Admin

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 The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6’ tall Roosevelt Privacy Fence by Acreage Fences in Omaha, Nebraska delivers classic style and dependable strength — creating a private, polished outdoor space built to last for years to come. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #RooseveltFence #PrivacyFence #OmahaNebraska #LuxuryExteriors #TimelessDesign #NebraskaHomes #OutdoorElegance #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
Comments 0
By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Yesterday I shared about getting so many emails and one caught my eye “Pet Peeves From Homebuyers.”  Next the next two after water stains and smelly homes is dull lighting and outdated bathrooms.  If you read my articles you know I am into lighting so I am not surprised dull lighting comes in third, and such an easy fix.  Most cases the wires are already there if not homes in The Villagers are easy to run new electric lines.  Today your choices of lights is amazing here is a site we use:  www.Lights.comOutdated bathrooms, oh my!  Yes as I am touring a home and we walk into the bathrooms and they are outdated a groan fills the room.  Next question is “Hey Dick how much to update?”  My answer is how much do you want to spend?  We can go to Lowe’s and pick up a free-standing bathroom vanit...
Comments 5
By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Most, if not every, DIY person reading this is going to say "Dah" when they read this, however I am speaking from experience even though I too would have said dah myself had you made this statement to me 50 years ago.My first home had a little apartment in the basement. That apartment made it possible for me, a 19 year old boy making minimum wage, to own my own home. DIY was also a major factor in being able to afford a home on $1.65 an hour.Shop classes in school gave me a good foundation in woodwork and I also had a class in "electronics" which truly taught me little that was useful as a homeowner.One thing it did NOT teach me was a healthy respect for high voltage. That being said I knew enough to unplug electrical appliances before working on them. Note: I also learned that some ele...
Comments 10
By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~REO Broker / Auctioneer
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Make Easy Mint Thins with simple ingredients. These crisp chocolate cookies with cool mint flavor are perfect for holidays, gifts, or anytime treats.Ingredients 24 ounces milk or dark chocolate candy coating 1-1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract 60 Ritz crackers 2 ounces white candy coating, melted Optional decorations: Chopped Andes mint candies, crushed spearmint candies, assorted sprinkles and green colored sugar Directions In a microwave, melt chocolate candy coating; stir until smooth. Stir in extract. Dip crackers in chocolate candy coating; allow excess to drip off. Place on waxed paper; let stand until set. Drizzle tops with white candy coating; decorate as desired. Let stand until set. Store in airtight containers.  Source: https://www.tasteofhome.com/
Comments 4
By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~REO Broker / Auctioneer
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Windows naturally draw the eye, which makes window treatments one of the most important design choices in any home. The fabric, color, texture, and the way light enters a room all influence how a space feels. Choosing between blinds and curtains is not just about style. It is also about comfort, privacy, maintenance, and how a room is used every day.Homeowners across the United States often narrow their options down to these two popular choices because both are practical, durable, and versatile. Understanding how each works makes the decision much easier.Source: https://www.graberblinds.com/inspiration/window-treatments-101/blinds-vs-curtains/Understanding BlindsBlinds are made of horizontal or vertical slats connected by cords. They can be raised completely for an open view or tilted t...
Comments 6
By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Being a Realtor I get plenty of emails from different organizations and found this one email interesting.  Homebuyer’s pet peeves, I wanted to see if their list matched what my thoughts were.  Number one on the list damp patches, stained walls & ceilings.  Agree 100% that one can cause buyer concern even if explained a new roof was installed or broken pipe was fixed.  I had a listing with water stains on the ceiling and strongly suggested to get my painter in and put a coat of Kilz Primer and repaint, they did.  This eliminated a reason people might walk away from the home.  Number two, ODOR!  Yes your home might stink, you live in it others don’t, you have gotten to the point you don’t smell it anymore.  When I walk into a smelly house somebody wants to sell I try my best to gently tel...
Comments 6
By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6’ tall Centurion Ornamental Steel Fence by Acreage Fences in Elkhorn, Nebraska delivers superior durability with a timeless, sophisticated design — enhancing your property with lasting security and standout curb appeal. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #CenturionFence #OrnamentalSteel #ElkhornNebraska #LuxuryExteriors #TimelessDesign #NebraskaHomes #OutdoorElegance #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
Comments 1
By Shaun Bannon, Home Inspectors Serving NC & SC
(Bannon Home Inspections )
Living in the Foothills and Piedmont of North Carolina means enjoying four beautiful seasons. Unfortunately, it also means dealing with a diverse range of pests that thrive in our humid climate. From the silent destruction of termites in Iredell County to the high moisture levels damaging crawl spaces in the Catawba Valley, maintaining a home here requires a proactive strategy.At Foothills Pest Solutions, we have updated our service protocols and territories for 2026 to ensure your home and business remain safe, healthy, and pest-free.Whether you are in Mooresville, Hickory, Winston-Salem, or anywhere in between, here is your complete guide to total home protection.1. General Pest Control: The First Line of DefenseAnts in the kitchen, spiders in the garage, and roaches seeking water are...
Comments 0
By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Did you ever have that wall you just couldn’t figure out what to do with?  First we got a 75” TV a few years ago and installed on the wall, next a friend gave us an electric fireplace they could not use.  We quickly mounted it higher on the wall due to an outlet already in place.  For the best part of two years, we couldn’t decide what to do with this wall.  One concern we had was the distance between the fireplace and TV as the fireplace blew hot air from the top of the fireplace and worried about the TV.Michelle got an idea, let’s find a heat resistant mantel, hmm check Amazon, sure enough they had one.  72” wide. 8” deep and 6” high, white, and perfect for what we needed, $180 heat resistant and could be perfect.  Order it, get it ask our neighbors to come over, put blue painters tap...
Comments 7
By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~REO Broker / Auctioneer
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Choosing the right countertop is about much more than appearance. While style preferences may vary by age or design trends, countertops are hardworking surfaces that must stand up to daily use. From busy family kitchens to sleek modern homes, the right countertop balances beauty, durability, maintenance, and budget.Homeowners and buyers exploring properties through platforms like Arizona Resource Realty or browsing listings on MLS 500 often notice the kitchen first. The countertop plays a major role in how a space feels and functions, making it a smart place to invest.Source: https://www.moen.com/professional/tools-and-resources/articles/trade-tips/countertops-for-all-lifestylesQuartz for Easy LivingQuartz remains one of the most popular countertop choices across all generations. Its bi...
Comments 7
By Shaun Bannon, Home Inspectors Serving NC & SC
(Bannon Home Inspections )
Foothills Pest Solutions Establishes Premier Pest & Moisture Standards for the Statesville CommunitySTATESVILLE, NC — Homeowners and businesses in Iredell County have a dedicated partner in property protection. Foothills Pest Solutions is pleased to highlight its commitment to providing high-quality, locally-focused pest control and moisture management services to Statesville and the surrounding foothills area.In an industry often dominated by large, national corporations, Foothills Pest Solutions brings the focus back to where it belongs: the local community. By combining top-tier industry techniques with a neighborly approach to customer service, the company raises the standard for home health in the region.A Local Approach to Local PestsLiving in the foothills offers a beautiful land...
Comments 0
By Jacob Maslow, Your Brooklyn Connection
(Torsx)
The ink is finally dry on the mountain of closing documents. You have the keys in your hand, the moving truck is in the driveway, and you are officially a homeowner. It is a moment of triumph. But as you walk through the empty rooms, the reality starts to set in. The beige carpet in the living room looks a lot dingier than it did during the open house. The kitchen cabinets are definitely from the 1990s. Suddenly, you realize that while you bought the house, you haven't quite bought the dream.This is the classic new-homeowner dilemma. You just drained your savings account for the down payment and closing costs, leaving you "house poor." You have a list of renovations a mile long, but your liquidity is gone.Living in a construction zone for five years while you slowly save up cash isn't a...
Comments 0
By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
If you read my article about sucker growth on our oak tree you can imagine I had a pile of limbs and branches.  Turns out Michelle had a vision which I saw a pile of brush she saw a Christmas decoration.  While I was bagging up the brush she started gather certain limbs and branches in a pile, I asked what you are doing with these, she said “you will see I have an idea.”  She drags her pile to the driveway and using clippers went to work, again I had no idea what she was thinking.Michelle tells me she will be back she needed to do some shopping, I had no idea what she was thinking and figured it was best to just say ok.  When she returned she had a white planter and some pine.  At this point I decided it was best for me to go in the house and let her creative mind design and build whate...
Comments 4
On December 11, 2025, Anna Baluch published very good helpful interesting report for to fix air leaks to cut heating costs.1. Where do leaks hide,2. Signs your home is loosing heat,3. Proven strategies to improve heating efficiency,Perhaps there might be other helpful tips for to fix air leaks to cut heating costs.For complete more detailed information about Anna Baluch’s report for how to fix air leaks to cut heating costs, please click HERE
Comments 3
By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~REO Broker / Auctioneer
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Starting a fruit garden is exciting, but choosing the right fruit trees can feel overwhelming for beginners. With so many varieties available and a long list of growing requirements to consider, it helps to know what truly matters before making a choice. This guide offers practical insight that anyone in the United States can use to make confident decisions and set their garden up for long term success.Source: https://orchardpeople.com/how-to-choose-right-fruit-tree-beginners-guide/Understanding Where Your Trees Come FromMany new growers assume that specialist nurseries are the only reliable place to buy fruit trees. While they do offer excellent options and a wide range of cultivars, healthy and productive fruit trees can be found in many other places. Some people have had success find...
Comments 1
By Scott Smolen, Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future
(RE/MAX Leading Edge)
Cold weather sends rodents indoors in search of warmth and food. Mice and rats can enter through surprisingly small openings and quickly cause damage to insulation, wiring, and stored food.Prevention is always easier than treatment.Why Rodents Become Active in WinterAs outdoor food sources disappear, homes become ideal shelters. Gaps around foundations, utility lines, and vents are common entry points, especially in colder months.Key Prevention Tips Seal exterior cracks and openings larger than a quarter-inch Trim landscaping away from siding and foundations Store food (including pet food) in airtight containers Fix leaks and eliminate standing water Watch for early signs like droppings or scratching sounds When Rodents Are Already InsideTraps can help with small issues, but rodents rep...
Comments 1
By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Turning the heat on in your home in Florida just ain’t right!  But some mornings you need to just take the chill out of the house, electric fireplaces might be your answer!  We have two of them one in the bedroom that is a build into a cabinet and the other in our open concept living area mounted on the wall below the TV.I am an early riser and when I walk out to start work in the living area it can be 66º in the house, I turn on the electric fireplace, sit in my recliner with a blanket and my laptop, my happy place!  Little later I hear the one in the bedroom being fired up by Michelle and on most sunny days that is all we need.  More than likely the air conditioning will be turned on before the day is done!You can pick one up for the wall for about $400 which is a nice one and for a c...
Comments 8
By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~REO Broker / Auctioneer
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Choosing exterior siding is one of the most meaningful decisions a homeowner can make. It shapes the first impression of a property and reflects the personality of the people who live inside. When a house is being built or remodeled, siding becomes just as important as the roof, which is why homeowners spend time selecting the right materials and finishes. It should be beautiful to look at, simple to maintain, and strong enough to handle years of weather.There are several exterior siding choices available today and each one comes with its own strengths. Understanding these options helps homeowners create a façade that feels personal, inviting, and timeless.Source: https://www.ugc.ph/news/exterior-siding-than-can-reflect-the-personality-of-your-home/Brick SidingBrick siding has been a fa...
Comments 1
By Jacob Maslow, Your Brooklyn Connection
(Torsx)
Can you feel that chill in the air? Winter is making its grand entrance, and as the season unfolds, it's the perfect time to turn common spaces into magical winter wonderlands. Who says your pool area should be forgotten until summer comes around again?  This article is your go-to guide for turning your pool area into a snowy escape of fun and holiday spirit. Grab your pool floats, dig out those Christmas lights, and prepare to dive into the season. Float Above the Freezing TemperaturesTransforming your pool area into a winter wonderland starts with classic accessories: pool floats! Far from being only summer accessories, pool floats are a versatile tool to set the stage for your frosty paradise.  Plus, these pool floats aren’t for the water. You can string them up over your pool area, ...
Comments 0
By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~REO Broker / Auctioneer
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Whip up a delicious broccoli chicken casserole with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy sauce and melted cheese for a cozy family dinner.Ingredients Cooked chicken: Use any cooked chicken, whether it's from leftover roast chicken, store-bought rotisserie chicken (rotisserie chicken recipes are excellent short-cut meals!) or grilled chicken breasts. If you buy a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, a half chicken should be just the right amount. You’ll pull the chicken from the bones and then chop the meat into small pieces. Broccoli: Using frozen broccoli is quick and easy, but you can also use fresh broccoli if you prefer. Just make sure to steam it beforehand so it’s cooked through. Broccoli cheese soup: Condensed soup casserole recipes have long been staples in home kitchens. The soup a...
Comments 1
Back to Top