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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 Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Majority of demo is done and what would demo be with a few surprises.  Great thing about homes in The Villages is they are built on a slab so rarely to you have major flooring issues.  In the kitchen and baths, we found ceramic tile under LVP, not a big problem just a few more hours of labor.  The home is block stucco so the few places that were opened to the blocks no issues.  The buyer did not want the washer and dryer in the garage so as you can see in the picture they are being moved to the end of the villa next to the Primary Bedroom.  The plumber decided the best way to have water and sewer is cut a trench from the guest bathroom to the new location.  An hour of concrete saw and digging dirt and that project will be done.  Electrical work will be done in the attic area which is mu...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Junk removal companies play a vital role in reducing landfill waste by recycling, repurposing, and donating unwanted items. Their eco-friendly approach helps minimize environmental impact while keeping communities clean and clutter-free. Choosing professional junk removal is a smart and sustainable way to dispose of items responsibly!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP How Junk Removal Companies Help Reduce Landfill Waste Junk removal companies do more than just haul away unwanted items—they play a crucial role in reducing landfill waste. By prioritizing recycling, donation, and responsible disposal, these companies help keep unnecessary trash out of overflowing landfills. 1. Recycling Materials Many items that end up in the trash can be recycled instead. Junk removal ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Choosing the right exterior siding enhances both the style and durability of your home! Modern trends offer a variety of materials, from classic wood to low-maintenance fiber cement, ensuring long-lasting protection and curb appeal. The right siding choice can boost home value while reflecting your personal style.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Making the appropriate exterior siding choice is crucial for both safeguarding and improving the curb appeal of your house. Given the variety of materials available, homeowners must weigh maintenance requirements, durability, and beauty. The top siding alternatives for 2025 are listed below, regardless of whether you're building new or remodeling. Top Exterior Siding Materials Vinyl Siding – A budget-friendly, low-maintenanc...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Growing your own fruit trees is a rewarding way to create a lush, vibrant paradise right at home. Not only do they provide fresh, delicious produce, but they also enhance air quality, support local wildlife, and add natural beauty to your space. Plus, they offer a sustainable and fulfilling gardening experience for years to come!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Grow Your Own Paradise: The Magic of Fruit Trees Imagine stepping into your backyard and picking fresh, juicy fruit straight from the tree. Growing your own fruit trees isn’t just a rewarding experience—it’s a way to enjoy homegrown flavors, enhance your landscape, and promote sustainability. Whether you have a large garden or a small patio, there’s a fruit tree that can thrive in your space! Why Grow Fruit T...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
A leaking toilet may seem minor, but it can waste thousands of gallons of water each year! Fixing leaks promptly saves water, lowers utility bills, and helps conserve valuable resources. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP How Much Water Does a Leaking Toilet Waste? (And Other Common Household Leaks) A small leak might not seem like a big deal, but over time, it can lead to gallons of wasted water and higher utility bills. One of the biggest culprits? A leaking toilet. How Much Water Does a Leaking Toilet Waste? A toilet with a slow leak can waste 200 to 300 gallons of water per day—that’s over 8,000 gallons a month! If the leak is more severe, it can waste up to 6,000 gallons a day, which is enough to fill a swimming pool in just a few days. The worst part? Many homeo...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Grow Your Own Paradise: The Magic of Fruit TreesImagine stepping into your backyard and picking fresh, juicy fruit straight from the tree. Growing your own fruit trees isn’t just a rewarding experience—it’s a way to enjoy homegrown flavors, enhance your landscape, and promote sustainability. Whether you have a large garden or a small patio, there’s a fruit tree that can thrive in your space!Why Grow Fruit Trees?✔ Fresh & Nutritious Produce – Nothing beats the taste of freshly picked fruit, free from pesticides and preservatives. ✔ Cost-Effective – Save money by reducing grocery store trips and enjoying a long-term food source. ✔ Eco-Friendly – Trees absorb carbon dioxide, improve air quality, and provide a habitat for wildlife. ✔ Beautiful Landscaping – Fruit trees add shade, blooms, an...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Home renovations not only enhance comfort and style but also add significant value to your property. Whether it’s upgrading the kitchen, improving energy efficiency, or boosting curb appeal, smart renovations can offer great returns. Investing in the right upgrades can make your home more attractive to buyers and increase its market value. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Understanding the Value of Home Renovations Whether you’re planning to sell your home or just want to enjoy a fresh new space, home renovations can significantly increase the value of your property. Not all renovations are created equal, so it’s important to know which updates will offer the best return on investment. Here are key renovations that can boost your home’s value: Kitchen Upgrades A mod...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
A custom deck is a perfect way to elevate your outdoor space! It adds beauty, functionality, and value to your home, creating the perfect spot for relaxation and entertaining. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP An outdoor deck is an extension of the interior of your home. It affords you extra space for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying family time when the weather is cooperating. A custom deck will transform your outdoor space into a cozy and enjoyable living area. We’ll explore some of the ways a custom deck can enhance the exterior of your home. Benefits of Adding a Deck A custom deck, designed and built by a qualified construction professional, will bring exceptional and enjoyable space to your home’s yard.   A deck connects you to nature without having to leave...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Understanding the Value of Home RenovationsWhether you’re planning to sell your home or just want to enjoy a fresh new space, home renovations can significantly increase the value of your property. Not all renovations are created equal, so it’s important to know which updates will offer the best return on investment. Here are key renovations that can boost your home’s value: Kitchen Upgrades A modern, updated kitchen is often the most appealing feature for buyers. Simple improvements like new countertops, updated appliances, or fresh cabinetry can make a huge impact. Bathroom Remodels Updating bathrooms, especially adding a modern, clean aesthetic, can increase your home’s market value. Consider upgrading fixtures, adding a double vanity, or installing a new shower or tub. Curb Appeal E...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Making the appropriate exterior siding choice is crucial for both safeguarding and improving the curb appeal of your house. Given the variety of materials available, homeowners must weigh maintenance requirements, durability, and beauty. The top siding alternatives for 2025 are listed below, regardless of whether you're building new or remodeling.Top Exterior Siding Materials Vinyl Siding – A budget-friendly, low-maintenance option available in many styles and colors. It resists moisture, pests, and fading, making it a long-lasting choice. Additionally, newer insulated vinyl siding options help improve energy efficiency. Fiber Cement Siding – Known for its wood-like appearance and extreme durability, fiber cement withstands fire, rot, and harsh weather conditions. Though slightly more e...
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By Rocky Dickerson, Superior Service!
(Realty One Group)
Chaos to calm. With spring around the corner, it’s time to focus on spring cleaning! In daily life, our homes can undergo rapid changes. They go from serene sanctuaries to chaotic catch-alls for everything we've touched. And so, it’s easy to let clutter accumulate, but the price we pay is hefty, costing us space and peace of mind. And so, imagine opening your door to a welcoming space. It greets you with calm and relaxes you. Tranquility may seem a distant dream. But, with a few simple tips, you can turn your chaotic space into a calm haven.Chaos to Calm - Start Small, Think BigBegin with a single drawer or shelf. Keep only the items that you genuinely need or love. After all, this micro approach makes the task less daunting. Also, it offers a quick win, motivating you to tackle larger ...
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By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809 cell direct
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
Why did the chicken cross the road?Ah, now that’s a sight you don’t see every day—chickens, law-abiding and patient, waiting for the right moment to cross the street like seasoned pedestrians.This was back when I was overseeing an FHA 203k renovation project just down the road. The property was an old craftsman-style home, beat up from years of neglect, but it had good bones. I was standing near my truck, going over contractor bids, when I spotted them—the rooster and his two hens, standing at the edge of the road right by the stop sign.At first, I thought, Surely they’ll just wander across without a care. But no, these weren’t just any ordinary chickens. They were savvy, city-wise, and disciplined.The rooster stood tall, chest puffed out, as if commanding an unseen army. His beady eyes...
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By Larry Wedige, Anyone Else is Just Looking Around
(LarryInspects Home Inspection Service)
Here’s a follow up to my last blog post, Top 10 Common Deficiencies Home Inspectors Find in Wood Decks. I received an email last week from a homeowner who wanted his new deck inspected before making the final payment. By the time I called him back, his wife had already scheduled another inspector. He wasn’t too happy about it as I was his first choice and the other wasn’t a NADRA Certified Deck Inspector. He called me back on Saturday morning to tell me that his inspector called in sick and was not able do the inspection. I told him that I could do it Sunday. I inspected this $53.000 deck and here is the link to the inspection report. Would you make the final payment?
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Seasonal porch décor is a simple yet effective way to enhance your home’s curb appeal! From festive wreaths to cozy lighting and seasonal plants, small touches can make a big impact. Refreshing your porch with each season creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on guests and potential buyers.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Your porch is the first thing guests and passersby notice about your home. Whether you have a spacious wraparound porch or a cozy front stoop, the right decor can enhance curb appeal and make a welcoming statement. Below, we share stylish porch decor ideas to keep your entryway looking fresh and inviting all year long. Spring: Fresh & Floral Spring is the perfect time to refresh your porch with lively colors and natur...
Comments 1
By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Revamping your kitchen with stylish and functional cabinets is a smart investment! Not only do they enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your space, but they also improve organization and storage efficiency. Modern designs can increase your home's value and make your kitchen more inviting, practical, and enjoyable for daily use. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Your kitchen cabinets play a crucial role in both style and functionality. They define the overall look of your kitchen while offering essential storage for cookware, utensils, and pantry items. Whether you're remodeling your kitchen or just looking for a quick update, choosing the right cabinets can make a world of difference. Choosing the Right Style Kitchen cabinets come in a variety of styles, from sle...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Smart home automation not only enhances convenience and security but also boosts property value by attracting tech-savvy buyers and increasing energy efficiency! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Smart home automation is becoming increasingly popular. Chief reasons that this is the case is because it offers convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced security. These features are attractive to homebuyers, and they can also increase the value of your property. Let us examine how smart home technology can impact the worth of your home.   Enhanced Entertainment   Imagine controlling your entire entertainment system with the touch of a button or a voice command, and you never have to move to do it. Smart home technology makes this possible. With this technology in place,...
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By Nelson Huggins, Rooter Man to the Rescue
(Rooter Man )
How Much Water Does a Leaking Toilet Waste? (And Other Common Household Leaks)A small leak might not seem like a big deal, but over time, it can lead to gallons of wasted water and higher utility bills. One of the biggest culprits? A leaking toilet.How Much Water Does a Leaking Toilet Waste?A toilet with a slow leak can waste 200 to 300 gallons of water per day—that’s over 8,000 gallons a month! If the leak is more severe, it can waste up to 6,000 gallons a day, which is enough to fill a swimming pool in just a few days. The worst part? Many homeowners don’t even notice a toilet leak until they see a spike in their water bill.Other Common Household Leaks & Their Impact Dripping Faucets – A faucet that drips once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons per year—that’s enough for more tha...
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By Nelson Huggins, Local junk removal service. Real Estate clean outs
(Black Dog Junk Removal)
How Junk Removal Companies Help Reduce Landfill WasteJunk removal companies do more than just haul away unwanted items—they play a crucial role in reducing landfill waste. By prioritizing recycling, donation, and responsible disposal, these companies help keep unnecessary trash out of overflowing landfills.1. Recycling Materials Many items that end up in the trash can be recycled instead. Junk removal companies sort through collected waste to salvage recyclable materials like metal, plastic, wood, and electronics. By redirecting these materials to recycling centers, they help conserve natural resources and reduce the need for new raw materials.2. Donating Usable Goods One person's trash is another person's treasure! Instead of throwing away furniture, clothing, appliances, and other reu...
Comments 3
By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Your kitchen cabinets play a crucial role in both style and functionality. They define the overall look of your kitchen while offering essential storage for cookware, utensils, and pantry items. Whether you're remodeling your kitchen or just looking for a quick update, choosing the right cabinets can make a world of difference.Choosing the Right StyleKitchen cabinets come in a variety of styles, from sleek modern designs to classic, rustic finishes. If you love a contemporary look, consider flat-panel cabinets with a glossy or matte finish. For a more traditional feel, shaker-style cabinets with elegant hardware can add timeless charm to your space.Maximizing Storage EfficiencyFunctionality is key when selecting cabinets. Features like pull-out shelves, deep drawers, and built-in organi...
Comments 3
By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Your porch is the first thing guests and passersby notice about your home. Whether you have a spacious wraparound porch or a cozy front stoop, the right decor can enhance curb appeal and make a welcoming statement. Below, we share stylish porch decor ideas to keep your entryway looking fresh and inviting all year long.Spring: Fresh & FloralSpring is the perfect time to refresh your porch with lively colors and natural elements. Floral Arrangements – Incorporate potted flowers like tulips, daffodils, and hydrangeas to add a pop of color. Wreaths & Door Decor – A bright floral or greenery wreath brings instant charm to your entrance. Outdoor Rugs & Pillows – Soft pastels and floral prints create a fresh, welcoming feel. Functional Seating – A cozy bench or rocking chair provides a perfect...
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