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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
Enhancing Home Value with Solar Get an Instant Solar Quote by SOLARIT® As a real estate developer and investor, I've witnessed firsthand the evolving landscape of homebuyer preferences. In today's market, sustainability isn't just a buzzword – it's a driving force behind purchasing decisions. One of the most significant investments homeowners can make to enhance their property's value and environmental impact is harnessing the power of solar energy. And when it comes to choosing the best solar company in the US, SOLARIT® stands out as a beacon of reliability, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Solar energy offers homeowners a multitude of benefits, ranging from reduced utility bills to a decreased carbon footprint. Here's why integrating solar panels into your home is a savvy decis...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Wow, 50 tips! Spring maintenance is crucial for homeowners, and this blog likely covers a wide range of tasks to get homes in top shape. From cleaning gutters to servicing HVAC systems, these tips can help homeowners tackle important maintenance tasks. Thanks for this comprehensive guide!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP 50 tips for Spring maintenance for homeowners. 1. Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts2. Check roof for any damage or leaks3. Trim back tree limbs and branches that may be too close to the house4. Inspect and repair any damaged siding5. Check windows and doors for any drafts or leaks6. Test and clean outdoor lighting fixtures7. Check and clean air conditioning units8. Service your lawn mower and other outdoor equipment9. Inspect and clean your ou...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Invaluable advice! Avoiding common plumbing mistakes can save homeowners from costly repairs and inconvenience. This blog likely offers practical tips to help homeowners prevent these issues. Thanks for sharing this important information on maintaining a healthy plumbing system!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Plumbing problems are among the most dreaded issues homeowners face. Everyone encounters plumbing issues sooner or later, from minor annoyances like clogged drains to catastrophic events like flooding. How you handle these problems can make a significant difference in mitigating their impact. Let's read some of the most common plumbing mistakes and how to avoid them. Learn more about PS Plumber Singapore and discover why we're the top choice for all your plumb...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Informative read! Water leaks can cause significant damage if not detected early. This blog likely offers practical tips for preventing and detecting water leaks, helping homeowners avoid costly repairs. Thanks for highlighting this important aspect of home maintenance!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP In order to keep your family safe and healthy, as a homeowner, you need to know how to spot and stop water leaks. If left uncontrolled, water leaks can pose a health danger in addition to destroying your home's structural integrity. Your plumbing systems, roof, and foundation are common places to experience leaks, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Preventive measures and prompt discovery are essential for avoiding water damage and protecting your hous...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Great guide! Achieving a healthy lawn involves several key steps, and this blog likely provides valuable insights and tips. From proper watering to fertilization, these steps can help homeowners maintain a lush and vibrant lawn. Thanks for sharing this ultimate guide to lawn care! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Steps to a Healthy Lawn: Your Ultimate Guide 1. Soil Preparation: Before you start dreaming of a lawn that would make your neighbors green with envy, it’s crucial to address the foundation – the soil. Testing your soil’s pH levels is the first step. Typically, a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is considered ideal for a healthy lawn. If necessary, you can adjust the pH by adding lime to raise it or sulfur to lower it. Aerating the soil by removing small plugs of soil...
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By Duane West
(3R's Construction & Remodeling)
In order to keep your family safe and healthy, as a homeowner, you need to know how to spot and stop water leaks. If left uncontrolled, water leaks can pose a health danger in addition to destroying your home's structural integrity. Your plumbing systems, roof, and foundation are common places to experience leaks, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Preventive measures and prompt discovery are essential for avoiding water damage and protecting your household.Recognizing Water Leaks and Their EffectsBoth small and large water leaks can have a serious impact on the safety and structural integrity of your house. Home maintenance requires an understanding of both their potential implications and how to recognize them. Let's examine the definition of a water leak, its effects...
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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, 34953Selling Real Estate On Treasure Coast Since 2000.
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By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey real estate sales
(Fathom Realty)
Plumbing problems are among the most dreaded issues homeowners face. Everyone encounters plumbing issues sooner or later, from minor annoyances like clogged drains to catastrophic events like flooding. How you handle these problems can make a significant difference in mitigating their impact. Let's read some of the most common plumbing mistakes and how to avoid them. Learn more about PS Plumber Singapore and discover why we're the top choice for all your plumbing needs. Our experienced team and commitment to excellence ensure reliable and efficient service every time. Rushing Repairs It's tempting to rush through repairs, especially when you have guests or are pressed for time when faced with a plumbing issue. However, rushing can lead to costly mistakes. One of the simplest yet crucia...
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Plumbing problems are among the most dreaded issues homeowners face. Everyone encounters plumbing issues sooner or later, from minor annoyances like clogged drains to catastrophic events like flooding. How you handle these problems can make a significant difference in mitigating their impact. Let's read some of the most common plumbing mistakes and how to avoid them.Learn more about PS Plumber Singapore and discover why we're the top choice for all your plumbing needs. Our experienced team and commitment to excellence ensure reliable and efficient service every time. Rushing RepairsIt's tempting to rush through repairs, especially when you have guests or are pressed for time when faced with a plumbing issue. However, rushing can lead to costly mistakes. One of the simplest yet crucial s...
Comments 2
By Shayne Stone, "Your Rock Solid Choice Realtor" RETIRED
(HomeSmart)
Steps to a Healthy Lawn: Your Ultimate Guide1. Soil Preparation:Before you start dreaming of a lawn that would make your neighbors green with envy, it’s crucial to address the foundation – the soil. Testing your soil’s pH levels is the first step. Typically, a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is considered ideal for a healthy lawn. If necessary, you can adjust the pH by adding lime to raise it or sulfur to lower it. Aerating the soil by removing small plugs of soil will improve water and nutrient penetration, helping your grass roots to breathe.2. Lawn Seeding or Sodding:Now that you have prepared the soil, it’s time to choose your method of establishing your lawn – seeding or sodding. Seeding is cost-effective but takes longer to establish, while sodding offers instant gratification with a highe...
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By Joyce Marsh, Joyce Marsh Homes
(Joyce Marsh Real Estate LLC)
Transform Your Front PorchIdeas for a Stunning MakeoverYour front porch is the gateway to your home, offering a warm welcome to guests and a relaxing retreat for you to enjoy.Whether you're looking to enhance its charm or completely overhaul its appearance, a front porch makeover can breathe new life into your home's exterior. As a Luxury Real Estate Broker and Interior Designer, I have been asked on numerous occasions over the years, to assist my customers with a makeover of their front porch to not only enhance their living experience but also enhance the curb appeal of their home. "Your front porch is the first impression guests have of your home, so it's important to make it warm and inviting. Incorporate seasonal decor, comfortable seating, and lush greenery to create a welcoming s...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
50 tips for Spring maintenance for homeowners.1. Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts2. Check roof for any damage or leaks3. Trim back tree limbs and branches that may be too close to the house4. Inspect and repair any damaged siding5. Check windows and doors for any drafts or leaks6. Test and clean outdoor lighting fixtures7. Check and clean air conditioning units8. Service your lawn mower and other outdoor equipment9. Inspect and clean your outdoor grill10. Check and repair any cracks in your driveway or sidewalk11. Clean and repair any deck or patio areas12. Inspect and clean your outdoor furniture13. Test and clean your outdoor water features14. Clean and repair any outdoor play equipment15. Inspect and clean your outdoor storage shed16. Check and repair any damaged fence or gat...
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By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey real estate sales
(Fathom Realty)
Great advice from Debe Maxwell, CRS ! Let’s Talk Renovations - Chic Changes, Champion ROIs 💰   Your home is, as you know, one of the biggest investments you'll make in your lifetime. So you want to make sure you're making smart improvements over time. Not all home projects are created equal, these are some that provide the highest ROI.   Are you ready to get the best bang for your buck on home improvements? Check out these picks for renovations with great returns on investment! We all know that major bath and kitchen renovations, new flooring and lighting, painting and landscape are top picks for increasing your home’s value. But, there’s more! From sprucing up the kitchen to boosting curb appeal with a snazzy new garage door, these upgrades are also surefire ways to increase your home'...
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By Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP, Selling Homes Changing Lives
(DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
Although it's fun to shift from winter to spring when you think of holiday traditions and the weather, making that transition for safety's sake is nothing to sneeze at or get choked up about either. Carbon Monoxide Safety in Between Winter & Spring makes the top of my list. If you missed it, I included the link to yesterday's blog post. What does it cost you, if you become negligent in making an efficient and safe transition in between seasons? For starters, it can cost you or others their life, cancellation of your homeowners insurance, and/or accidents. Below are 10 to do projects including consequences if ignored:  Buy new batteries and have plenty of extras in case of an emergency.  Schedule Service Providers to inspect the HVAC and change filters. Look for leaks and call a Plumber ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Fantastic tips! Making your home more eco-friendly and energy-efficient is not only good for the environment but can also save you money. This blog likely offers practical advice for implementing sustainable practices and upgrades. Thanks for sharing these valuable tips on creating a greener home!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Are you looking for ways to reduce your environmental impact and save money on your energy bills? If so, you are not alone. Many homeowners are interested in making their homes more eco-friendly and energy-efficient, but they may not know where to start or what to do.   In this blog post, I will share with you some simple and practical tips that you can implement in your home to make it more green and sustainable. These tips will not only he...
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By Monica Hill, the REALTOR to help you discover Delaware
(RE/Max Associates)
Have you registered your home alarm system with the police?Did you know that your home alarm system must be registered with the police if you live in unincorporated areas of NCC? The NCC Police Department assesses a fine of $50 for each response to an unregistered alarm. It's free to sign up! https://www.newcastlede.gov/1820/Alarm-Registration?fbclid=IwAR1w0kfKHfMy2inkoBqCXOLSBPw_4WTpOzVoZWt4MxsnPE0SzcQ2NtfBLBM If you don't live in New Castle County and you are installing a home alarm system, check with your local authorities to see if it needs to be registered. To find out if you live in an unincorporated area, start with your tax parcel number. All parcels in New Castle County have a unique ten digit tax parcel number. The number identifies the location of the parcel on tax assessment...
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By Matt Helganz
(Meridian Capital Real Estate)
Enhancing the exterior of your home is crucial as it forms the initial impression on potential buyers, sparking their interest in your property. Investing in exterior improvements is a prudent decision, as highlighted in Remodeling Magazine’s 2009-10 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, where six of the top ten remodeling projects were focused on outdoor enhancements. Realtors nationwide were surveyed for this report, demonstrating the widespread significance of exterior upgrades.Even minor alterations, such as replacing a steel door for approximately $1200, can yield remarkable returns, surpassing 120% of the initial investment upon resale. Similarly, attic bedroom conversions costing $49,350 typically recoup about 83% of the expenditure, while adding a deck returns approximately 80% of t...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Exciting topic! Renovations can not only enhance your living space but also offer a great return on investment. This blog likely explores chic renovation ideas that can increase your home's value. Looking forward to learning more about maximizing ROI through renovations!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Let’s Talk Renovations - Chic Changes, Champion ROIs 💰   Your home is, as you know, one of the biggest investments you'll make in your lifetime. So you want to make sure you're making smart improvements over time. Not all home projects are created equal, these are some that provide the highest ROI.   Are you ready to get the best bang for your buck on home improvements? Check out these picks for renovations with great returns on investment! We all know that major bath...
Comments 1
By Michael Wayne Jackson, Broker - Seniors Real Estate Specialist Novato
(Coldwell Banker)
1. QUIET LUXURY: Anticipated by luxury connoisseurs, the enduring allure of "quiet luxury" continues to captivate. Defined by warm browns, deep hues, intricate marbling, and evocative spaces, this trend remains a stalwart of refinement. ✨2. OUT-OF-THE-BOX STORAGE: A burgeoning desire for unconventional kitchen storage solutions is evident among homeowners, according to many designers. From sleek floating shelves to bespoke pantry arrangements, these out-of-the-box options not only optimize space but also enhance aesthetic appeal. 📦3. FLUTED TEXTURE: Embodying a sophisticated and enduring aesthetic, fluted materials imbue spaces with depth and elegance. Often drawing from contemporary and Japanese design influences, this trend exudes a refined simplicity. 🏯4. SATURATED HUES: Vibrant hues...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Exploring the leading kitchen design trends of 2024 sparks a sense of anticipation and excitement. The landscape is rich with warmth and astonishing diversity, offering a plethora of options that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.TRANQUIL ELEGANCE: Embraced by aficionados of luxury, the enduring allure of "tranquil elegance" persists in captivating hearts and minds. Characterized by rich browns, deep tones, intricate marbling, and inviting spaces, this trend remains a hallmark of refinement and sophistication.INNOVATIVE STORAGE SOLUTIONS: A growing preference for unconventional storage solutions in kitchens is unmistakable among homeowners, as noted by numerous designers. From sleek floating shelves to customized pantry setups, these innovative storage options not only max...
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