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 Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
 Discover all you need to know about furnace replacement costs and more with our comprehensive blog post. Unveil the factors that influence furnace replacement expenses, from furnace type and efficiency to installation charges and additional considerations. Whether you're upgrading for improved energy efficiency or replacing an aging unit, this guide will equip you with valuable insights to make informed decisions about your home's heating system. Stay warm and budget-wise with our furnace replacement insights! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP As the chilly winds of winter approach, a dependable furnace becomes the heart of every home, providing warmth and comfort to its inhabitants. However, like all appliances, furnaces have a finite lifespan, and there comes a ti...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
I started this list 3 days ago, from first article:  After a 10-year remodel of our own home, helping investors with more than a dozen properties, working with flippers and needing repairs made for clients new to the area I have a Guy for that list.  You can use the magnifying glass on this page and search for whatever guy you might need.  I tell these guys I am putting my reputation on the line along with theirs.  When I use them I remind them I pay the same as others and do not want anything special other than take care of those I send you.  Granite, Quartz Guy, Ultimate Granite it is a company not a guy.  Excellent work as I have been around them countless times due to homebuyers and flippers.  Had them at my home yesterday for one of my projects.Granite, Quartz Guy Ultimate Granite ...
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By Shayne Stone, "Your Rock Solid Choice Realtor"
(HomeSmart)
Can You Paint Vinyl Siding?Has your vinyl siding become worn, or do you no longer like the color? Are you wondering if you can paint over it instead of replacing it? The good news is you can paint vinyl siding; however, you will need to follow a specific set of instructions to preserve the quality of your siding. It’s important not to cut corners. You should hire a professional if you want to avoid undertaking the process. If you choose to paint the siding yourself, here are the following expert tips.Check for damage—If there is cracking, warping, loose, or broken pieces, painting will cause further damage. For instance, damage caused by wind, hail, or rocks leaves holes that painting siding cannot correct. Moisture, pests, mold, and nesting can still infest and cause problems. Painting...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
I started this list 2 days ago, from Part 1 article:  After a 10-year remodel of our own home, helping investors with more than a dozen properties, working with flippers and needing repairs made for clients new to the area I have a Guy for that list.  You can use the magnifying glass on this page and search for whatever guy you might need.  I tell these guys I am putting my reputation on the line along with theirs.  When I use them I remind them I pay the same as others and do not want anything special other than take care of those I send you.  Cabinet Painter Guy, his name is Mario and he does all the painting for one of my flippers.  His talent is most displayed painting 20-year-old solid wood cabinets which compared to what you buy today are so much better!Cabinet Painter Guy Mario 4...
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By Dale Taylor, Realtor = Chicago Illinois Homes Townhomes Condos
(Re/Max 10 New Lenox Illinois http://dtaylor.remax.com)
POSTFLOODING MOLD ISSUES "Thanks Mold Solutions for providing this helpful information.  In Chicagoland call 815-469-8877." Share Post:           Our family, friends, and neighbors have been no strangers to very heavy, concentrated rain recently. Many of the calls we’re receiving are related to unpleasant, musty odors and black “dots” appearing on baseboards or on the walls near the floor. Contact us right away for a mold inspection if you suspect there could be a mold problem. In the meantime, we’ve compiled a list of important action items you should take immediately to aid in the prevention of further issues. Take note of these items and know that our team of local, remediation specialists are available to answer any questions as you navigate this experience. What Can I Do to Preven...
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By Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time
(House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373)
It can be interesting showing homes, especially when a homeowner thinks they can do everything themselves.   Recently I showed a home that was built in 1994, and almost everything was original, but what had changed was very poorly done.I had to look for a bit to see why a homeowner would add a light switch to a cabinet.    The lighting above the cabs, why of COURSE, why didn't I think of that! You just never know what you will see next!  
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Unveil the hidden dirt, allergens, and bacteria lurking in your couch and discover the undeniable benefits of entrusting experts with your upholstery. From extending the lifespan of your furniture to improving indoor air quality, professional couch cleaning ensures a healthier and more inviting home environment. Don't compromise on cleanliness – let the professionals work their magic and revitalize your couch to its original splendor!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Creating a comfortable and clean living environment is a priority for every homeowner. Among various elements in a home, a couch often serves as the centerpiece of comfort and design. It's not merely a piece of furniture, but a gathering spot for family discussions, a play area for children, and a cozy n...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
After a 10-year remodel of our own home, helping investors with more than a dozen properties, working with flippers and needing repairs made for clients new to the area I have a Guy for that list.  You can use the magnifying glass on this page and search for whatever guy you might need.  I tell these guys I am putting my reputation on the line along with theirs.  When I use them I remind them I pay the same as others and do not want anything special other than take care of those I send you.  Handyman Guy, his name is Joe and hardly a day doesn’t go by we don’t talk.  He does about everything and if he doesn’t do it he knows somebody that does.J&D Family Handyman 352-693-1669 tell him I told you to call him.Window Treatments Guy, Blinds for Less, owners name is Nestor but you will talk t...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Whip up a DIY product that cleans your windows without the chemicals. Whether your windows are covered with a filmy residue or kids’ fingerprints, marks on windows can be quite the eyesore. Yet many commercial glass cleaners are loaded with toxic chemicals and therefore aren’t the greenest option to get your home windows clean.  Continue To Read And Share  Charles Stallions, a Local Real Estate Broker on the gulf coast of Florida writes a daily real estate blog post on many subjects and most folks say they found a Golden Nugget or two that benefited their lives or someone they knew.  Need a contractor, house cleaner, cash buyer, Job, restaurant, school info, you name it we have it or will find it. It Is Who We "R" We pride ourselves on having the best resources to share.  We would love...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Gain valuable insights into the factors that influence the price of a new roof, from materials and labor to roof size and complexity. Whether you're planning a roof renovation or wondering about budgeting for the future, this guide will provide you with a clear understanding of the costs involved in this essential home improvement project.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Roofs are crucial to every home, acting as the first defense against different weather conditions. Regular maintenance can prolong the roof’s lifespan, but there comes a time when a roof replacement becomes inevitable. This article will shed light on roof replacement costs and benefits of a home warranty. Let's dive in! Factors Affecting Roof Replacement Costs Several factors contribute to the overa...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
From sparkling tiles to gleaming hardwood, this guide will help you achieve spotless floors without harmful chemicals. Embrace the power of natural cleaning and keep your home clean and green with these best homemade floor cleaner ideas. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP What Is the Best Homemade Floor Cleaner? We put DIY floor cleaners to the test. Here’s what we found. Truth be told, hot water with a little dish detergent will clean day-to-day dirt from any flooring. But stains are more difficult to vanquish and really test the mettle of DIY floor cleaners. Click Here To Read And Share    Charles Stallions, a Local Real Estate Broker on the gulf coast of Florida writes a daily real estate blog post on many subjects and most folks say they found a Golden Nugget or t...
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By KAREN SANCHEZ, ...Marketing your home like no one else will.
( Reputable Realty)
One of my my friends just updated her bath and it's was so super cute I just had to share it with you.   What I liked best was her tile accept wall with the little pop of yellow. 
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Explore practical tips and eco-friendly solutions to reduce energy consumption, from upgrading appliances and installing smart devices to optimizing insulation and harnessing renewable energy. Join the green revolution and transform your house into an energy-efficient haven, saving both the planet and your wallet!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Making your home more energy efficient is a cost-effective way to not only save money but to also improve the performance of your home. The most effective strategy for improving your home’s energy efficiency is to focus on the “shell” of the house…the walls, attic, windows and doors. Next, improve the energy efficiency of systems such as heating, cooling, lighting and appliances. Last, but not least, consider clean energy ge...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Unlock the top home warranty companies in Texas with this revealing blog post. Unveil the best providers offering comprehensive coverage, affordable plans, and stellar customer service. Protect your Texas home and appliances with confidence, knowing you have the right home warranty partner by your side. Don't miss out on this essential guide to finding the perfect warranty for your Texan abode! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP The seasonal changes in Texas are challenging for the home’s functionality. From intense summer heat to frigid winter conditions, the weather can affect the functionality of your systems and appliances.  Every homeowner wants to feel safe and secure in their home, and thus, when it comes to property protection, it’s essential to find a good ho...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Unravel the strategies for hassle-free transportation, from proper packaging and securing techniques to choosing the right transport options. Whether you're moving or shipping furniture, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to handle the process efficiently and ensure your one-piece treasures reach their destination safely and intact.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Moving may be a hard and tough task, particularly if it involves hauling furniture and personal belongings. Ensuring proper preparation and organization for the move can help avoid unnecessary headaches and ensure the safety of your property. In this article, we will discuss helpful tips for preparing and transporting one piece furniture. Plan ahead  Choose a reliable moving company, and use qual...
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By Sandra Nickel, The Hat Team
(Sandra Nickel REALTORS)
Making your home more energy efficient is a cost-effective way to not only save money but to also improve the performance of your home. The most effective strategy for improving your home’s energy efficiency is to focus on the “shell” of the house…the walls, attic, windows and doors. Next, improve the energy efficiency of systems such as heating, cooling, lighting and appliances. Last, but not least, consider clean energy generation such as solar or geothermal.The first step toward energy efficiency is to make sure that your walls and attic are well insulated. High quality insulation slows the rate that heat flows out of the house in the winter or into the house in the summer. That means it takes less energy to heat or cool your house. If your walls have no insulation, it will certainly...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
What Is the Best Homemade Floor Cleaner? We put DIY floor cleaners to the test. Here’s what we found. Truth be told, hot water with a little dish detergent will clean day-to-day dirt from any flooring. But stains are more difficult to vanquish and really test the mettle of DIY floor cleaners. Click Here To Read And Share    Charles Stallions, a Local Real Estate Broker on the gulf coast of Florida writes a daily real estate blog post on many subjects and most folks say they found a Golden Nugget or two that benefited their lives or someone they knew.  Need a contractor, house cleaner, cash buyer, Job, restaurant, school info, you name it we have it or will find it. It Is Who We "R" We pride ourselves on having the best resources to share.  We would love to hear your thoughts and ideas ...
Comments 0
By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Create a beautiful and low-maintenance yard effortlessly with this blog. Discover easy-to-implement strategies to reduce upkeep while still enjoying a stunning outdoor space. From choosing the right plants to implementing smart landscaping techniques, this guide provides all the tools you need to achieve a stress-free and aesthetically pleasing yard.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Everyone wants a yard that looks nice. That said, most of us have a limited amount of time we can spend on yard upkeep. As a result, things might get a little overgrown, or some plants might die. The result is a yard that looks less than impressive. If you are having these issues, you might want to consider making some landscaping choices to take the work out of yard care. With the right ...
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By Tommy Wyher, I am an freelance writer and professional marketer
(Husky Marketing)
Everyone wants a yard that looks nice. That said, most of us have a limited amount of time we can spend on yard upkeep. As a result, things might get a little overgrown, or some plants might die. The result is a yard that looks less than impressive.If you are having these issues, you might want to consider making some landscaping choices to take the work out of yard care. With the right designs, you can significantly cut the amount of time you need to spend outside working in the yard. Along with that, many of these ideas can also help you save on water and other resources. That means you get a yard that looks good, requires less work, and is more sustainable.What can you do to achieve these goals in your yard? Read on to find out!Reduce the Size of Your Grass LawnOne of the first tips ...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Some times we feel like we are ready for anything... until something unexpected pops up.As a homeowner we all face tasks we wish we didn't but we know we have too. I consider myself a good handyman but one faily simply task fills me with dread, PAINTING!One thing I have learned over the years is that being prepared makes the job easier and less dreadful. That being said I still hate it. I found this excellent video posted by Home Depot on YouTube. It's only a minute plus but great advice and worth watching.Home improvement videos abound on YouTube and through other services on the web. My advice is to watch more than one before conquering a task BUT don't watch so many your head starts to spin. 
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