Kitchen remodeling 101: Brush up on the basics (BPT) - In this economy, taking on a kitchen remodel can be a scary proposition. You’re probably asking yourself plenty of questions. How drastically should you change the room? Do you need to hire a professional? Can you still recoup money spent on remodeling if you sell the house? Have no fear - these six tips from S...
Home harmonizing: Making outdoor entertaining areas as useful as indoors (BPT) - The trend toward outdoor living spaces shows no signs of slowing, and the newest step in the trend is blurring the lines between outdoor and indoor spaces. Outdoor spaces are truly becoming an extension of indoors, mimicking the most useful and appealing elements of indoor spaces. The trend is rewriting how Amer...
Father's Day project: Transform Dad's favorite place into his personal man cave [Infographic] Man cave, man space, manctuary: There are many names for dad’s favorite place away from the rest of the house. This Father’s Day, give dad the ultimate gift and complete his man cave. * Step 1: ID the space Dad’s favorite hangout is likely secluded, has a lockable door and is where he stores his tools, dives into projects or just relaxes. Examples include garages, basements, dens, attics or studies. * Step 2: Clean and clear Clear out all the boxes, industrial-sized cleaning and paper pr...
Smart, stylish renovations for any age (BPT) - Most Americans over 50 want to stay in their home as they age, but few are making the renovations they need to ensure easy and comfortable living for years to come. In fact, 80 percent of people older than 50 say they would prefer to remain in their home indefinitely, according to an AARP survey. The Hartford a...
DIY or DI-don't? When to do it yourself, when to hire a pro (BPT) - When it comes to home improvement, homeowners aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty; 64 percent who plan to make improvements this year say they will do it themselves, according to an American Express Consumer Spending and Saving Report . But not all home decorating or renovating projects are suitable for the ...
Go-big upgrades that can help a lingering home sell at last (BPT) - Everyone knows spring and summer are the best months in which to sell a home. If your house has lingered on the market, you may be eager to find ways to freshen its appeal for potential buyers. Perhaps you’re even ready to go big and invest in upgrades that will improve the home’s value, curb appeal and interior...
Curb appeal tips to transform your home (BPT) - Sprucing up your home’s curb appeal brings new energy and life, not only to your property, but also to the entire neighborhood. It creates a welcoming and appealing environment, while also making it a better candidate for resale, if that’s in your near future. Curb appeal improvements can range from giving your...
Dress your home to impress buyers this summer (BPT) - Your home is a place to kick off your shoes, relax and enjoy precious time with friends and family. Nothing quite tops the feeling you get when you walk through your foyer, close the door behind you and forget the day’s troubles. But as families expand, promotions require unexpected relocations or a coveted resi...
Tips for extending your home into your patio (BPT) - In warmer weather, patios transform into the ultimate gathering space for backyard barbecues, reading, relaxing or even exercising. These outdoor rooms become an extension of the house, seamlessly merging the outdoors inside and vice versa. This summer, many homeowners will tackle revamping the home to expand t...
Five steps to create a customized outdoor living space with railing (BPT) - Railing can upgrade any deck from drab to fab – adding style, as well as safety and support. In fact, it’s often the one element that truly sets your outdoor living space apart from others in the neighborhood. Here are five steps to create the perfect perimeter for your deck. 1. Find ideas at your fingertips – ...
Turn over a new leaf this season with a home energy makeover (BPT) - As the seasons change, turn over a new leaf and give your home an energy makeover. You can improve your home’s comfort while helping the environment by making your home more energy efficient, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. In addition, a variety of compatible technologies are available to...
Housetraining your puppy: Tips for keeping your dog behaved and your home clean (BPT) - Few things are as exciting as bringing home a new puppy. Whether Chihuahua or Great Dane, a pup’s playful antics delight people of all ages. Having a dog can bring many years of companionship and precious memories, but before you ask, “How much is that doggie in the window?” consider a few expert tips for positi...
