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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 Evan Roberts, We Buy Houses
(Dependable Homebuyers)
McHenry Roofing, a full-service roofing contractor in Baltimore, MD, is offering shingle replacement services in Baltimore and surrounding areas. The company prioritizes quality work and customer satisfaction to help homeowners and businesses with their roofing needs.Homeowners and business owners in Baltimore may consider shingle replacement for various reasons. One reason is the age of the roof, as shingles become more prone to damage and wear over time, especially as they approach the end of their expected lifespan. Additionally, visible signs of damage like missing, cracked, or curled shingles indicate that they need to be replaced to prevent further deterioration and protect the interior of the property from potential water leaks. Addressing water leaks promptly by replacing damage...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Great timing! Spring is the perfect time for home maintenance. This blog likely offers a checklist of tasks to prepare your home for the season, from cleaning gutters to servicing HVAC systems. Looking forward to learning more about essential spring home maintenance!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP 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 detai...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Inspiring topic! Maximizing space with style is key, especially in smaller homes. This blog likely offers creative tips for making the most of limited space without sacrificing style. Looking forward to learning more about small space design ideas!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP 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 sp...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Exciting concept! A bespoke fitted kitchen can transform your home, offering tailored solutions that suit your lifestyle. This blog likely explores the benefits and process of designing a custom kitchen. Looking forward to learning more about reimagining homes with bespoke kitchens!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP 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 uni...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Crucial reminder! Neglecting roof inspections can lead to costly issues down the line. This blog likely emphasizes the importance of regular inspections for maintaining a healthy roof. Looking forward to learning more about the significance of roof maintenance! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP McHenry Roofing, a reputable full-service roofing company in Baltimore, MD, is advocating for Maryland homeowners to prioritize regular roof inspections to protect their properties against potential risks and damages. With the region's varying weather conditions, including heavy rains, snowfall, and high winds, the importance of proactive roof maintenance cannot be overstated. Neglecting roof inspections can result in various risks and damages, including water leaks, mold grow...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
Most Villagers use their garage doors to gain entry into their home using the remote in the car, golf cart even the code box outside but what if power is out and the garage door doesn’t open?  Do you have your house keys with you?  What if a neighbor wants to borrow something or you ask them while you are away to check something in your home?  Sure maybe a neighbor has a key to your home and they are not home and you are locked out!  Hide a key and Not under the door mat!Most homes in The Villages have an irrigation system so what about a fake sprinkler head that holds a key?  Just checked Amazon they have a bunch of them starting at $6 to $15 and are waterproof and you can hide cash in them, not sure about the cash part and why?  Five-minute project and you have a safe place to hide a ...
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By Evan Roberts, We Buy Houses
(Dependable Homebuyers)
McHenry Roofing, a roofing company based in Baltimore, Maryland, highlights the importance of choosing the best season for roof replacement. Given Baltimore's varied weather patterns, such as hot summers, cold winters, and heavy rainfall, deciding on the best time for a roof replacement can greatly affect both the installation process and the roof's lifespan.Joseph Conley, owner of McHenry Roofing, says, "The ideal season allows for proper sealing and adhesion of roofing materials which reduces the risk of leaks and damage in the long term. When roofing materials are installed in the right conditions, they have the opportunity to fully cure and form a solid barrier against water infiltration. Proper sealing and adhesion help prevent water from seeping through cracks or gaps, which can l...
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By Evan Roberts, We Buy Houses
(Dependable Homebuyers)
McHenry Roofing, a leading roofing company serving the Baltimore area, is proud to announce the addition of roof ridge vent installation to their range of services. Roof ridge vents are an affordable option for homeowners looking to increase indoor comfort and reduce their utility bills. They are made to improve attic ventilation and extend the life of residential and commercial roofing systems.A roof ridge vent is a ventilation system installed along the peak of a roof to facilitate airflow in the attic space below. It consists of a vented metal or plastic material that runs along the ridge of the roof, allowing hot air and moisture to escape from the attic. This design helps maintain proper air circulation within the attic, crucial for preserving the structural integrity of the roof a...
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By Evan Roberts, We Buy Houses
(Dependable Homebuyers)
McHenry Roofing, a reputable full-service roofing company in Baltimore, MD, is advocating for Maryland homeowners to prioritize regular roof inspections to protect their properties against potential risks and damages. With the region's varying weather conditions, including heavy rains, snowfall, and high winds, the importance of proactive roof maintenance cannot be overstated.Neglecting roof inspections can result in various risks and damages, including water leaks, mold growth, and structural weakening. Over time, minor issues can escalate into significant problems, compromising the functionality and safety of the roof. Without timely intervention, neglected roofs are more susceptible to damage from severe weather events, such as storms or hurricanes, leading to extensive property dama...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
Video Door Bells, Alexa or Google Nest Hub, Smart Speakers, Mesh Routers, Smart Cameras, Smart Thermostats, Smart Plugs, Smart irrigation Controls, Smart Garage Door Openers are popping up in homes.  Yesterday spoke with someone who installed Smart Blinds they are programed to open and close throughout the day.  That brings up what also happened yesterday.I am working with an investor on a flip house, he buys several a year and does a great job updating the homes and giving the home new life.  Yesterday he showed me the two bathroom mirrors he is installing, square with the built-in LED light on the border that are dimmable and, wait for it built in Bluetooth speakers.  So now you can select the lighting and the music you want when using your bathroom.  Think of all the reasons you use ...
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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...
Comments 1
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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