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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 Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
As temperatures rise and evenings stretch longer, more homeowners across the U.S.—especially in warm regions like Arizona—are looking to make the most of their outdoor spaces. One often overlooked opportunity? Your patio. With a few smart and affordable upgrades, you can turn any patio into a summer-ready sanctuary.1. Layer Comfort with Shade and TextilesSummer sun is no joke, especially in the Southwest. Investing in a good-quality patio umbrella, pergola, or retractable shade can instantly make your space more usable during the hottest hours. Don’t stop there—outdoor rugs, weatherproof cushions, and throw blankets add both comfort and personality. Choose neutral desert tones or pops of color to reflect your home’s style.2. Light Up the NightsOnce the sun sets, string lights, solar lan...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
So many homes in The Villages, Florida have either islands or open counter space meaning no cabinets above, bar area.  I am seeing a trend of changing from the flush mount contractor grade lights to designer almost art hanging pendant lights.  Different colors, designs, LED and dimmable and they really add to the home.  With most homes in The Villages have 10’ ceilings and countertops being either 36” or 44” high you have plenty of room for some type of hanging fixture.  These lights can be functional and stylish at the same time!I just looked on Amazon and they have 7 pages with 100’s of options of counter lights, that is where we bought ours.  We bought the teardrop crystal pendant lights with mini-LED lights with the metal rods so you could pick and choose the height you wanted them,...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6' Tall Vinyl Scalloped Semi-Privacy Fence with 3 rails and 1" airspace is proof that fences can be both functional and beautiful. Installed by Acreage Fences in Papillion, Nebraska, it adds softness, structure, and style to any outdoor space.🌸 Scalloped silhouette for a refined, custom look 🌬 Airy design offers privacy without feeling closed in 🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty ⏱ Completed in just 12 Days or Less❤️ Proud supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project📍 Papillion families—looking for a fence that breathes as beautifully as it protects? 📲 Schedule your free design consult today!#AcreageFences #ScallopedFence #SemiPrivacyVinyl #PapillionHomes #FenceElegance #VinylWithVision #WoundedWarriorSupport #OutdoorLivingUpgrade #CurbAppealMattershttps://www.acreagefences....
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By Matt Helganz
(Meridian Capital Real Estate)
If you’re a homeowner in Los Angeles thinking about selling or simply wanting to boost your property’s value, smart renovations can make all the difference. With LA’s competitive real estate market and diverse buyer pool, investing in the right upgrades not only enhances your living experience but also attracts buyers willing to pay a premium. Here are some top renovation tips to maximize your home’s value in the City of Angels.1. Upgrade Your KitchenThe kitchen remains the heart of the home—and buyers love modern, functional kitchens. Consider installing energy-efficient stainless steel appliances, quartz or granite countertops, and fresh cabinetry with soft-close drawers. Open shelving and a stylish backsplash can add that wow factor without breaking the bank.2. Boost Curb AppealFirst...
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By Nick Marr, Promoting real estate internationally
(HOMESGOFAST)
Picture yourself making dinner while the lights flicker and then go out.   As you stagger through the basement with a flashlight in hand, you look at your electrical panel and wonder what's wrong.  Is that your voice?  For a lot of houses, this is a clear reminder of how important that metal box on the wall is. You may avoid headaches or worse by keeping your electrical panel, which is the central component of your home's electrical system, between professional inspections. Numerous electrical issues have taught me how to perform routine maintenance correctly. Let's review the essential information.Understanding Your Electrical PanelThe primary component of the electrical system in your house is the electrical panel.  For all of your electrical loads, such as the refrigerator, lighting,...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Summer 2025 is here, and with it comes a fresh wave of inspiration for your home. Whether you're updating your full-time residence, a weekend cabin getaway, or a modern luxury retreat, these interior design ideas bring out the best of the season—and the year’s biggest trends. More than ever, people want their homes to reflect not just style, but also wellness, joy, and ease. This year’s hottest interior trends help create just that—with an emphasis on airy layouts, playful color pops, eco-conscious materials, and even smart tech touches. Here are the top summer interior design ideas to consider:1. Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature IndoorsIn 2025, biophilic design continues to dominate. This trend is all about creating a deeper connection to nature through design—think large windows, ind...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
As your trusted real estate broker in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, I’m always helping homeowners find ways to elevate their property's value and livability. One of the most rewarding upgrades is creating an indoor-outdoor space that seamlessly blends comfort, function, and design, bringing the outside in and the inside out.The key to a successful indoor-outdoor transition is thoughtful design that connects architecture with landscape. Use focal points like a serene fountain, a sculptural fire pit, or rows of vibrant potted plants to draw attention from the interior of your home to your patio, terrace, or deck. These intentional visual elements not only add charm but also encourage movement between indoor and outdoor spaces.If you're in a mild or warm climate, such as those found in...
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By Travis Matthews, Vegas handyman expert in home prep & repairs.
(Handyman of Las Vegas)
When something breaks around the house—or when a “quick fix” turns into a bigger project—it’s tempting to call the first handyman you find online. But hold up! Not all handymen are created equal. Some do amazing work. Others? Not so much. Taking a few minutes to ask the right questions can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress.Whether it’s a leaky faucet that needs fixing, a hole in the drywall that’s been bothering you for months, or a list of small repairs before listing your home, the right handyman can handle it all. And when you’re getting a property ready to sell, smart homeowners know that tackling these details can make a big impact. After all, a home that looks well cared for sells faster and often for more money.Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask a Handyman Before ...
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By Travis Matthews, Vegas handyman expert in home prep & repairs.
(Handyman of Las Vegas)
When people drive by your home or walk up to your front door, what do they see? If your answer is “meh,” don’t worry—you don’t need a full remodel or a big budget to make a big difference.A quick weekend project and a few essentials are all it takes to give your home a fresh new vibe that adds charm and value. And when the job calls for a bit more skill—like carpentry, painting, plumbing, electrical, or flooring—that’s when a dependable handyman service can step in and take care of it without the cost or hassle of hiring a full contractor.Let’s dive into a few easy curb appeal upgrades you can do on your own—and where a trusted handyman can help if you need a hand.Freshen Up Your Front Door and PorchYour front door is the first thing people notice—so let’s make it pop!A fresh coat of pa...
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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 with 3-Rail design is where form meets function—delivering curb appeal that commands attention and durability that lasts. Installed with precision by Acreage Fences in Council Bluffs, Iowa.🔩 Industrial-strength steel with a clean, modern look 🖤 Matte black finish = timeless and bold 🛠 Protected by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty ⏱ Completed in just 12 Days or Less ❤️ Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project📍 Council Bluffs: Want a fence that defines your property without compromise? 📲 Let’s design your perfect fence—schedule your free consult today!#AcreageFences #OrnamentalSteelFence #3RailFence #CouncilBluffsHomes #SteelStyle #ModernFencing #FenceWithPurpose #WoundedWarriorSupport #FenceInspo #StrongAndStylishhttps://www.acreagefences.com/ 
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By GilbertRealtor BillSalvatore, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
A Visually Engaging Approach to Interior Design   Introduction   Ever noticed how some rooms just *pop*? It's not just about the colors, is it? There's something more, something that draws you in—visual interest. This visual interest can be dramatically enhanced by incorporating fractal patterns.    Think intricate designs echoing nature's beauty, but with a contemporary twist. It's not just about pretty patterns; it's about creating a space that feels inviting and desirable, ultimately impacting your home's value. Learning these principles can help you make informed design decisions that make your home stand out.   What are Fractal Patterns, Anyway?   Fractals are geometric shapes that repeat themselves at smaller and smaller scales. They're found everywhere in nature—from the branchi...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Summer in the U.S. is the season of sunshine, barbecues, and — believe it or not — plumbing problems. As temperatures rise, so does water usage. From watering gardens to extra loads of laundry after family trips, your home’s plumbing works overtime. That’s why staying on top of plumbing maintenance is crucial, especially if you're living in or planning to invest in homes, cabins, or land across Arizona.Here are simple yet essential plumbing tips to keep your home running smoothly this season:1. Check for Outdoor LeaksSprinklers and garden hoses see a lot of action in the summer. A small leak in an outdoor spigot can waste gallons of water and drive up your utility bill. Inspect for drips and rust. If you’re using a sprinkler system, run a quick test to ensure no underground leaks are wa...
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By NextDay Inspect, Residential Home Inspections & Environmental Tests
(NextDay Inspect)
 Home Inspection Prep: How to Prepare Your Home for a Smooth and Successful InspectionPreparing your home for a home inspection can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With a few simple yet strategic steps, you can set yourself up for a smooth inspection process and a glowing report. Whether you’re selling your home, refinancing, or just aiming to maintain your property’s value, knowing how to get your home inspection-ready is essential. In this comprehensive guide, brought to you by the experts at NextDay Inspect®, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about home inspection prep—from decluttering and cleaning to addressing minor repairs and ensuring easy access to key home systems.By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with actionable tips to present your...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
There are plenty of Crape Myrtles in The Villages and there are different ways to take care of them.  I was talking to my new neighbor about his Crape Myrtle and told him how nice his would look if he just sawed in off about 5 feet above the ground.  Over the years the previous owner never trimmed it so he took my advice.Neighbor two came out and said he was going to YouTube about his Crape Myrtle and see what he could learn.  He decided to not saw it off rather just remove some of the sucker growth.My Crape Myrtles, I have two of them but we did something totally different.  I wanted a bush so the last few years I kept trimming them back and left more new stock growth to fill in.  In February I cut the 15 or 20 I guess you would call them the trunks back to about 2 feet.  Due to being ...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
With Charles Stallions, Your Trusted Property Manager and Real Estate Broker in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf BreezeThe word maintenance might not spark excitement, but a little seasonal upkeep goes a long way toward protecting your biggest investment—your home. Whether you own, rent, or manage property, summer is the perfect time to catch up on maintenance that boosts curb appeal, prevents costly repairs, and keeps everything running smoothly.As your trusted property manager and real estate broker in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, I’ve put together a simple guide to help homeowners, landlords, and tenants stay ahead of summer wear and tear.General Summer Home Maintenance for EveryoneNo matter your role—homeowner, landlord, or tenant—these maintenance tasks will keep your property lookin...
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By Sandra Nickel, The Hat Team
(Sandra Nickel REALTORS)
The saying “dog days of summer” refers to the hottest time of year, which in our neck of the woods means July and August, when the heat and humidity hit their peaks. The saying originated from ancient Greek and Roman times when people believed that Sirius, also known as the “Dog Star”, contributed to the harsh summer heat when it was seen close to the sun.We are now approaching this most uncomfortable time of year in Alabama. The sweltering summer months can not only be physically unpleasant, but they can do a number on your household bills as well. Keeping your home cool is a necessity, but watching those energy bills soar is no fun. Here are some practical tips for fighting the “dog days of summer”:KEEPING YOUR HOME COOLYour home cooling system can be your best friend or your worst en...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
 This 6’ Tall Washington White Vinyl Privacy Fence with Titan Rail reinforcement and classic New England Caps brings timeless charm and rock-solid durability to any property. Expertly installed by Acreage Fences in Bennington, Nebraska.🎩 Decorative post caps add a graceful finish 💪 Titan Rail means long-lasting strength, no sagging ✨ Clean, white design that never goes out of style 🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty ❤️ Proud supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project ⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less📍 Bennington: Want privacy with polished detail and serious staying power? 📲 Book your free design consult today!#AcreageFences #TitanRailStrength #NewEnglandCaps #WashingtonWhite #BenningtonNebraska #VinylPrivacyFence #ElegantExteriors #FenceThatLasts #WoundedWarriorSupport #Curb...
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By Jacob Maslow, Your Brooklyn Connection
(Torsx)
In today’s competitive real estate market, homeowners are always looking for features that make their properties stand out. Whether you’re thinking of selling soon or simply want to increase your home’s appeal, adding a private sports court can be a smart, lifestyle-driven investment. Beyond the fun and fitness benefits, a well-designed court can also give your property an edge with future buyers.The Rise of Lifestyle Amenities in Real EstateOver the past few years, active living has become a key selling point in residential real estate. Buyers today aren’t just shopping for a house—they’re looking for a lifestyle. This shift has created a growing demand for homes that offer wellness-oriented features, especially outdoor recreational spaces.As a result, listings with private courts tend...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Summer is the Best Time for Wood Restoration — Here's Why and How to Do It RightWhen summer rolls around and the sun starts shining across the Arizona landscape, it's the perfect season to tackle those long-overdue wood restoration projects. Whether it's an aging deck, a rustic cabin porch, or interior hardwood floors in a luxury home, giving wood surfaces the care they deserve can instantly elevate a property's charm and value.Why Wood Restoration MattersOver time, wood naturally weathers—especially under Arizona’s intense heat and UV exposure. Fading, cracking, splintering, and even mold or mildew can creep in, especially in shaded, moisture-prone areas. Wood restoration not only brings beauty back but also extends the life of your wooden structures, which is crucial for homeowners, c...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
 This 6’ Tall Washington White Vinyl Privacy Fence with our ultra-durable Titan Rail upgrade brings bold beauty and next-level strength to any backyard. Installed with care by Acreage Fences in Omaha, Nebraska, it’s built to stand tall—season after season.💪 Titan Rail = reinforced strength you can trust ✨ Crisp white vinyl for timeless curb appeal 🛠 Covered by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty ⏱ Completed in just 12 Days or Less ❤️ Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project📍 Omaha homeowners: Ready for a fence that’s as tough as it is beautiful? 📲 Book your free design consult today!#AcreageFences #TitanRailStrength #WashingtonWhiteFence #VinylPrivacyFence #OmahaFencing #BackyardPrivacyGoals #SecureInStyle #WoundedWarriorSupport #FenceUpgradehttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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