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 Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
  Home Depot sales surged during pandemic lockdowns but fell short of expectations in 1Q 2023. Consumers still want to remodel but they’re now choosing smaller projects. ATLANTA – After years of explosive growth during the pandemic, Home Depot’s revenue during the first quarter fell short of expectations and the company cut its profit and sales outlook for the year, sending shares skidding before the opening bell Tuesday. It was a rough start to a busy week of retail earnings and the numbers from the nation’s biggest home improvement chain dragged down retails stocks as well as the Dow. By Michelle Chapman Pensacola is the westernmost city in the Florida Panhandle, and the county seat and only incorporated city of Escambia County, Florida. Pensacola is the principal city of the Pensaco...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
While many people simply go to their local gardening supply store to browse the selections, planning ahead of time will help you choose plants that will best fit your needs and thrive in your landscape. These pointers will assist you in developing a strategy and getting started on the path to creating a beautiful, cohesive, and thriving landscape.  Know your yardWhen planning your landscape, keep your regional climate, site topography, and soil type in mind. Keep in mind that your yard's specific conditions, such as the amount and duration of sun and shade exposure, are likely to create a microclimate. The topography of your site should be taken into account as you plan. The best landscape design will direct water away from your house and into other areas of your yard. Consider themesA ...
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Ceiling fans offer many benefits for homeowners in residential settings. From their energy efficiency and cooling effectiveness to year-round comfort and versatile aesthetics, these fixtures enhance the overall ambiance of your home.  Ceiling fans have long been a staple in residential settings, providing homeowners with various benefits beyond air movement. In this article, we delve into the advantages of ceiling fans for homeowners, focusing on their energy efficiency, cooling effectiveness, comfort, versatility, and aesthetics and addressing concerns regarding lights on the fan. Discover how these elegant fixtures can transform your living space into a haven of comfort while helping you save on energy costs.   Energy Efficiency: Ceiling fans are renowned for their energy-efficient op...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This is an excellent post with great information. Thanks for sharing it.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Engineered flooring, a composite of multiple layers of wood topped with a hardwood veneer, has been transforming the face of real estate interiors over the past decade. It beautifully balances aesthetics, durability, and sustainability, a combination that is increasingly valued by homebuyers and property developers alike. One particular variant that is catching the eye of the industry is engineered timber flooring, which brings the allure of natural wood and the benefits of engineering technology together in a stunning synergy. The Rise of Engineered Flooring According to a report by Grand View Research, the global engineered flooring market was valued at $8.17 b...
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By Charles Ross - (785)-819-6944, Love To Help People
(eXp Realty LLC Salina Group)
Ceiling fans have long been a staple in residential settings, providing homeowners with various benefits beyond air movement. In this article, we delve into the advantages of ceiling fans for homeowners, focusing on their energy efficiency, cooling effectiveness, comfort, versatility, and aesthetics and addressing concerns regarding lights on the fan. Discover how these elegant fixtures can transform your living space into a haven of comfort while helping you save on energy costs. Energy Efficiency: Ceiling fans are renowned for their energy-efficient operation. By creating a gentle breeze, they promote better air circulation, reducing the reliance on air conditioning systems. Their energy-efficient operation leads to substantial energy savings and reduces environmental impact, making t...
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By Craig Lebrau, Property Geek in Upper East Side NYC
(Lebrau Property)
Engineered flooring, a composite of multiple layers of wood topped with a hardwood veneer, has been transforming the face of real estate interiors over the past decade. It beautifully balances aesthetics, durability, and sustainability, a combination that is increasingly valued by homebuyers and property developers alike. One particular variant that is catching the eye of the industry is engineered timber flooring, which brings the allure of natural wood and the benefits of engineering technology together in a stunning synergy.The Rise of Engineered FlooringAccording to a report by Grand View Research, the global engineered flooring market was valued at $8.17 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow at a steady pace over the next decade. This rise can be credited to the numerous advanta...
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By Craig Lebrau, Property Geek in Upper East Side NYC
(Lebrau Property)
The real estate market and the home furnishings industry are interconnected realms that shape our living experiences. The houses we buy become homes through the careful selection and placement of furniture, turning empty spaces into warm, inviting environments. This article delves into how these two industries interplay and provides insights on everything from how to look for an elegant single bed to choosing furnishings that enhance your property's value.The Power of Home Staging in Real EstateHome staging, the art of strategically arranging furniture and decor to highlight a property's strengths, is a crucial tool in the real estate market. A well-staged home can accentuate space, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, thereby attracting more buyers and increasing the property's value. ...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Transform your home into a beautifully designed space — without the spendy price tag. Home improvement pros and DIYers tout a fresh coat of paint as a favorite among low-cost home upgrades that can make a huge impact. But what else can you do to accessorize and decorate? Sometimes the little things can make a bigger difference than you'd think.  Professionals share the following easy and low-cost home upgrades to add a designer’s touch all around the house. These projects may even help increase your home’s perceived value. Click Here To Share and Read More    Bottom Line "There Is A Realtor For That" Buying or Selling while living on the Gulf Coast  Sign up for our Monthly Real Estate Newsletter We are Ambassadors for all things Pensacola, Pace, or Gulf Breeze, Florida whether a first-...
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By Tommy Wyher, I am an freelance writer and professional marketer
(Husky Marketing)
Investing in your home is such a great idea as it will make the selling process far less of a hassle. The truth is that a home you own is likely the largest investment you have made in your life as it is for a majority of people. The equity in the home can be leveraged to pay debts or to receive additional loans if you are considering purchasing an income property. Certain additions can improve the value of the home and your quality of life simultaneously. Home offices are a great example as these are in high demand due to remote work opportunities becoming more prevalent. Below are additions you can make to your home along with improvements that will appeal to buyers. A Hot Tub Or Pool Hot tubs can be perfect for nearly any climate as they don’t use massive amounts of water and can war...
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By Melissa Thompson, I'm a real estate agent helping buyers and sellers
(Thompson Real Estate)
A lot of people fantasize about residing in lavish mansions with enormous chambers that they could decorate to their liking. Nevertheless, the veracity is that most of us don't really require a vast amount of area and are content with more modest accommodations. Can the provision of painting and decorating services aid in our adaptation to smaller abodes, though? Why should you feel confined or crowded in your flat? It may be worthwhile to consider the option of embellishing your living space in order to generate a more expansive impression. Whilst the dimensions of your chamber may suitably accommodate you and your possessions, it does not imply that you desire to induce a sensation of confinement. In actuality, if you intend to embellish and paint a diminutive living area, then you sh...
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By Melissa Thompson, I'm a real estate agent helping buyers and sellers
(Thompson Real Estate)
Do you require a rewiring? If you're like the majority of individuals, you may not consider it until something goes awry and then, you frantically search for an electrician to come and repair. However, what if there was a method to avoid all of this? What if you could handle fundamental electrical wiring requirements before they became significant issues? Fortunately, there is. Rewiring your residence is an excellent approach to ensure that your electrical system is current and capable of handling anything you throw at it. If you're contemplating rewiring your home, there are a few things to keep in mind.How to know if my home needs rewiring?In case your house is over 40 years old, it is probable that the electrical connections will require an upgrade. The task of rewiring your home can...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
While our front yard is often designed with the public in mind, our backyard is where we can express ourselves and unwind. Whether you prefer a quiet spot to read or a space for outdoor games, the backyard is yours to do with as you please. Create A Relaxation AreaMake a relaxing area in the backyard. After all, this is your own private nature retreat. Hang a hammock between two trees or find a shady nook for a lounge chair, then sip an iced tea and take it all in. Add A Water FeatureA soft trickle of water is one of the simplest ways to make a space more inviting. The best thing about water is that it attracts birds to the garden. Try self-contained units that don't require any digging to incorporate a water feature onto a patio or back deck. Build A Fire PitA wood-burning fire pit can...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
I love Florida and even in the dog days of summer but your attic might not!  When I sell a home to somebody from the “North” I tell them to not store their Christmas candles in the attic because if you do you will have a melted candle.  Temperatures in a Florida attic can be 130 to 150 degrees which means your ceiling can be hot so there goes your cooling cost up.  Most homes here have roof vents but that might not be enough you might want to consider a solar powered roof fan.  You will need to check but on one website they were talking tax credit if you installed them.What happens when hot moist air hits cool air besides thunderstorms?  The moisture in the hot air turns to liquid and that is happening right above your ceiling in your installation, not good in the long run.  Some homes ...
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By Evan Roberts, We Buy Houses
(Dependable Homebuyers)
Ridgeline Roofers Columbia of Howard County, Maryland, have published a blog article about the types of asphalt shingles available for roofing projects. Asphalt shingles are among the most popular roofing material in the United States, being used for nearly three quarters of new roofs installed each year. Some of the reasons for their popularity include affordability, durability, and energy efficiency. Not only are asphalt shingles budget friendly, they have a solid lifespan of 20 to 30 years, and can help keep homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, reducing the energy cost of the homes. Of course, the specifics change depending on what type of asphalt shingle roof a building has.Some of the types of asphalt shingles include three-tab shingles, which are a cheaper and more...
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By Evan Roberts, We Buy Houses
(Dependable Homebuyers)
Ridgeline Roofers Columbia, a roofing company based in Columbia, MD, has elucidated on type of metal roofing that is best for commercial roofing. They want to emphasize that not all kinds of metal roofing materials have the same qualities and features, thus, it is vital to choose the appropriate one for a commercial building. They suggest that the best kind of metal roofing for commercial use is the standing seam metal roofing.A spokesperson for Ridgeline Roofers Columbia says, "The standing seam metal roofing has numerous advantages that make it the ideal choice for commercial buildings, including: superior durability and longevity, with a lifespan of up to 50 years or more; better resistance to strong winds, fire, and weather conditions; low maintenance requirements, as it's resistant...
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By Evan Roberts, We Buy Houses
(Dependable Homebuyers)
MD based Ridgeline Roofers Columbia is pleased to offer a roof warranty in Maryland. The company specializes in a variety of roofing services, all of which make use of the best materials and most advanced techniques to ensure that great results are produced every time. Ridgeline Roofers aims to be the top roofing company in Maryland, and the company has already become the preferred roofing contractor for many local residents.The company’s commitment to providing excellent roofing services is the reason why they are confident enough in their work to provide a warranty on their roofing services. Roofing companies tend to specialize in specific types of services, and it is important to consider where their expertise lies when looking for a contractor to do a specific job. Companies that sp...
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By Evan Roberts, We Buy Houses
(Dependable Homebuyers)
Ridgeline Roofers Columbia, a roofing company based in Columbia, MD, wants to point out that one of the flat roofing solutions that they specialize in is torch-down roofing in Howard County. Torch down roofing, which is also called asphalt rolled roofing or modified bitumen roofing, works in the same way as asphalt shingle roofs but are more suitable for flat roofs or low-sloped roofs. While it doesn’t have an impact on the appearance of the property, it can provide the same level of protection for the property.Torch down roofing has a UV-reflective coating that offers a high level of insulation. Because the roofing tarp is melted with a torch, a water-tight barrier is provided for the roof that prevents the water from the rain or snow from getting through and cause damage to the interi...
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By Evan Roberts, We Buy Houses
(Dependable Homebuyers)
Ridgeline Roofers Columbia, a company that offers industrial roofing in Columbia MD and other kinds of roofing, has offered some tips on choosing a roofer in Maryland. It is important to note that reliable roofing companies will always offer sound recommendations with regards to roofing methods, roofing materials and products, and a reasonable explanation of the procedures that they use. A good tip to consider is to always get referrals from family and friends who have already experienced the kind of service provided by a particular roofing company.A spokesperson for Ridgeline Roofers Columbia says, “Reliable roofing companies should have a roofing license and a certificate of insurance which should include general liability and workers compensation just in case an accident occurs. A si...
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By Evan Roberts, We Buy Houses
(Dependable Homebuyers)
Ridgeline Roofers Columbia, a roofing company in Columbia, MD, has recently released a blog post that explains their various roofing services they provide in the Howard County area, including roof inspection where they evaluate the current roof’s quality and condition, including the roof vents and attic ventilation, and even the gutters. Depending on the results of the roof inspection, they will offer some recommendations and provide an estimate for the project.A representative for Ridgeline Roofers Columbia says, “Roof inspection includes assessing the roof's quality and condition, attic ventilation and roof vents, as well as gutters. Regular roofing inspections are required for commercial roofing types. A certified and experienced roofing inspector will ensure a professional job.”With...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
If you want to grow food but don't have a half acre of land or a strong back, consider starting a patio vegetable garden. You only need a sunny spot on a relatively level surface, some containers, potting soil, and the right vegetables to get started today. Design Ideas For A Patio Vegetable Garden  Food FountainPurchase four or five graduated-size wide, low pots. Fill the pots and stack them on top of each other to make a tiered food fountain for a patio or deck corner. Plant a variety of edible greens, herbs, and compact tomato and pepper varieties in the pots. This is also an excellent method for growing strawberries.  Milk Crate GardenConsider growing your patio vegetable garden in repurposed milk crates if you're on a tight budget. Fill the crates with soil and line them with lands...
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