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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 Greg Tresler, We Buy Houses For Cash As Is! House Buyers Florida
When deciding how often to schedule house cleaning services, it's key to consider your specific household needs and lifestyle. Are you managing a bustling family home with pets, or is it just you in a cozy apartment? The frequency of cleaning sessions can significantly impact your home's comfort and cleanliness. You might wonder if weekly cleanings are necessary or if a monthly touch-up will suffice. To find your perfect cleaning rhythm, you'll need to evaluate high-traffic areas and weigh the benefits of professional services against your budget. What's the best approach for achieving a spotless yet manageable home environment?  Assessing Your Household Needs When scheduling house cleaning services, it's important to first assess your household needs to ensure you get the most effectiv...
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By Dave Livingston, Painting Company Serving the Natick Area
(Natick Painting Company)
Homeowners often focus on interior updates before selling, while neglecting the exterior of their homes. However, those in the know understand that enhancing curb appeal and increasing property value begins at the front door—or even earlier. If you're seeking a project that provides both immediate visual appeal and long-term financial benefits, consider installing pavers as a top priority.Whether you're thinking about a new driveway,  patio, or garden walkway, pavers are undoubtedly a smart investment. What makes them such a great choice? Pavers bring versatility, durability, and visual charm that can greatly boost your property's value. By opting for pavers, you not only enhance your outdoor areas but also change how others view your home. Let’s explore how these simple yet impactful e...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Decluttering your home can make it feel like a brand-new space! Start small, focus on what you love, and donate what you don’t use. Remember, it’s about creating a functional, organized home, not just a tidy one. 🏡✨ Thinking of selling or buying a new home? Let's chat about your options! #thehelpfulgent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #homeowner #hometips #a101524 #realestate Realestateagent #realtor #happyhomeowners #homesyle #dreamhome 
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Both have their unique benefits—curtains offer warmth and elegance, while blinds provide a sleek, modern aesthetic with added control over light and privacy. The best option depends on your style preference, room function, and the atmosphere you want to create. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP When it comes to dressing windows, homeowners often find themselves caught in the decision between curtains and blinds. Most Americans use blinds instead of curtains, but both options have their unique advantages, depending on the room, style, and specific needs. Here are some tips to help decide which window treatment suits your home best.   Consider the Room’s Function One of the first things to think about is the room itself. Curtains tend to work well in living rooms or be...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Foundation repairs can be daunting and expensive, but avoiding costly mistakes is crucial for maintaining your home’s value and structural integrity. Thank you for sharing this blog.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Foundation repair is a crucial aspect of home maintenance, and when issues arise, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. With cracks in the walls, doors that won’t close, and floors that seem uneven, many homeowners rush to find solutions.  However, according to Bob Brown, an expert in foundation repairs with over 40 years of experience, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can lead to unnecessary expenses and ongoing problems.  Recently, Bob Brown spoke to Linda Peltz, realtor Fresno CA to shares insights on how homeowners can make informed decisions and...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Choosing the right exterior siding is key to enhancing both the curb appeal and durability of your home. It's all about finding the perfect balance between style, maintenance, and budget!  Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP When it comes to home renovations, exterior siding is one of the most important decisions. Not only does it protect your house from the elements, but it also plays a huge role in the overall curb appeal. Whether you're building a new home or simply upgrading, choosing the right siding can make a world of difference. Here are some common types of exterior siding and tips to help you decide which one is right for your home. Vinyl Siding: Affordable and Low Maintenance Vinyl siding is one of the most popular choices due to its affordability and low ma...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Repairing minor countertop damage can make a big difference in maintaining the look and longevity of your kitchen or bathroom. It's great to know there are easy solutions for small chips or scratches that can restore your countertops without needing a full replacement!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Countertops are a key part of any kitchen or bathroom, so it can be frustrating when they start showing signs of wear and tear. Cracks, scratches, and stains are inevitable, especially with daily use. Fortunately, you don’t always have to replace your entire countertop. Here are some simple repair tips that could save you both time and money. 1. Fixing Scratches If your countertop has small surface scratches, it’s relatively easy to buff them out. For laminate counterto...
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By Lise Howe, Assoc. Broker in DC, MD, VA and attorney in DC
(Keller Williams Capital Properties)
In 2024, the average return on the most common remodeling projects came in at about 75% nationally, according to the Remodeling 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, an assessment of typical household remodeling projects. From 2021 to 2023, the average ROI on remodeling projects saw a decline from 63.4% in 2021 to 60.5% in 2023.  Hopefully, the 75% average ROI in 2024 suggests that homeowners will be rewarded again as they remodel or upgrade and then sell.  Of course, not all home renovations are created equal - to twist a phrase from our founding fathers.  If you are thinking of upgrading your home, where should you spend your money? 1. Curb AppealWe all know that first impressions are crucial and you only have a few seconds to make a good one - so.....  if you are planning on putting your home ...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
When it comes to dressing windows, homeowners often find themselves caught in the decision between curtains and blinds. Most Americans use blinds instead of curtains, but both options have their unique advantages, depending on the room, style, and specific needs. Here are some tips to help decide which window treatment suits your home best.  Consider the Room’s FunctionOne of the first things to think about is the room itself. Curtains tend to work well in living rooms or bedrooms where a cozy, inviting atmosphere is desired. Their fabric can soften the look of the space, creating warmth and elegance. On the other hand, blinds are perfect for areas like the kitchen or bathroom, where durability and easy cleaning are essential. Blinds also offer more control over privacy and light.  Ligh...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
I am Charles Stallions, an Investor/ Real Estate Broker and an excellent resource for getting the best price quickly and without hassle. I have sold houses "as is" and renovated them, and there is a right way and a wrong way. Call or text me at 850-476-4494, and I will provide you with the RIGHT WAY to get you where you want to be. There is NO COST for my upfront personal consultation. Question? One of the questions I get the most is how to prepare my home for sale. The answer is that the selling price will be determined by condition. But you can overdo it, so let's talk. Please take a close look at the suggestions I have outlined.1. Start with Curb Appeal: First Impressions MatterThe exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers see, so it’s essential to make a great first ...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
If you've got a little extra space, consider turning it into a bonus room for added space, personality and function. Carving out space for hobbies or productivity not only attracts more buyers, but also serves as a great conversation starter during showings. Questions about how to add value to your home before sale? Send me a message - I'm happy to help advise! #realestate #buying #selling #listreports #realestateexpert #homeowner #financehub #dreamhome #fhm1011 #homeownership #homebuying
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By Linda Peltz, It's The Sold That Counts
(eXp Realty)
Foundation repair is a crucial aspect of home maintenance, and when issues arise, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. With cracks in the walls, doors that won’t close, and floors that seem uneven, many homeowners rush to find solutions. However, according to Bob Brown, an expert in foundation repairs with over 40 years of experience, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can lead to unnecessary expenses and ongoing problems. Recently, Bob Brown spoke to Linda Peltz, realtor Fresno CA to shares insights on how homeowners can make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes in foundation repairs. Lets dig deeper into the discussion About Bob Brown “The Dirt Whisperer”Bob graduated in 1984 from ASU receiving a Bachelor of Design Science from the School of Architecture and a Bachelor of ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Black appliances can add a sophisticated touch to any kitchen. Pairing them with the right cabinet colors—whether it’s crisp white for contrast or rich navy for a bold statement—can elevate the look of your space. Check out these creative tips to find the perfect match!  Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP PAIRING KITCHEN CABINET COLORS WITH BLACK APPLIANCES DESIGNER ADVICE Hey there! I'm Nathan Fitts, Real Estate Broker, Builder, and Designer. Today I would like to share a little advice when it comes to determining what color cabinets to choose with your black appliances. Black appliances are a stylish, eternal choice that have maintained their popularity for decades with no signs of decline in the years to come; however, the deep hue of black appliances presents chal...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Countertops are a key part of any kitchen or bathroom, so it can be frustrating when they start showing signs of wear and tear. Cracks, scratches, and stains are inevitable, especially with daily use. Fortunately, you don’t always have to replace your entire countertop. Here are some simple repair tips that could save you both time and money.1. Fixing ScratchesIf your countertop has small surface scratches, it’s relatively easy to buff them out. For laminate countertops, a simple trick is to use baking soda mixed with water to create a paste. Gently rub this mixture onto the scratched area using a soft cloth in a circular motion, then wipe it off and polish. For deeper scratches, consider using a specialized scratch repair kit available at most home improvement stores. Granite and marbl...
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By Nelson Huggins, Rooter Man to the Rescue
(Rooter Man )
Hurricane season: the perfect time to skip the DIY plumbing and let our plumbers work their magic! Let us handle the floods while you focus on binge-watching your favorite shows!🌊🔧📺 Call us at 843-402-7799, or schedule an appointment online at www.rootermansc.com. #RooterManPlumbers #RooterManCharleston..... #Plumbing #Plumber #PlumbingIndustry #PlumbingServices #PlumbingTips #Pipefitting #WaterHeating #SustainablePlumbing #HomeImprovement #247Plumber #247PlumbingService #Charleston #CharlestonCounty #CharlestonPlumber #CharlestonPlumbing #CharlestonRenovations #Community #DIYPlumbing #EmergencyPlumber #EmergencyPreparedness #FYP #HomeImprovement #HurricaneImpact #HurricaneMilton #HurricanePreparedness #Hurricaneseason #HurricaneWatch #LifeInTheSouth #LowCountry #PipeBurst #Pipefitting ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Dealing with a plugged sink can be frustrating, but with the right steps, you can easily fix it yourself! Regularly cleaning your drains can help prevent future clogs and keep your sinks running smoothly.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Fat chance a guinea pig will plug up your bathroom or kitchen sink BUT the chances of having a plugged sink at some time in your home is a firm 100%. Both my wife and my son have very thick and long hair so a plugged bathroom sink is a regular occurrence. Here are the steps we take. #1) Without having to take anything apart we start with  a product similar to the yellow tool above, second item from the left. This tool is usually a short term fix. CAUTION, we have had one break off but don't worry it's still a pretty simple fix. #2 Re...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Concrete overlays are a great way to upgrade the look of your property while also boosting its value. They’re durable, cost-effective, and can transform any space with a modern finish. A smart investment for homeowners looking to enhance their home’s appeal without a major renovation!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP When it comes to upgrading a property, most homeowners and real estate investors look for solutions that improve both aesthetics and value. One often overlooked option is the concrete overlay, a cost-effective way to revitalize worn-out concrete surfaces. Not only can it transform the look of your home, but it’s also a great investment that can increase property value. What is a Concrete Overlay? A concrete overlay is a thin layer of specially formulated...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Maintaining your yard in the fall doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Start by raking up fallen leaves to keep your lawn healthy and free of mold. With these eight easy care hacks, your yard will be prepped and ready for the coming seasons!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP   It’s amazing what perennials, mulch, and decorative rocks can do. Now that you have found your ideal home, you may discover that it has a larger yard than you have ever had or had to keep up. You can create (and enjoy) a low-maintenance yard all year long with these fall yard cleanup ideas. #1 From Spring to Winter: Designing with Perennials for Every Season Planting for each season is the key to a gorgeous yard, yet warmer-weather seasons appear to receive more attention when it comes to landscape ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Organizing your kitchen cabinets can make meal prep and daily tasks much more efficient. With a few smart strategies, you can turn your kitchen cabinets into a well-organized, functional space that makes cooking a joy! 🍽️🔧Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Kitchen cabinets are the heart of the kitchen. They store everything from pots and pans to spices and snacks. Yet, organizing them can feel like a never-ending battle. Here are some helpful tips to make the most out of your kitchen cabinets and keep everything within reach and tidy.   Maximize Vertical Space Most cabinets have plenty of unused vertical space. Consider adding shelf risers to create additional layers. This works particularly well for stacking plates or storing smaller items like mugs. You can also han...
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By Nathan Fitts, The Leading Name in Real Estate
(Nathan Fitts & Team )
PAIRING KITCHEN CABINET COLORS WITH BLACK APPLIANCESDESIGNER ADVICEHey there! I'm Nathan Fitts, Real Estate Broker, Builder, and Designer. Today I would like to share a little advice when it comes to determining what color cabinets to choose with your black appliances.Black appliances are a stylish, eternal choice that have maintained their popularity for decades with no signs of decline in the years to come; however, the deep hue of black appliances presents challenges when it comes to color pairing. Vibrant colors can diminish their elegance, while combining them with other bold shades may create a dark and gloomy kitchen atmosphere.If you are looking for cabinet colors than can harmonize perfectly with the black appliances, I would highly suggest you try pure white, gray, green-gray,...
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