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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 ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
The New Year is a time for a new beginning, and for homeowners, this is the perfect opportunity to make positive changes in their homes. One of the best ways to start fresh is by decluttering some stuff and making your living space feel more organized and efficient. Whether you're dealing with a small apartment or just need to maximize your current space, here are some space-saving solutions that you might consider.Install multifunctional furnitureMaximize your space by installing multifunctional furniture in your home. Look for pieces that serve dual purposes, such as sofa beds, ottomans with hidden storage, or foldable dining tables. These items are very useful in small apartments where space is limited.Don’t leave corners unusedCorners are often overlooked but this spot is one the mo...
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By Rocky Dickerson, Superior Service!
(Realty One Group)
Creating accent walls can add a touch of style and personality to your home. Because it adds depth, color, and a focal point that captures attention. Thus, an accent wall can transform any room.  Therefore, an accent wall can greatly improve your space. And so, whether you're a DIYer or thinking of hiring a pro, consider it. But first, let's explore the benefits of accent walls. We'll also consider whether to DIY or hire a pro.Creating Accent Walls - The Benefits1. Creating Accent Walls Adds Visual InterestAn accent wall can break up the monotony of a room and introduce a bold statement. And so, it draws the eye and creates a focal point, making the space more engaging and dynamic.Related: 3 Issues That Can Hurt Your Home's Selling Potential2. Defines SpacesIn open-plan homes, an accent...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Nowadays, several beautiful flower arrangements have gone viral online, inspiring people to start growing their own. By cultivating these flowers, you're not only engaging in an economical hobby but also discovering creativity within yourself. Whether 2025 is the year you're starting your first flower garden, or you're an experienced gardener looking to take your backyard to the next level, here are six flower bed trends that will elevate your outdoor space.  Seasonal, year-round flowering plants - these beds feature plants that bloom at different times of the year to keep your garden lively. For example, starting the year with winter pansies or cyclamen, transitioning to spring tulips and then summer dahlias, creates an ever-changing view.     Naturalistic Garden Bed - instead of perfe...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Fresh curtain ideas can transform your space for the new year, offering style and functionality. Explore vibrant patterns, neutral tones, or layered textures to enhance your room's ambiance. Incorporating sheer panels or bold prints can make a statement, while blackout curtains improve comfort. A great way to refresh your home decor!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Do you feel like your home needs a fresh update to start the year, but you're on a budget? Don’t worry! There are several ways to transform your space, and one of the easiest is changing your curtains.   Designing your home involves putting on the right curtains. Not only it boost the aesthetic appeal of a room, but it also provides privacy and warmth, making it more inviting for relaxation. Before you se...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Do you feel like your home needs a fresh update to start the year, but you're on a budget? Don’t worry! There are several ways to transform your space, and one of the easiest is changing your curtains. Designing your home involves putting on the right curtains. Not only it boost the aesthetic appeal of a room, but it also provides privacy and warmth, making it more inviting for relaxation. Before you settle on basic white curtains, consider how you could make them part of your decor. Here are some ideas to help you create the perfect space. Light and Airy Fabrics - Light curtains are perfect for spaces like living rooms and kitchens, where you want to keep things bright and open. Sheer curtains in soft pastel colors or neutral tones can make a calm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for w...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Biophilic design integrates natural elements into indoor spaces to create a calming and rejuvenating atmosphere. This approach is perfect for reducing stress and promoting well-being in homes and offices alike. Explore ways to transform your environment with these inspiring tips!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Transform Your Home Into a Sanctuary of Peace   Introduction   In today’s fast-paced world, creating a calm and serene environment at home is essential. Biophilic design, which emphasizes the connection between nature and human well-being, can help. By incorporating biophilic principles in your space, you can promote tranquility and mindfulness. Let’s explore how this approach can enhance your home environment.   Embrace Natural Light   To begin with, one of ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Growing fruit trees successfully requires proper planning, care, and patience. This blog offers practical advice for nurturing fruit trees, making it a valuable resource for beginners and experienced gardeners alike!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Growing fruit trees is a rewarding way to enhance your garden while enjoying fresh, delicious produce. Not only do they provide shade and beauty, but they also offer a sustainable way to connect with nature. With the right care and attention, you can transform your outdoor space into a thriving orchard. Follow these handy tips to ensure a bountiful harvest and healthy trees: 1. Smart Planting Tips: Pick the Right Spot: Choose a sunny area with well-drained soil. Avoid areas prone to flooding or heavy winds.   Space Wisely...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Upgrading your countertops is a fantastic way to refresh your kitchen for 2025. A sleek, modern surface can transform the space while adding value to your home. Whether you’re considering durable quartz, classic granite, or stylish butcher block, this blog offers inspiration to help you choose the perfect upgrade for your needs. A great read for anyone planning a kitchen makeover!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Start the year off right by enhancing your home’s interior and setting the tone for a fresh, new space. Consider upgrading your kitchen countertop to make it both functional and stylish. Whether you're preparing to sell or just want to refresh your environment, new countertops can make a significant impact. To help you get started, here are 6 essential tips ...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
This year, interior design is all about bold choices, timeless charm, and a celebration of artistry. From the resurgence of vintage appliances to the allure of curved furniture, the trends for 2025 are redefining how we live and love our spaces. Let’s explore six standout trends making waves this year: ✨ Color Drenching: Why limit your favorite hue to one wall? Color drenching takes your love for a shade to the next level, saturating entire rooms in one striking color—walls, ceilings, and even furniture. It’s immersive, daring, and undeniably chic.✨ Texture Play: The trend toward tactile elements invites you to feel as much as you see. Think walls covered in natural plaster, boucle-covered seating, and rugs so plush they’re practically art underfoot. Texture adds depth, warmth, and pers...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Ready to refresh your space? A deep clean isn’t just about tidying up—it’s a great way to make your home feel brand new! 🏡 Whether you're staying put or prepping to sell, these small tasks can make a big difference. Need advice on getting your home market-ready? Send me a message, and let’s chat! 📩🧹 #thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #homeowner #househunting #realestate #a010625 #realestateagent #realtor #happyhome #Hometips #dreamhome
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Start the year off right by enhancing your home’s interior and setting the tone for a fresh, new space. Consider upgrading your kitchen countertop to make it both functional and stylish. Whether you're preparing to sell or just want to refresh your environment, new countertops can make a significant impact. To help you get started, here are 6 essential tips and hacks. Choose the Right MaterialWhen upgrading your kitchen countertops, it's essential to focus on durability. Selecting materials that can withstand daily use will ensure that your investment lasts for years. From granite and quartz to soapstone and marble, these materials are popular options that can fit a range of budgets and tastes. Ultimately, the best choice relies on your lifestyle and the level of maintenance you're prep...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Growing fruit trees is a rewarding way to enhance your garden while enjoying fresh, delicious produce. Not only do they provide shade and beauty, but they also offer a sustainable way to connect with nature. With the right care and attention, you can transform your outdoor space into a thriving orchard. Follow these handy tips to ensure a bountiful harvest and healthy trees:1. Smart Planting Tips:Pick the Right Spot: Choose a sunny area with well-drained soil. Avoid areas prone to flooding or heavy winds. Space Wisely: Ensure proper spacing to allow for growth, airflow, and easier maintenance. Start Small: Young trees are easier to plant and adapt better. Select varieties suited to your climate.2. Maintenance Tricks:Water Deeply: Water less often but thoroughly to encourage deep roots. ...
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By Teri Isner, GRI, CRS, CIPS
(Keller Williams Realty at the Lakes)
Our resolutions for the new year normally focus on eating healthier, losing weight, kicking dirty habits--the list goes on. Sadly, by the end of February, we find ourselves just trying to remember what our resolutions were, much less sticking to them! Homeownership can be the same way; we start out with good intentions and fall short. While the next seven items are not everything a homeowner needs to keep up with, they are easy to do! Keep the yard in tip-top shape year-round with these tips from The Family Handyman. Resolve to cut the clutter in your house one room per week. Repair the little things that are not necessarily safety issues: door knobs that are not working, dripping faucets, or squeaky floors. Letting the little things go can cause bigger problems and may cost more later....
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By Teri Isner, GRI, CRS, CIPS
(Keller Williams Realty at the Lakes)
Many seniors plan to live at home for as long as it is physically possible. Unless a major transformation needs to be made, most changes are simple. The following seven modifications are easy DIY jobs everyone in the family can take care of over a weekend: Replace all doorknobs with lever-style handles so that those with arthritis or other motor skill problems can open doors easily. Install anti-skid treads to ramps and steps to minimize slipping. To reduce the danger of falls, area rugs can be secured with non-slip rug padding or double-sided carpet tape. If a total bathroom remodel is not affordable, installing grab-bars to the shower, bath, and toilet area walls will offer security for moving around in a slippery bathroom. Change faucets in the kitchen and bath to single lever handle...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Over the weekend I have a past client I am working with made an offer on a 1998 Villa and after a few counters she got it.  Great location, great view with a pool but, the home looks like it did in 1998 as far as needing updating.  Bring in the “Guy List” we got plenty to do, the home is vacant, and we worded the contract that tradesman can come into the home for estimates and ordering material.  No work can start until closing the middle of February, so we are getting ready.The buyer rented a home until the end of April and the goal is to be done before her rental expires, 75 days to do a complete make over we are planning on 45 to be done.  The list to get done, replace flooring, repair ceilings, upgrade both bathrooms completely, new countertops and backsplash, new lighting, paint th...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
When it comes to protecting your home from the elements, durable siding is essential. In 2025, homeowners are prioritizing long-lasting, low-maintenance materials that also enhance the aesthetic of their homes. Here are the top exterior siding options you’ll want to consider.1. Fiber Cement SidingFiber cement siding is still one of the best options for those who want something that will last and look great. It does not burn, rot, or attract pests and provides great protection while offering the appearance of wood or stucco. Plus, it's virtually maintenance-free, making it an excellent option for the long term.2. Vinyl SidingVinyl siding has experienced many changes, and the newest models in 2025 are the strongest yet most weather resistant ever. Affordably priced and having little maint...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Landscaping and outdoor living spaces not only enhance a home's aesthetic appeal but also significantly boost its market value. Thoughtful design, such as well-maintained gardens, patios, and functional outdoor areas, creates inviting spaces that attract potential buyers. Investing in these features is a smart way to increase both enjoyment and resale value. A great read for homeowners looking to maximize their property’s potential!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Enhance Your Home's Value with Thoughtful Landscaping and Outdoor Living Spaces In today's real estate market, first impressions are paramount. A well-designed landscape and inviting outdoor living areas can set your home apart, offering both immediate enjoyment and long-term financial benefits. Curb Appea...
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Home Trending Journalism by Patricia Feager The year is 2025. Can you believe it! Pulling back the curtains, let's explore previous household trends beginning with the kitchen. What new visions do you have for your future home?   EXPLORING OLD & SOMETIMES COMMON TRENDSKitchen AppliancesWhite, Avocado, Harvest Gold, Coppertone, Brown, Almond, Black, Stainless Steel.  CountertopsButcher Block, Formica, Concrete, Ceramic, Granite, Resin River, Engineered Stone, Soapstone, Slate, Marble, Stainless Steel, Travertine, Natural Wood, Sintered Stone, Quartzite, Engineered Quartzite.CeilingsAsbestos Compositions Boards, Asbestos Fiber Boards, Plaster Boards, Tin Ceiling Tiles, Mirrors on the ceiling, Skylights, Popcorn Ceilings, Acoustic Ceiling Tiles, Acoustic Ceiling Tiles, Ornate Ceiling Medal...
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By Steve Houck
(Real Estate Partners, LLC)
Enhance Your Home's Value with Thoughtful Landscaping and Outdoor Living SpacesIn today's real estate market, first impressions are paramount. A well-designed landscape and inviting outdoor living areas can set your home apart, offering both immediate enjoyment and long-term financial benefits.Curb Appeal MattersThe exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers notice. A manicured lawn, vibrant flower beds, and well-placed shrubs create an inviting atmosphere that suggests a well-maintained property. In fact, a neat front yard can increase your home's market value by up to 10%.The SunOutdoor Living Spaces: From Luxury to NecessityWhat was once considered a luxury—outdoor living spaces—has become a necessity for many homeowners. Features like covered patios, outdoor kitchens,...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Yes it can be done, and you can expect about 10 to 12 years of life out of painted vinyl siding.  Recently working with a flipper, he bought a home built in 1995 here in The Villages, Florida with vinyl siding.  It was that faded blue you see around the area and was doing a complete remodel inside and decided to go with a different color outside.  While at it they removed all the gutters, downspouts and fascia and sprayed a fresh coat of white, it looked brand new!Here is how Mario the Painter (my guy list) did the job.  Once a color was decided he ordered the primer from Sherman Williams tinted for the topcoat.  First coat primer next coat was the topcoat applied thin and finally the topcoat applied heavier than the previous coat, three coats total.  With the freshly painted white surf...
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