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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 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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By Michael D King, Michael D King Helping U Buy, Sell & Succeed in AZ
(MDKgroup at Keller Williams Northeast Realty)
Brought to you by Michael D. King, Your Friend in Real Estate Want to make your home stand out in today’s competitive market? The right paint color could mean more than just a pretty room — it could mean a higher sales price.A recent Zillow study found that homes with the right interior paint colors can sell for as much as $2,590 more than similar homes with outdated or unappealing colors. Yes, color matters — and buyers are speaking loud and clear.Let’s dive into what works in 2025:🛋️ Living Room: Earthy and ElegantTop Picks: Warm taupe, greige, soft clayWhy: Buyers want calm, natural tones. These colors feel upscale, inviting, and move-in ready.🍽️ Kitchen: Bold Yet ClassicTop Picks: Deep navy, charcoal, muted greenWhy: Darker colors here make cabinetry pop and signal a designer’s touc...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Summer is peak home-buying season, and when it comes to making a great first impression, staging can make or break a sale. Whether you're selling a cozy cabin in the pines, a wide-open desert lot, or a luxury retreat with a mountain view, staging helps buyers emotionally connect with your space—and take action. Here are some fresh and practical staging tips that work especially well during the warmer months.1. Start With Curb AppealFirst impressions start at the curb. In summer, a well-maintained yard speaks volumes. Mow the lawn, trim any overgrown shrubs, and consider adding drought-friendly plants or container flowers for a pop of color. Buyers want to imagine pulling into the driveway and feeling instantly at home.2. Let Natural Light InArizona summers bring plenty of sunshine—use i...
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By Mike Colpitts, Providing Customer Service the old-fashioned way!
(RealtyOne MVP )
As hurricane season gets into gear, hurricane windows—also known as impact windows—aid homeowners in regions like Fort Myers, Florida where the threat of severe hurricanes is prevalent. These specialized windows are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris, offering protection for property and in the worst of circumstances they could save lives.However, purchasing hurricane windows involves careful consideration of various factors, including the high cost of impact windows, installation, and brand of windows selected. There are some impact windows on the market these days that are inferior, despite technically qualifying as impact windows.After all, as is often said, “It’s cheap for a reason.” There are a series of pros and cons to purchasing hurricane windows.Pros of Hurrican...
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By Nick Marr, Promoting real estate internationally
(HOMESGOFAST)
Redecorating a room is one of the quickest ways to breathe new life into your home. It’s exciting, creative, and can completely shift how you feel in a space. But while most people focus on new cushions, a coat of paint, or some updated wall art, there’s one major feature that’s often overlooked — the furniture layout, and more specifically, the foundation pieces that ground the entire room.In a bedroom, that foundation is your bed — and more specifically, your bed frame. Swapping out your old base for a fresh, stylish bed frame from Lifely isn’t just about aesthetics. It can elevate your space, improve functionality, and set the tone for the entire room — often for far less than a full reno or furniture overhaul.Why the Bed Frame Deserves More AttentionMost people think of a bed frame ...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Many homeowners are choosing to remodel their homes as a way to refresh their living spaces and make them more functional, efficient, and appealing. Whether driven by a desire to enhance daily comfort, update aging materials, or prepare for a potential sale, these renovations often reflect both practical needs and personal aspirations. For some, it’s about embracing a long-overdue change, while others are motivated by the opportunity to create a home that better suits their lifestyle. Whatever the reason, remodeling has become a meaningful investment in both the present enjoyment and future value of a home. #realestate #realestateagent #buying #selling #listreports #realestateexpert #financehub #homeowner
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By Anna Chroscicki, Realtor - St. Lucie County affordable Real Estate
(Re/Max Masterpiece Realty)
To check out more of Homeowner and Seller’s Tips, visit my website: https://www.annasellsrealestate.com/fine/real/estate/homeownertip/custom/Homeowner-and-Real-Estate-Tips.  ANNA CHROSCICKI with RE/MAX MASTERPIECECall 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 Nelson Huggins, Rooter Man to the Rescue
(Rooter Man )
When a drain backs up, many homeowners automatically assume a quick run with a plumbing snake will solve the problem. While a mechanical snake can help in some cases, it often serves as a temporary fix (especially for more stubborn or recurring clogs).If you want a longer-lasting, more effective solution, it’s time to consider water jetting., and we have created an article outlining the benefits of water jetting and why this service has quickly become the go-to solution for home and business owners.      So What Is Water Jetting?Water jetting (also known as hydro jetting) uses high-pressure water to blast away grease, sludge, roots, and debris from inside your pipes. Think of it like power washing the interior of your plumbing system. It scours everything clean without the use of chemic...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
First Thing You’d Renovate in Your HomeYou get one free renovation — what are you tackling first?Most homeowners have that one thing they’d change in a heartbeat.Maybe it’s the dated kitchen cabinets, the leaky bathroom faucet, or those floors that have seen better decades.Or maybe, just maybe… it’s time to silence that one stair that squeaks louder than your morning alarm.Here are the top renovation contenders I hear from Auburn and Opelika homeowners all the time:• Kitchen Remodel – Because takeout gets expensive, and avocado green was never your color• Bathroom Upgrade – Everyone deserves a spa moment, not a shower from the ‘90s• Flooring Replacement – Carpet in the bathroom? No. Just no.• Fixing Small Annoyances – Squeaky stairs, sticky doors, that one mystery light switch…Renovatio...
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By GilbertRealtor BillSalvatore, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Clearing out junk might sound like a weekend DIY project, but it often turns into being more work than estimated, more time, and more expense than expected. Whether you're preparing a property for sale, cleaning up after tenants, or simply decluttering your own home, hiring a local junk removal service can save time, stress, and even money. As professionals with junk removal in charleston sc we have put together our five key reasons to utilize our junk removal services. 1. Skip the Heavy LiftingLarge furniture, appliances, construction debris, or other random clutter is not just bulky. These items can be dangerous and difficult to move on your own. A professional junk removal crew has the manpower, equipment, and experience to safely remove heavy or awkward items without damage to your...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Another great blog to learn from.  Nelson comes up with some great points.  Clearing out junk might sound like a weekend DIY project, but it often turns into being more work than estimated, more time, and more expense than expected. Whether you're preparing a property for sale, cleaning up after tenants, or simply decluttering your own home, hiring a local junk removal service can save time, stress, and even money. As professionals with junk removal in charleston sc we have put together our five key reasons to utilize our junk removal services. 1. Skip the Heavy LiftingLarge furniture, appliances, construction debris, or other random clutter is not just bulky. These items can be dangerous and difficult to move on your own. A professional junk removal crew has the manpower, equipment, an...
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