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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 Malendaz Coleman, FLAT FEE MLS LISTING SERVICES - LIST LOW AS $69.00
(FLAT MLS LISTING SERVICES )
Port Charlotte – with its sunny skies and balmy breezes, it's a slice of paradise here in southwest Florida. But let's face it, when the summer heat rolls in, we all rely on our air conditioning to keep us comfortable. That's why proper AC repair and maintenance are absolute musts for any Port Charlotte resident. And when it comes to reliable service, there's one name you can trust: Native Air Conditioning & Heat.Why AC Repair and Maintenance Matter: In a place like Port Charlotte, where the sun beats down relentlessly and the humidity can feel downright oppressive, having a functioning air conditioner isn't just a luxury – it's a necessity. Regular maintenance ensures that your AC system is running at peak efficiency, keeping your home cool and comfortable while also helping to lower y...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Have you been hit by the urge to try vegetable gardening? Yep, us too. These days, part of the motivation might be financial. Grocery prices are stubbornly high despite declining inflation in other areas. Even if you aren’t planning a full-on crop of tomatoes and cucumbers, benefits other than financial include less waste, more family and outdoor fun, and even better health.Those benefits have persuaded consumers to start gardening. In fact, according to the National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture, 25% of American homeowners grow their berries, vegetables, or fruit trees.Ohio State University reports that gardening is also good for the body and mind. It even improves mood by activating serotonin, the feel-good hormone.No worries if you think a veggie garden would turn your backyar...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
It is that time of year when Curb appeal shows up more Sandra Nickel blog some great information on it. Spring has arrived and with the weather warming up, now is the time to start sprucing up your yard for curb appeal. Here are some tips for how to rid your yard of that wild, unattended winter look and replace it with a space that is sure to impress! Send Winter Packing Pull out your rake and remove all the debris of winter. Leaves, pinecones, sticks etc. are not appealing and ridden your yard of all that mess will have it look tidy in no time. Declare War on the Weeds Weeding is no fun, but it’s a necessary part of maintaining your lawn and garden. Taking the time to clear your yard of weeds will not only make it look nicer, it will also show that you take pride in all aspects of your...
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By Roy Kelley
(Retired)
Spend some time working in your yard now and not only will you save yourself from having to do it in the sweltering heat of summer, but you will be able to enjoy your outdoor spaces throughout the spring and summer season.    Spring has arrived and with the weather warming up, now is the time to start sprucing up your yard for curb appeal. Here are some tips for how to rid your yard of that wild, unattended winter look and replace it with a space that is sure to impress! Send Winter Packing Pull out your rake and remove all the debris of winter. Leaves, pinecones, sticks etc. are not appealing and ridden your yard of all that mess will have it look tidy in no time. Declare War on the Weeds Weeding is no fun, but it’s a necessary part of maintaining your lawn and garden. Taking the time ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Exciting topic! Spring is the perfect time to enhance your home's curb appeal. This blog likely offers tips and inspiration for sprucing up your outdoor space to make a great impression. Looking forward to learning more about creating a welcoming exterior this spring!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Spring has arrived and with the weather warming up, now is the time to start sprucing up your yard for curb appeal. Here are some tips for how to rid your yard of that wild, unattended winter look and replace it with a space that is sure to impress! Send Winter Packing Pull out your rake and remove all the debris of winter. Leaves, pinecones, sticks etc. are not appealing and ridden your yard of all that mess will have it look tidy in no time. Declare War on the Weeds We...
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By Joyce Marsh, Joyce Marsh Homes
(Joyce Marsh Real Estate LLC)
The Interior Desiger... The Interior Decorator... The Home Stager...  What's the Difference?? Are you considering giving your home a makeover or preparing your home for sale?  Understanding the roles and responsibilities of the Interior Decorator, Interior Designer, and the Home Stager are all professionals who work in the field of Interior Design, and can help you achieve your desired results, but they each have different roles and responsibilities.   The cost and charges for Interior Decorators, Interior Designers and Home Stagers can vary depending on many factors such as their level of experience, the geographical location, scope of work, and the specific needs of the project. Here is a brief overview and recap in very general terms what you might expect when you hire one of these p...
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By Sandra Nickel, The Hat Team
(Sandra Nickel REALTORS)
Spring has arrived and with the weather warming up, now is the time to start sprucing up your yard for curb appeal. Here are some tips for how to rid your yard of that wild, unattended winter look and replace it with a space that is sure to impress!Send Winter PackingPull out your rake and remove all the debris of winter. Leaves, pinecones, sticks etc. are not appealing and ridden your yard of all that mess will have it look tidy in no time.Declare War on the WeedsWeeding is no fun, but it’s a necessary part of maintaining your lawn and garden. Taking the time to clear your yard of weeds will not only make it look nicer, it will also show that you take pride in all aspects of your home.Time for a TrimIt is time to start cutting your grass regularly again. Healthy, even grass is attracti...
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By June Piper-Brandon, Creating Generational Wealth Through Homeownership
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
It's that time of year!! My cleaning lady came this morning and cleaned everything in my house (it will take me a week to find everything she put away) but my house smells so good and it's all clean. Then, my landscaper came and did the outside too. Now, I am ready to face the rest of spring and the summer!! Spring Cleaning? Don’t Miss These Areas!   Whether or not you’re preparing your home for sale or staying put…it’s time to give your home a new coat of FRESH! Most of us don’t wait until once a year to clean our homes, but Spring has always signaled that it’s time to Get down and dirty.    While you have your sleeves rolled up, don’t forget these areas! KITCHEN ~ Refrigerator- Move it and clean behind it. Don’t forget the coils. Don’t forget to clean the top of it.   ~ Microwave- Giv...
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Forget one-size-fits-all kitchens – your kitchen is the vibrant soul of your home, and it’s a space that should match your personality while offering perfect functionality. Here's where bespoke fitted kitchens come in, transforming your cooking space into a haven designed just for you. A fitted kitchen can elevate your home in every way, and working with a professional designer such as Colourhill Kitchens in Lincoln can help you achieve a design that’s unique to you.  What is a Bespoke Fitted Kitchen? Imagine a kitchen handcrafted to fit your space like a glove. Fitted kitchens are custom-designed pieces that seamlessly integrate cabinets, worktops, and appliances. Unlike their off-the-rack counterparts, fitted kitchens eliminate awkward gaps and wasted corners, maximizing every preciou...
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Whether or not you’re preparing your home for sale or staying put…it’s time to give your home a new coat of FRESH!   Spring Cleaning? Don’t Miss These Areas!   Whether or not you’re preparing your home for sale or staying put…it’s time to give your home a new coat of FRESH! Most of us don’t wait until once a year to clean our homes, but Spring has always signaled that it’s time to Get down and dirty.    While you have your sleeves rolled up, don’t forget these areas! KITCHEN ~ Refrigerator- Move it and clean behind it. Don’t forget the coils. Don’t forget to clean the top of it.   ~ Microwave- Give it a good cleaning inside. Don’t forget to clean the glass turntable!!  ~ Oven and Stovetop- Follow your manufacturer’s instructions to clean the inside.  ~ Dishwashers need some TLC as well....
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Spring Cleaning? Don’t Miss These Areas!   Whether or not you’re preparing your home for sale or staying put…it’s time to give your home a new coat of FRESH! Most of us don’t wait until once a year to clean our homes, but Spring has always signaled that it’s time to Get down and dirty.    While you have your sleeves rolled up, don’t forget these areas! KITCHEN ~ Refrigerator- Move it and clean behind it. Don’t forget the coils. Don’t forget to clean the top of it.   ~ Microwave- Give it a good cleaning inside. Don’t forget to clean the glass turntable!!  ~ Oven and Stovetop- Follow your manufacturer’s instructions to clean the inside.  ~ Dishwashers need some TLC as well.  To keep it fresh run a dishwasher-safe cup of vinegar in the top rack.  Nothing else should be in it.   You can pl...
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By Theresa Hus, The Official Real Estate Agent Directory
(RealEstateAgent.com)
Are you tired of feeling cramped and confined in your living space? Do you dream of turning your small apartment into a stylish oasis that maximizes every inch? Look no further! Today, we will delve into maximizing small spaces with style. In this fast-paced era, where urban living is becoming the norm, space has become a precious commodity. However, even though your home is compact, you can still maintain style and functionality. Creativity and ingenuity can transform even the tiniest spaces into a haven that reflects your style. Maximizing small spaces is all about making the most of what you have. It's about finding innovative solutions and thinking outside the box. From multifunctional furniture to smart storage solutions, there are countless ways to optimize your space while mainta...
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Custom keychains have become a popular accessory to show off personality and style in a world where customization is crucial. Keychains have evolved from a practical tool to an artistic canvas that lets users express themselves in original ways. We'll look at some of the most imaginative and distinctive bespoke keychains that you can get online in this post; each one has a unique backstory.Personalized EleganceEngraved keychains are classic because of their elegance and understatement. Numerous alternatives are available for personalized engravings on online platforms, ranging from names and initials to significant statements or dates. Elegant additions to your everyday necessities, engraved keychains make thoughtful gifts for loved ones or serve as cherished mementos.Picture pendantsTh...
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On March 19, 2024, Larissa Runkle published a very good interesting report on Realtor.com about the list of essential Spring home maintenance tasks to do.1. Inspect your home’s exterior and roof,2. Check for water leaks in the basement,3. Reseal driveways and paths,4. Get your chimney cleaned,5. Clear gutters and spouts,6. Spiff up the yard and garden,Perhaps there might be other helpful list of essential Spring home maintenance tasks to do.For complete more detailed information about Larissa Runkle’s report for the list of essential Spring home maintenance tasks to do, please click HERE
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Nestled just north of the bustling city of Atlanta, Dunwoody, GA, offers a serene suburban lifestyle coveted by many. This charming city is celebrated for its picturesque neighborhoods, exemplary educational institutions, minimal crime rates, and various parks and recreational venues. However, like any desirable locale, the cost of living in Dunwoody, GA, is critical for anyone considering making it their home. Through this article, we aim to delve deep into the various facets that contribute to the living costs in Dunwoody, offering a comprehensive analysis to aid in your decision-making process.Overview of the Cost of Living in Dunwoody, GAThe cost of living is an umbrella term encompassing various expenses incurred by the average individual or family residing in a specific area. In D...
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By Kathy Streib, Home Stager/Redesign
Spring Cleaning? Don’t Miss These Areas! Whether or not you’re preparing your home for sale or staying put…it’s time to give your home a new coat of FRESH!Most of us don’t wait until once a year to clean our homes, but Spring has always signaled that it’s time to Get down and dirty.  While you have your sleeves rolled up, don’t forget these areas!KITCHEN~ Refrigerator- Move it and clean behind it. Don’t forget the coils. Don’t forget to clean the top of it. ~ Microwave- Give it a good cleaning inside. Don’t forget to clean the glass turntable!! ~ Oven and Stovetop- Follow your manufacturer’s instructions to clean the inside. ~ Dishwashers need some TLC as well.  To keep it fresh run a dishwasher-safe cup of vinegar in the top rack.  Nothing else should be in it.   You can place baking s...
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By Joyce Marsh, Joyce Marsh Homes
(Joyce Marsh Real Estate LLC)
Comparing a blind date to curb appeal is a fun analogy to illustrate the concept of making a good first impression.  Just as you want to impress someone on a blind date with your appearance, personality, and overall vibe, you also want your home to make a positive impression with its exterior appearance, landscaping, and overall attractiveness. In both cases, the goal is to create an initial impression that captivates and leaves a positive lasting memory.  First Impressions Matter Just like meeting someone for the first time, the exterior of your home is the first thing people notice. Whether it's a potential buyer or a neighbor passing by, their initial impression of your home can influence their perception of it. Attention to DetailOn a blind date, you might pay attention to small det...
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By Duane West
(3R's Construction & Remodeling)
Enhancing outdoor living spaces can significantly boost the enjoyment of your home, and one of the best ways to achieve this is by adding a deck. A well-designed deck provides a perfect setting for relaxation and entertainment and adds value to your property. When considering this addition, choosing the right deck builder is crucial. A skilled contractor ensures your deck is not only aesthetically pleasing but also safe and durable, aligning seamlessly with your vision of outdoor living. Selecting the right expert is critical to transforming your outdoor space into a versatile and inviting area.How to Locate the Best Deck BuildersIt's important to take into account a number of crucial characteristics that characterize a respectable and trustworthy contractor when choosing a deck builder...
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By Leanne Smith, The Grit and Gratitude Agent
(Dirt Road Real Estate)
Buying that first new construction home or that used home with lots of character does require annual home maintenance. Unfortunately, many property owners both new and older fail to undertake annual maintenance.The impact of this failed home maintenance is often revealed when the owners decide to sell their home. What happens is often a home price reduction to some sellers' concessions to the original agreed offer price.  Then additionally what may occur if the potential buyers are financing with a loan, a lower appraisal and/or requests for appraisal repairs may happen.To avoid this the potential loss of home equity (think profits) establishing a budget item is required.  Possibly placing $10 to $50 a month in a savings account allows for necessary home  repairs and ongoing home mainte...
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By Shayne Stone, "Your Rock Solid Choice Realtor" RETIRED
(HomeSmart)
Annual Home Maintenance Projects: Your Guide to a Well-Maintained HomeWelcome back, fellow homeowners! Today, we’re going to dive into the world of annual home maintenance projects. I know, I know, it’s not the most glamorous topic, but trust me when I say it’s worth your attention. These projects are like little knights in shining armor, protecting your castle from potential disasters and saving you from costly repairs down the road. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to tackle these essential tasks! 1. Gutters Galore:Ah, gutters – the unsung heroes of our homes. They work tirelessly to divert rainwater away from our roofs and foundations, preventing water damage and pesky leaks. Over time, though, they can become clogged with leaves, debris, and even the occasional rogue tenn...
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