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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 Jacob Maslow, Your Brooklyn Connection
(Torsx)
Shopping for home decor and interior accessories online has become one of the most creative and rewarding retail experiences available. The combination of access to a global market of designers and producers, detailed product photography, room visualisation tools, and the ability to discover independent makers through platforms like Etsy makes online home decor shopping far richer than the limited range of any physical interiors retailer. The key is understanding how to translate what you see on screen into a confident assessment of what will actually look and feel right in your home.At harvestpolymers.com you will find home decor guides, interior accessory reviews, and practical buying advice covering furniture accessories, lighting, textiles, wall art, storage, and all the decorative ...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
I am going to jump right to Real Estate on this one.No matter what problem(s) your home has there is most likely several solutions to fix it. Rarely, a bulldozer is the proper solution.BTW this picture was lifted from an article stating: They bulldozed the wrong house.During my career as a Real Estate Broker I've known less than six listing that a bulldozer was the proper solution. Even though a quarter of the homes in Minot were submerged in a flood most of them (like mine) were salvaged by stripping them down to the bones and rebuilding them. The one thing, in my book, that would call for a bulldozer is foundation problems. Even that (foundation problems) does not call for an automatic death sentence to a home. My first home had a block concrete foundation with a couple of minor issue...
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By Vince Divarco, DUCTZ Air Duct Cleaning of Tucson & Green Valley
(DUCTZ of Greater Tucson and Oro Valley)
Scammers in the contracting industry is sadly a common occurrence.  It has come to our attention there are scammers in our area posing as your local DUCTZ. These scams typically begin with a direct phone call offering a whole house air duct cleaning for very cheap ($199 or even cheaper) or through Facebook groups or marketplace. Please do not fall subject to one of these scams! An air duct cleaning scam can do potential damage to your system, rob you of thousands of dollars and sometimes even turn into dangerous situations. Before you let any contractor into your home, please do your homework. This includes: Asking for referrals Asking for the website – then call the number listed to ensure you are dealing with the correct company Asking for an estimate beforehandAsking what the job wil...
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By Jacob Maslow, Your Brooklyn Connection
(Torsx)
If you've spent any time tidying up a backyard in Australia, you know how quickly a fallen branch or overgrown tree can turn a weekend into a mission. A battery chainsaw makes that job significantly easier, and for most homeowners, it's now the smarter choice over petrol. No fuel mixing, no pull-start frustration, and no exhaust fumes drifting into your face. But with so many models on the market, figuring out which one actually suits your block, your budget, and your tasks takes a bit of sorting through. This guide does exactly that.Why Battery Chainsaws Make Sense for Australian Home and Garden UseAustralia's suburban and semi-rural properties present a pretty specific set of demands. You might have a large eucalyptus dropping limbs after a storm, a row of overgrown hedges along the f...
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By Alberto Pacheco, Experience and Trust
(Home Smart Evergreen Realty)
🏠 Maximizing Your Nort Hollywood Property Value Before Selling 📈 Smart Upgrades That Put Money Back in Your Pocket Are you looking to sell your home or maximize its equity? Not all home improvements are created equal. In the competitive North Hollywood real estate market, smart homeowners focus purely on Return on Investment (ROI). Spending money on the wrong upgrades can leave you in the red, but investing in high-yield renovations ensures you attract premium buyers and command top dollar. Here are the top 5 home renovations that consistently deliver the highest ROI: 🌳 1. Elevate Your Curb Appeal for an Instant Value Boost 🏡 First Impressions Drive Premium Offers The moment a buyer pulls up to your property, their valuation of your home begins. Curb appeal sets the emotional tone for t...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Michelle and I were going through our phones looking for a picture of a friend and she sent me one from about 2014.  It was Kevin my neighbor and I dropping the birdcage on the back of our house.  Yes we had a birdcage with a dirt/grass floor.  I was told shortly after our home was built they changed the rule must be concrete.  I always enjoyed demo day when we bought the house, five walls, flooring, popcorn, gutting bathrooms, kitchen and knocking down the birdcage.Of course, after demo comes putting things back together which is time consuming and can be expensive.  Both was the case with the lanai addition as we added 1,060 square feet under roof, had to raise the peak of the hip roof 9’ to make it look like it was always a part of the home.  The lanai was my dream when we first saw ...
Comments 5
By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6' tall Centurion Black Ornamental Steel by Acreage Fences in Elkhorn, Nebraska brings a sleek, upscale look with the durability homeowners trust. A perfect blend of security and style for any property. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty⏱ Installed in 12 Days or Less❤️ Proud Supporters of the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #CenturionFence #OrnamentalSteel #ElkhornNebraska #NebraskaHomes #CurbAppeal #FenceDesign #PremiumCraftsmanship #OutdoorLiving #WoundedWarriorProjecthttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Sandra Nickel, The Hat Team
(Sandra Nickel REALTORS)
🎉 Congratulations on your move!Whether you’ve just relocated from across town or across the country, moving into a new home in Montgomery is exciting—but it’s also a big adjustment. Turning your house into a home takes time, but with a few thoughtful steps, you’ll feel settled in no time.🚶‍♂️ Get Out and Explore Your NeighborhoodMontgomery is full of charm, from the historic streets downtown to the peaceful neighborhoods along the Riverfront. Don’t let unpacking or a new job keep you indoors—explore your community! Take a stroll along the Riverwalk, visit the local farmers’ markets, or grab a coffee at a neighborhood café. Getting involved with local groups—like your school’s PTA, a church, or a book club—will help you meet new friends and feel at home faster.🌱 Connect with Living Thing...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6’ tall Washington Privacy Fence in Slate Gray by Acreage Fences in Papillion, Nebraska delivers sleek, modern design with dependable privacy — creating a polished, stylish outdoor space built to last. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #WashingtonFence #SlateGrayVinyl #PrivacyFence #PapillionNebraska #OutdoorElegance #NebraskaHomes #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Ron Saporito, Palm Desert, CA Real Estate & Mortgage Broker Since 2003, Call (760)574-8486. www.JustListedinPalmDesert.com
(Ronald Christopher & Associates. Proudly serving Palm Desert, La Quinta, Indio, Coachella, Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs.)
From Floors to Walls: How to Choose the Right Tile for Your Dream Bathroom 30 seconds summary Choosing bathroom tile is really about balancing style, safety, and practicality. For floors, prioritize durable, water-resistant, slip-resistant tiles like porcelain; for walls, you have more freedom to use lighter, more decorative options. Size, finish, color, and grout all affect how spacious, bright, and easy to maintain the bathroom feels, so it helps to sample combinations before committing. The main takeaway: pick tiles that not only match your dream look but also suit how the bathroom will actually be used every day. Why Tile Choice MattersBathroom tiles do more than decorate a space. They protect surfaces from water, steam, splashes, soap residue, and daily wear. Because bathrooms are ...
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By Teri Isner, GRI, CRS, CIPS
(Keller Williams Realty at the Lakes)
You love your outdoor space, but when the Orlando sun hits its afternoon stride, even a quick coffee outside can feel like a sauna session. Closing in your patio may not be in the budget, but you don’t need to break the bank to create a cool, shaded retreat. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy your backyard year-round. Sail Shades For under $100, you can grab a sail shade—essentially a piece of weather-resistant fabric cut into a triangle or rectangle and grommeted for easy hanging. Most come with ropes to attach to your roof, a pole, or even a tree. Instant shade, minimal fuss, and durable enough to withstand Orlando’s summer storms. Cabana Vibes Turn your patio into a breezy cabana! Use a simple wooden frame or PVC piping to craft your personal hideaway. Add light curtains or outdoo...
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By Alberto Pacheco, Experience and Trust
(Home Smart Evergreen Realty)
  North Hollywood has become one of the most competitive pockets of the San Fernando Valley. With rising demand, walkable neighborhoods, and a steady influx of buyers looking for updated, move‑in‑ready homes, the right improvements can dramatically increase your property’s value — and your return on investment. But not all upgrades are created equal. Some renovations look nice but add little value. Others can deliver tens of thousands of dollars in increased equity. These are the top 5 high‑ROI home improvements that consistently add value to North Hollywood homes.   1. Kitchen Remodels: The #1 Value Booster A modern, functional kitchen is one of the biggest selling points for North Hollywood buyers. Whether it’s a young professional moving into the Arts District or a family settling ne...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This project features a 6' tall Montage Ornamental Steel Classic in Black paired with a 6' tall Lakeview Country Estates Vinyl Fence in Gray, expertly installed by Acreage Fences in Elkhorn, Nebraska. Together, they deliver the perfect blend of strength, elegance, and modern charm — elevating both security and curb appeal. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #MontageFence #OrnamentalSteel #LakeviewFence #GrayVinylFence #ElkhornNebraska #LuxuryExteriors #NebraskaHomes #OutdoorElegance #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Patricia Feager, Licensed to April 2027
(Appraisal Review Board, Denton County, TX)
Journal Entry for May 15, 2026 May is National Electrical Safety Month. This is a great time to make a quick home safety check. Here are some simple safety tips:Electricity - There is a lot of electrical power in nearly every part of your home, including the garage and anything needing electricity inside and outside.  A few simple checks can help reduce risk, protect your appliances, and give you peace of mind.Here are several electrical safety tips to keep in mind: Follow appliance instructions and read the instructions - understanding how each device works prevents misuse, improves performance, and reduces the risk of electrical issues. If anything, ever gives you a slight shock, stop using it and have it checked by a professional. It might seem basic, but reading and following applia...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
I had two home inspections this week and a walk through after repairs were made, luckily no Do It Yourself damage was caused.  That is not always the case!  I think the TV shows about home flips and remodels has given confidence to those maybe without the talent to complete the project.  On the other hand, I have seen homes where the DIY has major well-constructed improvements and seen work second to none.  When first showing a home to a client if I notice signs of maybe DIY questionable work I then start looking, sometimes it is easy to see.  Homes with natural gas service and the ductwork repaired with some form of tape not being foil tape.  Hmm that is an unusual different place for an outlet.  Is that a standard ceiling fixture in the shower?  I have a full list of fails and that is...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6' tall Washington Privacy Fence by Acreage Fences in Omaha, NE delivers classic beauty, dependable strength, and full privacy — transforming your outdoor space into a peaceful, stylish retreat. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #WashingtonFence #PrivacyFence #VinylFence #OmahaNebraska #OutdoorLiving #NebraskaHomes #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Jacob Maslow, Your Brooklyn Connection
(Torsx)
Most Dallas homeowners don't realize that a musty smell isn't just unpleasant. It could be a sign of active mold growth that is affecting air quality throughout the property. Sorting through mold testing companies in Dallas is harder than it sounds, because pricing varies wildly, some inspectors also sell remediation services (which creates an obvious conflict of interest), and knowing which testing method actually fits your situation takes real knowledge. After reviewing each company's credentials, certifications, and service approach, this guide breaks down the top options to trust for your home's air quality.The research approach for this rankingEach company was evaluated by pulling publicly available information from review platforms, official websites, industry directories, and ver...
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By Jacob Maslow, Your Brooklyn Connection
(Torsx)
Stone veneer can change the feel of a space in a very noticeable way. It adds texture, variation, and visual interest to surfaces that might otherwise look flat or plain. Homeowners can use stone veneer to give a more finished and layered look to walls, fireplaces, entryways, and exterior features, rather than relying solely on paint, decor, or furniture to make a room stand out.Its appeal comes from the fact that it works in many settings. Inside the home, it can make a room feel warmer and more grounded. Outside, it can add character and help the property look more polished. Using even a small amount of stone veneer in the right place can make a significant difference. Here are some of the main ways it adds depth and style to interior and exterior spaces.1. It Breaks Up Flat SurfacesO...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
After Irma in 2017 and things calmed down we bought a generator.  Best insurance to not lose electricity, we started it when we bought it and the second time was the fall of 2024 as were preparing for a possible hurricane.  We bought a dual fuel meaning either gas or propane.  In 2024 I hooked up the LP tank and three pulls it started, never used gasoline in the generator.  We have eight LP tanks with each tank providing about 10 hours of run time.  It is a 5,000-watt generator which if needed we could plug in the refrigerator for periods of time, microwave and we have a floor fan if needed.  We have plenty of solar lights to bring in if needed along with battery powered candles.Keep things charged if it looks like we might lose power, phones, watches, and computers.  Both electric comp...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6' tall Centurion Black Ornamental Steel Fence by Acreage Fences in Omaha, NE combines rugged strength with a sleek, timeless design — creating an elegant barrier that enhances curb appeal while keeping your property protected. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #CenturionFence #OrnamentalSteel #BlackSteelFence #OmahaNebraska #OutdoorElevations #NebraskaHomes #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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