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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 Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 828-469-7462
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
Navigating Construction Delays: Understanding Extensions and TimelinesIntroductionConstruction projects, while exciting, can often be fraught with uncertainties and potential delays. One common concern among homeowners is the risk of not meeting the consultant or lender's initial project timeline. In this blog post, we'll explore what happens when a project faces delays, the process of requesting an extension, and key factors to consider.Understanding Project TimelinesThe estimated completion date for a construction project is typically determined by the consultant or lender, considering the project's scope and complexity. However, various factors can influence the timeline, including the contractor's current workload, material availability, and unforeseen circumstances. HUD and, more s...
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By Charles Ross - eXp Realty LLC, Love To Help People
(eXp Realty LLC Salina Group)
When you think of tree houses, what comes to mind? For many, it's nostalgia—childhood dreams of climbing up into the trees to find your own little world, hidden from the chaos below. But a tree house isn’t just a child's fantasy. It's a concept that has inspired people of all ages, from adventurous kids to adults seeking an escape from the daily grind. Let's dive into what makes tree houses so enchanting and why they have such a special place in our hearts.A Place for Imagination and AdventureAs kids, building a tree house was the ultimate adventure. You’d find a sturdy tree, gather some wood, rope, and nails, and suddenly you had a private hideaway—a place to play, dream, and hang out with friends. A tree house was never just a structure; it was a pirate ship, a space station, a fairy ...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Floors are one of the most visible parts of your home, so keeping them in good shape is essential. Over time, however, they can suffer from scratches, gaps, and general wear and tear. Thankfully, many common floor problems can be fixed with simple DIY solutions. Scratches on Wood FloorsOne of the most frequent issues is scratches, especially on hardwood floors. For minor scratches, a crayon or marker that matches your floor color can do the trick. Rub it directly into the scratch and then buff it with a soft cloth. For deeper scratches, wood filler or even a wood repair kit may be necessary. Always make sure to sand down the area smoothly before applying any filler. Fixing Gaps in FlooringGaps between wood planks or tiles often happen due to changes in humidity. To fix this, you can fil...
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A she shed is much more than just a backyard structure—it’s a personal haven designed to reflect your individual needs and preferences.   In recent years, the concept of a “she shed” has become a popular trend for women seeking a personalized retreat right in their backyard. While the traditional "man cave" has long been a sanctuary for men, the she shed offers women their own creative space, whether for relaxation, hobbies, or simply some much-needed alone time. With its endless possibilities—from reading nooks to art studios—it's no wonder why more women are embracing the charm and functionality of these spaces. A Space to Call Your Own Life can be overwhelming, and finding a quiet corner to unwind isn’t always easy, especially when the house is full of noise and responsibilities. A s...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
The porch is a spot in the house that you are likely to use for relaxation. Picture a perfect Sunday morning, and you're just there, drinking a cup of coffee. You can also read your favorite book while enjoying the fresh air. So, we suggest maximizing it. Why don't you update your porch to make it a more peaceful, relaxing retreat? The good thing is that it does not require much! You can achieve that with simple decor. Here are some tips:  Choose Comfortable SeatingSitting, reading, or simply resting after a long day are all done while sitting. Thus, choosing the right chair for your porch is crucial. We recommend cushioned chairs or a small outdoor sofa. A rocking chair is also a superb choice. A couple of lounge chairs could also work if the space is limited. On the other hand, adding...
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By Charles Ross - eXp Realty LLC, Love To Help People
(eXp Realty LLC Salina Group)
In recent years, the concept of a “she shed” has become a popular trend for women seeking a personalized retreat right in their backyard. While the traditional "man cave" has long been a sanctuary for men, the she shed offers women their own creative space, whether for relaxation, hobbies, or simply some much-needed alone time. With its endless possibilities—from reading nooks to art studios—it's no wonder why more women are embracing the charm and functionality of these spaces.A Space to Call Your OwnLife can be overwhelming, and finding a quiet corner to unwind isn’t always easy, especially when the house is full of noise and responsibilities. A she shed provides a dedicated space where you can escape from distractions and focus on what brings you peace. Whether it’s a cozy spot to re...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog provides fantastic ideas for making impactful design updates to your home without overspending. Thanks for sharing these creative and cost-effective solutions!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Big Design Updates for Your Home on a Tight Budget Want to refresh your home’s look but working with limited funds? You don’t need a massive budget to make a big impact! Small changes can go a long way in transforming your space, and here are some design updates that can do just that. Lighting: Think of light fixtures as the jewelry of your home. Just like the right accessories can amp up or tone down your outfit, lighting does the same for a room. Swapping out an outdated fixture for something new can completely change the vibe of your space. Cabinet and Drawer Hardw...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog offers creative yet budget-friendly fencing ideas to enhance your yard’s appearance and functionality. It’s a great resource for anyone looking to upgrade their yard with stylish and affordable fencing solutions.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Do you think it is time for your yard to receive an update, but you are tight on budget? Don't worry. There are different ways to elevate how it looks without spending much.   You could start with your fences. It acts as the frame of your yard, giving it structure and defining its boundaries. It is the end when looking from the inside and the cover when looking from the outside. Thus, improving your fence can give a massive boost to the aesthetics of your yard.   Fortunately, plenty of fence-improving techniques don...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog beautifully explores how biophilic cities, which integrate urban nature and green spaces, can significantly enhance mental health and overall well-being.   It’s a compelling read for anyone interested in the intersection of nature and urban living!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Transforming Urban Life with Nature-Integrated Planning    Embracing Nature in Urban Spaces   Imagine stepping outside your front door and being greeted by lush greenery and vibrant flowers. This vision is becoming a reality in many cities adopting biophilic design. By integrating natural elements into urban planning, cities enhance residents’ quality of life. Studies show that access to nature can significantly boost mental health and well-being. You can experience reduced stress...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog provides excellent advice on handling floor repairs effectively. It covers key steps such as assessing the damage, choosing the right materials, and using proper techniques for different types of flooring. It's a great resource for anyone looking to tackle DIY floor repairs or understanding when to call in a professional. Thank you for sharing these valuable insights! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Floors are an essential part of any home, but they often endure a lot of wear and tear. From scratches on hardwood to cracks in tile, damaged floors can not only look unattractive but also pose safety hazards. Here are some helpful tips for fixing common floor problems, whether you’re dealing with minor issues or more serious repairs.   Fixing Scratches on Har...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Do you think it is finally time to give your home a remodel? Looking at what others are doing can give you some inspiration. Whether it's for aesthetics or for functionality, you can gain valuable insights from learning the home remodeling trends in 2024. Knowing what other people are looking for can also help sell a property faster. Here are some of the top trends we are seeing:  Using the available space to its fullestUnless you own a mansion and can expand your house whenever you want, there's a high chance the space in your home is limited. To make the most of it, designers used their creativity to put as many things in a small space without making it feel too cluttered. Some ideas you could use include stacked appliance configurations or adding more outlets on the kitchen island.  ...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Do you think it is time for your yard to receive an update, but you are tight on budget? Don't worry. There are different ways to elevate how it looks without spending much. You could start with your fences. It acts as the frame of your yard, giving it structure and defining its boundaries. It is the end when looking from the inside and the cover when looking from the outside. Thus, improving your fence can give a massive boost to the aesthetics of your yard. Fortunately, plenty of fence-improving techniques don't require you to spend much or anything at all. Here are some tips:  Add a Fresh Coat of Paint or StainThe easiest solution is repainting the fence. This will give you a chance to change the color if needed. We recommend picking a color that matches your home or garden to create...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Big Design Updates for Your Home on a Tight BudgetWant to refresh your home’s look but working with limited funds? You don’t need a massive budget to make a big impact! Small changes can go a long way in transforming your space, and here are some design updates that can do just that.Lighting: Think of light fixtures as the jewelry of your home. Just like the right accessories can amp up or tone down your outfit, lighting does the same for a room. Swapping out an outdated fixture for something new can completely change the vibe of your space.Cabinet and Drawer Hardware: Updating the hardware on your cabinets and drawers is a simple but effective way to make a major impact. Whether it’s the kitchen or bathroom, new knobs and pulls can instantly modernize and refresh the room’s overall fee...
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By Lew Corcoran, Expert guidance. Exceptional results.
(Better Living Real Estate, LLC)
Choosing the Right Paint for Every Surface When it comes to painting your home, selecting the right type of paint is crucial. Sherwin-Williams offers a variety of finishes, each suited for different areas of your home. Understanding these options will help you achieve the best results. Types of Paint Finishes ( See https://www.sherwin-williams.com/en-us/project-center/paint-sheen-guide) Flat Paint - Flat paint provides a non-reflective finish, making it perfect for ceilings and low-traffic areas like adult bedrooms. It hides imperfections well but is less durable and harder to clean. Matte Paint - Matte paint has a slightly higher sheen than flat paint, giving it a velvety appearance. It’s more durable and easier to clean, making it suitable for living rooms and dining rooms. Eggshell/S...
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By Charles Ross - eXp Realty LLC, Love To Help People
(eXp Realty LLC Salina Group)
Living in Kansas, where the weather can be unpredictable and intense, having a proper gutter system is essential for protecting your home. From heavy thunderstorms in the spring to snow and ice in the winter, the right guttering can shield your home from significant water damage. Many homeowners overlook the importance of gutters, but in a state like Kansas, they play a crucial role in preserving your house's foundation and overall structure.A clean and functional gutter system is your home’s first defense against heavy rainfall and storms. Without gutters, rainwater will pour directly off the roof, leading to soil erosion, water pooling, and, ultimately, foundation damage. Over time, this water can seep into cracks, weakening the structure and leading to costly repairs. Gutters divert ...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Floors are an essential part of any home, but they often endure a lot of wear and tear. From scratches on hardwood to cracks in tile, damaged floors can not only look unattractive but also pose safety hazards. Here are some helpful tips for fixing common floor problems, whether you’re dealing with minor issues or more serious repairs.  Fixing Scratches on HardwoodHardwood floors are beautiful but prone to scratches. A quick fix for minor scratches is using a hardwood floor repair kit, which typically contains a wax filler or touch-up marker. You can also try a DIY method—rubbing a walnut over the scratch. The natural oils in the walnut help fill in the scratch and blend the color. For deeper gouges, wood filler or sanding down and refinishing the area may be necessary.  Filling Gaps Bet...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Fall home maintenance is crucial for protecting the exterior of your home and preparing your property for the winter months ahead. During this season, addressing issues like cleaning gutters, inspecting the roof, and sealing cracks in windows or doors can prevent more serious problems like water damage, ice dams, and heat loss. By investing time in these tasks during the fall, you safeguard your home's structural integrity and avoid expensive repairs down the line! #realestate #realestateagent #fhm923 #selling #listreports #realestateexpert #homeowner #financehub #dreamhome #homeownership #homebuying #homesearch #buyingahome
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
When it comes to roof repair or design, maintaining your roof is essential for keeping your home protected from the elements. A well-maintained roof not only safeguards the structure of your house but also adds to its overall curb appeal. Here are some essential tips for keeping your roof in top shape, whether you're fixing a problem or redesigning it entirely.  Regular InspectionsInspecting your roof regularly can help spot potential issues before they become major problems. Look for signs of wear and tear such as missing or curling shingles, leaks, or damaged flashing. A simple visual check every season can save you from costly repairs later.  Address Leaks ImmediatelyRoof leaks, no matter how small, can cause significant damage over time. Water can seep into the walls, causing mold a...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Laura has some great information in her blog for all of us. Maximize Your Home’s Value with These Garage Upgrades Your garage is more than just a parking spot—it’s an untapped asset that can significantly boost your home’s value. From enhancing curb appeal to creating a functional workspace, these simple improvements can make a big impact. 1. Upgrade Your Garage Door:A fully automatic, well-designed garage door is a must. Opt for lighter, aluminum doors that complement your home’s exterior for an instant value boost. 2. Enhance Ventilation and Insulation:Proper insulation and ventilation protect your car and home from extreme temperatures and harmful fumes. This upgrade also adds to your home’s energy efficiency. 3. Smart Storage Solutions:Declutter and organize with labeled bins and st...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Maximize Your Home’s Value with These Garage UpgradesYour garage is more than just a parking spot—it’s an untapped asset that can significantly boost your home’s value. From enhancing curb appeal to creating a functional workspace, these simple improvements can make a big impact.1. Upgrade Your Garage Door:A fully automatic, well-designed garage door is a must. Opt for lighter, aluminum doors that complement your home’s exterior for an instant value boost.2. Enhance Ventilation and Insulation:Proper insulation and ventilation protect your car and home from extreme temperatures and harmful fumes. This upgrade also adds to your home’s energy efficiency.3. Smart Storage Solutions:Declutter and organize with labeled bins and sturdy shelves. A clean, organized garage signals ample storage to...
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