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 Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Tips for new homeowners are a valuable resource for those embarking on their homeownership journey. This blog offers essential insights and guidance to navigate the responsibilities and joys of owning a home. As a realtor, I often share similar advice with first-time buyers. These tips can help new homeowners make informed decisions, maintain their properties, and make the most of their investment.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP  Although exciting, moving into your new place can be overwhelming. It's helpful to make a to-do list before moving day so you know exactly what tasks need to get done and how to prioritize them.  There are things that need to be done and those things that might be nice but not necessarily needed.  Some times it is hard to tell the differen...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Cleaning your linen closet can be a quick and satisfying task with the right tips, and this blog provides exactly that. As a realtor, I know that well-organized storage spaces can leave a positive impression on potential buyers. Follow these quick tips to declutter and maintain a more functional linen closet, contributing to an overall tidier home.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Your linen closet might be in dire need of decluttering and organization, but fear not – we've got some quick tips to help you get it in tip-top shape. 1.Plan It Out: Start with a clear plan in mind. Know what you want to achieve, whether it's decluttering, improving accessibility, or just tidying up. 2.Empty and Clean: Empty the entire closet to see what you're working with. Take this oppo...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Creating a happy home is a goal we can all aspire to, and this blog offers valuable tips to achieve just that. As a realtor, I've seen how a well-loved and harmonious living space can make a property more inviting and appealing. Follow these suggestions to make your home a true sanctuary, where you can find joy and comfort every day. A must-read for those looking to enhance their living environment!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Life these days can be hectic and stressful for many of us. As you get through your work week, perhaps you daydream about getting away to a peaceful haven, far from the drudgery of day-to-day life. Sadly, wishes and dreams will not take you there, but you CAN create a tranquil retreat at home. Here are some tips for turning your living spa...
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It's important to have extra filters on hand and change them every three to four months.   With fall here, it's time to start thinking about important home maintenance tasks. We often procrastinate until the last minute, but one of the most crucial tasks is to maintain your home's heating system. A simple tip to follow is to change the filter as needed. It's important to have extra filters on hand and change them every three to four months. It does matter what type of filters you use on the timing of the replacement. It's also wise to have your HVAC unit serviced before the cold weather arrives. The best time to do this is now to avoid being put at the bottom of the list. Don't overlook cold weather maintenance and end up without proper heating during the chilly season.   Another questi...
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By Delynda Middleton
(www.deemiddleton.com)
Your linen closet might be in dire need of decluttering and organization, but fear not – we've got some quick tips to help you get it in tip-top shape.1.Plan It Out:Start with a clear plan in mind. Know what you want to achieve, whether it's decluttering, improving accessibility, or just tidying up.2.Empty and Clean:Empty the entire closet to see what you're working with. Take this opportunity to clean the shelves and walls.3.Sort and Simplify:Categorize your linens - sheets, towels, bedding, etc. Then, be ruthless about decluttering. If you haven't used something in over a year, it's time to let it go.4.Organize with Storage Solutions:Invest in bins, baskets, and clear containers for better organization. Label them for easy identification.5.Prioritize Access:Keep frequently used items ...
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By Peter Mohylsky, Beach Expert, Call me at 850-517-7098
(PMI. Destin)
Although exciting, moving into your new place can be overwhelming. It's helpful to make a to-do list before moving day so you know exactly what tasks need to get done and how to prioritize them. There are things that need to be done and those things that might be nice but not necessarily needed. Some times it is hard to tell the difference until you get the  done.  I do like the idea of organizing, EVERYTHING.  from paperwork to toys, clothing and tools.  If it made the move, it still needs to justify it's existence to stay in the new house.  Know someone who is about to become a homeowner?Feel free to share this post on your own story to help them out!#realestate #realestateagent #listreports #buying #selling #realestateexpert #homeowner #dreamhome #homeownership #homebuying #homesearc...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Wood is a timeless and versatile material used for centuries in building and crafting. Well-crafted wooden objects can lose their natural beauty and charm over time due to wear, damage, and fade. Effective wood restoration techniques can revive wood's beauty, restoring it to its former glory. This guide provides knowledge and tools for restoring small furniture and large outdoor decks.Assessing the Wood Condition Assessing the condition of the wood is crucial for restoration, as it determines the necessary steps to restore it to its former glory. Look for certain factors to evaluate. Identify rot or decay signs by examining soft or spongy wood for potential signs of deterioration. Identify wood cracks and splits. These can be signs of stress or damage to the wood.  Identify discoloratio...
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By Dennis Neal, Your Home Sold in 21 Days or We Sell It For Free
(RE/MAX, Big Bear)
Big Bear Lake, California, is a winter wonderland known for its stunning snowy landscapes. If you're lucky enough to own a mountain home in this picturesque area, preparing your abode for the colder months is essential. Winterizing your home not only keeps you warm and comfortable but also helps protect your investment. So, let's dive into some friendly and helpful tips to make sure your Big Bear Lake retreat is winter-ready.1. Insulate, Insulate, Insulate: Begin by checking your home's insulation. Proper insulation is your first line of defense against the cold. Make sure doors and windows are sealed, and consider adding weather stripping where needed.2. HVAC System Check: Before the chill sets in, schedule a professional HVAC system check. This ensures your heating system is in prime ...
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By Nick Marr, Promoting real estate internationally
(HOMESGOFAST)
Winter is full of wonderful things: frosty views, hot chocolate, long evenings on the couch, pumpkin spice…but not everything is quite so welcome.Dropping temperatures put any home or apartment building under a lot of strain, and, sometimes, the solutions for wintertime problems feel very remote, particularly if you don’t own your own property.Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to mitigate the winter troubles in your rental property. Here are just a few…Don’t Neglect the HeatingWhile we’re all looking for ways to save money during winter – and surviving with hot water bottles, blankets, and fuzzy socks may seem like a good way to do it – going cold turkey (literally) with your heating is one of the worst things you can do.When the temperatures are particularly low, an un...
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By Greg Tresler, We Buy Houses For Cash As Is! House Buyers Florida
(House Buyers Florida)
Solar panel output is a crucial aspect of solar energy that is pivotal in the renewable energy sector. When sunlight interacts with solar panels, it generates electricity through the photovoltaic effect. The amount of electricity produced, known as solar panel output, depends on factors such as panel quality, sunlight intensity, panel orientation, and environmental conditions. Maximizing solar panel output is essential to fully utilize the potential of solar energy as a clean and sustainable power source.   Efficient solar panel output is significant in pursuing a greener and more sustainable future. By harnessing the sun's power, solar energy offers a renewable alternative to traditional fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Moreo...
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By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
With fall here, it's time to start thinking about important home maintenance tasks. We often procrastinate until the last minute, but one of the most crucial tasks is to maintain your home's heating system. A simple tip to follow is to change the filter as needed.It's important to have extra filters on hand and change them every three to four months. It does matter what type of filters you use on the timing of the replacement. It's also wise to have your HVAC unit serviced before the cold weather arrives. The best time to do this is now to avoid being put at the bottom of the list. Don't overlook cold weather maintenance and end up without proper heating during the chilly season. Another question that comes to mind for many of us when going to purchase a filter is what filter to buy. I ...
Comments 17
By Delynda Middleton
(www.deemiddleton.com)
Holiday decor tends to accumulate over the years, often resulting in a cluttered and outdated collection. To refresh your festive atmosphere, it's time to declutter and make room for a more modern and streamlined holiday look. In this concise guide, we'll show you how to efficiently declutter your outdated holiday decor. You can read the full post here on Decluttering Outdated Holiday Decor: A Step-by-Step Guide.1. Assess and Sort:Begin by assessing your holiday decor. Sort items into categories: "keep," "repair/restore," "donate," and "discard." This will help you make organized decisions about each decoration.2. Repair or Restore:For sentimental items that are showing signs of wear, consider restoration. Set them aside for a future DIY project or professional repair.3. Donate:Items in...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
The centerpiece of each space, such living area furniture designs offer a luxurious vantage point for watching television, a clever storage option for priceless items, and a charming seat for tired feet. When you're searching for a cushy chair to fill your "cozy" nook or a vibrant cabinet for your cherished household things, let our collection of staging or furniture design ideas for all tastes serve as inspiration.        Furniture Made of Woven Fabrics Adds Texture We really appreciate the much-anticipated resurgence of woven textiles, which are no longer regarded as boring, out-of-date, or depressing. The popularity of rattan furniture doesn't seem to be declining, but why? Rattan has given its proper place in our houses. and is no longer restricted to outside furniture.The main reas...
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By Supreme Air Duct Svc, Serving ALL of So CA! Air Duct Cleaning Experts
(Supreme Air Duct Services 888-784-0746)
Cleaning your dryer duct line is NOT AN OPTION! Do you know that most house fires are traced back to a clogged dryer duct line? When the duct line is clogged it does not allow the dryer duct to breath or vent. This causes internal combustion in the clogged line that ignites over time. Residential Dryer Duct Cleaning Flat Rate $169.00 for most homes.Supreme Air Duct Service951-220-8608Open 7 Dayswww.supremeairductservice.com Serving Riverside, Colton, Fontana, Temecula, Menifee, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, Moreno Valley, Chino, Corona, Eastvale, Perris, Canyon Lake, Winchester, Norco, Beaumont, Banning, Palm Springs, Rancho Cucamonga and more!  
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By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
FHA 203k is doing great in Bakersfield...and everywhere else as well. You might think that with these higher interest rates that sales would be down. Actually with higher interest rates we find more people wanting to fix up their homes and make it more liveable and the FHA 203k program is a great way to do that. Many times there is no money out of the borrower's pocket, as they have enough equity to cover the difference. If they have more than 20% equity they may fit into a conventional program and opt out of the private mortgage Insurance all together. In any case we now cover the Bakersfield CA area with our renovation team. You need a consultant, CLICK HERE and place your order, we get someone out there ASAP.Whether your home looks like this. Or maybe like this... or anything inbetwe...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
It is a simple process that most of us, including me forget to do.  There are advantages that include lower energy cost and prolonging the life of the water heater.  Sediment, gunk and mineral deposits accumulate in your hot water heater over time which can cause the water heater to need more energy to heat the water and also corrosion.You can Google the best way to drain and flush your hot water heater depending on whether you have gas or electric.  In my world, I always turn the breaker off to my electric water heater anytime I do anything that involves maintenance and water, you might want to do this maybe 30 minutes before your drain.   Next I hook a garden hose to the drain on the bottom of the water heater, drag hose outside open the value and watch the brown stuff come out until ...
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By Jerry Newman, Texas REALTOR, San Antonio Military Relocation
(Brown Realty, 210-789-4216,)
Adapting to change is the key to survival and growth in today's ever-evolving business landscape. As your business begins to thrive, you might find that the space you once thought sufficient has become cramped and limiting.The idea of upsizing your home to accommodate your growing business can be a compelling solution. This article, courtesy of Brown Realty and Property Management, explores the challenges and opportunities associated with this transition, along with valuable insights to ensure a smooth and successful journey toward business expansion.Evaluate Your New Home's RequirementsWhen upsizing your home for your business, it's essential to assess your enterprise's specific needs in the new space, including office layout, storage requirements, and customer access. For instance, bu...
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By Greg Tresler, We Buy Houses For Cash As Is! House Buyers Florida
(House Buyers Florida)
In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, solar panel controller emerge as game-changers, optimizing the efficiency of solar power systems. These intelligent devices seamlessly integrate with solar panels, revolutionizing the way we harness renewable energy.  With their advanced technology, solar panel controllers empower individuals and businesses to maximize the output of their solar installations. By intelligently managing energy flow and performance, these controllers ensure optimal efficiency and long-term sustainability. Equipped with real-time data and user-friendly interfaces, solar panel controllers provide valuable insights into energy generation and consumption patterns. This enables users to make informed decisions and optimize their energy usage, reducing their carbon ...
Comments 0
By Delynda Middleton
(www.deemiddleton.com)
Small closets can be a constant source of frustration, but they don't have to be. With the right strategies and some regular maintenance, you can keep your tiny storage space clutter-free. You can read more here on 8 Tips to Keep a Small Closet Clutter-free. In this blog post, we'll explore some key tips to help you achieve an organized and efficient small closet. Regular DeclutteringFrequently go through your belongings, and if you haven't used an item in a year, consider donating or selling it. A small closet demands that you be selective about what you keep.Categorize Your ItemsGroup similar items together to make it easier to find what you need. Consider organizing your clothes by type or occasion. Storage bins and dividers can be very useful.Slim HangersInvest in slim, non-slip han...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
It doesn't have to require a lot of mental effort to come up with a kitchen management technique that works for you, and you certainly don't need any complicated or specially made. But if you want to get the most storage and efficiency in a small space, that doesn't mean you ought to dismiss kitchen storage altogether. Even though there may not be such a thing as a perfectly organized kitchen, some clever storage options can free up pantries, cupboards, and other tiny spaces, help you save time during mealtime, and most significantly, make your home feel more inviting.  Recycle outdated menus and manualsYou can find a ton of instruction manuals online, and menus at restaurants change too frequently for you to rely on a brochure from 2018. After you've downloaded the items you actually n...
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