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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 Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Are you seeking ways to keep your home smelling fresh and inviting all day long?  Follow these tips to create an environment that is both soothing and refreshing, allowing you to unwind and relax in your space.Incorporate indoor plants throughout your house.  Certain plants like bamboo palm and peace lily can help purify the air in your home while beautifying your surrounding.Simmer citrus slices and herbs like lavender of mint in a small saucepan.  You can also simmer cinnamon sticks, vanilla, or rosemary.  The heat will diffuse the sweet scent throughout your house.To keep your kitchen smelling fresh, clean your garbage disposal.  Run lemon or lime rinds through the disposal followed by hot water to eliminate any odors.
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
This article provided by Kindal Glasgow, Realtor a member of The Betts Team.  Kindal is available to help with your buying and selling needs in The Villages and surrounding areas. If you haven’t found your pool dream home, try looking for a dream home with room for a pool.  This is what we did and could not be happier with the outcome!  Here are some things to consider when installing a pool to your existing home in The Villages:       Pick a reputable company:  Ensure you choose a company that understands the permitting process.  Approval is required from both the ARC (Architectural Review Committee) and the county.  Our corner lot in the northern area between Lake Sumter and Spanish Springs, located in Sumter County had parts that were approved by ARC but not the county.  The approval...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6' Tall Black Ornamental Steel Fence turns Omaha properties into head-turning fortresses of style and security. Crafted to last. Designed to impress. Only by Acreage Fences. #OmahaStrong #SteelWithStyle #AcreageFences #CenturionSeries #FenceGoals https://www.acreagefences.com/
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6’ White Washington Vinyl Fence in Omaha delivers clean lines, total seclusion, and zero maintenance. ✔️ Built strong. Styled smart. Installed by Acreage Fences. #OmahaUpgrade #VinylPrivacyFence #WashingtonStyle #AcreageFences #BackyardBliss https://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog does a great job explaining the common causes of low water pressure in a clear and helpful way. I love how it covers everything from clogged pipes to faulty fixtures and even municipal supply issues. It’s a must-read for homeowners looking to troubleshoot and restore proper water flow! 🚿💧🔧 What Can Cause Low Water Pressure in Your Home? If you’ve noticed weak water flow from your faucets or shower, you may be dealing with low water pressure. While it can be frustrating, understanding the possible causes can help you fix the issue before it becomes a bigger problem. Here are some common reasons why your home might have low water pressure. 1. Clogged Pipes Over time, mineral deposits, rust, or debris can build up inside your pipes, restricting water flow. If only one faucet has ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog is packed with smart, strategic home improvement tips that truly boost property value! I love how it focuses on both functionality and aesthetics—like energy-efficient upgrades, kitchen updates, and curb appeal enhancements. A great guide for homeowners looking to invest wisely in their space! 🏡💡🔨 Home improvement doesn’t always mean a full renovation or a huge price tag. In fact, some of the most impactful upgrades are simple, strategic changes that boost both livability and property value. Whether you're planning to sell your home soon or just want to enjoy a more stylish, efficient space, these tips offer a solid place to start. 1. Upgrade the Heart of the Home: The Kitchen A minor kitchen remodel can go a long way. Think new cabinet hardware, modern backsplash tiles, or en...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Home improvement doesn’t always mean a full renovation or a huge price tag. In fact, some of the most impactful upgrades are simple, strategic changes that boost both livability and property value. Whether you're planning to sell your home soon or just want to enjoy a more stylish, efficient space, these tips offer a solid place to start.1. Upgrade the Heart of the Home: The KitchenA minor kitchen remodel can go a long way. Think new cabinet hardware, modern backsplash tiles, or energy-efficient appliances. Homebuyers often consider the kitchen a dealbreaker—or a dealmaker. Even swapping out light fixtures for pendant lighting can modernize the entire space.2. Focus on Energy EfficiencyInsulation, double-pane windows, and smart thermostats can drastically reduce energy bills. Not only d...
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By NextDay Inspect, Residential Home Inspections & Environmental Tests
(NextDay Inspect)
  Asbestos Awareness: Understanding the Risks and Importance of Testing Asbestos, a group of naturally occurring silicate minerals, was once praised for its insulation properties and strength. However, its use in building materials became a significant health concern due to the serious risks associated with inhaling its fibers. Commonly used throughout the 20th century, especially in homes across Virginia, Maryland, and DC, asbestos faced increasing scrutiny leading to bans in the 1980s. This post aims to raise awareness about asbestos, its health impacts, and the critical importance of testing in homes and properties today. *Asbestos fibers are microscopic and easily inhaled when disturbed.* What is Asbestos? Asbestos is composed of fine, heat-resistant fibers. When materials containin...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog offers valuable insight into preserving trees during the pre-construction phase—a step that’s often overlooked. I love how it emphasizes the importance of thoughtful planning to maintain a healthy landscape and protect long-term property value. A must-read for eco-conscious builders and homeowners! 🌳🏗️📐 Photo credits: Nature's Restore Building a new home, adding an addition, or starting a major renovation is always exciting. But while you're focused on plans, permits, and timelines, it's easy to forget about something really important—your trees! Big, mature trees bring beauty, shade, and even extra value to your home. They take years, sometimes decades, to grow into the big leafy giants we love. Protecting them during construction isn't just about looks—it’s about keeping you...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog offers vital information for anyone living in or near mountain areas where fire risk is higher. I appreciate how it outlines practical fire mitigation strategies—like defensible space, proper landscaping, and emergency preparedness. It’s a must-read for protecting your home and loved ones while living close to nature. 🔥🏔️🏡 Fire Mitigation in the Mountains: A Must-Know for Homeowners, Buyers & Sellers Living in the mountains is a dream for many—but with that dream comes a responsibility to protect your home, your investment, and your community from the very real risk of wildfire. As we move into wildfire season, fire mitigation isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a crucial part of preserving your property’s value and peace of mind. In Colorado and other mountainous regions, wildfire ris...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog highlights an often-overlooked issue that’s especially important in spring—leaking backflow. I love how it clearly explains why backflow prevention is crucial for protecting your home’s water supply and avoiding contamination. A timely and informative read for responsible home maintenance! 💧🌸🚿   With warm weather here, many homeowners are firing up their irrigation systems for the first time this year. But before you start watering your lawn, there's one important thing you should check: your backflow preventer. We recently inspected a sprinkler system and found a leaking backflow device—something we see often in the spring. Backflows are essential for keeping contaminated water from flowing back into your home's clean water supply. When they leak, not only are you wasting wat...
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By DaCyn Walsh, Mountain & Horse Properties—Happy Trails Await!
(LoKation Real Estate)
Fire Mitigation in the Mountains: A Must-Know for Homeowners, Buyers & SellersLiving in the mountains is a dream for many—but with that dream comes a responsibility to protect your home, your investment, and your community from the very real risk of wildfire. As we move into wildfire season, fire mitigation isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a crucial part of preserving your property’s value and peace of mind.In Colorado and other mountainous regions, wildfire risk is increasing. Knowing how to reduce that risk isn’t just smart—it’s necessary. And I speak from experience—losing a home to fire is a devastating, heart-sinking feeling I wouldn’t wish on anyone. The good news? There are proactive steps you can take to protect your home and potentially save thousands of dollars in the long run.What ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog does a great job explaining why moisture evaluation is so crucial for protecting a home’s structure! I love how it emphasizes early detection and prevention, helping homeowners avoid costly repairs down the road. A very informative and practical read for maintaining a strong, healthy home! 🏠💧🛠️       The Importance of Moisture Evaluation in Preventing Structural Damage Moisture evaluation plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of buildings and preventing costly damage. Excess moisture can lead to a multitude of issues, from wood rot and mold growth to foundation cracks and weakened support beams. In this article, we will delve into the importance of thorough moisture evaluation processes in identifying problem areas before they escalate into major struct...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog is packed with smart, simple handyman fixes that can make a big difference when selling a home! I love how it focuses on quick updates that boost appeal, like repairing minor damages and refreshing key spaces. A must-read for anyone wanting to make a strong first impression with buyers! 🛠️🏡✨ 5 Easy Handyman Fixes That Help Your Home Sell FasterThinking About Selling? These Quick Fixes Make a Big Difference! When it’s time to sell your house, you want it looking its best—without spending a fortune. The little details are what buyers pick up on first. A squeaky door here, a chipped wall there—it all adds up in their minds. But the good news? You don't have to do a full renovation to make a great impression. A few simple handyman fixes can freshen up your home and even bump up it...
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By Travis Matthews, Vegas handyman expert in home prep & repairs.
(Handyman of Las Vegas)
Photo credits: Puget Sound ConcreteConcrete is tough, but it’s not invincible. Over time, weather, heavy use, and simple aging can cause cracks, stains, and other damage. Regular concrete maintenance keeps your driveway, walkways, patios, and floors looking good and lasting longer. Plus, if the small problems are taken care of earlier, it can save you big money later. Let’s dive into why simple upkeep makes a big difference—and how a little effort now can protect your home for years to come.Why Concrete Needs Regular CareConcrete might seem strong enough to last forever, but it still needs a little TLC. Extreme heat can cause it to expand and crack, while freezing weather makes water inside cracks freeze and break the surface apart even more. Even everyday use—like parking your car or d...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
I have been sharing what homebuyers want in a home, there is also a list of what builders are putting in a new home.  Some developments the builder pre-builds homes and maybe make them model homes which can be bought or give the buyer ideas, normally upscale ideas.  Here are a few of the adds a builder incorporates into a home to help sell the new homes.Open concept, some call it a great room, combining the kitchen, living room (or family room) and dining room.  Many homes in The Villages, Florida were built that way.  Many times, a flipper will make the home open concept by dropping walls and rearranging the kitchen.  Quartz Countertops are a big deal and anymore if I see a Formica countertop you expect the buyer to add that to the change list.  I didn’t think about this one but builde...
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By Travis Matthews, Vegas handyman expert in home prep & repairs.
(Handyman of Las Vegas)
Photo credits: Nature's RestoreBuilding a new home, adding an addition, or starting a major renovation is always exciting. But while you're focused on plans, permits, and timelines, it's easy to forget about something really important—your trees! Big, mature trees bring beauty, shade, and even extra value to your home. They take years, sometimes decades, to grow into the big leafy giants we love. Protecting them during construction isn't just about looks—it’s about keeping your yard healthy and strong for the future. With a little extra planning, you can make sure your trees stay safe and thriving while the building work happens.Why Trees Are Worth ProtectingTrees are more than just decoration. They bring real benefits to your home and community. They cool down your yard by providing sh...
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By NextDay Inspect, Residential Home Inspections & Environmental Tests
(NextDay Inspect)
The Importance of Moisture Evaluation in Preventing Structural Damage Moisture evaluation plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of buildings and preventing costly damage. Excess moisture can lead to a multitude of issues, from wood rot and mold growth to foundation cracks and weakened support beams. In this article, we will delve into the importance of thorough moisture evaluation processes in identifying problem areas before they escalate into major structural issues. By understanding the impact of moisture on building materials and utilizing effective evaluation techniques, property owners can take proactive measures to safeguard their investments and ensure long-term durability for their structures. The Dangers of Excess Moisture in Buildings Excess moisture i...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
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 outsi...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 4' Tall Black Centurion Ornamental Steel fence in Papillion, NE isn’t just a boundary—it’s a statement. 🖤✨ Durable, elegant, and expertly installed by Acreage Fences. Your home deserves this kind of upgrade! #PapillionProud #AcreageFences #SteelBeauty #FenceGoals https://www.acreagefences.com/
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