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 Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
Want to have a sense of 'Well Being" in your home. Well trying seeing nature outside and letting that nature inside. (Photo: Phghvvcftyyufj, Pixabay)While the concept of letting the outdoors in is not exactly new, the term “biophilic design” has been trending among homeowners, interior designers, and architects in recent years. With a goal of connecting humans with nature by incorporating natural elements, materials, and colors into the design of homes and buildings, biophilic design has surged in popularity as a way to improve well-being while enhancing the beauty of our living spaces. If your home is on the market, adding some elements of biophilic design can be a great way to increase its appeal to potential buyers.Here are a few simple ways to bring this interesting trend into your ...
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By Anna Chroscicki, Realtor - St. Lucie County affordable Real Estate
(Re/Max Masterpiece Realty)
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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By Melissa Thompson, I'm a real estate agent helping buyers and sellers
(Thompson Real Estate)
Are looking for ways to change the wallpaper colour with a new pattern, and you are not sure how to do it? Continue reading to find some simple tips on how to remove it easily. Most of the wallpaper can be removed effortlessly, but some can stubbornly cling to the walls. Techniques while installing the wallpaper for easy removal later-onThere are some simple tips and tricks practiced while installing the wallpaper so that it can be easier to remove it later. Proper installation with the right type of paste and higher skill-level of paperhanger is the trick to help it remove easier later on. There are various wallpaper paste options available in the market. It helps in easier installation and removal. Coldwater paste is a water-soluble paste that can be homemade and helps in easy removal...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
If you want to renovate your entire home or a portion of it, these innovative - yet simple to implement - house renovation ideas will ensure that your home is both stylish and meets your needs and requirements. The Glass LinkA glazed link connecting old and new sections of a house being extended is a popular design idea for renovations. A glass linking section can provide a clear connection between two sections of a house while also bringing in pockets of light to otherwise dark, old properties. The link bridges the floor level difference between the old and new sections, brings in light, and provides views of the garden. The link's top is set at a slight angle to allow rainwater to run off. Make a Connection With Your Garden Looking for home improvement ideas that will bring more light...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
While many people simply go to their local gardening supply store to browse the selections, planning ahead of time will help you choose plants that will best fit your needs and thrive in your landscape. These pointers will assist you in developing a strategy and getting started on the path to creating a beautiful, cohesive, and thriving landscape.  Know your yardWhen planning your landscape, keep your regional climate, site topography, and soil type in mind. Keep in mind that your yard's specific conditions, such as the amount and duration of sun and shade exposure, are likely to create a microclimate. The topography of your site should be taken into account as you plan. The best landscape design will direct water away from your house and into other areas of your yard. Consider themesA ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This is an excellent post with great information. Thanks for sharing it.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Engineered flooring, a composite of multiple layers of wood topped with a hardwood veneer, has been transforming the face of real estate interiors over the past decade. It beautifully balances aesthetics, durability, and sustainability, a combination that is increasingly valued by homebuyers and property developers alike. One particular variant that is catching the eye of the industry is engineered timber flooring, which brings the allure of natural wood and the benefits of engineering technology together in a stunning synergy. The Rise of Engineered Flooring According to a report by Grand View Research, the global engineered flooring market was valued at $8.17 b...
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By Charles Ross - (785)-819-6944, Love To Help People
(eXp Realty LLC Salina Group)
Ceiling fans have long been a staple in residential settings, providing homeowners with various benefits beyond air movement. In this article, we delve into the advantages of ceiling fans for homeowners, focusing on their energy efficiency, cooling effectiveness, comfort, versatility, and aesthetics and addressing concerns regarding lights on the fan. Discover how these elegant fixtures can transform your living space into a haven of comfort while helping you save on energy costs. Energy Efficiency: Ceiling fans are renowned for their energy-efficient operation. By creating a gentle breeze, they promote better air circulation, reducing the reliance on air conditioning systems. Their energy-efficient operation leads to substantial energy savings and reduces environmental impact, making t...
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By Craig Lebrau, Property Geek in Upper East Side NYC
(Lebrau Property)
Engineered flooring, a composite of multiple layers of wood topped with a hardwood veneer, has been transforming the face of real estate interiors over the past decade. It beautifully balances aesthetics, durability, and sustainability, a combination that is increasingly valued by homebuyers and property developers alike. One particular variant that is catching the eye of the industry is engineered timber flooring, which brings the allure of natural wood and the benefits of engineering technology together in a stunning synergy.The Rise of Engineered FlooringAccording to a report by Grand View Research, the global engineered flooring market was valued at $8.17 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow at a steady pace over the next decade. This rise can be credited to the numerous advanta...
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By Craig Lebrau, Property Geek in Upper East Side NYC
(Lebrau Property)
The real estate market and the home furnishings industry are interconnected realms that shape our living experiences. The houses we buy become homes through the careful selection and placement of furniture, turning empty spaces into warm, inviting environments. This article delves into how these two industries interplay and provides insights on everything from how to look for an elegant single bed to choosing furnishings that enhance your property's value.The Power of Home Staging in Real EstateHome staging, the art of strategically arranging furniture and decor to highlight a property's strengths, is a crucial tool in the real estate market. A well-staged home can accentuate space, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, thereby attracting more buyers and increasing the property's value. ...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Transform your home into a beautifully designed space — without the spendy price tag. Home improvement pros and DIYers tout a fresh coat of paint as a favorite among low-cost home upgrades that can make a huge impact. But what else can you do to accessorize and decorate? Sometimes the little things can make a bigger difference than you'd think.  Professionals share the following easy and low-cost home upgrades to add a designer’s touch all around the house. These projects may even help increase your home’s perceived value. Click Here To Share and Read More    Bottom Line "There Is A Realtor For That" Buying or Selling while living on the Gulf Coast  Sign up for our Monthly Real Estate Newsletter We are Ambassadors for all things Pensacola, Pace, or Gulf Breeze, Florida whether a first-...
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By Tommy Wyher, I am an freelance writer and professional marketer
(Husky Marketing)
Investing in your home is such a great idea as it will make the selling process far less of a hassle. The truth is that a home you own is likely the largest investment you have made in your life as it is for a majority of people. The equity in the home can be leveraged to pay debts or to receive additional loans if you are considering purchasing an income property. Certain additions can improve the value of the home and your quality of life simultaneously. Home offices are a great example as these are in high demand due to remote work opportunities becoming more prevalent. Below are additions you can make to your home along with improvements that will appeal to buyers. A Hot Tub Or Pool Hot tubs can be perfect for nearly any climate as they don’t use massive amounts of water and can war...
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By Melissa Thompson, I'm a real estate agent helping buyers and sellers
(Thompson Real Estate)
A lot of people fantasize about residing in lavish mansions with enormous chambers that they could decorate to their liking. Nevertheless, the veracity is that most of us don't really require a vast amount of area and are content with more modest accommodations. Can the provision of painting and decorating services aid in our adaptation to smaller abodes, though? Why should you feel confined or crowded in your flat? It may be worthwhile to consider the option of embellishing your living space in order to generate a more expansive impression. Whilst the dimensions of your chamber may suitably accommodate you and your possessions, it does not imply that you desire to induce a sensation of confinement. In actuality, if you intend to embellish and paint a diminutive living area, then you sh...
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By Melissa Thompson, I'm a real estate agent helping buyers and sellers
(Thompson Real Estate)
Do you require a rewiring? If you're like the majority of individuals, you may not consider it until something goes awry and then, you frantically search for an electrician to come and repair. However, what if there was a method to avoid all of this? What if you could handle fundamental electrical wiring requirements before they became significant issues? Fortunately, there is. Rewiring your residence is an excellent approach to ensure that your electrical system is current and capable of handling anything you throw at it. If you're contemplating rewiring your home, there are a few things to keep in mind.How to know if my home needs rewiring?In case your house is over 40 years old, it is probable that the electrical connections will require an upgrade. The task of rewiring your home can...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
While our front yard is often designed with the public in mind, our backyard is where we can express ourselves and unwind. Whether you prefer a quiet spot to read or a space for outdoor games, the backyard is yours to do with as you please. Create A Relaxation AreaMake a relaxing area in the backyard. After all, this is your own private nature retreat. Hang a hammock between two trees or find a shady nook for a lounge chair, then sip an iced tea and take it all in. Add A Water FeatureA soft trickle of water is one of the simplest ways to make a space more inviting. The best thing about water is that it attracts birds to the garden. Try self-contained units that don't require any digging to incorporate a water feature onto a patio or back deck. Build A Fire PitA wood-burning fire pit can...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
I love Florida and even in the dog days of summer but your attic might not!  When I sell a home to somebody from the “North” I tell them to not store their Christmas candles in the attic because if you do you will have a melted candle.  Temperatures in a Florida attic can be 130 to 150 degrees which means your ceiling can be hot so there goes your cooling cost up.  Most homes here have roof vents but that might not be enough you might want to consider a solar powered roof fan.  You will need to check but on one website they were talking tax credit if you installed them.What happens when hot moist air hits cool air besides thunderstorms?  The moisture in the hot air turns to liquid and that is happening right above your ceiling in your installation, not good in the long run.  Some homes ...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
If you want to grow food but don't have a half acre of land or a strong back, consider starting a patio vegetable garden. You only need a sunny spot on a relatively level surface, some containers, potting soil, and the right vegetables to get started today. Design Ideas For A Patio Vegetable Garden  Food FountainPurchase four or five graduated-size wide, low pots. Fill the pots and stack them on top of each other to make a tiered food fountain for a patio or deck corner. Plant a variety of edible greens, herbs, and compact tomato and pepper varieties in the pots. This is also an excellent method for growing strawberries.  Milk Crate GardenConsider growing your patio vegetable garden in repurposed milk crates if you're on a tight budget. Fill the crates with soil and line them with lands...
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By Shayne Stone, "Your Rock Solid Choice Realtor"
(HomeSmart)
Why it is Important to Drain Your Water HeaterWe are so used to getting hot water in our home without a thought, until something goes wrong with our water heater, or it stops working. A cold shower or a leak can take us by surprise and are signs that the water heater is not working properly. This can happen when we neglect to periodically drain it. A water heater needs to be drained and flushed as part of its maintenance routine. Why is this so important? Over time sediment from minerals and other deposits in the water build up in the bottom of the tank, called scaling, and can lead to a clog in the valves which can cause leaks and corrosion. This can result in poor heating efficiency and costly repairs. Drainage helps flush out the sediment that can cause malfunction and makes it easie...
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By Duane West
(3R's Construction & Remodeling)
Subterranean termites, which are prevalent in Salem homes, cause more than $1 billion in damage in the United States. Repairing serious damage caused by termites and other pests can cost a homeowner thousands of dollars, and these costs are often not covered by insurance. The look of flying termites emerging through a structure unexpectedly. Wood that has been infested with termites. Termite shelter tubes found on wood surfaces. And if you have dry rot in your home, it will invite more termites to infiltrate it. Arranging for dry rot repair as soon as feasible may assist to slow the spread of termites. What Pest Damage Can Look Like in Your Salem Home Pest damage can be substantial in general. Even something as small and as innocent as carpenter ants can cause significant damage in you...
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By Duane West
(3R's Construction & Remodeling)
When it comes to house remodeling, the kitchen is likely to get the most attention. After all, the kitchen is the hub of your family's daily activities. It is the heart and nerve center of your home.And no element of kitchen décor has a more profound impression than lighting. The appropriate kitchen lighting can help you achieve the desired mood and tone. It may also create a warm and pleasant environment in your kitchen while also offering a practical and meaningful atmosphere.Having enough lighting in your kitchen will provide safety, cleanliness, and visibility for all activities.Your Salem Home Remodeling Kitchen Lighting GuideLighting is essential in any room redesign, but maybe none more so than in the kitchen. There are some general principles to follow regardless of the type of ...
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Because I have such a small yard, and because Central Mississippi soil can be full of "Yazoo Clay", most of my flowers are in containers.   My little plot of land in Brandon MS provides a very small space for a garden. In fact, when I moved here a few years ago, absolutely nothing was planted in the back yard. The front was filled with crepe myrtles, Indian Hawthorn, Lorapetalum,  and a Japanese Maple; all of which I loved, but the back yard is where I spend my time. So before I even moved in, I brought some potted daylilies from my previous home and built a new daylily bed. It gives me such pleasure in May and June. The blooms replenish themselves each year and though the initial planting was labor intensive, I am rewarded with the steady supply of blooms in late spring. As the plants ...
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