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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 Sean Harron, Home Builder, Land Developer and Realtor
(Dirt Road Real Estate / AZ Rural Land Pro)
I just got a spam call from Angie's list trying to enlist me to take on projects in the rural areas I service. I had to explain to the gentleman that the rural market is a different animal and can't be handled the same as an in town project. He didn't quite get the point of what I was telling him but it made me think.Any rural market has its challenges when it comes to getting people to show up to do a job, big or small. Here's how it works in my head;Being in business is expensive.Being in the construction business is absolutely expensive. Rural contractors can't do the volume of in town guys. Volume keeps the wheels on the bus turning. The more business you get the more labor you can keep on the rolls and the more large and small projects you can do profitably.As a small rural company...
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By Tom Hurley, Residential and commercial inspector.
(Double H Inspections)
As the chill of winter melts away, spring ushers in a perfect opportunity for homeowners to conduct essential maintenance. Here’s a comprehensive guide to spring home maintenance from Double H Inspections to keep your home in peak condition.Exterior Maintenance Inspect the Roof: Look for missing, loose, or damaged shingles that may have been impacted by winter weather. Early repairs can prevent costly water damage. If you can’t safely get on your roof, call a home inspector or roofing contractor to do the inspection. Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clear out leaves and debris. Ensure downspouts drain away from the foundation to prevent water damage. Downspouts draining near the foundation are a leading cause of foundation issues and moisture intrusion into the home. Examine the Foundation...
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By Legal Info, Here For Your Legal Needs
How Can Landlords Prevent Injuries on Their PropertiesLandlords carry the responsibility of ensuring their rental properties are safe and free from hazards that could cause injuries to tenants or visitors. Not only is this essential for the wellbeing of the occupants, but it can also protect landlords from potential lawsuits and financial losses. This article examines the proactive measures landlords can take to mitigate the risk of personal injuries on their rental properties.Conduct Routine InspectionsOne of the most effective preventive measures is to establish a regular maintenance schedule. Landlords should conduct routine inspections to identify any potential hazards or repair needs. Aspects such as electrical systems, heating and cooling systems, plumbing, roofing, and structural...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Invaluable topic! Knowing which home improvements add value is key for homeowners. This blog likely offers insights into which upgrades and renovations can increase your home's resale value. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Making Sense of Home Improvements: What Adds Value? Before diving into renovation projects, it's important to understand which upgrades are likely to boost your home's value and which ones may not yield a significant return on investment. While certain improvements can enhance your home's appeal and attract potential buyers, others may fall short of expectations. It's prudent to explore examples of home improvements that have the potential to increase your home's value, as well as situations where renovations may not have a substantial impact on ...
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By Patty Clark, Helping Families Move with Care
(Morningside Homes, LLC 720-231-5200)
Making Sense of Home Improvements: What Adds Value? Before diving into renovation projects, it's important to understand which upgrades are likely to boost your home's value and which ones may not yield a significant return on investment. While certain improvements can enhance your home's appeal and attract potential buyers, others may fall short of expectations. It's prudent to explore examples of home improvements that have the potential to increase your home's value, as well as situations where renovations may not have a substantial impact on its worth. By gaining insights into these factors, homeowners can make informed decisions and maximize their return on investment when upgrading their properties. Home improvements that may increase the value of the home: Hardwood floors ... Ref...
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By Duane West
(3R's Construction & Remodeling)
Crawlspace issues are a prevalent but hidden concern that hides beneath the floorboards of many homes in Salem, Oregon. These problems may not be visible, but they can have a big effect on the structural soundness and health of your house. The problems with crawlspaces are many and range from bug infestations compromising the soundness of your home's foundation to mold collection resulting in mold growth. Moreover, it is impossible to overlook the dangers posed by radon, a radioactive gas that occurs naturally.Recognizing the Value of the Crawlspace in Your HomeThe crawlspace, which is sometimes disregarded, is essential to preserving the stability and general health of your house. Tucked away between the first floor and the ground, it's essential to the basement and foundation health o...
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By Shayne Stone, "Your Rock Solid Choice Realtor" RETIRED
(HomeSmart)
Unlocking the Harmony of Your Home with Feng Shui and Interior Design TipsHey there, design enthusiasts! Are you looking to breathe new life into your living space and create a harmonious environment that resonates with positive energy? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Today, we’re delving into the captivating world of Feng Shui and sharing some essential interior design tips to transform your home into a sanctuary of style and serenity.We believe that the key to a truly beautiful and balanced home lies in the ancient art of Feng Shui. This practice, originating from China thousands of years ago, focuses on arranging your space in a way that promotes the flow of positive energy, known as “chi.” By harmonizing the elements of your environment, you can enhance your well-being and inv...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Essential Tips for Home Renovation Budgeting Find out the strategies for renovating your new home without overspending. Learn essential tips on prioritizing upgrades, maximizing convenience, and managing costs to create a functional and stylish space tailored to your needs. You’ve bought an older home that needs some work. How do you decide what needs redoing and how much money to spend? The first rule of thumb is: don’t improve more than the best homes in your immediate neighborhood. A starter home, or a lot-value home, can be renovated to be attractive and functional, but keep in mind that if your future homebuyer wants a finer home, they’ll look at more expensive neighborhoods where all the homes are equally upscale. If your house needs everything, tackle the changes that will make t...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
You want to create your own oasis surrounding your pool or lanai and enjoy the privacy the answer is landscaping.  You have plenty of choices of fast growing bushes and types of Palms to accomplish that in Central Florida.  Many times, when I am showing homes I share some simply landscaping can afford you the privacy you desire.  We planted Viburnum bushes across our back-property line which we bought 20 of them at Walmart for $5 a piece, they were so small we could bring them home in a car.  Viburnum grow at a rate of one to two feet a year and ours we keep about 3’ wide and have spread together.  Once well-established they do well in dry spells and we have them trimmed by a landscaper about 3 times a year.               The other plant I like is the Sugar Palm, please know I am not a ...
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By Anna Chroscicki, Realtor - St. Lucie County affordable Real Estate
(Re/Max Masterpiece Realty)
 To check out more of Homeowner and Seller’s Tips, visit my website: Homeowner And Real Estate Tips :https://www.annasellsrealestate.com/fine/real/estate/homeownertip/custom/Homeowner-and-Real-Estate-TipsAnna Chroscicki with RE/MAX Masterpiece RealtyCall me at 772-485-4188 with any Real Estate Questions. Web-site:www.annasellsrealestate.com1775 SW Gatlin Blvd Ste 101, PSL, FL, 34953
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
On social media, I see folks asking if termite protect is really needed in The Villages, Florida and some people say they never had a problem and don’t think it is necessary while others quickly say yes you need protection, my opinion YES in a big way.  A few years ago, I went to see a home that was more than $100,000 below market value and I see why, the interior drywall had been removed from the back wall and all the studs were damaged by termites and needed replaced.  I didn’t even look into the attic at the roof trusses as I seen enough to know more damage was behind other walls and the ceiling.  For that home, I don’t know if you needed a crew of carpenters or a bulldozer.From The Florida Department of Agriculture:Subterranean TermitesOut of all the termite types, subterranean term...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Invaluable advice! Boosting your home's value is a smart investment. This blog likely offers proven strategies for increasing property value, from renovations to curb appeal enhancements. Looking forward to learning more about maximizing your home's worth!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Are you looking to maximize the value of your home? Whether you're planning to sell your home soon or simply want to invest in your property's long-term worth, enhancing its value is a smart move. From simple DIY projects to more extensive renovations, there are numerous ways to elevate your home's appeal and marketability. Are you wondering what your property is currently worth? Get a free home estimate now! Here are seven proven strategies to help you increase the value of your ho...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Informative read! Painting is a powerful tool for enhancing your home's appeal. This blog likely offers tips and insights for choosing the right colors and techniques to achieve a successful outcome.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Contemplating a new look with paint? It's important to know the gloss level for optimum results! Interior paint finishes, also known as sheens or paint gloss levels, vary in their level of shine and durability. Here are the most common interior paint finishes and their ideal uses: Flat/Matte Finish:Characteristics: Flat finishes have a low or no shine, providing a non-reflective appearance.Best for: Walls and ceilings in low-traffic areas such as bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms. Flat finishes help to conceal surface imperfections...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Inspirational read! Crafting a dream yard can transform your outdoor space into a beautiful retreat. This blog likely offers practical tips and ideas for creating a yard that reflects your vision and enhances your home.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP A dream yard doesn't happen by accident! While the natural beauty of green spaces helps to make any yard feel magical, it takes careful planning to create a spectacular yard where you can spend time relaxing and entertaining. This guide to crafting your dream yard covers all the core points.   Consider the Size of Your Yard Start with a blueprint of your yard to establish what's possible. The number of square feet in a yard can help to determine how much space you have for gardens, open areas for play, a new patio, or ...
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By Dave Westall, Lake Tahoe Luxury Market Leader
(Sierra Sotheby's International Realty)
16 Point Spring Checklist for Maintaining Your Lake Tahoe HomeAs the days get longer and the snow begins to receded, it's time to shift our focus to essential home maintenance tasks. Spring is the perfect season to assess the impact of winter on your Tahoe home and prepare it for the warm summer months ahead. Being proactive and getting on top of your home maintenance can prevent costly repairs and ensure your home remains safe, efficient, and comfortable. If you are not comfortable assessing your home for maintenance related issues, we are here to help. We regularly work with some of the best professionals in the Tahoe region and can help connect you with the tradespeople needed to maintain you home.Here's a comprehensive guide to spring home maintenance.Exterior Home Maintenance Items...
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By Laura Cerrano, Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher
(Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island)
Have you ever resented or hated your home? This is a topic in the Feng Shui community not often spoken about, but is extremely important to be aware of. Occupants who resent or hate their home enable huge levels of unsettling energy that have the potential to engulf the entire home if gone unchecked. The intention of this article is to bridge science, practicality and a simple Space Clearing healing ritual to realign your home and self with harmonizing frequencies of love, compassion and peace. Read the full article by visiting: How Does Resenting and Hating My Home Affect The Energy?I'm working on a second article to offer an example of this situation to provide more context. 
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By Cara Marcelle Mancuso, Call a Marana neighbor, I'm THERE!
(Golden Girls with SW Desert Homes)
Contemplating a new look with paint? It's important to know the gloss level for optimum results!Interior paint finishes, also known as sheens or paint gloss levels, vary in their level of shine and durability. Here are the most common interior paint finishes and their ideal uses:Flat/Matte Finish:Characteristics: Flat finishes have a low or no shine, providing a non-reflective appearance.Best for: Walls and ceilings in low-traffic areas such as bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms. Flat finishes help to conceal surface imperfections and offer a smooth, velvety appearance.Eggshell Finish: Characteristics: Eggshell finishes have a slight sheen, offering more durability and washability than flat paints while still maintaining a soft appearance.Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, and hall...
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By Joyce Marsh, Joyce Marsh Homes
(Joyce Marsh Real Estate LLC)
Decorating with House Plants: Bringing Life to Your Living SpaceIn recent years, house plants have made a comeback as an essential element of interior design. Not only do they add aesthetic appeal to our homes, but they also offer numerous health benefits, from purifying the air to reducing stress. If you're looking to refresh your living space, here are some tips on how to decorate with house plants effectively.Choosing the Right PlantsThe first step in decorating with house plants is selecting the right ones for your space. Consider the following factors:LightingSome plants thrive in bright, indirect light, while others prefer low-light conditions. Make sure to choose plants that will thrive in the available light in your home.  SizeFrom small succulents to large ferns, there's a plan...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
Insider tip on kitchen cabinets, LVP flooring and so much more, Pat’s Sales in Leesburg, Florida.  Personally speaking we have an eleven-year remodel project going on and have used Pat’s Sales numerous times.  Kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, thresholds, hard to find wood trim and much more.  Some of the flippers and handymen go there for LVP flooring, plumbing fixtures and supplies, doors and windows and many other things.Recently I had a friend whose home was flooded in the Orlando area and needed all new kitchen cabinets.  Told him to bring his drawings from one of the big box home improvement stores and meet with one of their kitchen designers at Pat’s.  Saved them a lot of money and got more kitchen for their money!  The picture is cabinets I bought from Pat’s Sales a few month...
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By Hugh Grant, I help investors and consumers with real estate
(RealMax Realty)
A dream yard doesn't happen by accident! While the natural beauty of green spaces helps to make any yard feel magical, it takes careful planning to create a spectacular yard where you can spend time relaxing and entertaining. This guide to crafting your dream yard covers all the core points. Consider the Size of Your YardStart with a blueprint of your yard to establish what's possible. The number of square feet in a yard can help to determine how much space you have for gardens, open areas for play, a new patio, or any other feature you're considering. For smaller yards, it's important to prioritize the top one to three features that are important to you. A homeowner with small children may value open space for play more than someone who wants a shaded patio area for outdoor dining. Lar...
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