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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 Charles Ross - eXp Realty LLC, Love To Help People
(eXp Realty LLC Salina Group)
 When it comes to home improvement, flooring is one of those things that can make or break the look and feel of a space. The right floor can transform a room, adding warmth, style, and functionality, while the wrong choice can leave you feeling like something is just... off. With so many options available today, from hardwood to laminate, tile to vinyl, making the right decision can be overwhelming. But don’t worry—I’m here to walk you through choosing the right flooring for your home.1. Understanding Your Space NeedsBefore choosing materials and colors, consider the space where you’ll install the flooring. Is it a high-traffic area like the kitchen or entryway? A cozy living room where comfort is key? Or a bathroom that needs to withstand moisture? Different rooms have different demand...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
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 the make sleeves of just paint them how you want.We liked them so much we now have 5 of them and soon will be ...
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By Sally Dollar
(Royal LePage Niagara Real Estate)
Record rainfall from storms Beryl and Debby hit Quebec and Ontario hard this summer, with flood damage forcing a rethink of city infrastructures as large storms become more frequent. ☔️@Marc Lefrançois, real estate broker with @Royal LePage Tendance, shares practical tips to help protect your home from future flooding. 🏠️🔗 Tap the link to read more....https://blog.royallepage.ca/prevent-flooding-essential-strategies-to-protect-your-property/#royallepage #realestate #realtors #agents #canada #news #industry #brokers #homeowner #buying #selling #sallydollarrealtor #shesellsniagara
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
 The article emphasizes that these design principles can help reduce stress, improve focus, and create a serene atmosphere conducive to mindfulness practices. A great read for anyone interested in holistic and nature-inspired design!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Discover the Power of Nature-Inspired Design to Enhance Your Well-Being   Understanding Mindfulness and Biophilia   In an age where distractions abound, cultivating mindfulness becomes essential for well-being. You can enhance your living or working spaces by integrating biophilic design principles. This approach not only promotes tranquility but also fosters a deeper connection to your environment.    Biophilia emphasizes incorporating nature and natural elements into interior spaces. This connection wit...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog outlines important considerations for California homeowners looking to build a better bathroom. By focusing on these key elements, homeowners can design a bathroom that is both stylish and sustainable, tailored to California’s unique needs.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP If you’re a California homeowner, make sure your bathroom meets your expectations and provides long-term comfort and convenience. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind: Water Conservation Regulations California leverages water conservation regulations to help prevent and address dry periods. Be aware of these rules not just when using your bathroom but also when choosing appliances. Consider sink faucets, tub faucets, and shower heads with a decreased flow. Then, think about a ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog highlights the transformative power of Sherwin-Williams paints in refreshing any space. Whether you’re looking for bold and vibrant hues or soft and calming tones, this blog provides inspiration and tips to revamp your home with high-quality paints.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Choosing the Right Paint for Every Surface   When it comes to painting your home, selecting the right type of paint is crucial. Sherwin-Williams offers a variety of finishes, each suited for different areas of your home. Understanding these options will help you achieve the best results.   Types of Paint Finishes ( See https://www.sherwin-williams.com/en-us/project-center/paint-sheen-guide) Flat Paint - Flat paint provides a non-reflective finish, making it perfect for ceilings a...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog offers simple home remodel ideas that can give your space a fresh new look without extensive renovations.  These small changes can have a big impact on the overall ambiance and functionality of your home. It's a great resource for anyone looking to refresh their space with minimal effort and cost!  Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Home remodeling doesn’t always mean big renovations or expensive projects. Sometimes, small changes can have the most significant impact. If you’re looking to give your home a fresh look, here are a few easy and budget-friendly remodel ideas that can help you transform your space.   A Fresh Coat of Paint One of the simplest and most effective ways to update any room is by painting. Whether you go bold with a statement wall or cho...
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By Doug Dawes, Your Personal Realtor®
(Keller Williams Evolution - 447 Boston Street, Suite #5, Topsfield, MA)
I found this blog post by Lew Corcoran to be most informative about a subject I knew little about. Thus my decision to reblog. Choosing the Right Paint for Every Surface   When it comes to painting your home, selecting the right type of paint is crucial. Sherwin-Williams offers a variety of finishes, each suited for different areas of your home. Understanding these options will help you achieve the best results.   Types of Paint Finishes ( See https://www.sherwin-williams.com/en-us/project-center/paint-sheen-guide) Flat Paint - Flat paint provides a non-reflective finish, making it perfect for ceilings and low-traffic areas like adult bedrooms. It hides imperfections well but is less durable and harder to clean. Matte Paint - Matte paint has a slightly higher sheen than flat paint, givi...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
If you’re a California homeowner, make sure your bathroom meets your expectations and provides long-term comfort and convenience. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:Water Conservation RegulationsCalifornia leverages water conservation regulations to help prevent and address dry periods. Be aware of these rules not just when using your bathroom but also when choosing appliances. Consider sink faucets, tub faucets, and shower heads with a decreased flow. Then, think about a toilet that holds less water and is more efficient with each flush.Permits and Building CodesPermits and building codes often have restrictions that apply to your bathroom. Whether you’re doing new construction or a big remodel, make sure you’re aware of these rules before making any decisions to avoid wa...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
  The air is crisp and the trees are changing colors. That must mean fall is here! Even if your yard isn’t fully blanketed in crunchy leaves just yet, you can still start on these essential fall lawn care tasks.  1. Rake the leaves.It turns out that this quintessential fall chore really is the most important one. If you love the look of a blanket of fall leaves, you’ll want to listen up. Not only do leaves block sunlight, they also trap moisture, leading to a soggy, decaying mess come spring. Remember, to avoid a marathon, you can always rake leaves as you see them, dividing work into more manageable 10- or 15-minute tasks. 2. Don’t winterize the sprinkler just yet.It’s a myth that cooler weather means your lawn needs less water—it might even need more! Use a rain gauge to make sure yo...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Home remodeling doesn’t always mean big renovations or expensive projects. Sometimes, small changes can have the most significant impact. If you’re looking to give your home a fresh look, here are a few easy and budget-friendly remodel ideas that can help you transform your space.  A Fresh Coat of PaintOne of the simplest and most effective ways to update any room is by painting. Whether you go bold with a statement wall or choose neutral tones to create a serene environment, paint can change the entire vibe of your home. It’s also one of the more affordable ways to make a significant difference without breaking the bank.  Upgrade the LightingLighting plays a crucial role in setting the tone of a room. Consider swapping outdated light fixtures for modern designs or adding dimmers to con...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
These tips show how thoughtful design can transform your outdoor space and boost curb appeal. Great suggestions for homeowners looking to elevate their yard’s visual appeal! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP When it comes to making your yard stand out, fencing and landscaping play a huge role in shaping the overall aesthetic. A well-designed fence not only provides privacy but also enhances the beauty of your landscape. Here are some creative ideas to inspire you.   Mix Materials for a Modern Look Combining different materials, such as wood and metal, can create a sleek and modern fence. Wooden panels paired with metal posts, for example, give a clean, contemporary feel while maintaining durability. The mix of textures adds visual interest and breaks the monotony of ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog is a great read for anyone looking to add a touch of charm to their garage door without a huge expense. The magnetic handles and strapping are a clever and affordable way to achieve a wrought iron look, instantly elevating the curb appeal. It’s also a fun reminder not to go overboard, as subtlety is key. Loved the humor about the playful prank on a friend’s garage door—shows how these magnets can be a delightful, low-commitment upgrade! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP A few weeks ago, I was with a client, and she noticed the garage door and how nice it looked.  I said so you like the wrought iron look of handles and strapping.  She said it does really make a difference, when we got to the door I pulled a piece of the trim off to her surprise a magnet.  We...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
When it comes to making your yard stand out, fencing and landscaping play a huge role in shaping the overall aesthetic. A well-designed fence not only provides privacy but also enhances the beauty of your landscape. Here are some creative ideas to inspire you.  Mix Materials for a Modern LookCombining different materials, such as wood and metal, can create a sleek and modern fence. Wooden panels paired with metal posts, for example, give a clean, contemporary feel while maintaining durability. The mix of textures adds visual interest and breaks the monotony of traditional fences.  Incorporate Plants with Your FenceWhy not turn your fence into a living one? Planting climbing vines or incorporating planters along your fence adds greenery and life to an otherwise simple structure. Consider...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
A few weeks ago, I was with a client, and she noticed the garage door and how nice it looked.  I said so you like the wrought iron look of handles and strapping.  She said it does really make a difference, when we got to the door I pulled a piece of the trim off to her surprise a magnet.  We are seeing more garage doors with a very inexpensive and simple upgrade.  Now don’t get carried away in this case there is a fine line between tasteful and overdoing the magnets.For about $20 to $30 you find nice sets of garage door magnets in both black and brown.  Lowes, Home Depot and looked at Amazon a 38-piece set which includes windows for $22.99.  I have a friend who put them on her garage door and every time I leave I turn one of her magnetic handles sideways, don’t tell her its me!  Dick Be...
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By CHRIS FALCONE, ASHI Certified Home Inspector-ACI
(X-Factor Home Inspections)
Ivy On Your HomeChris Falcone, Home Inspector ACII love English Ivy. I think Ivy is beautiful, and great on the wall at Wrigley Field, but as a Home Inspector it sets off my radar when I see it well established around homes.  It in no way has a symbiotic relationship with a home’s building materials or live trees.English Ivy (and other species) is prolific in Pennsylvania.  It is considered an evergreen so it does grow all year, albeit with different seasonal growth rates.  It can be tempting to leave in place because it is an evergreen, but it is invasive and very destructive if left unchecked.  I hope this information helps if you are shopping for or own a home with ivy on or near it.     There are four main subspecies in this area and you should do your best to keep them away from yo...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog offers creative ideas to transform your porch into a relaxing retreat using simple decor. The article also highlights the impact of choosing a calming color palette and adding personal touches, such as decorative accents or a statement rug. These easy updates can turn any porch into an inviting space for relaxation and enjoyment.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP The porch is a spot in the house that you are likely to use for relaxation. Picture a perfect Sunday morning, and you're just there, drinking a cup of coffee. You can also read your favorite book while enjoying the fresh air.   So, we suggest maximizing it. Why don't you update your porch to make it a more peaceful, relaxing retreat? The good thing is that it does not require much! You can achieve t...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog shares quick and easy tips for tackling floor repairs at home, such as filling in minor cracks, replacing damaged tiles or planks, and ensuring proper sealing. Thanks for sharing these practical and straightforward repair ideas!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Floors are one of the most visible parts of your home, so keeping them in good shape is essential. Over time, however, they can suffer from scratches, gaps, and general wear and tear. Thankfully, many common floor problems can be fixed with simple DIY solutions.   Scratches on Wood Floors One of the most frequent issues is scratches, especially on hardwood floors. For minor scratches, a crayon or marker that matches your floor color can do the trick. Rub it directly into the scratch and then buff it ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog provides helpful insights into managing construction delays, focusing on understanding project extensions and adjusting timelines effectively. Thanks for sharing these valuable tips on navigating construction delays!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Navigating Construction Delays: Understanding Extensions and Timelines Introduction Construction projects, while exciting, can often be fraught with uncertainties and potential delays. One common concern among homeowners is the risk of not meeting the consultant or lender's initial project timeline. In this blog post, we'll explore what happens when a project faces delays, the process of requesting an extension, and key factors to consider. Understanding Project Timelines The estimated completion date for a cons...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog highlights the top home remodeling trends for 2024, which include incorporating sustainable materials, designing multifunctional spaces, and embracing bold colors and patterns. These trends are all about combining functionality, sustainability, and creativity to create stylish and practical living spaces. Thanks for sharing these effective and practical ideas!  Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Do you think it is finally time to give your home a remodel? Looking at what others are doing can give you some inspiration. Whether it's for aesthetics or for functionality, you can gain valuable insights from learning the home remodeling trends in 2024. Knowing what other people are looking for can also help sell a property faster.   Here are some of the top trends...
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