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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 The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6’ tall Centurion Ornamental Steel Fence in Black by Acreage Fences in Omaha, Nebraska combines unmatched durability with sleek, refined style — delivering a powerful upgrade that enhances security and elevates your outdoor space. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #CenturionFence #OrnamentalSteel #BlackFence #OmahaNebraska #LuxuryExteriors #TimelessDesign #NebraskaHomes #OutdoorElegance #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Adam Chubbuck, Real Estate Expert & Navy Veteran
(Team Alpha Charlie of Douglas Realty)
In the 2026 Maryland real estate market, a "green" home is no longer a niche preference—it’s a competitive requirement. With Maryland single-family home prices projected to grow by 2–4% this year, sellers in Anne Arundel County, Severna Park, and Annapolis are finding that energy efficiency is the "tie-breaker" that wins multiple offers.Buyers today are hyper-focused on long-term affordability. Between rising utility costs and the desire for "move-in ready" efficiency, homes with sustainable upgrades are commanding a 3% to 10% premium over dated listings.Why 2026 is the "Year of the Rebate" for Maryland SellersThanks to the Lower Bills and Local Power Act of 2026 and the renewal of federal incentives, Maryland homeowners have unprecedented access to funding. EmPOWER Maryland: Now offers...
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By NextDay Inspect, Thorough Home Inspections & Environmental Testing
(NextDay Inspect)
The Science of the "Stack Effect": Why Radon Testing is a Winter Priority When your home is sealed for winter, the ground beneath it is still talking. As the temperature outside drops, the physics of our homes change. We focus on comfort—keeping the furnace running and the windows locked—but we often overlook the invisible exchange happening between our foundation and the soil. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, doesn't take a break for the winter. In fact, for many homeowners, winter is when Radon levels reach their annual peak. The Vacuum Effect Warm air is lighter than cold air. As your heater warms your home, that air rises and escapes through the upper levels and roof. This creates a pressure vacuum in your basement or crawl space, which actively pulls Radon gas out of ...
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By NextDay Inspect, Thorough Home Inspections & Environmental Testing
(NextDay Inspect)
The Weight of Winter: Assessing Roof and Attic Health After Snow and Ice Don't let winter’s "slow melt" turn into a spring renovation project. When heavy snow blankets your roof, it looks like a winter wonderland—but to your home’s structure, it represents thousands of pounds of pressure. While many homeowners focus on shoveling their driveways, the real "silent" damage is often happening above their heads. Snow and ice don’t just sit there; they change states, melting and refreezing in a cycle that can compromise your roof and attic. Key point: Roof damage isn't always a sudden collapse. More often, it is a gradual failure of shingles, seals, and insulation that leads to hidden mold and structural decay. Common Winter Roof Red Flags Ice Dams: Thick ridges of ice at the eaves that forc...
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By Sandra Nickel, The Hat Team
(Sandra Nickel REALTORS)
Wallpaper is officially back — and it’s bolder, more creative, and more versatile than ever. From calming neutrals to statement-making murals, 2026’s wallpaper trends give homeowners the opportunity to personalize every space in their homes.Here’s what to watch for this year:🌿 Oversized BotanicalsWhat it is: Giant leaves, flowers, and tropical plants printed across entire walls.Design tip: Pair with neutral furniture to let the wallpaper shine, or bring out colors from the print in pillows and rugs for a cohesive look. 🖼️ Bold Murals & Artistic WallsWhat it is: Wallpaper that act as artwork — think painterly textures, landscapes, or abstract designs.Design tip: Use a mural on a single wall to create a focal point without overwhelming the room. Consider a hallway, above a bed, or a home ...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
First Impressions (Huge Impact) Clean exterior: mowed lawn, trimmed bushes, no clutter Fresh paint (front door especially = big win) Good lighting outside and inside No visible repairs needed (peeling paint, broken railings, etc.) 🧼 Clean = Non-Negotiable Deep clean everything (floors, baseboards, windows, bathrooms) No pet smells, smoke smells, or strong fragrances Kitchen and bathrooms should feel spotless 🎨 Neutral & Bright Light, neutral wall colors (white, greige, soft beige) Replace dark or bold colors if possible Open curtains/blinds to let in natural light 📦 Declutter & Depersonalize Remove excess furniture (rooms should look bigger) Clear countertops (especially kitchen & bathrooms) Take down personal photos, collections, and busy décor 🛋️ Simple Staging (Even Light Staging Hel...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
If you know me you know I am into lights and sound.  Sound and source of music I got that covered, lights working on it.  Just to recap my lighting that I currently have (not counting the tubs of special lighting for parties and events) six neon lights, two TV’s with LED backlighting and four low voltage landscaping lights.  We also installed 123’ of the Edison style lights with 40 LED bulbs, it covers the gutters around the lanai and paver patio, operated from my phone with plenty of colors and scenes.  We have the standard package of outdoor lights, pole, garage, front door lighting.  We decided we need more, and Michelle found them for the porch swing frame off our paver patio.We bought the Govee Outdoor Clear Bulb String Lights.  It comes with 48’ of wire and 15 bulbs.  We are talki...
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By Jacob Maslow, Your Brooklyn Connection
(Torsx)
When people talk about increasing property value, the conversation usually starts indoors. Kitchens, bathrooms, and layout changes tend to dominate the discussion. Yet for many buyers, the outdoor space plays a bigger role than they realise. It shapes first impressions, affects how the home feels overall, and often tips the balance between two similar properties.Gardens do not need to be large or heavily landscaped to be appealing. What matters more is whether they feel finished and functional. A well-structured outdoor area suggests care, consistency, and long-term thinking. Buyers pick up on that almost instinctively.Boundaries Matter More Than You ThinkThe boundary of a property sets the tone before a buyer even steps inside. Fencing frames the home, defines the space, and subtly com...
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By Jacob Maslow, Your Brooklyn Connection
(Torsx)
In the world of real estate investing and home renovation, there is a specific thrill in finding the "diamond in the rough." You scroll through listings and spot a property in a perfect neighborhood listed for a fraction of the market value. The catch? The listing description includes the ominous words: Fire damage. Sold as-is.For the brave (or the handy), this represents a massive financial opportunity. A fire-damaged home can be restored to pristine condition, building instant equity the moment the final coat of paint dries. However, flipping or rehabilitating a house that has been through a blaze is not a standard renovation project. It is not just about aesthetics; it is about chemistry and structural engineering.If you have just signed the deed on a fire-damaged property, do not gr...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
If you follow me you know my feelings on a knee wall in the front of the home.  So many homes in The Villages, Florida have the perfect design for a front patio area.  A small investment, Architectural Review Committee approval and you have a great outdoor living space just outside your front door.  You might decide a knee wall isn’t right for your area but the additional space for a few nice chairs and small table would work.  Some homes the removal of landscaping in that 2’ wide area next to the walk makes so much sense, it opens the front of the home.I see more homes adding an area to the front of their home for outdoor living, it does add curb appeal.  Many of us had a front porch in the past and many times it was a place to greet neighbors, have your morning coffee or relax in the ...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6’ tall Centurion Ornamental Steel Fence in Black by Acreage Fences in Elkhorn, Nebraska delivers a perfect blend of bold durability and refined style — enhancing your property with security, beauty, and long-lasting craftsmanship. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #CenturionFence #OrnamentalSteel #BlackFence #ElkhornNebraska #LuxuryExteriors #TimelessDesign #NebraskaHomes #OutdoorElegance #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By GilbertRealtor BillSalvatore, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Good post by Victor today, and worthy of our daily Re-Blog.BillGILBERT ARIZONA HOMES FOR SALE, Bill Salvatore, AZVHV / HelpingArizona Heroes, New-Construction Advantage, Realtor, sell my house, 2026Market, Chandler Selling a home isn’t just about putting a sign in the yard and hoping for the best. In today’s market, buyers are picky, comparison-driven, and highly influenced by first impressions. The big question is: will your home sell for top dollar—or will it need some work first? Based on years of real-world experience selling hundreds of homes, this practical quiz-style guide helps homeowners determine whether their property is truly market-ready or if a few strategic changes could make a major difference.   Watch this video: 1. Does Your Home Have Strong Curb Appeal? Curb appeal is...
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By Victor Amadi, Greenville SC Realtor
(PRODUCER Realty, LLC)
Selling a home isn’t just about putting a sign in the yard and hoping for the best. In today’s market, buyers are picky, comparison-driven, and highly influenced by first impressions. The big question is: will your home sell for top dollar—or will it need some work first?Based on years of real-world experience selling hundreds of homes, this practical quiz-style guide helps homeowners determine whether their property is truly market-ready or if a few strategic changes could make a major difference. Watch this video:1. Does Your Home Have Strong Curb Appeal?Curb appeal is your home’s handshake. It sets expectations before a buyer ever steps inside.Ask yourself: Is the landscaping fresh and maintained? Are bushes trimmed, grass green, and flower beds clean? Does the front door and trim lo...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Prevent Frozen Pipes and Winter Water Damage Winter in New Castle County may not always bring constant snowstorms, but when Arctic air moves in, homeowners can face some of the most expensive—and preventable—cold-weather disasters. Frozen pipes, roof leaks, sump pump failures, and ice dams can cause major water damage in just a few hours. According to recent surveys, frozen pipes are one of the top winter concerns for homeowners nationwide. And the good news is: with a little preparation, most winter-related damage can be avoided. Where Pipes Freeze Most Often When water freezes, it expands, putting enormous pressure on plumbing lines. That can lead to pipes bursting inside walls, ceilings, or basements—causing warped floors, wet drywall, mold, and costly repairs. The most vulnerable a...
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Radon is an odorless, invisible, radioactive gas naturally released from rocks, soil, and water. Radon can get into homes and buildings through soil, small cracks or holes in your home's foundation, or through water from a well.Over time, breathing in high levels of radon can cause lung cancer. Those that are the most vulnerable to Radon effects are small children, pets, elderly people, especially those with breathing issues and of course, smokers.   Radon Levels Change with Cold Weather   Radon is an odorless, invisible, radioactive gas naturally released from rocks, soil, and water. Radon can get into homes and buildings through soil, small cracks or holes in your home's foundation, or through water from a well. Over time, breathing in high levels of radon can cause lung cancer. Those...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This post offers good suggestions on keeping your dishwasher in good working order so you may have cleaner dishes every time you use it! Happy dishwasher cleaning.   Home › Appliance Care › Dishwasher Maintenance Easy Dishwasher Maintenance Tips for Cleaner Dishes Your dishwasher handles grease, food scraps, and soap residue every day—but without a little maintenance, it can start smelling bad, cleaning poorly, or even break down early. A few simple habits go a long way toward keeping it running smoothly and your dishes coming out spotless. Even the best dishwashers need a bit of routine care. Food particles, grease, and mineral deposits slowly build up in filters, spray arms, and seals, which can lead to cloudy glassware, lingering odors, and longer cycles. With a quick monthly routine...
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By The Trumm Team Omaha Homes for Sale, Real Estate
(Keller Williams Greater Omaha)
This 6’ tall Washington Fence by Acreage Fences in Omaha, Nebraska offers clean lines, reliable strength, and classic beauty — creating a secure, private, and stylish outdoor space that stands the test of time. 🏡✨🛠 Backed by our 3-Year Craftsmanship Warranty⏱ Installed in just 12 Days or Less❤️ Proudly Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project#AcreageFences #WashingtonFence #OmahaNebraska #LuxuryExteriors #TimelessDesign #NebraskaHomes #OutdoorElegance #PremiumCraftsmanship #FenceGoals #WoundedWarriorProject #HomeEnhancementhttps://www.acreagefences.com/
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By Renee Hahn, Top Real Estate Agent Serving Naples Florida Area
(Renee Hahn, Your Naples Real Estate Expert (Alfred Robbins Realty Group))
If there’s one thing Naples residents crave, it’s light. With over 260 sunny days a year, Naples, Florida, offersthe kind of natural radiance that people from northern climates dream about. Yet, many homeowners moving here from states like Michigan, New York, or Illinois are surprised that their new Florida home doesn’t automatically feel “light and bright.”That’s because creating an airy, sun-kissed interior requires more than just good weather - it takes intentional lighting design. From architectural layout to color selection and artificial lighting layers, every choice affects how light lives in your home.Here’s an in-depth look at how to infuse your Naples home with brightness, whether you’re building from the ground up or reimagining an existing property.Start with Natural Light: ...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Protecting Your Smart Home: What Gulf Coast Homeowners Need to KnowBy Charles Stallions, Pensacola’s Gulf Coast Homeownership AdvisorCall or text Charles at 850-476-4494 for true savings and some really cool smart ideas.Smart home devices make life easier — but they also create digital entry points that need protection. Most hacks happen not because criminals target a specific home, but because they scan for easy, unsecured systems. A few simple steps can dramatically reduce your risk.Why It Matters•     Smart cameras, plugs, thermostats, and hubs are now common in homes across Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze.•     Recent global breaches show how vulnerable unsecured devices can be.•     The goal isn’t fear — it’s awareness and smart prevention.How to Protect Your Smart Home1. Strength...
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By Dawn Castell, Freelance home stager
(Freelancer)
A well-designed pool can do more than offer a place to swim. For high-end buyers, it often signals how thoughtfully a home has been planned and how comfortably it supports a refined lifestyle. These buyers tend to look past surface-level features and focus on details that feel intentional, timeless, and easy to live with. Pool design becomes less about impressing at first glance and more about creating an experience that feels natural and elevated every time someone steps outside.Understanding what resonates with this audience helps homeowners, builders, and designers make choices that hold long-term value. From layout to materials to how the pool fits into the broader outdoor space, the most appealing designs tend to share a few consistent qualities.A Sense of Integration With the Prop...
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