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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 )
Another great post by Dr. Paula. Bill  I get this question from many buyers and sellers, "Do porches add value to a home?" I wish I had a simple answer for them but, porches vary from house to house. But, all in all, a well-designed and functional porch can certainly add value by serving as a wonderful, outdoor addition to any home.  Let's talk about the ways a porch can add value to a home: 🏡 Front porches that are deep enough to house some well-placed seating areas and to functionally protect the front of the home from the elements can certainly add some value to your home. 🏡 Maintaining porches is essential. Getting out and cleaning them to be free of cobwebs, hornet nests, or bird nests, is very important. It's difficult to enjoy an outdoor space that is filled with pests. It is als...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
I get this question from many buyers and sellers, "Do porches add value to a home?" I wish I had a simple answer for them but, porches vary from house to house. But, all in all, a well-designed and functional porch can certainly add value by serving as a wonderful, outdoor addition to any home.  Let's talk about the ways a porch can add value to a home:🏡 Front porches that are deep enough to house some well-placed seating areas and to functionally protect the front of the home from the elements can certainly add some value to your home.🏡 Maintaining porches is essential. Getting out and cleaning them to be free of cobwebs, hornet nests, or bird nests, is very important. It's difficult to enjoy an outdoor space that is filled with pests. It is also important to keep your porches clean fr...
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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 delivers sleek lines, serious durability, and instant curb appeal—right here in Omaha.Built to protect. Styled to impress.Engineered for strength. Installed by Acreage Fences.#OmahaHomes #AcreageFences #SteelStrength #FenceWithFlair #OrnamentalEdgehttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Homeownership: Beyond the PurchaseBuying a home is just the first step in your journey as a homeowner, and having a trusted resource like Charles Stallions, CRS, or CBR by your side is invaluable. Keeping communication channels open with your real estate broker ensures you’re prepared for everything homeownership involves.Stay Connected Follow Charles Stallions on social media for insightful homeowner tips and market updates. Share your experience by leaving a review on Google or Facebook to highlight the exceptional service you received. Add Charles Stallions' email to your "safe sender's list" so you never miss newsletters, market stats, or important updates about maintaining your home or understanding market conditions. Your Real Estate ResourceCharles Stallions is your go-to advisor...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Fire Safety Tips for a Safer HomeFire safety is essential for every household. Follow these simple yet effective tips to protect your family and home: Install Smoke Alarms: Place smoke detectors in every bedroom, hallway, and living area. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. Create an Escape Plan: Develop a family fire escape plan with at least two exits from every room—practice fire drills twice a year. Keep Fire Extinguishers Handy. Keep fire extinguishers in the kitchen, garage, and other areas prone to fire, and ensure everyone knows how to use them. Be Cautious in the Kitchen: Never leave cooking unattended. Keep flammable items like towels and paper towels away from heat sources. Inspect Electrical Systems: Avoid overloading outlets, and check for frayed c...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
By Charles StallionsReal Estate Broker/Owner with Charles Stallions Real Estate Services 610125 The Dangers of Overloading Circuits — And How Charles Stallions Can Help Protect Your Home Overloaded circuits are a hidden danger in many homes across Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze. You can exceed the circuit's capacity when you plug too many appliances into one outlet or power strip—especially high-wattage items like space heaters, air conditioners, or microwaves. This causes wires to overheat, increasing the risk of electrical shock and home fires. Warning signs include: Circuit breakers that frequently trip Flickering or dimming lights Buzzing sounds near outlets A burning smell near electrical fixtures According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical malfuncti...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Imagine stepping into your backyard and picking a juicy peach or crisp apple straight from the tree. Backyard fruit trees offer more than just delicious rewards—they can elevate your property’s value, reduce grocery bills, and promote sustainability right outside your door.Why Grow Backyard Fruit Trees?For homeowners in the U.S., especially in climates like Arizona’s, backyard fruit trees are a smart and satisfying investment. Not only do they provide fresh, organic produce, but they also enhance curb appeal, shade, and even the air quality around your home. With the right planning, a backyard can become a vibrant, edible landscape that produces all year long.Best Fruit Trees for Your BackyardChoosing the right fruit tree depends on your local climate and available space. In warmer area...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6' Black Ornamental Steel Fence is Unshakable and Omaha-approved.Crafted by Acreage Fences—where style meets serious strength.#FenceReel #OmahaHomes #SteelWithStyle #AcreageFences #LevelUpYourYardhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By NextDay Inspect, Residential Home Inspections & Environmental Tests
(NextDay Inspect)
Top Tips for Lowering Your Summer Energy Bills As temperatures soar, so can your home’s energy bills. Summer brings longer days and higher demand on cooling systems, but that doesn’t mean you’re powerless against rising costs. In this guide, we’ll break down practical, effective strategies that can help you cut costs while maintaining comfort at home. Saving energy means saving money and reducing your carbon footprint—making it a win-win for your wallet and the environment. Understanding Summer Energy Consumption During summer, air conditioners and cooling appliances account for a significant portion of your home’s energy use. Factors like sunlight, poor insulation, and inefficient appliances make it harder (and costlier) to keep cool. By understanding where your energy goes, you can t...
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By NextDay Inspect, Residential Home Inspections & Environmental Tests
(NextDay Inspect)
How Summer Heat Affects Home Foundations The summer heat takes a toll on more than just your energy levels—it can wreak havoc on your home's foundation. With rising temperatures and shifts in soil moisture, homeowners face a risk of cracks, uneven settling, and even structural damage. In this article, we’ll explore the factors at play, how to spot damage, and the ways to protect your home. The Science Behind Summer Foundation Issues Extreme summer weather dramatically impacts soil conditions around your home. Long periods of high heat dry out the soil, causing it to shrink and pull away from the foundation. As soil moves, your foundation loses its support, leading to uneven settling or cracks. Conversely, sudden rainstorms can oversaturate the soil after a dry spell, causing the ground...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
When it comes to making a lasting first impression, your home's exterior design speaks volumes. Whether you're prepping to sell or simply want to feel prouder pulling into your driveway, investing a little time and effort into your outdoor space can pay off big. Here are a few creative, budget-friendly tips to elevate your home's curb appeal and function.1. Start with a Statement Front DoorThe front door is the face of your home. A bold color like navy, red, or even matte black can make your entrance stand out. Adding modern hardware or a sleek knocker adds a touch of personality without going overboard. If you're aiming for that "wow" factor, consider swapping in a custom door with glass or woodgrain texture. 2. Outdoor Lighting Isn’t Just for LooksLighting is one of the most underrate...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This custom 5-rail PVC fence with hidden steel inserts is made to handle whatever is thrown at it - strong, sleek, and with Acreage Fences’ craftsmanship.Iowa tough. Acreage Fences proud.#IowaFencing #CustomStrong #AcreageFences #RanchReady #PVCWithPowerhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809 cell direct
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
 🏡 Sacramento Home Makeovers: The Residential Renovation Boom You Don’t Want to MissSacramento isn’t just California’s capital—it’s a city in transition. As more families, first-time buyers, and real estate investors flock to this historically rich and increasingly vibrant city, a quiet renovation revolution is taking place behind neighborhood fences and scaffolding-lined streets. Residential construction projects—especially fixer-upper transformations funded by renovation loans—are reshaping homes and lives across Sacramento.From Oak Park to East Sac, tired properties are getting second chances. And one team is helping lead the charge: The My203k Team Sacramento, powered by industry veterans like Lando Matthews and backed by the nationwide experience of Mike Young and 203KOnline.com.🛠️...
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By Travis Matthews, Vegas handyman expert in home prep & repairs.
(Handyman of Las Vegas)
Every home has those moments—a leaky faucet, a hole in the drywall, or that one cabinet door that never quite closes right. It’s tempting to grab a hammer and fix it yourself, and sometimes that’s exactly what you should do. But other times, a small fix turns into a bigger problem. So how do you decide when it’s worth tackling the repair on your own and when it’s smarter to call in help? Let’s keep it simple and figure it out together.When It Makes Sense to DIYDoing it yourself can be satisfying—and cost-effective too. If the job is small, safe, and doesn’t need special tools or skills, it might be a perfect DIY project. Some common examples include: Painting a room Replacing cabinet hardware Hanging shelves Unclogging a bathroom drain DIY is great when you have the time and patience to...
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By Nelson Huggins, Rooter Man to the Rescue
(Rooter Man )
As real estate professionals, property managers, and homeowners gear up for another hot summer in the Lowcountry, we’re all relying on our air conditioners to keep us cool. But one hidden issue can sneak up and cause more problems than you think — a clogged AC condensate drain line.This small pipe plays a big role in your cooling system. And when it gets blocked, the consequences can range from a minor inconvenience to major property damage.What’s a Condensate Drain Line?Every air conditioning system pulls moisture from the air as it cools. That moisture condenses into water and is channeled through a thin pipe — the condensate drain line — usually routed outdoors. If you’ve ever seen a pipe dripping slowly on the side of a house while the AC is running, that’s the one.When that drip st...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Home security is a top priority for homeowners! 🏡🔐 Simple DIY upgrades like smart doorbells, live stream cameras, and keyless locks can add protection and peace of mind. Whether you're buying, selling, or settling into your dream home, security matters. What’s your must-have home security feature? Drop your favorites in the comments! ⬇️ #thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #homeowner #hometips #a050625 #realestate #realestateagent #realtor #investment #happyhomeowners #dreamhome
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By Rain Silverhawk, 208-610-0011 Sandpoint Idaho Real Estate Realtor
(Sandpoint Realty rain@lakeandhomes.com)
Gardening in North Idaho: Thriving in the Panhandle's Unique Growing ConditionsGardening in North Idaho is not for the faint of heart, but for those who embrace its rhythms, the rewards are rich, fragrant, and often delicious. From Bonners Ferry to Sandpoint and stretching down to Coeur d’Alene, our short but vibrant growing season demands a mix of planning, resilience, and a bit of local know-how.Understanding the ClimateNorth Idaho's gardening season is defined by a late frost in spring and an early frost in fall, which means your average growing window runs from mid-May to late September—sometimes shorter in higher elevations or shaded valleys. The USDA Hardiness Zones here range mostly between 4b and 6a, depending on your specific location.What Grows Well in North Idaho?Despite the ...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
When it comes to the heart of the home, few spaces matter more than the kitchen. A thoughtful kitchen design doesn’t just improve aesthetics—it boosts functionality, increases home value, and transforms everyday living. Whether you're renovating or just brainstorming, these expert tips will help you create a kitchen that’s both stylish and smart.1. Prioritize the Work TriangleOne of the golden rules in kitchen design is optimizing the distance between your sink, stove, and refrigerator. Known as the "work triangle," this layout minimizes unnecessary steps and maximizes efficiency. Keeping these three zones connected but not crowded ensures a smoother cooking experience.2. Open Shelving vs. Closed CabinetsOpen shelving creates a lighter, more spacious feel—ideal for smaller kitchens. How...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
First I want to say my articles are not written by AI, I do let AI do some of my research with caution but today is a first, AI Generated picture.  We had a problem with squirrels climbing our screens on our lanai so I Googled what is a natural squirrel repellent, don’t want to harm them just keep them off my screens.  Google search came back with options and coffee grounds was one of them.  Next question to Google “is coffee grounds a repellent to squirrels?”  Here is the AI answer:Yes, coffee grounds can act as a natural repellent for squirrels, though their effectiveness may vary. The strong scent of coffee grounds and their abrasive texture are believed to deter squirrels from certain areas. While not scientifically proven, many gardeners report reduced squirrel activity in areas wh...
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By NextDay Inspect, Residential Home Inspections & Environmental Tests
(NextDay Inspect)
The Importance of Proper HVAC Air Distribution System in Your Home or Business A comfortable and healthy indoor space relies heavily on your HVAC system, and a key, often overlooked, part is the air distribution system. Proper distribution ensures conditioned air spreads evenly, maximizing energy efficiency and consistent comfort. This article explores why a well-functioning system is vital for indoor air quality, energy use, and overall comfort. The Role of Proper Air Distribution in Energy Efficiency Proper air distribution is critical for HVAC energy efficiency. A well-designed system delivers conditioned air effectively, reducing the heating/cooling unit's workload. This lowers energy consumption and utility bills and extends the HVAC system's lifespan by minimizing wear and tear. ...
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