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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 Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
If you’re moving out of your house, apartment, duplex, or condominium, using a portable storage container is a great place to temporarily stash your stuff while you relocate from place to place. Portable storage containers have become increasingly popular in recent years. Drive around any residential neighborhood, and you’ll likely see a portable storage container parked on the curb outside of a house that has recently sold or is currently being remodeled. And for good reason. There are a bevy of benefits offered by portable storage units for those seeking smart storage solutions steps away from your front door. My favorite thing about portable storage units is they keep all of your belongings safe from the elements, and secure from bad folks, when you have more pressing matters on your...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
The garage doors on your home play a key role in the beauty and value of your property. When they wear out or malfunction, you need to replace them with new, high-quality doors. Discover how to choose the right garage door style to enhance your home’s curb appeal. Match Your Home’s Architecture When you shop for new garage doors, consider those that match your home’s architecture. If your home’s exterior has a rustic look, avoid choosing ultra-modern doors that will look out of place and take away from your home’s beauty. Make sure you understand what kind of architecture your home has before browsing the selections available at reputable garage door businesses like Montrose Garage Doors. Debate the Material Options When you shop for new garage doors, you will find them in a wide variet...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Think about your home. It’s not just walls and a roof but your private space, your place of security. If you really want to call it your own, then you need to make sure that the fundamental elements, the things that you might not consciously register, serve you. By prioritizing them, you can increase your comfort level to no end. Let’s look at how. Let’s start with climate mastery by creating perfect indoor environments through seasonal transitions. Just imagine coming home to feeling just right, no matter what the weather is doing outside. That's the goal. Most important are your heating and cooling systems. You don’t deserve unbearable summers or harsh winters when the weather changes. Routine check-ups are critical because they ensure all components function optimally. Clean filters ...
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By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809 cell direct
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
 🏡 Sacramento Home Makeovers: The Residential Renovation Boom You Don’t Want to MissSacramento isn’t just California’s capital—it’s a city in transition. As more families, first-time buyers, and real estate investors flock to this historically rich and increasingly vibrant city, a quiet renovation revolution is taking place behind neighborhood fences and scaffolding-lined streets. Residential construction projects—especially fixer-upper transformations funded by renovation loans—are reshaping homes and lives across Sacramento.From Oak Park to East Sac, tired properties are getting second chances. And one team is helping lead the charge: The My203k Team Sacramento, powered by industry veterans like Lando Matthews and backed by the nationwide experience of Mike Young and 203KOnline.com.🛠️...
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By Travis Matthews, Vegas handyman expert in home prep & repairs.
(Handyman of Las Vegas)
Every home has those moments—a leaky faucet, a hole in the drywall, or that one cabinet door that never quite closes right. It’s tempting to grab a hammer and fix it yourself, and sometimes that’s exactly what you should do. But other times, a small fix turns into a bigger problem. So how do you decide when it’s worth tackling the repair on your own and when it’s smarter to call in help? Let’s keep it simple and figure it out together.When It Makes Sense to DIYDoing it yourself can be satisfying—and cost-effective too. If the job is small, safe, and doesn’t need special tools or skills, it might be a perfect DIY project. Some common examples include: Painting a room Replacing cabinet hardware Hanging shelves Unclogging a bathroom drain DIY is great when you have the time and patience to...
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By Nelson Huggins, Rooter Man to the Rescue
(Rooter Man )
As real estate professionals, property managers, and homeowners gear up for another hot summer in the Lowcountry, we’re all relying on our air conditioners to keep us cool. But one hidden issue can sneak up and cause more problems than you think — a clogged AC condensate drain line.This small pipe plays a big role in your cooling system. And when it gets blocked, the consequences can range from a minor inconvenience to major property damage.What’s a Condensate Drain Line?Every air conditioning system pulls moisture from the air as it cools. That moisture condenses into water and is channeled through a thin pipe — the condensate drain line — usually routed outdoors. If you’ve ever seen a pipe dripping slowly on the side of a house while the AC is running, that’s the one.When that drip st...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Home security is a top priority for homeowners! 🏡🔐 Simple DIY upgrades like smart doorbells, live stream cameras, and keyless locks can add protection and peace of mind. Whether you're buying, selling, or settling into your dream home, security matters. What’s your must-have home security feature? Drop your favorites in the comments! ⬇️ #thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #homeowner #hometips #a050625 #realestate #realestateagent #realtor #investment #happyhomeowners #dreamhome
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By Rain Silverhawk, 208-610-0011 Sandpoint Idaho Real Estate Realtor
(Sandpoint Realty rain@lakeandhomes.com)
Gardening in North Idaho: Thriving in the Panhandle's Unique Growing ConditionsGardening in North Idaho is not for the faint of heart, but for those who embrace its rhythms, the rewards are rich, fragrant, and often delicious. From Bonners Ferry to Sandpoint and stretching down to Coeur d’Alene, our short but vibrant growing season demands a mix of planning, resilience, and a bit of local know-how.Understanding the ClimateNorth Idaho's gardening season is defined by a late frost in spring and an early frost in fall, which means your average growing window runs from mid-May to late September—sometimes shorter in higher elevations or shaded valleys. The USDA Hardiness Zones here range mostly between 4b and 6a, depending on your specific location.What Grows Well in North Idaho?Despite the ...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
When it comes to the heart of the home, few spaces matter more than the kitchen. A thoughtful kitchen design doesn’t just improve aesthetics—it boosts functionality, increases home value, and transforms everyday living. Whether you're renovating or just brainstorming, these expert tips will help you create a kitchen that’s both stylish and smart.1. Prioritize the Work TriangleOne of the golden rules in kitchen design is optimizing the distance between your sink, stove, and refrigerator. Known as the "work triangle," this layout minimizes unnecessary steps and maximizes efficiency. Keeping these three zones connected but not crowded ensures a smoother cooking experience.2. Open Shelving vs. Closed CabinetsOpen shelving creates a lighter, more spacious feel—ideal for smaller kitchens. How...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
First I want to say my articles are not written by AI, I do let AI do some of my research with caution but today is a first, AI Generated picture.  We had a problem with squirrels climbing our screens on our lanai so I Googled what is a natural squirrel repellent, don’t want to harm them just keep them off my screens.  Google search came back with options and coffee grounds was one of them.  Next question to Google “is coffee grounds a repellent to squirrels?”  Here is the AI answer:Yes, coffee grounds can act as a natural repellent for squirrels, though their effectiveness may vary. The strong scent of coffee grounds and their abrasive texture are believed to deter squirrels from certain areas. While not scientifically proven, many gardeners report reduced squirrel activity in areas wh...
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By NextDay Inspect, Residential Home Inspections & Environmental Tests
(NextDay Inspect)
The Importance of Proper HVAC Air Distribution System in Your Home or Business A comfortable and healthy indoor space relies heavily on your HVAC system, and a key, often overlooked, part is the air distribution system. Proper distribution ensures conditioned air spreads evenly, maximizing energy efficiency and consistent comfort. This article explores why a well-functioning system is vital for indoor air quality, energy use, and overall comfort. The Role of Proper Air Distribution in Energy Efficiency Proper air distribution is critical for HVAC energy efficiency. A well-designed system delivers conditioned air effectively, reducing the heating/cooling unit's workload. This lowers energy consumption and utility bills and extends the HVAC system's lifespan by minimizing wear and tear. ...
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By Nelson Huggins, Rooter Man to the Rescue
(Rooter Man )
 If you’ve shopped for plumbing fixtures or parts recently—whether online, at a hardware store, or through your contractor—you may have noticed some changes in pricing or product availability. As the owner of a plumbing company, I want to give you a clear, honest explanation of what’s going on behind the scenes, and how we’re working to minimize the impact on our customers. What’s Causing the Changes?The plumbing industry (like many others) relies on a global supply chain. Many of the components, fixtures, tools, and replacement parts we use every day are manufactured or sourced from other countries—including China.Recently, changes in global trade policy and rising tariffs on imported goods have created ripple effects throughout the industry. These tariffs increase the cost of bringing...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
 Thinking of selling your home? Strategic updates can make all the difference, some even deliver 100%+ return on investment!Buyers are looking for properties that blend style, comfort, and efficiency. Here are 5 high-impact upgrades that not only attract buyers but can also help you command top dollar:✅ Fresh Interior Paint – Neutral tones create a clean, inviting canvas that appeals to a broad range of buyers.✅ Landscaping Enhancements – First impressions matter. Boost curb appeal with well-designed, low-maintenance landscaping. ✅ Kitchen Renovation – A modern, functional kitchen is a top priority for buyers and can seal the deal.✅ Primary Bath Upgrade – Transform your bath into a spa-like retreat and elevate your home’s luxury factor. ✅ Roof Shingle Replacement – A new roof not only l...
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By Nelson Huggins, Rooter Man to the Rescue
(Rooter Man )
 Have you ever noticed that one of your faucets suddenly has lower water pressure than the rest? Before you start worrying about pipes or plumbing problems, take a closer look at the tip of your faucet — the issue might be something simple: a clogged aerator.What Is a Faucet Aerator?A faucet aerator is a small screen attached to the end of most kitchen and bathroom faucet spouts. Its job is to mix air into the water stream, which helps control the flow, reduce splashing, and improve water efficiency.But over time, sediment and mineral deposits — especially in areas with hard water — can build up in the aerator’s screen and restrict water flow. The good news? This is often an easy plumbing fix you can do yourself in just a few minutes.How to Tell If Your Aerator Is CloggedIf only one fau...
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By Nelson Huggins, Local junk removal service. Real Estate clean outs
(Black Dog Junk Removal)
Whether you're helping someone settle into a new home or preparing a property for listing, cardboard is an often-overlooked obstacle. Piles of unpacked boxes, shipping materials, and packaging waste are common after a move or renovation — and they can quietly undermine the appearance, functionality, and first impressions of a home.As a junk removal company serving the Charleston area, we've seen this firsthand. From garages stacked high with Amazon boxes to back rooms in small businesses overflowing with shipping cartons, cardboard clutter is more than just an eyesore — it gets in the way of clean living and clean deals.A Common Problem After the MoveIt’s not unusual for new homeowners to spend weeks or even months surrounded by boxes — many of them empty or half-filled with packing mat...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
A well-designed frontporcht is more than just a curbside feature—it’s an extension of the home that welcomes guests, reflects personality, and enhances property value. As more Americans look to improve their outdoor spaces, the frontporcht is becoming a hotspot for design creativity and smart home lifehacks.What Is a Frontporcht, Really?While “frontporcht” might sound like a playful twist on the classic "front porch," it’s taken on a modern meaning—think of it as the elevated, stylized version of your traditional porch. It's where rustic charm meets smart home technology, cozy design, and functional space.5 Lifehacks to Maximize Your Frontporcht Multi-Use FurnitureGo for benches with storage, fold-out tables, or modular seating. These pieces allow your frontporcht to serve as a hangout ...
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By Larry Wedige, Anyone Else is Just Looking Around
(LarryInspects Home Inspection Service)
New Roof Checklist Use this New Roof Checklist to make sure is properly installed. ○    Did the roofer obtain a permit? Most jurisdictions, with the exception of some counties, require a permit. Ask for proof of permit.○    Is the roofer licensed? Ask for a copy of his license.○    Is the roofer insured? Ask for a copy of this general liability insurance and his Workers Comp insurance with you named as additional insured.○    Ask for a copy of the warranty and the manufacturer’s installation instructions, and read them carefully.○    Is the drip edge flashing installed properly? The current building code requires a metal drip edge flashing at the edge of the roof.    ○    This flashing must extend 2″ up the decking. Some roofers are still using 1-1/2″ flashing.    ○    The flashing mus...
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By Kathy Hyatt, PA Realtor® Plantation-Davie-Sunrise, Broward Realtor Selling Plantation,Davie & Sunrise
(Remax Services)
HOUSE CARE 📆📅CALENDAR: A Seasonal 🌺🌼🌻Guide to Maintaining 🏩Your HomeFrom summer vacations to winter holidays, it seems each season offers the perfect excuse to put off our to-do list. But be careful, homeowners: neglecting your home’s maintenance could put your personal safety—and one of your largest financial investments—at serious risk.In no time at all, small problems can lead to extensive and expensive repairs. And even if you avoid a catastrophe, those minor issues can still have a big impact. Properties that are not well maintained can lose 10 percent (or more) of their appraised value. 1The good news is, by dedicating a few hours each season to properly maintaining your home, you can ensure a safe living environment for you and your family ... and increase the value of your home ...
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By GilbertRealtor BillSalvatore, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
I have been sharing top essential and desirable features in your new home listed by The National Association of Home Builders.  We are down to eleven to thirteen of the lists, not to worry I have more material from the article.  Coming in at number 12 is landscaping, I believe that number is higher in The Villages, Florida. Many times, when showing homes in The Villages the prospective buyers comment about the landscaping.  It either nice or it needs attention affecting the value to the home.  Ride around and look so many homes have great landscaping if the home doesn’t it stands out, not in a good way. Landscaping is a hobby of mind, planting, fertilizing, adding beds, trimming, and pulling weeds.  Being a Realtor I spend a lot of time on the phone and computer, many times I wonder ou...
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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: https://www.annasellsrealestate.com/fine/real/estate/homeownertip/custom/Homeowner-and-Real-Estate-Tips. Anna 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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