The home-improvement shows you see on TV make it look so easy. Buy a complete dump of a house with “good bones,” and presto change-o, turn it into your dream home. The reality, however, is that buying a fixer-upper is some serious work. One option is to hire someone to… read more →
If you are selling your home and have gotten an offer, you may concerned about the prospective buyers asking you to make costly repairs that potentially could cut into your profit. Repair requests can be negotiated under most circumstances, but it’s important to recognize that your ability to negotiate depends… read more →
Despite your best efforts at cleanliness, your carpet will eventually become the victim of drops, spills, accidents and whatever’s on the bottom of your shoes. To learn how professionals handle problem areas and keep carpets looking new follow these tips from a professional. Blot Stains, Don’t Rub Them Dab stains with… read more →
Most homeowners who have formal living and dining rooms rarely use them; Thanksgiving and Christmas are but two days of the year. Similarly, millions of square feet in great rooms, breakfast nooks, laundry rooms and hallways and even “spare” bedrooms go underused – space wasted most or all of the… read more →
Outdoor spaces can increase our enjoyment of our homes. When the weather is nice, it’s like having an extra room — or wing — of the house. Make the most of yours, no matter its size. Even a small backyard can be great for gardening, entertaining, and play. The trick… read more →
You wanted a home with a pool but got a porch instead. A big backyard? No, you went with brick backyard just a bit bigger than your grill. What seemed to be a quiet neighborhood during the Sunday afternoon open house turned out to be because the neighbors were sleeping… read more →
Impressions count when visitors arrive at your home’s front door. It’s the first and last space they see, and it has the power to make a positive or negative impression. In a sense it’s like the face of your house. And depending on how it’s designed, that face might be… read more →
If you happen to get a tax refund check from your state government or Uncle Sam, you have a great opportunity to invest it in home improvements and increase the equity in your home. In a collaboration between several research teams including REALTOR Magazine and the National Association of REALTORS, Here… read more →