removal company, you don’t have to do the heavy lifting. Their team will load up and haul away your unwanted items, saving you time and effort. A dumpster rental, on the other hand, requires you to do all the labor yourself.2. Faster and More Efficient Junk removal services typically handle the entire process in a single visit. A dumpster rental means you’ll have to load everyth...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
When it comes to dressing your windows, the choice between curtains and blinds can be overwhelming. Both options offer unique benefits in terms of style, functionality, and maintenance. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each to help you make the right decision for your space.Curtains: Classic Elegance & Cozy AppealPros: Variety of Styles & Fabrics – Curtains come in endless designs, from sheer to blackout, adding personality to any room. Better Insulation – Thick, lined curtains help regulate indoor temperatures by keeping heat in during winter and blocking it in summer. Soft & Elegant Look – They add warmth and sophistication, making them perfect for living rooms and bedrooms. Cons: Requires More Maintenance – Curtains need regular washing to keep dust and allergens at bay. Takes Up M...
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