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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 Peter Mohylsky, Call me at 850-517-7098
(Property Management International-Destin)
Don’t wait for a small problem to become a big one—hire a local handyman and stay ahead of the game. We all get busy. That squeaky door, loose tile, or small leak under the sink? Easy to ignore when life’s moving fast. But here’s the thing—small home repairs don’t just go away. The longer you put them off, the bigger and pricier they tend to become. Whether you’re living in your forever home or planning to sell soon, keeping up with repairs makes a big difference, both in peace of mind and property value. Let’s take a look at why it matters and how a local handyman can help you stay ahead of the game. Small Problems Grow Fast (and Expensive) That little drip, crack, or wobble might not seem urgent—but give it time, and it can become a costly repair. Here are a few common small issues th...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
When Your Dream Home Becomes a DIY Disaster: Real Estate Lessons from Pinterest Fails to Paint RegretsYou had a vision. You saw the Pinterest board. You watched five “quick and easy” YouTube tutorials. But somewhere between the budget-friendly backsplash and the “simple” shiplap accent wall, your dream home project turned into a full-blown DIY disaster.Whether you’re buying a fixer-upper in Auburn or Opelika or prepping your current home for sale, a little DIY ambition can go a long way—in the wrong direction. Let’s look at some of the most common homeowner horror stories and what you can learn from them (without losing your sanity… or your security deposit).Pinterest vs. RealityWe’ve all seen the “nailed it” photos—what was supposed to be a cozy farmhouse vibe ends up looking like a ba...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6' Black Ornamental Steel Fence with 3-Rail Flat Top in Bennington is where elegance meets endurance.Built to elevate your curb appeal—and keep it secure.Only from Acreage Fences.#BenningtonBeauty #AcreageFences #SteelElegance #FenceGoals #SecureInStylehttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Associate Broker Falmouth MA Cape Cod Heath Coker, Heath Coker Berkshire Hathaway HS Robert Paul Prop
(https://teamcoker.robertpaul.com)
Will AI Replace Interior Designers?These days, you can ask a computer to help design a room in your house. That computer uses something called artificial intelligence (AI), and it’s getting pretty smart! But does that mean real interior designers—people who decorate rooms for a living—will be out of a job? Let’s look at both sides.The Case for AIAI can be fast, easy, and cheap. It can look at a room and quickly suggest colors, furniture, and layout ideas. Some apps even let you take a picture of your room and then show you how it could look with new styles. For someone on a budget or in a hurry, that’s really helpful. AI doesn’t get tired, and it can offer lots of options in just seconds.The Case for HumansBut wait—real interior designers bring something special to the table. They talk ...
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By Travis Matthews, Vegas handyman expert in home prep & repairs.
(Handyman of Las Vegas)
Photo credit: Allbright Restoration ServicesGetting ready to sell your home? Maybe you’re thinking about adding a fresh coat of paint, swapping out some cabinet handles, or tidying up the yard. Those are all smart moves—but here’s one upgrade that doesn’t always make the list and definitely should: polished concrete floors.This simple change can give your home a clean, modern look that wows buyers. It’s tough, budget-friendly, and looks great no matter what kind of style your home has.. Plus, it could save you some serious cash when it comes to staging. Whether you're planning to list your home soon or just want it ready when the time comes, this upgrade could make a big difference.Let’s dive into why polished concrete is a smart choice before selling your home.What Is Polished Concrete...
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By NextDay Inspect, Residential Home Inspections & Environmental Tests
(NextDay Inspect)
The Importance of a Detailed Repair Estimate Report in Home Inspections Home inspections are a critical step in the process of buying or selling a home, providing invaluable information about the condition of a property. One essential aspect of these inspections is the detailed repair estimate report, which outlines the necessary repairs and associated costs. This report serves as a vital tool for both buyers and sellers, helping them understand the scope of work needed to bring the property up to standard. Importance of a Detailed Repair Estimate Report Ensuring Accuracy and Transparency: A detailed repair estimate report in home inspections is crucial for ensuring accuracy. By providing a comprehensive breakdown of all potential repairs needed, homeowners can better understand the sc...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Whether you're sprucing up a luxury cabin in the pines or adding warmth to your sleek city condo, the right interior design ideas can completely change how a space feels. And here's the best part: you don't need a massive budget or a team of designers to make it happen.Start with PurposeEvery room should have a purpose—and the design should reflect that. For example, a reading nook in a bedroom might call for warm lighting, cozy textures, and a comfy chair. But a dining area? That’s where light, space, and flow matter most. Design around what you want the space to do.Light is EverythingWant an instant upgrade? Rethink your lighting. Natural light is ideal, but if that's limited, use a combo of floor lamps, task lighting, and pendant fixtures to layer brightness. Swap out harsh white bul...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Whether you're buying your first home, managing a rental, or living in your dream cabin in the woods, plumbing is one of those things you don’t think about—until something goes wrong. From silent leaks to burst pipes, even small plumbing issues can lead to expensive damage. The good news? A little knowledge can save you a lot of money and stress.Why Plumbing Should Be on Every Homeowner’s RadarPlumbing isn’t just about fixing clogged drains or leaky faucets. It plays a major role in your property’s resale value and long-term functionality. Buyers pay attention to water pressure, pipe quality, and drainage systems—especially when looking at luxury homes or cabins. A minor issue today could derail a big sale tomorrow. Looking for a luxury property with reliable infrastructure? Check out t...
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By NextDay Inspect, Residential Home Inspections & Environmental Tests
(NextDay Inspect)
Maximizing Safety and Structural Integrity: The Importance of Balcony Inspections In buildings with balconies, safety and structural integrity are paramount concerns. Balconies provide a space for relaxation and enjoyment, but without proper maintenance and inspections, they can pose significant risks to occupants and visitors.  From potential hazards such as rotting wood or corroded metal components to the importance of adhering to building codes and regulations, we will explore the crucial role that thorough inspections play in identifying issues before they escalate into serious problems. Join us as we uncover the key factors that make balcony inspections an essential component of maintaining a safe and secure living environment for all residents. Understanding the Importance of Reg...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6' Black Ornamental Steel Fence with 3 Rails and a Flat Top brings modern edge and rock-solid security to Omaha.Built to impress. Backed by Acreage Fences.#OmahaStyle #OrnamentalSteel #AcreageFences #BoldAndSecure #FenceGoalshttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6' Washington Clay Vinyl Fence with Dark Walnut accents is where luxury meets low-maintenance—bringing warmth, style, and privacy to Omaha backyards.Crafted to elevate. Installed by Acreage Fences.#OmahaBackyardGoals #VinylLuxury #AcreageFences #PrivacyWithStyle #FenceGlowUphttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Lew Corcoran, Expert guidance. Exceptional results.
(Better Living Real Estate, LLC)
Harmonize Your Layouts with Nature’s Design  Introduction  Ever heard of the Fibonacci sequence? It’s a fascinating series of numbers that shows up in nature, art, and even architecture. This mathematical concept can help you create harmony in your home layout, making spaces feel more inviting and balanced. By adjusting room dimensions and furniture placement to reflect the Fibonacci sequence, you can enhance the buyer appeal of your home and maximize your return on investment (ROI).  Let’s dive into how you can apply this natural harmony to your floor plans! What Is the Fibonacci Sequence?  The Fibonacci sequence starts with 0 and 1, where each number is the sum of the two preceding ones. This generates a series like 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, and so on. In design, this concept translates in...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Wood is timeless. Whether it’s the beam across a rustic cabin ceiling or the original hardwood floors in a luxury home, wood has a warmth and authenticity that no other material can replicate. But over time, even the finest wood can lose its luster. That’s where wood restoration comes in—an essential skill for homeowners and investors alike who want to maintain both beauty and value.Why Wood Restoration MattersWood is durable, but it’s not invincible. Sunlight, moisture, pests, and even time itself can wear down its surface, causing cracks, warping, discoloration, or worse—rot. Restoring wood surfaces, both interior and exterior, not only revives their natural appeal but also protects your property investment long term. For those buying cabins or luxury homes in Arizona through platform...
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By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809 cell direct
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
The Great Wilkesboro Renovation: Bless This MessIf you’ve never been to Wilkesboro, North Carolina, you’re missing out on some of the most charming rolling hills, front porch swings, and sweet tea strong enough to turn a tooth sideways. It’s the kind of place where “fixer-upper” could mean anything from a sagging front porch to a full-on spiritual exorcism of bad renovations past.This is where our story begins—with Hank and Linda Mae Thompson, a semi-retired couple from Raleigh who decided they wanted “a simpler life.” Translation: they bought a 1940s farmhouse in Wilkesboro that hadn’t seen love—or plumbing updates—since Elvis first hit the radio.The House That Time ForgotThe real estate listing used creative language. It read: “Quaint home bursting with character, original features th...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
The Importance of Regular Home Maintenance: Protect Your InvestmentWhen it comes to owning a home, regular maintenance is key to preserving its value and ensuring it remains a safe, comfortable place to live. Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want to maintain the home you love, regular upkeep is crucial. As a realtor in the Auburn-Opelika area, I’m here to explain why home maintenance matters and how it can pay off in the long run.Why Regular Home Maintenance Is EssentialRegular home maintenance helps prevent costly repairs, ensures your home is running efficiently, and boosts curb appeal. Homes that are well-maintained not only look better but also function better. For buyers, homes with a history of regular upkeep are more appealing, as they indicate fewer potential problems ...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Spice up your home search with these homes with upgraded kitchens in Boiling Springs,#househunting #homesforsale #dreamhome #alwayslookingathomes #listpacks #listreports #houseexpert #homeswithrenovatedkitchens
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By Kathy Hyatt, PA Realtor® Plantation-Davie-Sunrise, Broward Realtor Selling Plantation,Davie & Sunrise
(Remax Services)
   Earn a 171% Return💰 on your Investment - Minor Bathroom 🛁🧼RemodelLooking for Ways to 🚀Boost your 🏩Home’s Style AND Value? Minor Bathroom Remodels offer one of the Best Average Returns on Investment, with a $1.71 Increase in Home Value for every $1 you spend. Here are 4 great ways you can Update your Bathroom on a Budget:⭐🟩PAINT WALLS AND CABINETS Maximum your return at resale by sticking with a neutral color palette that will appeal to a broad range of buyers. 🔴REPLACE OUTDATED FIXTURES Swap dated light fixtures, faucets, and cabinet hardware for modern and stylish alternatives.🔷UPGRADE YOUR BATHROOM MIRROR Replace, refinish, or add a custom frame to a basic vanity mirror. 🟪MODERNIZE YOUR WINDOW TREATMENTS Trade your old blinds for plantation shutters, which are energy efficient, dur...
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By Kathy Hyatt, PA Realtor® Plantation-Davie-Sunrise, Broward Realtor Selling Plantation,Davie & Sunrise
(Remax Services)
Add Value 💰to Your Home🏡 With These 9 DIY 💪ImprovementsWhether you are prepping your house to go on the market or looking for ways to maximize its long-term appreciation, these nine home improvement projects are great ways to add function, beauty, and real value to your home. The best part is, once you have secured the materials, most of these renovations can be completed over the course of a weekend. And they do not require a lot of specialized skills or experience. So, grab your toolbox, then get ready to boost your home’s appeal AND investment potential! Spruce Up Your LandscapingLandscaping improvements can increase a home’s value by 10-12%.1 But which outdoor features do buyers care about most? According to a survey of Realtors, a healthy lawn is at the top of their list. If your l...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
I am a fan of wall beds; we have one in our second bedroom which doubles as an office.  Maybe 10 to 15 nights a year we have overnight guest so the other 350 days a year it is an office.  I have slept on it a few times, no I wasn’t in trouble one of us had Covid and the other one didn’t, the bed is very comfortable.  Spending the money for a good mattress is important.   In talking with the owner of the villa remodel about what to put in the second bedroom I suggest a Murphy bed.  She came to our home and really liked the idea after seeing ours.  I called Marlin Graden, General Manager and Lead Designer at Inspired Closets in Wildwood.  Marlen and I have worked together on projects in the past and was always happy with the result.  I set up an appointment and the villa owner and I went ...
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By NextDay Inspect, Residential Home Inspections & Environmental Tests
(NextDay Inspect)
  The Importance of Proper Chimney Flashing: A Guide for Homeowners Chimney flashing may seem like a minor detail in the grand scheme of owning a home, but its importance cannot be overstated. Proper chimney flashing is essential for protecting your home from water damage and ensuring the longevity of your roof. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the reasons why chimney flashing is crucial for homeowners, the different types of flashing available, and how to properly maintain and repair it. Understanding the Importance of Proper Chimney Flashing Chimney flashing is a crucial component of your home's roofing system. It helps prevent water from seeping into your roof and causing damage to the interior of your home. Without proper chimney flashing, water can infiltrate through...
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