HOME IMPROVEMENT
Before winter rain and snow - and the spring melt that follows - arrive, it's time to solve drainage problems that might have surfaced last winter, clean up any mess left by last year's water, and create an attractive new yard that will help prevent property damage in the future.
Winter is here and with rising fuel costs, the U.S. Department of Energy is already warning that heating bills will be higher this year. Want to cushion the blow to your wallet? There are some things you can do to make your home more energy efficient before winter arrives.
Winter can bring on a bitter reminder of potential heat loss in a home and ultimately, higher utility costs. Any leaky window or gaping door can affect your heating bill when temperatures drop.
If you own a fireplace, it's important to get your chimney cleaned at least once a year. Proper fireplace and chimney maintenance will prevent dangers like fires or carbon monoxide poisoning and keep your home and your family safe.
Having the deck of your dreams can be a snap - literally. Modular deck tiles - real hardwood tiles that easily snap together - are the next hot thing for do-it-yourselfers out to expand their outdoor living space.
Storm windows can help out your home in more ways than most people think. While protecting your home and older windows against inclement weather is typically the main function (and general perception) of storm windows, the truth is that these window types have can preserve your home in many ways.
While many assumed that paper was on its way out as scheduling and planning was relegated to electronic devices and desktop computers, they were wrong. Computers certainly play an important role in daily business and personal planning. However, rather than replacing paper, computers are being used in conjunction with traditional business tools.
There once was a time when homeowners would venture outside every few years to repaint the exterior of their home. Time after time they noticed that the new paint just wasn't lasting as long as they had hoped. What could save these poor homeowners' time and hard earned money? If you find yourself feeling like one of these homeowners, then home siding installation might be the answer for you.
LIFESTYLE
Blank walls in need of a makeover almost always beg the question: What color to paint? But before trotting off to the paint store for color strips and tester cans, consider a new alternative: wallpaper. Because one of the oldest home décor products - around since the 1600s - has been reinvented.
In some ways, decorating a baby's room couldn't be easier. The room's primary occupant really doesn't have much to say about the décor. Enter the teen years. Now, she hates the pink carpet and floral curtains you thought were precious beyond words. He's into Japanese anime, and your clever pirate theme makes him want to walk the plank.
Most homeowners know by now that improvements to bathrooms can bring big returns on investment when it comes time to resell a house. But there's another equally compelling, often-overlooked reason to freshen your bath - it just feels good.
Whether it's extra bedroom space, a new den, a playroom or just a quiet spot to call your own, finishing the basement is one of the greatest ways to improve cramped living. However, a basement has a few unique characteristics that must be considered to ensure that the space functions well for your needs.
The crib of your dreams is purchased, assembled and in place. Tiny clothes, burp clothes, bath towels and diapers are stored in a new dresser/changing table. All the nursery needs now is the baby - and a few accessories to add the finishing touch.
Your bathroom is ready for a major overhaul. Where do you begin? You know which tub you want. The shower is uncertain. You saw a great vanity you'd love to have. The old tile floor looks terrible, yet you don't know how you want to replace it. You want the commode moved but you don't know if that's possible ... the list goes on. You may want to consider hiring a professional to help with the project.
Posted by:
John Cain
Broker Associate
Keller Williams Realty
809 Aquidneck Avenue
Middletown, RI 02842
Sales: www.MarketWatchRI.com
Rentals: www.MyRIRental.com
Licensed Realtor in Rhode Island & Massachusetts